I started my small business from home a few months ago and I must confess it has been a rollercoaster ride and I have learnt a lot in just a few months, enough to share and enough to help guide me in the future to come. It started off as a hobby, I loved baking as a child and luckily for me I grew up around food so that encouraged my passion and one day I told my childish self I would own a bakery, a cafe and I would bake the best cakes and pastries the world had ever tasted, I used the word childish because I thought it would be as easy as 1,2,3.
What I've learnt so far:
Before starting any business you have to research properly. Know your environment, know the people you will be dealing with, how much will you be putting into this idea, where do you see your business in 6 months, are such services available to them, how much are they paying for these services, do your competitors offer these services at home, how to price your goods and services, is your business going to be strictly E-based? There are so many questions so it's important you ask them, it helps in the development and growth of your business. If you also have a mentor who has experience in such business and can easily be approached, it is advisable you approach him/her and seek council. HAVE A BUSINESS PLAN. Also before going public, you should give out samples to random people or family members and friends to get suggestions opinions before going public, this is very important.
- ADVERTISING, BRANDING AND MARKETING-
It's very important how you showcase your brand to the world and these days it's actually quite easy because of SOCIAL MEDIA. Social applications now have avenues for various individuals to advertise their businesses at affordable rates which you can you to your advantage. A brand Logo for starters goes a long way in helping identify your business, then you get business cards which are very useful and should contain ways of contacting you and services you give, a website is also important for your brand. There are also Social media influencers that help you get your brand to its target audience. Never miss an opportunity to tell someone about your business, advertise till you not only pass information but you captivate the mind with desire and belief. Family and friends can help your brand grow in ways you could never imagine. Advertising has been my most challenging struggle.
- PATIENCE AND CUSTOMER SATISFACTION-
SLOWLY people will start trying your goods and services, and SLOWLY the money will start rolling in, the real test begins PATIENCE. As you continue to be patient you must remember to treat the customers you have properly, give them an experience that would have them coming back and telling their friends and family. That one experience should have them bringing back new customers and advertising your goods and services. One bad review of your business or behaviour could cost you many customers.
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