Small businesses are big business these days and there are plenty of new ones popping up thanks to the internet. But, if you have opened a small hobby business, how do you make sure it grows? Here are some tips to help you achieve those goals.
What Is the Endgame?
You may have started your business with the intention of selling off some of the things you have created that are taking up space in your home. For example, knitted dolls are a big hit on Etsy, and many people sell them because they made them and didn’t have the room. If this is your intention, you might have to come up with a business plan to make sure that you have some direction to go in. Do you want to do this full-time? Or is this to add to your existing wage?
Becoming a Business
It doesn’t matter how little or much you make, as soon as you start making money, you need to register with the local tax office to ensure that you are keeping things legal. Even if you don’t make that much, that is not up for you to decide. Using business support services and online resources, you can begin to navigate the world of being a proper business. Don’t be afraid to reach out and use the resources that are available and use them to your advantage.
Blog Support
Your small online shop might do well on its own, but a lot of businesses are discovering how a blog can support their business and drive traffic to their website. However, the mistake that a lot of businesses make is not writing about the niche that they are in. If you sell cross stitch kits, write about cross stitching and crafts. If you sell fishing gear, write about the places you have been fishing around the world. The important thing to remember is to keep it specific to your products.
Social Media
Love it or loathe it, social media is a big factor when it comes to business. Learning how to use the different platforms and how they work to reach potential customers is a great way to get the word out about your business. The simple fact is, the internet is a big place with millions of websites and online stores competing to be seen. Get yours off to a good start and use social media to your advantage.
Have Some Faith
One of the biggest downfalls that small businesses face is a lack of confidence. They worry that they are not good enough, that they won’t make it, and that they will be embarrassed by the failure. This is the time to have a little faith in yourself. Your products are probably great, you put the time and effort into what you do. If you feel yourself starting to wobble, talk with family and friends to help get you back on track to creating your own little slice of success. We believe in you.
