For many of us, change can be a scary thing. There is nothing better than going and meeting new friends to new places when we are children. When we become adults, change can be something that is less than appealing.
From finishing school and going on to college or university to getting married and having children, our lives are nothing but life changing moments.
Sometimes the one change that is the hardest to deal with is the change in our employment status, and one of the biggest career changes is the decision to go from being an “employee” to being your own “boss”, becoming a self-employed entrepreneur.
For those that have that overwhelming desire to be a small business owner, the entire journey to success is something that creates a sense of energy and fulfilment. The roads that are followed bring an abundance of information, continually adding to the entrepreneurial process and spirit.
Visits to local small business centers can provide a wealth of support and encouragement. There is always flyers, newsletters and experienced staff to assist you with any concerns or questions.
Another avenue that can be taken to contribute to your business’ success is becoming involved in networking groups. Most groups conduct monthly or weekly meetings, some more formal than others, which allow small business owners to share with each other their experiences and stories. It can create alliances that will benefit each business owner.
For myself, a small business owner in Southern Ontario, Canada, the road to being an entrepreneur included the participation in the SEA (Self Employment Assistance) Program sponsored by Human Resources Development Canada.
The SEA program offered and is still offering, myself and my company a wealth of information and support. The program consists of 10 weeks of in-class instruction, which is performed by successful small business owners.
Check your local phone book or small business magazines for more information. For me, the decision to become self-employed was something that just felt right at the time. When the time came for my dad to retire, it just seemed natural to do what I had been doing for many years … providing word processing and desktop publishing services Then, with the increase in the use of the Internet, I learned to design websites.
Is there a need for your product or service by the people or businesses in your community? Whether you will be looking for funding or not, you need to do a business plan.
If you need help with certain aspects when building your business, such as promotion or putting together influential marketing material, there are many companies that specialize in taking some of the pressure off of your shoulders. Not all will be listed in the phone books yet, so you need to keep your ears and eyes open for mention of these companies.
Remember that not all small businesses are overnight successes. Each time a new client or customer comes on board, you will feel butterflies in your stomach and a smile on your face. Use that feeling of exhilaration as your energy source and combine it with other relevant information that you acquire.
Another avenue that can be taken to contribute to your business’ success is becoming involved in networking groups. Most groups conduct monthly or weekly meetings, some more formal than others, which allow small business owners to share with each other their experiences and stories. The program consists of 10 weeks of in-class instruction, which is performed by successful small business owners. Check your local phone book or small business magazines for more information. Remember that not all small businesses are overnight successes.
