4 answers
Pelumi
Student
1
Question
4 answers
Laura Mills
Graphic Designer
41
Answers
Lenhartsville, PA
Updated
Laura’s Answer
Hello Pelumi,
Congratulations on having your own small business and wanting to have it continue to grow! My best first piece of advice for trying to grow your business is to use social media to help spread your business name around more. Instagram, Facebook, X (aka Twitter), LinkedIn, TikTok, etc. are great platforms to start with, and as you continue to increase your social media presence as your business grows. Social media in general is a great way to get your small business publicity because many people and other businesses, big and small, use social media for the same reason.
Another great way to get some exposure is posting your business card on community bulletin boards, handing it out to people, or putting it in places where people could find it (i.e. on a table in a cafe or restaurant, on a shelf in a store, etc.) The key when using this method is to find as many places as you can to put or hand out your business card, so people will go to your small business to get what it is they need.
I know these aren't many ideas, and they are probably obvious ways to increase business, but I hope it helps you a little bit.
I wish you the best of luck!
-Laura M.
Congratulations on having your own small business and wanting to have it continue to grow! My best first piece of advice for trying to grow your business is to use social media to help spread your business name around more. Instagram, Facebook, X (aka Twitter), LinkedIn, TikTok, etc. are great platforms to start with, and as you continue to increase your social media presence as your business grows. Social media in general is a great way to get your small business publicity because many people and other businesses, big and small, use social media for the same reason.
Another great way to get some exposure is posting your business card on community bulletin boards, handing it out to people, or putting it in places where people could find it (i.e. on a table in a cafe or restaurant, on a shelf in a store, etc.) The key when using this method is to find as many places as you can to put or hand out your business card, so people will go to your small business to get what it is they need.
I know these aren't many ideas, and they are probably obvious ways to increase business, but I hope it helps you a little bit.
I wish you the best of luck!
-Laura M.
Hasnain Joiya
CEO at SeeMake
38
Answers
Pakistan
Updated
Hasnain’s Answer
Growing a business involves a combination of strategic planning, effective execution, and adaptability. Here are some general steps and considerations to help you think about business growth:
𝟭. 𝗠𝗮𝗿𝗸𝗲𝘁 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗰𝗵:
• Understand your target market, customer needs, and industry trends.
• Identify opportunities for growth and potential challenges.
𝟮. 𝗖𝘂𝘀𝘁𝗼𝗺𝗲𝗿 𝗙𝗼𝗰𝘂𝘀:
• Prioritize customer satisfaction and build strong relationships.
• Seek feedback and use it to improve your products or services.
𝟯. 𝗨𝗻𝗶𝗾𝘂𝗲 𝗩𝗮𝗹𝘂𝗲 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗽𝗼𝘀𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 (𝗨𝗩𝗣):
• Clearly articulate what makes your business unique.
• Communicate your value proposition to customers effectively.
𝟰. 𝗠𝗮𝗿𝗸𝗲𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗦𝘁𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗴𝘆:
• Develop a comprehensive marketing plan that includes online and offline strategies.
• Utilize social media, content marketing, email campaigns, and other channels.
𝟱. 𝗢𝗻𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗲 𝗣𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲:
• Establish a strong online presence through a professional website and active social media profiles.
• Consider e-commerce options if applicable to your business.
𝟲. 𝗡𝗲𝘁𝘄𝗼𝗿𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴:
• Build a network of contacts within your industry and related fields.
• Attend industry events, join professional groups, and connect with other entrepreneurs.
𝟳. 𝗗𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗶𝗳𝗶𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻:
• Explore opportunities to diversify your product or service offerings.
• Consider expanding into related markets or introducing complementary products.
𝟴. 𝗦𝘁𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗴𝗶𝗰 𝗣𝗮𝗿𝘁𝗻𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗽𝘀:
• Form partnerships with other businesses that can mutually benefit both parties.
• Look for collaborations that can expand your reach or enhance your offerings.
𝟵. 𝗧𝗲𝗰𝗵𝗻𝗼𝗹𝗼𝗴𝘆 𝗜𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗴𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻:
• Leverage technology to streamline processes and improve efficiency.
• Consider adopting new technologies that can give your business a competitive edge.
𝟭𝟬. 𝗘𝗺𝗽𝗹𝗼𝘆𝗲𝗲 𝗗𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹𝗼𝗽𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁:
• Invest in the training and development of your team.
• A skilled and motivated workforce can contribute significantly to business growth.
𝟭𝟭. 𝗙𝗶𝗻𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝗠𝗮𝗻𝗮𝗴𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁:
• Monitor and manage your finances wisely.
• Ensure that you have a sustainable financial model for growth.
