Starting a small business can feel like a leap of faith, even under the best of circumstances. Starting a business with virtually no money, though? That’s a whole different ballgame.
Fortunately, with hard work and dedication, it can definitely be done. Here are a few tips for getting your small business off the ground without going hungry.
Keep Your Day Job – at least at first
Starting a small business is hard work and the hours are endless. If you’re following your passion, it can be difficult to spend your day-to-day doing something as mundane and uninspired as a traditional job. However, until the money starts rolling in, you’re going to need that steady income. That way, when you need to take risks, you’ll be coming from a more financially secure place. Come to peace with the fact that for a few months….years more like it, you’re going to be committed to working extra long hours until you are ready to leave your day job. Even then, you still need to be committed to working long, hard hours. Building a business is a never ending job but can be very rewarding.
Hit Up Your Local Library
As you’re getting your business up and running, it’s important that you continue learning. Learn as much as you can about your field, about how you can improve the products or services you’re selling and about the process of starting a business. While the internet is undoubtedly a great resource to get you started, much of the information that’ll you come across on podcasts, blogs and videos will be rather surface, not to mention the fact that virtually anyone can publish anything on the internet, regardless of whether or not they actually know what they’re talking about.
Books, on the other hand, are written and edited by professionals. While that doesn’t guarantee that the information that they provide will directly benefit you, books will likely provide more in-depth, valuable info. Chances are, your local library holds a wealth of information that will make small business success easier to acquire, and even better, it’s all free!
Get Creative with Funding
Funding can come from a variety of sources. While small business grants are hard to come by, they do exist, and with a little bit of work, you just might strike gold. Crowdfunding is becoming an increasingly popular option for getting small businesses off the ground, and small business loans are always an option. Take some time to research funding sources that don’t involve your own bank account.
Getting the Word Out with a new, technology filled business card
Business cards are one of the first investments you’ll make in your budding business. They do more than provide the recipient with info on where and how to connect with your business; in most cases, they’ll likely be passed out to customers and prospects, making them a personalized form of marketing. The design you choose for your business cards, from your font to your color scheme, helps to establish your brand’s identity and leave a lasting impression.
With augmented reality, your business cards can do double-duty by giving you a cool and creative way to tell your audience about your business and what you have to offer. Check out how these businesses have used the Soundwave Art™ app to promote their brand.
