Let's face it, in this world you have to have a "Plan B" if you are planning to START A BUSINESS. You need a Plan A, B, C and D. I believe that people do what they know and if you know better then you do better. This is my advice for 5 THINGS you should consider before you start your business:1) DON'T QUIT YOUR DAY JOB! - It always brings a smile to my face when I talk to someone that is ready to “take a leap of faith.” Their enthusiasm is so strong and they usually say that they are unhappy with their boss and they are ready to get started. After I settle them down, I explain that it would be unethical for me to advise them to quit because depending on your business model, it could take up to a year before you break even. They just sink into their seats. Start up costs are usually funded by…you guessed it, the owner, so don’t quit that awful job just yet. I have a better suggestion, if you want to know how your current employer can help you get started call me.
2) THERE IS NO FREE MONEY TO START YOUR BUSINESS - When I served in the military; one thing that they drill in your head is “Nothing in the World is FREE.” But I am amazed at how many people watch TV late at night and believe some sleazy infomercials that promise they have a secret way of finding money to start a business. Ladies and Gentlemen, in marketing that is called a “hook” and it is only designed to bait you in. These guys promise that if you buy their book or business kit (normally for a high fee) you too will have access to these secret funds. Let me save you a lot of time and money. These so called "experts" are just reprinting information that you can find in any local library. They state that you can receive a grant from the government to start your business but they are wrong! The only grant money for start-ups is for non-profits and the process for qualifying is very stringent and competitive. If you want to know better ways that don't lead to you getting into hot water with the IRS, give me a call.
3) GET YOUR SPOUSE'S SUPPORT – I am always amazed at my wife’s intuition. She is an EXPERT on sizing me up and she is also an EXPERT on pushing my buttons… (What? It’s the truth). One of the greatest lessons that I've learned is that in marriage the decision making process is made equally and if we don’t agree then we don’t do it. I don’t care how great it sounds, who we offend or how potentially profitable it can be; if we can’t agree then it doesn’t deserve my attention. That includes starting businesses. Take it from a guy that is an EXPERT in making bad decisions and pissing off my wife, if you are considering starting a business; get your spouse’s support. HINT: Most successful start up businesses are due to spousal support.
4) HAVE CUSTOMERS BEFORE YOU OPEN YOUR DOORS – Ask Macintosh how in the world they are able to sell out before the product hits the market. Ask Microsoft how valuable it is to market their new operating system before they begin programming? Where does it say that you have to start creating a buzz about your product or service after you open? Again, here is my humble advice. These companies are excellent in BRANDING. They start advertising in the initial phases of development and so should you. The best time to start your marketing is day one, that way when you open your doors; you have cash in your pocket.
5) BUILD A BUSINESS AROUND YOUR GIFTS – You don’t need me to tell you the importance of having more than one stream of income in this world. After all, with lay offs, underemployment and corporate corruption, it just makes good common sense. I don’t profess to be an expert, but as a person that has made his fair share of mistakes, I would like to suggest that when you begin to start your businesses take time to get to know, who you are and what makes you unique. After some self reflection, build your business around your gifts. Don’t decide you want to start a business because it is a current trend or your buddy is doing well at something. Instead, focus on the gifts God gave you and your gifts will make provisions for you.
If there is something that you would like me to comment on or you would like to schedule a consultation please call me a (877)593-2085
God Bless!
NaShawn
http://www.nashawnbranch.com/
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