Most of us were probably thinking of having our own businesses, of being our own boss, be independent in our careers and income. This all sounds so fantastic, but one can’t help but wonder: How?
Think of an idea
List down all the things that interests you, leave nothing left. Just write it all down. You’ll never know when a good idea may hit you.
Then,go through your list and strike out those who would seem not to work, the ideas that were too impossible; or those you cannot give sufficient time to. Be practical.
However, don’t also forget that the best ideas will just strike you, so never let go of ideas which bugged you. Who knows? It may be your gold ticket.
Look for your market
This is the time for you to test your idea out. Who will be your market? How much will your budget be?
Remember that your products must have the following:
- A demand or a target market
- A connection/reach to the target market
- A viable product
Your business plan
How will you make your products consumable? How will you make it attractive and a stand out? How much will you sell? Would your price be reasonable?
Think of what your business has to offer and don’t forget to set goals and objectives for your business. In this way, you’d know if you are moving forward. What strategies will you implement to achieve your set goals?
In this phase, you’d also need to think of your business operations; how will you promote your business. The financial aspects, how will you finance your business needs?
You would need a project study to get to know your target clients better before making any move. It is also a good plan to use for investors who can help you start up your business.
The source of fund
Let’s face it, one cannot really start a business without adequate funding. What should your funding allocations be?
Capital Expenses- Equipment and acquisition of other assets
Pre-Operating Expenses- Deposits, Licences, Permits, Marketing and other expenses
Working Capital- Cost operations for at least six months or until the business generates enough revenue.
The biggest concern of most entrepreneurs is funding the business. One can rely on loans or savings, once you establish your source, the most important thing is to stay afloat. Don’t invest on things you don’t have the money for. Let your business slowly accumulate funds before doing anything drastic. Be wise.
What’s your name?
When you say Colgate, you immediately mean toothpaste.
The business name. Would you rather it be quirky or serious? Whatever it may be, your business should have a name that would stuck. A name that people will remember and identify your product by. Remember to consider relevance, catchiness, simplicity and spelling.
Start your business
This could all be hard at first, but don’t be intimidated by pressure to prevent you in doing the things that you like. Persevere and you will reap what you sow.