A Simple How-To Guide on Becoming a Solopreneur
There is a growing trend for people who want to break out of the 8-5 system and they are called solopreneurs. The combination of the word solo and entrepreneur - business owners who manage their own empires solely. You’re probably here because you want to be one!
But for aspiring solopreneurs like you, starting up is no easy task, especially without proper guidance and help. So here are some very useful ways to ensure a blast-off when traveling the solopreneur path.
1. Identify your interest
Ask yourself what you are good at. What is your passion in life? What is something that you are an expert at that interests you the most? Is there a new formula of detergent that only you know that people will surely love? Have you found a way to grow flowers that are so rare in your area?
2. Study the market for it
If you’ve found a business idea that you’re an expert of, do a feasibility study. Is your product badly needed? Will customers be loyal to your brand? Are there competitors? How will you dominate them? Observe what people want and ask them questions about their ideal product. This can also help you create an ideal or perfect product and an effective business model.
3. Be creative on your brand name
If the outcome of #1 and #2 makes the sales promising, then move on to creating your brand or the brand for your product. Be creative with its name. There’s also no problem in using your own name for it. Some use or take fun graphic ideas from large brands as inspiration. Some use puns like “Wish You Were Beer” taken from one of Pink Floyd’s famous songs like “Wish You Were Here” or Incubus if you prefer.
4. Learn while having fun
Attend seminars and workshops to have in-depth knowledge on how to be a solopreneur and managing startup businesses. This is an opportunity for you to explore the world behind your walls and comfort zones while enjoying life.
5. Take advantage of social media platforms
Do you spend a lot of your time procrastinating on Facebook? Instagram? Twitter? Why not use that procrastination into productivity. Advertise your brand and create an online presence. Heard of LinkedIn? That platform can also help other business owners get a whiff of your rise. Consider getting potential investors to help you with the costs.
6. Do pro-bono projects
There’s no guarantee that a paycheck is received right off when you start. Like building a reputation, doing collaborative projects with other solopreneurs also help you attract investors as you show them your expertise on your chosen line of business.
Low-Cost Solopreneur Ideas
If you do aspire to become a solopreneur with no business idea, here are also some concepts that require less funding:
Dropshipping
Ordered products are sent directly from your wholesaler to your customers. All you have to do is to set up a shop online.
Life coaching
Are you successful with your own methods and techniques? Life coaching only requires a little effort. Set up your site and write about how your lifestyle can make others become better. Get as much traffic and collect ad revenue.
Craft and jewelry making
Love designing? Good with your hands? With the right materials and equipment, you can sell your product in a shop or online easily.
Virtual assistant
If you want to sell your personal, administrative, technical, or creative assistance services then being a VA is good for you. Virtual assistance is like being a secretary where you don’t necessarily get to meet your boss in real life. Instead, all you have to do is perform tasks remotely at your own desired time.
See this infographic from Wikibuy for more solopreneur business ideas:
Image credit: Wikibuy
To be a successful solopreneur is easy if have the right information. Always look out for useful ideas and tips and be sure to grab opportunities that would ensure growth in your business!