Setting up a business for the first time is a big step, and can make your future very unpredictable indeed. However, as long as you have some idea of what to expect, then the rewards can make the unpredictability worth it. If you’re ready for the hard work and you have the dedication, then building your own business can be more satisfying and easily achieved if you’re aware of the important elements that are often overlooked by those that have failed to do their research. For that reason, this list will give you a positive start when it comes to ensuring that your new business venture is a success.
The importance of research
When it comes to the initial stages of starting your business, the single most important element is market research. This will boil down to five key areas:
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- Is there a need for your product/service? The best way to ensure that your business succeeds is by doing the research that will highlight the need for your business to exist in the first place. If there is no demand, and there is unlikely to be a demand in the future, then your business will have a much higher risk of failure.
- Do you have the knowledge and experience for this sector? Your market research should also consider your own skill sets. Going into a specialized business without knowing the product that you’re selling is high-risk and rarely worth it.
- Do you know your customers? This is the major area of your market research, and yet far too many businesses launch without understanding the ages and needs of their client demographic.
- Who are your competition? Doing your research on your competitors is key to finding new ways to approach your business, and to make sure that you are doing everything you can to accomplish and achieve more than they are.
Security: online and offline
In the digital age, it can be very easy to focus all of your attention on strong cyber-security protection and forget all about physical security. While your online systems and data storage obviously needs to be as protected as possible, you will also need to pay attention to protecting your brick and mortar premises. Not only will having physical alarms, cameras and access points from Eurolink Security discourage opportunistic criminals, they will also help in any subsequent investigations should the worst happen. Your online security is also not simply down to firewalls and virus software, but also needs to protect your hardware in-house, and that’s why your physical security is as important as any anti-malware software.
Financial needs
One of the most basic elements to consider when starting your own business is whether you can afford it. Even the most uncomplicated of e-commerce stores will require money at some point, whether it’s for stock or postal costs. There are a number of ways to raise the funds you need, with options ranging from bootstrapping your company to applying for business loans. One of the most popular in 2018 is proving to be the variety of crowdfunding options, which can not only help you raise that much-needed capital, but will also give you valuable information regarding the potential for your audience reach.
Once you have addressed these initial concerns, it will be much easier to launch your business with the energy and confidence that you need. While nobody ever said that running their own business was easy, by ensuring that you minimize the risk of unexpected issues, the more likely you will be able to turn your business idea into something you can be proud of.
Ingrid Maldine is a business writer, editor and management consultant with extensive experience writing and consulting for both start-ups and long established companies. She has ten years management and leadership experience gained at BSkyB in London and Viva Travel Guides in Quito, Ecuador, giving her a depth of insight into innovation in international business. With an MBA from the University of Hull and many years of experience running her own business consultancy, Ingrid’s background allows her to connect with a diverse range of clients, including cutting edge technology and web-based start-ups but also multinationals in need of assistance. Ingrid has played a defining role in shaping organizational strategy for a wide range of different organizations, including for-profit, NGOs and charities. Ingrid has also served on the Board of Directors for the South American Explorers Club in Quito, Ecuador.
