Article

Going into business for yourself - finding the right advice.

Topic: Business Start-upPublished April 8, 2012

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Sometimes, when my wife needs help, I'll head over to the supermarket for some groceries for the family. It’s usually pretty painful and quite often requires much determination to get out the door and even a period of recovery afterwards. Obviously I’m kidding; sort of. Even though it's not much fun for me, it does help alleviate some stress from my wife, which makes it worthwhile. I mean wondering the store from aisle to aisle looking for certain items drives me nuts. It also makes me feel overwhelmed just thinking about how rude people can be as they try to find the best bargain on their favorite cottage cheese. Anyway, I do believe that this is really a nice little analogy for starting a small business. Many folks that would like to tackle the self employment line (pun intended) feel as though they need to do it all themselves. This is completely unnecessary! The path to becoming self employed is a road that's been traveled before. Although, it does require some of your own blood, sweat, and tears. Truly, your spark of entrepreneurship comes from a long line of small business startups and is steeped in American tradition.rnConsider this: "Are you finding everything you are looking for?", the grocery stock clerk asks. "Sure", you reply. "I'm gonna find this stupid tomato soup if it kills me!", you whisper to yourself. Why do we make things so difficult for ourselves? Especially with the mounds expertise and communities online, you will need to put your pride away and find outside assistance! Now, you will find different kinds of help out there, so you’ve really got to be careful with where you seek this kind information. If you’re not cautious, you can find yourself paying dearly. Here are some things to consider: rn1.) Don’t consult anyone or any organization that is attempting to sell you something. 2.) If you are listening to someone that hasn't opened a business themselves, then you are probably talking to the wrong person. 3.) Because there are so many options and information available to you, make sure you have done your due diligence before executing any plan! If you are looking for some unbiased "Free" resources, check these out: SCORE.org: Focused on educating entrepreneurs, SCORE is a non-profit organization that can help small business succeed and grow. Founded in 1964, and made up of 13,000 volunteers, SCORE is represented in 62 different industries. Whether you are interested in mentoring, online or local workshops, SCORE will there be to help you cost free for you. StartupNation.com: This is a great place to connect with other business minded folks, just like yourself. In addition to connecting, there are numerous educational tools and resources to help guide you as you begin your business. This is also a great place to find inspiration; by reading the examples and stories here, you can't help but to get you entrepreneurial juices flowing! USA.gov/Business/Self-Employed: Truth be told, the US government actually wants to help you to get your business started! This particular portal has several links to helpful information on getting your enterprise going. Just be familiar with their “matter of fact” approach to business debt; which is often a needless means of testing an immature business theory. Finally, probably the most overlooked place to get real, honest, and unbiased advice originates from other business owners. Even if you know a business owner personally, you ought to speak with someone who has no interest in making you feel good. That doesn’t mean you let them talk you out of whatever your idea is, just be sure to listen to their advice and let them set you in the right direction. Click to learn more about Self Employment Assistance Programs May God bless your every endeavor!

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