By Tiffany Young
Online Career Tips Contributor
Recently, I had a very interesting conversation with two friends who decided to become entrepreneurs. Neither one of them are doing anything remotely close to what they were doing in their full-time jobs. One is a former special agent turned restaurant owner and the other used to work for the federal government and now runs an event planning business.
Before jumping into the business for themselves, they mentioned some helpful information that they gathered along the way. After our brief conversation my friends provided me four key principles that anyone can follow if they are considering leaving their jobs to pursue business for themselves.
Here are four tips for going from employee to entrepreneur in 2013:
Tip #1: Choose a Profitable Business Concept
You have to define a business concept that will make you money. There’s a lot of buzz about launching a passion-based business. I am all for doing work that you are passionate about, but you’ve got to find a business model that allows for sustainable profitability. Otherwise you end up with a pseudo-business that has all the look of a real business (business cards, website, social networking accounts), but no paying customers or clients.
Tip #2: Develop Yourself as an Entrepreneur
Take some time out to be a student again. The best experience that you can give yourself is to learn from successful business owners. Spend some time learning your industry and talking with potential clients. Believe in yourself. Enthusiasm is a must for an entrepreneur – if you don’t believe in your product or service, no one else will.
Tip #3: Use Social Media and Technology
It’s 2013 and new social media platforms, mobile apps, and websites that make consumer’s lives easier launch every day. As a new business owner, social media and other technology tools can save you money and time. Consider following business experts on Twitter, like @SmallBizLady.
There’s a difference in using technology as a consumer and learning to use social media and other digital technology and tools like an entrepreneur. Online and mobile tools are integral to building a business. They can help you automate tasks and give you the ability to check-in with projects, clients, and vendors.
Tip #4: Launch Your Business Before You Say Goodbye to Your Day Job
It’s not uncommon for employees to have side businesses. There are several benefits to launching your own business as a part time endeavor, especially if you have a family to support.
In this path to entrepreneurship, your day job funds your start up. Depending on the type of company you work for, your day job can also help prepare you for being your own boss. Check out this video that encourages people to turn passion into a profit. Turn Your Skills Into Pay Checks.
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