You've got a great business idea. You're excited at the
possibility of being your own boss and taking control of
your own destiny. There's only one small problem: you have
no idea where to start. The most important thing you can
do, is capitalize on the excitement you currently have and
get some momentum started.
Below are a few simple action steps that will help launch
you into the realm of "business owner"
1. Research. Hop on the internet and type in a keyword for
you idea. Read what is available on your topic. Identify
gaps in the available information; those are gaps you could
fill, potential services you could provide.
2. Talk it up. Tell you mother, your best friend, the
neighbor down the street. Tell anyone who will listen to
you about your idea. This will do 2 things. First it will
create some accountability, you've told so many people about
this great business you're not in a position to just drop it.
Secondly (and more importantly) someone you talk to is bound
to know other places or people where you can get information.
Maybe they have a cousin in another city who started the
same business, or maybe they are aware of a vendor who could
get you a great deal on your raw materials. People know
people and most people are willing to share their knowledge
with you.
3. Create a dummy business plan. This does not have to be
your take-to-the-bank-to-get-a-loan business plan. This
can just be a rough draft. The point is to create something
that will get to you thinking about what you need to do.
There are many business plan resources on the Internet and
most of them ask you some pretty hefty questions. Even if
you're not ready to create a serious business plan, this
is good way to get you thinking in the right direction.
4. Start an ideas notebook. As you do your research, you
will be bombarded with a lot of ideas, some good, some not
so good. Creating a system to keep track of those ideas
will help prevent you from feeling overwhelmed and ensure
nothing slips through the proverbial cracks. Once your
business is underway, continue to use your notebook as a
repository for ideas. Make it a point to periodically
review it when you find yourself in need of inspiration.
5. Talk with other entrepreneurs. Business owners are a
special breed. Talk with other people who have started
their own business to learn their lessons. Find out what
they love about it and what are the challenges. Learn what
networking venues are most successful for them.
6. Set a timeline. Give yourself a deadline to stop
researching and start acting. Don't allow your enthusiasm
and motivation to wither.
About the Author
Myrtis Smith is a
personal coach. She works with people who are undergoing
a career change. Sign up for her free newsletter Change
Now! at www.premeditatedlife.com or send an email to
changenow@premeditatedlife.com
Premeditated Life.......because life doesn't just happen!