How to run a successful home business

Most home businesses fail, because the owners give up. Here's how to not be one of them.

Select the Right Market

It is far easier to be successful in an established market with a service or products that people already know and want. If you have a great new idea, you need a lot more stamina to get that going.

Research your market by defining a common problem that people face.

Build Your Vision

Your vision is a mental picture of the solution you are providing to your market. What do they feel like after they bought your service or products? What changes will it make to their lives?

Commit fully

After the research, commit and do not waste time questioning whether this is the right thing. Set a clear time-line and budget to get your home business going. Reassess after that time.

Stay Flexible

At the same time, stay flexible in how you go about your business. Having a clearly defined market and a vision of what to deliver guides you towards success, at the same time stay open to the different ways to get there.

Use Your Passions

You are the sales person. It is essential that you are convinced of your products or service. It will develop naturally as you get more happy clients over time. In the beginning it is a huge advantage if you are operating in an area that you are passionate about. That way your enthusiasm and excitement is communicated to potential clients.

Get Support

Working from home is often lonely. Make sure that you have emotional support from friends and family. They will keep you motivated and encourage you to go on. Business networks are also a great way to link up with others in a similar situation to discuss ideas and share challenges.

Know Your Skills

Running a home business means that you are wearing many hats. Be clear on what you are good at, where you need to get additional training and where it is best to use the support of others - subcontractors or consultants.

Keep a Balance

It is easy to work day and night when you are excited. Make sure that you take breaks, spend time with your family, socialize with your friends, exercise. Financial success will be worthless if you do not have a life left.

The Main Ingredient

Start to act. It is not enough to think about your home business. Do your research, make your plans; and then start the doing. A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step...

by Alexander Kohl