Business

Thinking about this lately, sick of the man.


Recent Entries

http://blog.inc.com/one-person-business/2009/12/employee_or_entrepreneur_1.html
* Employee or Entrepreneur?
* Small Budget, Big Impression
* Working Too Hard For Success
* Solopreneur or Lonelypreneur?


December 8, 2009
Employee or Entrepreneur?

Posted by MARLA TABAKA at 4:00 PM

You want to become a full time business owner. It’s important enough to you that you’re willing to leave the security of your full time job, benefits package, and your daily commute all behind. Let me guess: it’s about freedom, right? It’s about the freedom to do what you want, when you want, and to make all the money that you desire (and deserve). It’s also about the freedom to work at the nearest coffee shop instead of a stuffy office and to take the kids to school and be there when they get home. And don’t forget the freedom to help others in your own way and make a difference in the world. That’s what it boils down to for most entrepreneurs, and yes, it can be like that – but be careful that you’re not leaving one job to create another job with no benefits, lower pay, and more hours than you’ve ever worked in your life.

So, how can you build the business of your dreams and satisfy that all-important thirst for freedom? Timing, planning, and a realistic view of your financial resources; these are the most important pieces. So, if you think you’re ready to leave your job, or want to know when the time is right, use this checklist as your guide.

1. Do your research and create a plan? How have you tested your prospective business model? How do you know that you have a viable product or service? Do some market research. Research your competitors; how long have they been around? What makes them successful? What will you do differently and better? What makes your business special? I know that YOU make it special, but not everyone knows you. How will you stand apart from the rest? Test your model with a panel of friends, peers, and total strangers. It’s best to ask a third party to be responsible for this focus group testing so that people will provide honest feedback; your friends will most likely tell you what you want to hear. Research the cost and effectiveness of marketing and advertising venues as well. How will you market and grow your business? The “Build it and They Shall Come” belief-system is great if you’re a true believer in Law of Attraction, but I like to say that the Law of Attraction is nothing without action. What is the big picture action plan?

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