𝟭𝟮. 𝗔𝗱𝗮𝗽𝘁𝗮𝗯𝗶𝗹𝗶𝘁𝘆:
• Stay adaptable and be open to adjusting your strategies based on market changes.
• Continuously evaluate and refine your business plan.
𝟭𝟯. 𝗙𝗲𝗲𝗱𝗯𝗮𝗰𝗸 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗔𝗻𝗮𝗹𝘆𝘀𝗶𝘀:
• Regularly analyze key performance indicators (KPIs).
• Use data and feedback to make informed decisions and refine your strategies.
𝟭𝟰. 𝗦𝗰𝗮𝗹𝗲 𝗚𝗿𝗮𝗱𝘂𝗮𝗹𝗹𝘆:
• Consider scaling your business gradually to manage growth effectively.
• Ensure that your infrastructure and systems can support increased demand.
𝟭𝟱. 𝗟𝗲𝗴𝗮𝗹 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗥𝗲𝗴𝘂𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗼𝗿𝘆 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗽𝗹𝗶𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲:
• Ensure your business complies with all relevant laws and regulations.
• Seek legal advice when necessary, especially during expansion.
Remember, the specific strategies for growing a business can vary based on the industry, market conditions, and the nature of your business. It's important to assess your unique situation and develop a customized plan for sustainable growth.
𝟭. 𝗠𝗮𝗿𝗸𝗲𝘁 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗰𝗵:
• Understand your target market, customer needs, and industry trends.
• Identify opportunities for growth and potential challenges.
𝟮. 𝗖𝘂𝘀𝘁𝗼𝗺𝗲𝗿 𝗙𝗼𝗰𝘂𝘀:
• Prioritize customer satisfaction and build strong relationships.
• Seek feedback and use it to improve your products or services.
𝟯. 𝗨𝗻𝗶𝗾𝘂𝗲 𝗩𝗮𝗹𝘂𝗲 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗽𝗼𝘀𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 (𝗨𝗩𝗣):
• Clearly articulate what makes your business unique.
• Communicate your value proposition to customers effectively.
𝟰. 𝗠𝗮𝗿𝗸𝗲𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗦𝘁𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗴𝘆:
• Develop a comprehensive marketing plan that includes online and offline strategies.
• Utilize social media, content marketing, email campaigns, and other channels.
𝟱. 𝗢𝗻𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗲 𝗣𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲:
• Establish a strong online presence through a professional website and active social media profiles.
• Consider e-commerce options if applicable to your business.
𝟲. 𝗡𝗲𝘁𝘄𝗼𝗿𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴:
• Build a network of contacts within your industry and related fields.
• Attend industry events, join professional groups, and connect with other entrepreneurs.
𝟳. 𝗗𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗶𝗳𝗶𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻:
• Explore opportunities to diversify your product or service offerings.
• Consider expanding into related markets or introducing complementary products.
𝟴. 𝗦𝘁𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗴𝗶𝗰 𝗣𝗮𝗿𝘁𝗻𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗽𝘀:
• Form partnerships with other businesses that can mutually benefit both parties.
• Look for collaborations that can expand your reach or enhance your offerings.
𝟵. 𝗧𝗲𝗰𝗵𝗻𝗼𝗹𝗼𝗴𝘆 𝗜𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗴𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻:
• Leverage technology to streamline processes and improve efficiency.
• Consider adopting new technologies that can give your business a competitive edge.
𝟭𝟬. 𝗘𝗺𝗽𝗹𝗼𝘆𝗲𝗲 𝗗𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹𝗼𝗽𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁:
• Invest in the training and development of your team.
• A skilled and motivated workforce can contribute significantly to business growth.
𝟭𝟭. 𝗙𝗶𝗻𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝗠𝗮𝗻𝗮𝗴𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁:
• Monitor and manage your finances wisely.
• Ensure that you have a sustainable financial model for growth.
𝟭𝟮. 𝗔𝗱𝗮𝗽𝘁𝗮𝗯𝗶𝗹𝗶𝘁𝘆:
• Stay adaptable and be open to adjusting your strategies based on market changes.
• Continuously evaluate and refine your business plan.
𝟭𝟯. 𝗙𝗲𝗲𝗱𝗯𝗮𝗰𝗸 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗔𝗻𝗮𝗹𝘆𝘀𝗶𝘀:
• Regularly analyze key performance indicators (KPIs).
• Use data and feedback to make informed decisions and refine your strategies.
𝟭𝟰. 𝗦𝗰𝗮𝗹𝗲 𝗚𝗿𝗮𝗱𝘂𝗮𝗹𝗹𝘆:
• Consider scaling your business gradually to manage growth effectively.
