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hiddentreasure
11-16-2006, 11:01 PM
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Starting Your Own Home-Based Business
Copyright © Craig Warren
http://www.WarrensMarketing.com

There are many reasons that people choose to work from home.
Rising gas prices and long commutes got you down? Maybe you're
a parent of very young children and would like a job that enables
you to care for them while still being able to provide your family
with economic support. Or perhaps you're tired of working for
other people and would prefer to go into business for yourself.
Getting started is easier than you think. All you have to do is
break down the task into the following manageable steps:

1. Consider Your Interests

What is it that you love to do? Can it be turned into a profitable
business? If there's a public demand for the product or service
you want to provide, then you can turn your dream job into a
reality. One way to gauge potential interest is by talking to your
friends and family about your business ideas. They can give you
valuable feedback that can provide encouragement while also
indicating possible problems. If you already have an actual
product, you can try selling it on an established shopping
website like eBay or Etsy.

2. Take Advantage of Your Local Resources

Every state has a website that will guide you through the steps
necessary to start your own business, from getting the proper
permits to securing loans. There are even links to the small
business organizations in your area, which offer free or low-cost
classes to help you get started. Another option is to contact the
business department of your nearby community college or
university and ask if one of the classes would be willing to put
together a business plan for you as an assignment. This way,
you'll be contributing to the education of college students while
getting free consulting help--definitely a win-win situation!

3. Start Small

So you've got your business plan and enough capital to get started.
You'll want to invest in the necessary supplies and some advertising
space, but don't get overzealous. Remember, you want this business to
stand the test of time, so you don't want to spend too much money on
extraneous things, such as fancy packaging or full-page ads. Begin at
the neighborhood level and expand from there. Post signs for your new
business on community bulletin boards, leave fliers in people's mailboxes,
or buy a small ad in the classifieds section of your local paper.
As your business grows, you might want to consider opening your
own web boutique or setting up a company website, participating in
craft fairs or trade shows, and purchasing ad space in relevant national publications.

4. Don't Quit Your Day Job

Since it takes most small businesses a year to turn a profit, you'll
want to keep working outside the home at least part time until this
happens (unless, of course, you're lucky enough to have a
significant other willing and able to support you economically).
Be patient with your business and with yourself. Keep in mind that if
you stay determined and take the time to refine your product or
service, you'll be able to carve out a niche for yourself in the market.
Once you attain professional and financial independence by doing
what you love, all your hard work will be more than worth it.

About the Author:

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