Let’s say you’re a hobby writer who dabbles in freelancing and you’re ready to take it more seriously. How do you start your business off on the right foot? Like, how does that transition happen!?
4 tips to start your business off on the right foot
If you’re ready to start a business, there’s a lot you can do to ensure you get off to a strong start right out of the gate. I’ve listed a few tips below (of course there are more things you could do!)
Know what business you’re in
Straightforward, right? Except…how many people go into business and don’t really know what they’re about? How do you help people? What do you do? Which services do you offer? Where do you fit in your industry?
Answering these questions allows you to refine your messaging and differentiate yourself in the marketplace. And although the upfront work is harder than just diving in headfirst, this approach tends to be longer-lasting because you’re building a firm foundation first.
But maybe you offer a service that isn’t easy to understand. What about then? Well, you could follow in my steps and hire a coach to help you with messaging. (What’s a funnel? Are systems necessary? Do I really need to stop taking all my notes on Post-Its?) Or, if you’re in some other industry like waste removal, you could, for example, create a dumpster rental industry terminology page to help educate your prospects before you have a conversation.
Embrace marketing
As the literal author of Marketing for Freelance Writers I can’t not say it. You need to market your services, even if you’re just getting started. Especially if you’re just getting started!
The great thing about marketing tactics is they can always change. You can test something, see how it works, and then iterate from there. And probably it won’t be great at first. Totally expected and absolutely part of the journey. You have to start somewhere, so just start. You can always improve and…you WILL improve every time you get out there.
Do market research
You probably already have a business idea, and as good as it is, it will become even better if you take time to research beforehand so you can be confident your idea has teeth (is that the phrase?). The more you learn ahead of time, the better prepared you are when your business launches—you’ll have a chance to check out your competition, to figure out what’s missing from the market, to refine your positioning, to network with leaders in your industry, and so much more.
Stay in the moment
I know you have big dreams, but starting a business and succeeding at it is a long game…and your goals will likely take some time to achieve. My best advice is to be as present as you can and find satisfaction in small wins.
Starting your business off on the right foot takes an uncomfortable mixture of preparedness and a willingness to learn as you go. As much as you need to research and plan…you also have to take action before you know the whole story. Entrepreneurship is not for the faint of heart! But if you have the dream then I say explore what’s possible and see where the spark of an idea takes you.
