Creating Momentum for Your New Business Idea
You've got a great business idea. You're excited at the
possibility of being your own boss and taking control of your
own destiny. There's only one small problem: you have no idea
where to start. The most important thing you can do, is
capitalize on the excitement you currently have and get some
momentum started.
Below are a few simple action steps that will help launch you
into the realm of "business owner"
1. Research. Hop on the internet and type in a keyword for you
idea. Read what is available on your topic. Identify gaps in the
available information; those are gaps you could fill, potential
services you could provide.
2. Talk it up. Tell you mother, your best friend, the neighbor
down the street. Tell anyone who will listen to you about your
idea. This will do 2 things. First it will create some
accountability, you've told so many people about this great
business you're not in a position to just drop it. Secondly (and
more importantly) someone you talk to is bound to know other
places or people where you can get information. Maybe they have
a cousin in another city who started the same business, or maybe
they are aware of a vendor who could get you a great deal on
your raw materials. People know people and most people are
willing to share their knowledge with you.
3. Create a dummy business plan. This does not have to be your
take-to-the-bank-to-get-a-loan business plan. This can just be a
rough draft. The point is to create something that will get to
you thinking about what you need to do. There are many business
plan resources on the Internet and most of them ask you some
pretty hefty questions. Even if you're not ready to create a
serious business plan, this is good way to get you thinking in
the right direction.
4. Start an ideas notebook. As you do your research, you will
be bombarded with a lot of ideas, some good, some not so good.
Creating a system to keep track of those ideas will help prevent
you from feeling overwhelmed and ensure nothing slips through
the proverbial cracks. Once your business is underway, continue
to use your notebook as a repository for ideas. Make it a point
to periodically review it when you find yourself in need of
inspiration.
5. Talk with other entrepreneurs. Business owners are a special
breed. Talk with other people who have started their own
business to learn their lessons. Find out what they love about
it and what are the challenges. Learn what networking venues are
most successful for them.
6. Set a timeline. Give yourself a deadline to stop researching
and start acting. Don't allow your enthusiasm and motivation to
wither.