In recent times, there has been an upsurge in the number of business startups. This is not very surprising as there has been an important shift from the “working for pay” ideology to owning your own business and calling the shots. However, while there has been an increase in the number startups, there also been a more defined increase in the number of failed business startups.
This could be chalked up to the fact that not everyone has the inherent ability of being an entrepreneur. Moreover, everyone can’t be entrepreneurs. People must always be available to offer their services as paid employees of established businesses. Also, a major chunk of these failures to start a business may be traced to a lack of strategy and planning in implementing business ideas.
Business should not be rushed into. If it is, then you may actually be setting yourself up to rush right back out of it. A study of already established and successful businesses will show that they had their business plans and models fully in place before even thinking of starting their business brands. It is quite important to note that even while it may not be possible to have it all figured out, business plans should be firmly in place before “setting up shop”. The goal of this piece is to help first timers who are about to set up their business startups do so smoothly.
Tips On How To Start A Successful Business in 2022
With the changing trends and the aftermath of the pandemic, setting up a business has never been this dicey. However, with a little bit of guidance, your Business can be a success. Below are some important steps that anyone going into business this year will need to follow;
1. Make sure you are ready
Really, when it comes to setting up a business, there is never a perfect time to start. Deciding whether you are ready to start a business or not is about your mindset. Have you set your mind to winning? Having a winning mindset will go a long way in helping you start that business of yours. Starting a business may look easy on paper, however, it is quite a tough process. Without the right mindset, it will be very easy to give up on your ideas.
2. Determine the type of business you want to start
This is a very important point in the starting up process. Don’t just go into a business because you feel like it is the hot thing at the moment and it is working for others. Your reason for going into a business must be because you are passionate about it. In the rough days after starting up, your resolve will be tested and only passion will help you stay true to the course. Hence, take time to decide a niche you are passionate about. Then decide if you want to be employed by the business or just own it. Going for a niche you are passionate about will have the same effect of giving a bibliophile the job of reading and reviewing books. It is your hobby. You will love it!
3. Create a business model
A business model is strategic plan on how your business will dispense services to the customers. In these days of major online consumer base, most businesses are targeting the online market. Some of the important models that can be used are as follows;
• Affiliate marketing: you may promote the products of other businesses and get a commission on each sales you make.
• Freelancing: providing services for many organizations with your skills such as writing, programming, web development and so many more.
• Consulting: a consultant provides advice for other businesses from the wealth of experience garnered over the years.
• E-commerce: this is the process of creating a website and selling physical products online.
4. Conduct market research
Market research is an important part of setting up your business. This will involve being clear on the target audience or market for your products or services. After choosing a target market, then it is important to find a problem to solve. The services of your business will center around the problems you are trying to solve.
5. Have an elevator pitch handy
When starting up your business, it is important to have an elevator pitch. This is a brief persuasive speech that encourages prospective customers to patronize your business. First timers should be ready to make the pitch at all times as prospective customers can be met anywhere. The elevator pitch should include the problems recognized and how you plan on solving them with your skills.
6. Make sure your source of capital is reliable
It is quite important to assured of a steady stream of capital before starting a business. Hence, if you are taking out a loan, then it should be agreed upon before starting your business. For most other people, they fund their businesses from their savings. This source of capital should be steady and available until the business can pay for itself out of the revenue generated.
7. Give the business a name
Naming a business can be tough. This is because you have to come up with a perfect name that will attract customers. The first thing your target market will notice about your business is the name. This makes it essential that a very good name is picked for the business.
8. Register your business
Business should be registered with the corporate authorities. However, this can be done after the business has been started. It should be done though to avoid being liable.
9. Create your first services and Promote your business
This is the most important stage in starting a business. Getting enough publicity for your business to drive up traffic and demand should be a big deal for every starting business. This can be done via the following mediums;
• facebook ads
• instagram
• pinterest
• LinkedIn
• SEO optimization on websites
The above tips should make it easier to start a business and make it a success.