• Ensure that your infrastructure and systems can support increased demand.
𝟭𝟱. 𝗟𝗲𝗴𝗮𝗹 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗥𝗲𝗴𝘂𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗼𝗿𝘆 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗽𝗹𝗶𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲:
• Ensure your business complies with all relevant laws and regulations.
• Seek legal advice when necessary, especially during expansion.
Remember, the specific strategies for growing a business can vary based on the industry, market conditions, and the nature of your business. It's important to assess your unique situation and develop a customized plan for sustainable growth.
Joe Stringa
CEO / Operating Partner
17
Answers
Jackson, Mississippi
Updated
Joe’s Answer
Becoming an entrepreneur involves a combination of mindset, skills, knowledge, and action. Here are some steps to help you embark on your journey as an entrepreneur:
Identify Your Passion and Purpose: Start by identifying your interests, passions, and strengths. Consider what you love to do and what problems or needs you are passionate about solving. Your business idea should align with your values and personal mission.
Research and Validate Your Idea: Conduct market research to assess the demand for your product or service. Identify your target audience, understand their needs and preferences, and assess the competition. Validate your idea by gathering feedback from potential customers and testing your product or service in the market.
Develop a Business Plan: Create a detailed business plan outlining your business concept, target market, value proposition, marketing strategy, operational plan, and financial projections. A well-thought-out business plan will serve as a roadmap for your entrepreneurial journey and help you secure funding if needed.
Acquire Necessary Skills and Knowledge: Develop the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed as an entrepreneur. This may include skills such as leadership, communication, negotiation, marketing, financial management, and problem-solving. Consider taking courses, attending workshops, or seeking mentorship to enhance your skills and expertise.
Secure Funding: Determine how you will finance your business venture. Explore options such as self-funding, bootstrapping, crowdfunding, loans, or seeking investment from venture capitalists or angel investors. Develop a financial plan and budget to ensure you have the necessary funds to launch and grow your business.
Build Your Network: Networking is essential for success as an entrepreneur. Build relationships with other entrepreneurs, industry professionals, mentors, and potential customers. Attend networking events, join industry associations, and participate in online communities to expand your network and gain valuable insights and support.
Take Action: Finally, take action and launch your business. Start small, test your ideas, and iterate based on feedback and results. Embrace challenges and setbacks as opportunities for growth and learning. Stay persistent, adaptable, and resilient as you navigate the ups and downs of entrepreneurship.
By following these steps and staying committed to your vision, you can become a successful entrepreneur and turn your business idea into reality. Remember that entrepreneurship is a journey, and success often requires patience, perseverance, and continuous learning.
Identify Your Passion and Purpose: Start by identifying your interests, passions, and strengths. Consider what you love to do and what problems or needs you are passionate about solving. Your business idea should align with your values and personal mission.
Research and Validate Your Idea: Conduct market research to assess the demand for your product or service. Identify your target audience, understand their needs and preferences, and assess the competition. Validate your idea by gathering feedback from potential customers and testing your product or service in the market.
Develop a Business Plan: Create a detailed business plan outlining your business concept, target market, value proposition, marketing strategy, operational plan, and financial projections. A well-thought-out business plan will serve as a roadmap for your entrepreneurial journey and help you secure funding if needed.
Acquire Necessary Skills and Knowledge: Develop the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed as an entrepreneur. This may include skills such as leadership, communication, negotiation, marketing, financial management, and problem-solving. Consider taking courses, attending workshops, or seeking mentorship to enhance your skills and expertise.
Secure Funding: Determine how you will finance your business venture. Explore options such as self-funding, bootstrapping, crowdfunding, loans, or seeking investment from venture capitalists or angel investors. Develop a financial plan and budget to ensure you have the necessary funds to launch and grow your business.
Build Your Network: Networking is essential for success as an entrepreneur. Build relationships with other entrepreneurs, industry professionals, mentors, and potential customers. Attend networking events, join industry associations, and participate in online communities to expand your network and gain valuable insights and support.
Take Action: Finally, take action and launch your business. Start small, test your ideas, and iterate based on feedback and results. Embrace challenges and setbacks as opportunities for growth and learning. Stay persistent, adaptable, and resilient as you navigate the ups and downs of entrepreneurship.
By following these steps and staying committed to your vision, you can become a successful entrepreneur and turn your business idea into reality. Remember that entrepreneurship is a journey, and success often requires patience, perseverance, and continuous learning.
Nada L
IT Software
100
Answers
Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
Updated
Nada’s Answer
Hi Pelumi,
It's awesome that you're diving into the world of entrepreneurship right out of school! Starting a business requires a mix of passion, grit, and the right tools.
