I think every person has dreamt about being his or her own boss at some point in their lives, especially if they have worked in the corporate world too long. But having the financial resources, good business idea, and guts to make that leap holds many people back.
During these difficult times, many people are now exploring the idea of being their own boss either through starting a brand new business, buying an existing business or buying a franchise. Each of these has its own benefits and drawbacks.
Individuals thinking of making the leap to entrepreneur should assess his or her own personality and try to find out what type of business really makes them happy. Everyone wants to make money in their business but that should not be the only concern. There is a lot to be said for being energized and excited to go to work because you enjoy your business.
I think there is no greater feeling as being in control of your own destiny and enjoying your life while working. If you don't have control of your own destiny...someone else will. |
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How can the 2009 Stimulus help Small Business Owners? |
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If you are currently in business or just starting out, the 2009 Recovery Act may be able to help you. The Recovery Act is expected to increase the availability of programs like:
1. SBA loan financing
2. Micro loans
3. Grants
4. Increase deductions under Section 179 expensing
5. Extends 50% first-year bonus depreciation through 2009
6. More surety bond coverage through the SBA
7. Investor investment incentives.
You can read more about ways the 2009 Recovery Act can help you at:
There is a substantial amount of money being injected into the economy during this administration. If you don't mind dealing with governmental paperwork and process, it would be worth your time to check these sites out.
If you are just starting out in business, the SBA offers free online training courses. They are available at SBA Free Online Training |
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Self Assessment Can Help You Pick Your Dream Business |
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So you've decided you want to be your own boss and start a business, congrats!Now the tough part, what kind of business will best suit your personality, lifestyle and goals.There are some many types of businesses to start, you can become easily overwhelmed.But with some careful self assessment, you can narrow the choices to what best fits you. Here are 10 potential questions you should ask yourself: What do you really enjoy doing either professionally or casually?What motivates you to succeed? How much income do you need to live comfortably?Do you like to interact with a variety of people and personalities?Do you like to manage people?Do you like to work 9 to 5 or do you like a flexible schedule?Are you technically or physically inclined or knowledgeable?Do you already have a knowledge base to build from?Do you like working in an office or outdoors?What can you see your self doing for 5 to 10 years?If you answer these questions honestly, you should be able to narrow the types of businesses you would enjoy owning.The worst thing you can do is start a business out of shear convenience only to regret the decision down the road.For example, if you do not like working with people, running a business that requires many employees may not be the best choice for you. Check out the SBA Small Business Readiness Assessment Tool to assess how ready you are to start your own business. |
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10 Business Ideas for the Anti-Social Business Owner |
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So you want to start a business but the idea of managing a lot of people or doing tons of face to face marketing is not for you. You might be one of thousands of people who thrive when they work alone or within a small group. I like to call these people Hans Solo Entrepreneurs; they excel when they can control the entire business and are able to run a quality business. Knowing how and what situations you excel in can save a lot of headaches and lost time when starting a business. Here are 10 business ideas for the people who are Hans Solo Entrepreneurs out there: 1. Online Only Business: With the ease of starting an online business you have 100s of potential businesses ideas. Here are just a couple online only businesses; coupon/bargain services, eBay sales, professional blogger, e-commerce, internet researcher, etc.
2. Website Designer: If you are PC savvy consider learning Joomla or Wordpress and begin developing websites site with templates designed by others.
3. iPhone Application designer: If you have programming skills, designing new apps for the iPhone and other smart phones can be financially rewarding.
4. Vending or Coin operated business: Yes people still use vending machines and they do make money for their owners. Coin/card operated laundry mats, vending routes, car wash, even ATMs.
5. Storage units: Owning storage units is relatively low maintenance and demand for space is always increasing.
6. Pool route: If you live in a warm area and like being outdoors then cleaning pools and spas may be just the business.
7. Handy Man: With an aging population, people always need help with maintaining their homes, condos, and apartments.
8. Vacation House Sitting: In areas with high vacation properties, people need someone to watch and maintain their properties when they are not there.
9. Consulting: If you have expertise in business areas check out Sologig.com for on-line consulting and contract jobs.
10. Mailbox Center: People always need help mailing and shipping packages. There are relatively easy to start with low upfront costs. As with any business, there will always be a portion of time you will have to spend marketing and dealing with customers. The key for many Hans Solo Entrepreneurs is striking a balance that fits their personality. |
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Tips for Buyers
