A
career change article:
Are you ready to start a
business?
Take this quiz and see.
by Cathy Goodwin, Ph.D.
Don't get discouraged! A
"no" answer to any of the questions will identify an area for
development -- not a roadblock. I am available to help if you would like to discuss
your options in greater detail.
(1) Do you offer a clear, unambiguous benefit that your
target market can't live without?
Ideally you can learn whether demand exists for your service.
Otherwise, don't dive in. Dip a toe into the water to see if it's warm.
(2) Can you demonstrate
expertise?
Collect testimonials, references, products and awards. Credentials help
only if clients believe they make a difference.
(3) Do you have
evidence that people will pay for your services? For instance, you
may have achieved expertise in a certain type of healing where the
going rate is $15 an hour. .
(4) Is your market
crowded with competitors?
If it's hard to stand out, you need a network of personal contacts to
get started. And if the quality of your competitors varies, much of
your business will depend on referrals.
(5) Do you have
networks of people who can become clients or referral sources?
For instance, are you a CPA whose clients pick your brain for career
change and business start-ups? Do you belong to professional groups
that will give you access to a mailing list?
If so, you may have a straightforward transition to your new business.
(6) Have you ever
(a) been self-employed or
(b) been successful at a straight-commission sales job?
If you dropped out of a sales job because you couldn't handle the
uncertainty, you need an exceptionally generous safety net before you
embark on your own solo venture.
(7) Are you at home on
the internet?
Do you understand the principles of web design, so you can
do-it-yourself or work intelligently with a designer?
A website is a commitment, especially for service businesses. You have
to be your own designer, marry a designer, or have a big maintenance
budget.
(8) Are you active in a
community that is large enough to include potential clients and
referrers?
It is possible to have a lucrative distance business, but it takes
longer and requires unique marketing skills.
(9) Are you comfortable
in a sales role? When someone calls to inquire about your services,
are you willing to view your task as selling as well as helping,
analyzing or troubleshooting?
(10 ) How much continuity exists between your former career and
your new business?
Professions have norms and values. The greater the distance, the more
challenging will be your journey, and the greater the risk and time to
achieve. You may have to learn a new way of thinking about the world.
And you truly may not be able to go home again.
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