Are you looking at starting up a small business? Are you sure it will be viable? Here in part 1 we look at the first 4 points of assessing the viability of your idea.
1 – Uniqueness
Before you worry about upstart financing, marketing or business location, you should begin with an idea – not just any idea, but one that’s unique. What makes your business stand out from the rest? (Although they probably have better hair, the business world doesn’t go easy on celebrities. Check out Celebrity Business Busts.)
Uniqueness doesn’t necessarily mean you have to invent something (though that’s never bad – just look at Snuggie’s success), it just means that you have to set yourself apart from the competition. If you’re starting a catering company, say, what will make your catering service different from the rest? These are tough questions, but important ones. The most successful businesses have a strong, unique concept, and a clear identity. Take the time to define yours.
2 – Upstart Funds
What will your start-up cost be? Every business has some expenses at the start, whether you’re paying for equipment, rent or just basic marketing materials. Make a realistic estimation; you’ll need these figures to obtain a loan or simply to budget if you’re paying these expenses out of pocket.
3 – Customer
Who’s your customer? Knowing who will be buying your product or service is vital to your business success – how else will you find your customers if you don’t know who they are? Are you catering to busy professionals, stay-at-home moms, college students, retirees? Define your customer, even if you have to be broad at first. If you’ll be renting a space, make sure the local demographic fits this profile; the real estate agent will be able to provide you with that data. (Don’t let these myths stop you from reaching your entrepreneurial dreams. Check out Top 7 Myths About Starting A Business.)
4 – Competition
Unless you’re lucky enough to find a hole in the market, your business will have competitors. Check them out, because your future customers surely will. Competitors can be a great resource to you as an upstart; you can see how much they charge, what marketing strategy they use and the location they chose.
Ask yourself: how can I do better than the competition? Use your uniqueness identified in step one to find ways to outdo your competitors.
Whew, that is quite a list,. Reread, digest it then write down points under the above headings ( both good and bad) to clarify your thoughts. How does your idea measure up. Remember this is a guide only & in no way guarantees success.
Now move on to part 2
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