7 Things to Consider Before You Launch an Online Business
Even today when many entrepreneurs start online businesses, getting everything done from branding, web design, development to search engine optimisation isn’t always easy.
1. You’re never too old to be an entrepreneur
The tasks ahead may be daunting, as may the online technologies which businesses have come to rely on, but there’s always professional help out there. Ask lots of questions and use the gifts and talents of others. If your idea for a business is strong, it’s worth getting others to complete the tasks for you while you focus on the bigger picture.
2. Gut feeling is just as valuable as data
The gut feeling helps you get started, but it’s the data that often keeps you going. Research everything to the best of your ability but if its a unique, innovative idea it may be difficult to get accurate data. The gut feeling is probably what excites and motivates you so don’t ignore it.
3. Social media marketing is not free
Don’t be deceived by the fact that you can market your business through social networks without cost. You do pay in a currency more precious than money – time.
4. Calculate all your costs and add 20%
This will give you a little buffer and free you up to experiment a little more with new ideas as things progress. There’s always something you didn’t consider or an opportunity that pops up that you really wish you had the budget for.
5. Get online experts to do the work
You don’t need to do it all yourself. In fact you don’t need to understand every piece of the online marketing puzzle. Just make sure you get the right people to handle your tasks. Getting the wrong people could be quite costly in the long run.
6. As an entrepreneur you may work longer hours for the short term
It may take quite a bit of time and energy to get up and running particularly if you are on a limited budget and need to do a lot of it yourself. Technology can help you get things done faster, it’s true, but it may still take many hours a day to get started. Keep focused on the light at the end of the tunnel. Eventually your business should be working for you, not the other way around.
7. Being local may be harder than being global
Many entrepreneurs are successful because their products and services are sold online and therefore are available to a global market. Not every business is suitable for a global market however if you can adjust your offering so it is, you have a larger capacity for higher profits.
It all boils down to being determined and positive about your vision for an entrepreneurial business. What’s stopping you?
