Becoming a Solo-preneur

In this Issue

• Welcome Message
• Feature Article: Becoming a Solo-preneur
• Recommended Resources

I have just celebrated 5 years running my own business and my only regret is that I didn't start sooner! It hasn't all been plain sailing and there have been plenty of ups and downs, without the emotional and financial support of working for an established corporate company. The trade off has been an opportunity to do work I love and enjoy, spend more time with family and friends, learn how to run a business and meet some amazing people along the way.

If you are thinking about setting up in business or you are in the midst of running your own, I thought I would share with you what I have learned along the way.

Wishing you success,

Susan

Becoming a Solo-preneur

Having worked for very large and well known corporate organizations making the leap to set up my own business did take time to work out and lots of courage along the way. Through trial and error here are some of things that I found have worked well for me.

Find a business coach: a really good business coach is money well spent and can guide you through the first months of setting up, attracting clients and marketing your services. A coach can be a sounding board for new ideas and an ongoing supportive resource. My own business coach has helped me work towards bigger goals, expand my thinking and grow my revenue.

Discover your niche: being very clear on who your clients are and what you can offer them will open up more opportunities faster. A niche makes you stand out from the crowd and brands you as the person or business to go to in your chosen market. The founder of Carphone Warehouse wrote recently that having started the business from a small flat in London, once he had successfully established the brand more customers started turning up, with less advertising.

Become an expert: there is something reassuring about working with and buying from an expert who specializes in their chosen field, whether this is chocolates or copywriting.

Build a support group: the joy and freedom of working for yourself can rapidly turn to splendid isolation when the phone doesn't ring and there is no-one to talk to expect next door's cat. It's enough to have you heading for the nearest corporate office. Having people to call when you need to bounce ideas around or share experiences will help see you through any difficult, challenging or lonely patches.
If you are planning to 'go it alone' or would like help in growing your business please contact me at susan@careerinsights.co.uk

You can learn more about Susan and her courses, programmes and products at
www.careerinsights.co.uk