Growing a small business can be difficult. But hope is not lost yet. In the UK, the gap between men and women starting a business is narrowing, creating more fair opportunities for all. So that's all the more reason for you to increase the percentage of women with successful startups. Read here how you can do that!
Good Networking
While it seems like a good idea to do everything alone, it's not practical at all. Everyone needs help, no matter who you are. It used to be that if you had limited financial resources, hiring extra employees was unthinkable. Nowadays you are no longer doomed to work alone, even if you have few financial resources.
While it is important to have good staff, it is just as important to build a good network. Having a good network can bring you positive things, from financial support to positive word of mouth in your industry. It is clearly a win-win situation and your reputation can create a snowball effect if you do the networking right.
Work/Private Balance
Of course, the benefits of a good network can only be achieved if you build many relationships with and between the interested parties. You need to put in the time, dedication and social skills to make a good first impression. One of the things that can get in the way of these positive qualities is a chaotic private life.
If you have children, time and dedication are probably hard to find. Understandable. The last thing you want to do is socialize with other people after spending a full day with the kids. If you are seriously considering starting a business then you need to switch to a different strategy. Consider asking your partner for help with childcare, organize your time using a calendar or find a babysitter so you can work on your startup undisturbed.
Raising Funds
Startups no longer rely solely on customers. For starters, small businesses have to deal with small transactions and agreements with customers. That's why you need to find a way to increase your finances and the sooner you can do that the better. Roll up your sleeves and go for it!
For example, Funding Options can help you find the right lenders and they recognize that small businesses are also the backbone of the Dutch economy. Your money situation can become their priority. Funding Options has built an excellent reputation in the UK and is rated 'Excellent' in the country known for its business acumen. Simply put, you can't go wrong with this.
A Business, Not a Hobby
There is a difference between owning your own business and owning a shop on Etsy, although both are great ways to monetize your passions. But the startup does require a bit more business acumen and it involves meetings, laws, regulations and financial controls. It's not nothing.
Your hobby may have been a strong starting point, but it won't be the only thing you'll focus on as you start and maintain your business. If you like making things, that's great, but not all hobbies have to be turned into big businesses. If you understand this and still want your own startup go for it and give it everything you've got. Good luck!
