Tips for starting your own business

To start your own business is not easy. A lot of Start-Up Entrepreneurs are unaware the impact running your own business has on your personal and financial life, especially if there is a family involved. There are no fixed working hours as when you own your business you will need to work until the job is done. There will be months when you will make a lot of money and months when there will be cash flow problems. I always advise entrepreneurs to start their own business as a Side Hustle and resign from your permanent job when it has grown sufficiently. Having your own business can be extremely rewarding!

Steps to take when opening your business:

• Do market research, make sure your product and service are in demand.
• Register your domain name to secure your business name for your email address.
• Register your company.
• Open a business bank account
• Brand your business (logo, letterhead design)
• Digital Marketing is one of the most important things to start and grow brand awareness. Be consistent with your marketing on Facebook and Instagram.
• Attend network events to be able to get referrals (word-of-mouth referral will always be your best referral source).
• Good people relations, hard work, a quality product and excellent service will be your key to success.  

Remember that it will take you at least 12 months just for people to notice you and 2 years to earn trust ‘that you are here to stay’ from your community. There will come a time when you need to expand your business. Employing the right people is particularly important as your staff will always be your best asset. Never give up! If you remain self-driven and have a positive attitude you will be able to make your business work.