Here's a breakdown of the essentials to get you started:
1. The Idea Toolkit:
* Problem-solving lens: The best businesses solve problems. Look around – what frustrates people? What needs improvement? Your idea should offer a solution or fill a gap.
* Idea validation: Don't just assume your idea is great. Talk to potential customers. Get feedback. Would they actually pay for what you're offering?
* Niche focus: It's tempting to try to be everything to everyone, but starting with a specific niche helps you target your marketing and stand out.
2. Planning :
* Lean Business Plan: No need for a 100-page document, but outline your goals, target market, how you'll make money, and your marketing strategy.
* Market Research: Who are your competitors? What are their prices? How can you differentiate yourself? Knowledge is power!
* Legal and Financial Foundation: Choose a business structure (sole proprietorship, LLC, etc.), get necessary licenses, and understand basic accounting.
3. The Digital Toolbox:
* Website or Online Platform: This is your virtual storefront. Make it user-friendly, whether it's your own website or an Etsy shop.
* Social Media Presence: Where does your target audience hang out online? Focus your efforts on those platforms.
* Content Creation Tools: You'll need ways to create engaging content – Canva for visuals, video editing software, or even just a good phone camera.
4. Customer Connection:
* Email Marketing: Build an email list and use it to connect with potential and current customers (Mailchimp, ConvertKit are popular options).
* Customer Relationship Management (CRM): A system to keep track of customer interactions and build relationships (HubSpot, Zoho are examples).
* Excellent Communication: Respond to inquiries promptly, be helpful, and build trust with your audience.
5. The Growth Accelerator:
* Analytics and Tracking: Use tools like Google Analytics to understand how people find your business and what they do on your website.
* Networking and Collaboration: Connect with other entrepreneurs, potential mentors, and industry professionals.
* Continuous Learning: The business world is always evolving. Stay updated on trends, learn new skills, and adapt.
Resources for Young Entrepreneurs:
* Small business development centers (SBDCs): Free or low-cost counseling and training.
* SCORE: Free mentoring and resources from experienced business professionals.
* Online business courses: Platforms like Coursera, Udemy, and Skillshare offer a wealth of knowledge.
Starting a business is a marathon, not a sprint. Be patient, persistent, and passionate about what you're doing. Good luck!
It's awesome that you're diving into the world of entrepreneurship right out of school! Starting a business requires a mix of passion, grit, and the right tools.
Here's a breakdown of the essentials to get you started:
1. The Idea Toolkit:
* Problem-solving lens: The best businesses solve problems. Look around – what frustrates people? What needs improvement? Your idea should offer a solution or fill a gap.
* Idea validation: Don't just assume your idea is great. Talk to potential customers. Get feedback. Would they actually pay for what you're offering?
* Niche focus: It's tempting to try to be everything to everyone, but starting with a specific niche helps you target your marketing and stand out.
2. Planning :
* Lean Business Plan: No need for a 100-page document, but outline your goals, target market, how you'll make money, and your marketing strategy.
* Market Research: Who are your competitors? What are their prices? How can you differentiate yourself? Knowledge is power!
* Legal and Financial Foundation: Choose a business structure (sole proprietorship, LLC, etc.), get necessary licenses, and understand basic accounting.
3. The Digital Toolbox:
* Website or Online Platform: This is your virtual storefront. Make it user-friendly, whether it's your own website or an Etsy shop.
* Social Media Presence: Where does your target audience hang out online? Focus your efforts on those platforms.
* Content Creation Tools: You'll need ways to create engaging content – Canva for visuals, video editing software, or even just a good phone camera.
4. Customer Connection:
* Email Marketing: Build an email list and use it to connect with potential and current customers (Mailchimp, ConvertKit are popular options).
* Customer Relationship Management (CRM): A system to keep track of customer interactions and build relationships (HubSpot, Zoho are examples).
* Excellent Communication: Respond to inquiries promptly, be helpful, and build trust with your audience.
5. The Growth Accelerator:
* Analytics and Tracking: Use tools like Google Analytics to understand how people find your business and what they do on your website.
* Networking and Collaboration: Connect with other entrepreneurs, potential mentors, and industry professionals.
* Continuous Learning: The business world is always evolving. Stay updated on trends, learn new skills, and adapt.
Resources for Young Entrepreneurs:
* Small business development centers (SBDCs): Free or low-cost counseling and training.
* SCORE: Free mentoring and resources from experienced business professionals.
* Online business courses: Platforms like Coursera, Udemy, and Skillshare offer a wealth of knowledge.
Starting a business is a marathon, not a sprint. Be patient, persistent, and passionate about what you're doing. Good luck!