There are many aspects to consider when you start your own business and there are many opinions and sources of advice. In truth, some (not all) of these sources can be very helpful and accommodated before you start your new adventure.
When referring to the official government website, you are advised to register your business, look at your type of business, where you will work and if you will take people on to work with you. Of course, these aspects are very important, if primarily functional.
The reality is that there are probably other priorities to consider, as it is essential that you clearly understand and grasp what the implications of running your own business are going to be.
There are many rewards for starting your own business, but the challenges and potential pitfalls are not to be underestimated.
We can share some of these insights from our own experience as well as outline some of the differences between working for yourself and working for a large organisation;
- Firstly, the decision that you want to do it is very important. There may be an element of necessity, however, you must really want it as well. It is essential that this decision is the right one for you
- It is very important to research the industry/market you want to enter Is there a high enough demand for what you will offer so that you will make a living? Who are your competitors? What will make potential clients/consumers come to you? (i.e. what are your U.S.P.s?)
- Are you going to do something you are truly passionate about? After all, if you are going to put the considerable amount of sacrifice, time and resource in to starting up and running your own show, without doubt it helps if it’s something you passionately believe in and want to do. For example, primary motivators by a distance have always been very clear. Personally, to ‘do the best I can’ for my children. Professionally, to see our clients and students grow, continually develop and embrace the philosophy of lifelong learning; to aspire to be the very best they can be
- Be clear about and consistent about what your business stands for and represents- Be consistent in your approach, your marketing and social media strategy and your face to face interactions. You will become the face of your business through every available communications channel
- Self-awareness. We all have our own ways of working and there is no ‘one size fits all’ approach here. Whilst relentless commitment, focus, resilience, hard work and delivery are givens, self-awareness is also essential. You need to know how to get the best and the most out of yourself. Always strive to be the very best that you can be
- There will be many fulfilling and extremely challenging times. It is always difficult to predict when they will happen and best advice is to always expect the unexpected
- Ultimately, you have to enjoy what you do, even the very tough times. The buck stops with you never doubt this reality.
There is so much information out there so you’ll need to pick and choose.
Here are some inspiring quotes from inspiring people, that may help you on your way;
Walt Disney; ‘The way to get started is to quit talking and start doing’
Steve Jobs, Co-Founder Apple; ‘Your work is going to fill a large part of your life, and the only way to be truly satisfied is to do what you believe is great work. And the only way to do great work is to love what you do.’
Jeff Bezos, Amazon Founder and CEO; “I knew that if I failed I wouldn’t regret that, but I knew the one thing I might regret is not trying.”
Our business began over 10 years ago, has grown year on year and has evolved into D.J. Learning Limited. As you may have seen from our website (www.djlearning.co.uk) we continue to have the privilege and experience of working with clients all over the world.
We will always continue to learn as we grow and embark on the next stages of our journey.
Please let us know if you would like to discuss what is possible when starting your own business. We offer a range of events and support where we can look forward to working with you.
Thank you and good luck on your entrepreneurial adventures.
David and Oliver.