Starting your own business is definitely not for everyone. Could it be an option for you?
Do you have what it takes to be an entrepreneur? Here are some of the qualities that make a successful business owner
- Self reliance
- Leadership
- Drive to finish
- Self confidence
- Expertise in an area
- Strong decision making abilities
Most businesses will fail within the first 3 years. So it can be a risky proposition.
If you are thinking you might have what it takes, talk to people who have started their own businesses and failed as well as succeeded. Each one has a valuable story with lessons learned.
There are lots of on-line resources (local and national). A new resource available is called Business Information Clearinghouse (BIC).
Another resource is the Small Business Development Center (SBDC)
Still another is SCORE
Look before you leap. Do a thorough self assessment and have a lot of conversations. Starting your own business can be scary, however, it can be possible.
If you decide to become an entrepreneur and are thinking about a franchise, be sure to investigate the franchise thoroughly. Ownership of a franchise is supposed to increase your likelihood of success, but there are a lot of unethical franchises out there as well as a lot of exceptional ones.
One way to investigate whether you'd be a good candidate for franchise ownership is to go through a free self-assessment offered by Dean LoBrutto of The Enterprise Authority. If you discover franchise ownership is for you, Dean can assist in finding a franchise that is a good fit for your interests and skills. There is no charge to you for his service. To contact him, call (585) 899-0867.
Posted by: Carol White Llewellyn, The Finger Lakes Travel Maven | April 28, 2009 at 09:00 AM