Hi MHorwell,
Well you’ve started by doing one of the most important things and that ask for advice!!!
In other words do as much research on the kind of business it is that you want to start. Find out what is actually involved in running that kind of business.
For me for example it’s not just sit down and knit a little top that looks good.
• I need to source the cotton,
• Get it to my work place!
• Store it as I can only have it spun in batches of 2 tones
( that’s a lot of space! )
• Actually manufacture it with buttons, zips and dingily dangly things that I need to be able to re-order again and again.
Then there is the whole marketing side which also needs a lot of work. Deciding how you want to be seen.. Who is your target, how will you reach them. How much time you have!
Working for your self is far, far more work than being employed.
There are no perks like medical aid and sick leave or leave for that matter. Your salary is also not guaranteed! So look very hard at what your financial needs are on the personal side as well as the business side! It’s no good having a business that’s just breaking even but you can’t afford to put petrol in your car or pay your bond, kids school fees etc. you may have to hang onto your current job to insure that you are ok during the start up period.
Good heavens I could go on and on I’ll try to do a little point form…
1. make a business plan for yourself
2. research your market
3. work out the cost
4. look at time management
5. Think with your head, not your hart! Be realistic..
When you’ve looked at all of that and you still feel that this is your dream.
Then go for it, with every thing you’ve got!
hope thats usefull