If you’re just starting out in business, you’ve probably come across a lot of advice during your research. There is a wealth of information out there that covers everything you need to know about setting up, covering your business tactics, legal requirements, customer service and more.
But what about the lesser known factors it can be helpful to know? Here are ten things no one tells you about starting your own business that you need to know.
1. You will have more than one job.
You won’t just be doing what you set out to do. A business owner wears many hats. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself becoming a marketer, website creator, social media manager, customer service representative and public relations handler too.
2. Some parts will be ‘boring’, but they’re necessary.
While the legal documentation and managing your finances might not seem fun, they’re an important part of business. There will always be parts of running a business that aren’t as exciting, but try to tackle them with a motivated approach.
3. There will be failures as well as wins.
Things probably won’t go the way you want them to 100 percent of the time. What’s important is how you act on these failures. Pick yourself up and try again with new knowledge.
4. You’ll need a thick skin.
As a business owner, you’ll need to remember that not everyone will love what you have to offer. You’ll need a thick skin to deal with negativity and rejection. Just try to focus on those who love what you do!
5. You may get lonely.
When getting started, you’ll be putting in a lot of solo hours working on the business, and may find yourself feeling a little isolated. Don’t worry – this won’t last forever.
6. There’s no ‘right way’ to do things.
If you’ve been given some advice but it doesn’t feel right for you, consider what the alternative could be. What works for one might not work for another, so do what works for your business.
7. You can expect it to take time.
Rome wasn’t built in a day and success doesn’t come overnight, so try to be patient and don’t expect too much too soon – no matter how excited you are about your future!
8. You’ll need to network to find success.
It is very unlikely that you’ll simply set up your business and customers will come. You’ll need to network, market and promote yourself to find success.
9. You don’t have to be the best.
Aiming to be the best is one thing, but realistically, there may always be someone better than you. This also can be said within the company. Don’t choose not to hire someone better than you because you feel you should be the best within your company. Someone with even more skills could be a valuable asset.
10. You can learn from other entrepreneurs.
Don’t feel as if you have to do everything alone. Your fellow entrepreneurs have been in the same boat and will be happy to share their expertise and experiences with you.
These are all excellent points to consider when starting up your new business, despite the fact you may not have realised them until now. We hope you’ll find them helpful as you get your feet off the ground.
If you currently run your own business, what do you wish someone had told you when you were only just getting started? Leave your answers in the comments to inspire other up and coming entrepreneurs!
