Monday, January 21, 2008

Starting Your Own Business

In the present times, full of instability, with lay-offs and downsizing becoming a norm there are a lot of individuals who have turned the tide in their favour by starting off a business venture of their own. Starting off one's business is rewarding endeavor as you have the reigns of your destiny. It's no longer about being accountable to anyone or dealing with office politics but it just happens to be a one-man show.

There can be different reasons for starting off a business of one's own. For instance, there are certain people, who start a business due to the compulsions at home. Like the mother of a newborn baby might contemplate starting a new business from home as she would like to dedicate time to the baby as well. At times, compulsions such as having to care for a partner, spouse or a sibling posing difficulties in going out might prompt someone to start a business. Starting a business at home means that all these factors can be easily taken care of.

You can choose from a whole gamut of options to start your business. You can become a retailer or put your expertise to use by becoming a consultant in that chosen area. The business gives you the freedom of choosing the kind of work you always wanted. Thus, it also gives you a chance to live out those dreams.

If you intend to have a business at any stage of your life, it is advisable to do some savings right away, as business requires investment. You can expect to reap harvest, which are profits in this case, only if you sow the seeds, which is the money for investment. You can also check if you qualify for any business related loans. There are many grants also available for the people who are interested in opening a home business.

How much time and money is required depends entirely on the type of your business. Let's say, if you want to open a retail store, a restaurant, or a hospitality center you will need a much greater investment both in terms of time and money.

Instead, if you decide to run a home business like Avon, Tupperware, Pampered Chef, or Mary Kay, you can sell quality, name brand products from your own home. Such businesses prove to be quite successful for both men and women. And, there is hardly any monetary investment required. All you have to do is host a few home parties, attend shows, or sell over the Internet. You will enjoy the best of both the worlds by working from home.

One of the effective tools of marketing is by putting your network of friends, family and co-workers to build a feasible base of clients. The higher the base you are able to garner for yourself the greater is the scope for profits. However, once you have secured your client make sure that you have ready solutions for the clients.

If you decide to run a business from your home, make sure you delegate a specific area of your home as a business area. Whether this is a table, corner, or entire room, this business only area will ensure you treat your home as a business. Additionally, this business only area will allow other individuals to provide you with privacy necessary to do any business related tasks. Many entrepreneurs find themselves easily distracted by children, friends, spouses, or family members who disturb them during work time.

Mazlie Nadzri

No comments: