Reviewed by Felicia Royce, ACHS Director of Career & Alumni Services
Venturing into the realm of entrepreneurship brings incredible rewards but demands substantial dedication and effort. Aspiring business owners must contemplate various factors before embarking on this fulfilling yet challenging journey. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the process of starting and growing your small business:
Self-Assessment: Crucial Questions to Ponder
Before diving into entrepreneurship, it's essential to ask yourself pivotal questions:
- Am I self-motivated and disciplined?
- Do I have a designated workspace?
- Do I prefer solo work or collaboration?
- Are my organizational skills strong?
- Do I have sufficient funds to kickstart my business?
Gaining Experience: Exploring Pre-Business Opportunities
Consider gaining practical experience before diving into business ownership:
- Seek apprenticeships or internships to gain hands-on experience.
- Work as an independent contractor or consultant within your field.
- Prioritize a year of employment to amass expertise.
Pros and Cons of Entrepreneurship
While owning a business offers flexibility and creativity, it demands 24/7 commitment and the ability to make decisions independently.
Building a Business Plan
Start your entrepreneurial journey with a well-thought-out business plan. Resources like Law District offer guidance to kickstart this crucial document.
Legal Considerations
Decide on your business structure—sole proprietorship or LLC—seeking legal advice if necessary. Platforms like LegalZoom provide valuable assistance in this area.
Domain Name and Registration
Registering a domain name is pivotal for your website. Explore resources like your state's database or platforms like Squarespace and GoDaddy for domain registration.
Creating Your Website
Building a website allows creative expression. Platforms like Wix, Shopify and Squarespace offer user-friendly tools for website creation.
Customer Database Software
Invest in customer database software for scheduling, billing, and secure information storage. Platforms like Acuity Scheduling, Jane’s Guide, Mindbody, and Vagaro offer such services.
Marketing Your Business
Utilize networking, social media, and community engagement to market your business effectively. Platforms like LinkedIn and Google Business are excellent tools for visibility.
Growth and Learning
Remember, building a business is a gradual process. Stay engaged by reading, learning from courses, and seeking continuous education.
Owning a business requires perseverance, dedication, and a continual thirst for learning. While it's not an overnight journey, with patience, creativity, and a well-structured plan, success is within reach. Use these resources and steps to chart a successful course for your entrepreneurial aspirations.
Getting Further Assistance
Have more questions about starting a business? We've got you covered. The ACHS Career Services team is here to support you as a student and as a graduate. Connect with us today, and let's work together to move your career journey forward!
This article is for informational purposes only. Please contact ACHS Admissions at admissions@achs.edu or 800-487-8839 for additional information and to apply for admission. Graduation from any ACHS program does not confer a license to practice medicine. ACHS graduates do not claim to treat, diagnose, cure, or prescribe. Please note that professional success is achieved by a number of factors beyond education and experience, including soft skills, work ethic, integrity, and other skills that may not be developed through education and training alone. Not all graduates will achieve the career outcomes provided as examples in this article and other ACHS marketing materials.
