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Do You Have the Drive to be Self-Employed?
Cheryl MacKenzie, Business Coach at JobSkills
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Many people ask themselves this question and it should be pondered carefully before steps are taken. Drive essentially means motivation and that is a vitally important key to going the distance over the long haul. Find out from other self-employed people what their typical day is like to see if you could be happy doing this kind of work. If you've worked in this field before and know what's involved you are much closer to getting started. If you know you would enjoy it, you should explore the idea a bit further.
There is some risk involved but that can be minimized if you choose a business with little start-up capital required. If you provide a service, sometimes not as much financial investment is needed to get started. If you require equipment you may be eligible for financing or possibly a grant to get you started. If borrowing isn't an option ask yourself if you can get started at a very basic level and grow the business when funds allow. For example, if landscaping is your passion, you can cut lawns with a hand-mower and do gardens in your own area until you can afford that truck, trailer and ride-on mower.
Are the services you're offering in demand and will people pay for them? Check on-line to review articles about the demand in your area. This is called market research and it will help you determine if you have a viable business idea. By searching the yellow pages, you may find only a few competitors in your town. That could be very good news!
Social media and conducting surveys can give you exposure and help you see if you can really get clients. Creating and participating in blogs could help with your research without costing a dime. Watch what other people are doing to get business. Talking to small business owners on-line or in person can provide a wealth of valuable information that will help direct your efforts. These are all things successful people do when starting and growing their businesses.
Often the first couple of clients give you the confidence to keep trying and refining your methods. Pay close attention to what clients tell you about your product or service. Big companies pay thousands of dollars to get this information through things like surveys. Successful companies know what their customers like and dislike about their company and are prepared to change and adapt accordingly.
If you've decided this is for you, accessing some self-employment training is very important. Financial management training and a business plan will smooth your way forward and further ensure your success. Guidance from experienced professionals will help you feel confident you're on the right track and help you answer the many questions that can stall progress in the early months of self-employment. There is free or minimal cost training available in York Region. Call your local township office to find out today.
 | Cheryl is a Business Coach with the Youth Entrepreneurship Program at Job Skills. This program helps youth get a start in business over a 6-month period of time. Cheryl brings her experience as a business owner, and studies in social work and psychology, to the group. She works with their objectives and helps them set goals to reach their potential in business. |
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