Home based business

       In today’s economy a lot of people who can’t find a new job are choosing to start their own business. This can be very rewarding, or it can be very frustrating. It is common for an aspiring entrepreneur to think that their hobby can be turned into a business. This may or may not be a good idea. You may lose the joy of your passion when you are forced to work at it every day or it may just not be marketable. However, it you have special skills, like sewing or cooking, you may be able to capitalize on these skills.
       A better idea is to research what is needed in the marketplace and create something from that list. It takes more than passion and motivation to make your new business work. Consider your skills and interests. Income potential should not be the only reason for your ultimate choice. You will be doing whatever you choose day in and day out; it better hold your interest.
       Do you like to write; how about publishing ebooks, editing, or newsletter services? Are you moved by helping people; think about babysitting, senior in-home care, personal shopping, or conducting tours in your local Community. Pet services, cleaning, plant care, or bookkeeping are all possibilities. One of the most popular, of course, is online selling through eBay or Etsy. You are only limited by your budget and your imagination.
       The most important part of getting started is doing your homework. If you are not seeking grants or loans you may not need a formal business plan, but you do need a marketing plan. You have to differentiate yourself from the competition and determine how you will attract customers. Before that you will have to determine the type of business you want, if there is any special licensing required, and how you will operate.
       Yes, this does sound like a lot of work, but it is mandatory if you are to have any chance of success. You can’t build a house without a blueprint and you can’t succeed in business without a good plan.

Happy Campers

A surprise to many business owners or leaders is the fact that their customers are not their most important asset. The most valuable asset you have in your company is your well-trained staff.

Happy and committed employees will build and maintain a strong customer base; disgruntled team members will do just the opposite.

Some of the most successful companies today have created employee models that seem frivolous and expensive, but the return in incalculable. Creation of a workplace Corporate Culture that is respectful of your employees while maintaining the bottom line is large part of your success. It guides how employees think, act, and feel.

Companies like Apple Computer, Ing, and Zappos have gone to extremes for their employees; you can even bring your dog to work. The fall-out from this is the line of talented people waiting to work for them. You can get the same results, on a smaller scale, with creative benefits that they'll value more than money. Studies have shown that money is rarely the prime motivator. Comp days, flexible schedules, production bonuses, wellness programs, unique, customized incentives, or at least a R&R area all lead to happy productive employees. In absence of these things, words of praise, respect, and compassion will work well. Empowerment is the key.

In turn, your employees will go out of their support to you. They will want to be knowledgeable, helpful, empowered, and courteous, This translates to an atmosphere where shopping, or whatever, is a pleasant experience. These customers and clients will tell their friends and that the word will spread.
These concepts should not be reserved for your management or sales staff. They should be applied to everyone from the janitor to the boss. Your goal is success and this is a very important component.

Have You Hugged Your Consultant Today?

You can expect to see a lot of new start-up businesses. Many people who have been laid off are starting their own ventures. Some will be successful, but many won't because just because they have a good idea, doesn't mean they have the business acumen for success or aren't willing to uses coaches who are available to help them. I find in my local market that people understand that they need help, but they aren't willing to pay for consulting or coaches.
Most people have no problem hiring doctors, lawyers, or accountants, but they don't want to pay for consultants. Somehow their mindset is if they can't hold the product in their hand it has no value. This couldn't be farther from the truth. Hiring a consultant is like renting a second, more experienced brain for the duration of your project.
The smartest people in the world don't have all the answers, they just know where to get the information. Your Consultant knows where to get the answers you need in their field of expertise. The money you invest with a qualified Consultant is and investment in your success.
That is why I'm expanding my base to the internet. I'm here to help small business' create a strong base for success. My new site just launched this week (http://www.othercreations.com/). Check it out! There is no charge for your initial consultation, why not ask and expert.