If you’re giving serious thought to starting a business, or you’ve taken that step and are just in the beginning stages, you might have a better chance at success if you begin by avoiding an obstacle many women entrepreneurs stumble on. In fact, those who start a new business, male or female, sometimes make the mistake of believing there’s a secret ingredient to the recipe. Or, they believe another person succeeded with a similar product or service because that person had “what it takes.”
Genuine Interest
It’s true you’ll more likely meet with success if you focus on something you like to do or something you’re genuinely interested in. Rather than following the crowd and choosing a product or service you know nothing about, just because it’s “the thing” at the moment, you should work with what you know.
There’s always a “however” because nothing is absolutely certain to work. Remember, there’s no secret ingredient. When you choose something you like, you must also find a balance with what people want to buy. Because you might have a Great Idea, but can you sell it. Don’t make the mistake of struggling along trying to sell something you “think” will be successful. Think about getting a small slice of a bigger category.
But this is about the only factor separating you from others in terms of growing a business. If you follow the right path and pay close attention to details, you may find you have “what it takes.”
Actions, Not Words
You will also find the line from an old rock-and-roll song applies here. “A lot less talk and a little more action.” Succeeding in business means taking action every day. This is more than important. It is truly of the essence when you want to show you’re sincere about what you’re doing. This means engaging with your target market – people – in an honest and accurate way. You’re developing a brand called “you” and this is composed of the many relationships you have with suppliers and with customers.
Persevere
You can use a variety of words and phrases to discuss this subject. You might say you have to “stick with it” or you may have to encourage yourself with “affirmations.” The bottom line here is, you must persevere, which means moving forward even in the most difficult moments. If a customer reacts negatively to your presentation or your price, for example, don’t take it personally. If there’s a real problem with your advertising, your asking price, or your service, that is what you need to focus on.
Over and Under
In an article several years ago, Brad Sugars wrote for Entrepreneur online, “When planning, always overestimate expenses and underestimate revenues.” In addition to focusing on business numbers, you should also keep marketing and sales as your primary objectives. The most-successful business people will tell you not to focus solely on branding. Do what you need to do each day to spread the word about your product or service, and make sure you are trying to sell it. The brand name will build itself.