Baby Steps…. easy-to-do top tips to get your business started

How's It Going?

It's check in time! Share your actions, tips, ideas, photos and successes with the wider More To Life Than Shoes community. Even if it's a quick couple of lines, we'd love to hear from you. Make the "Shoesday" check in part of your routine and keep making progress towards your goals.

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Published by: Nadia on 11th Feb 2012 | View all blogs by Nadia

If you’ve got a dream, but it’s not happening for you. Never fear! We’ve got some quick top tips to help you kick start your entrepreneurial aspirations.

Suck it up
Look around you. Inspiration is everywhere. If, for example jewellery is your thing, check out magazines, fashion blogs, student shows, local boutiques and online retailers to immerse yourself in the world you’re interested in.

Talk to People
Approach people who do what you’d love to do and ask for their support and advice. You could even offer to do some work experience for free to top up your skills. Most people are happy to help, plus, you’ll be making them feel important too!

Friends First
Your friends, family and of course your local More To Life Than Shoes group are your ready made focus group. During wine tasting sessions, fundraisers, CheekyBingo parties or down the pub get togethers ask them to sample your wares and to give you honest feedback. Is the price right? Do they like the colour / taste etc? Where would they expect to see them - Selfridges or the local market? And so on. Really pick their brains. Ply them with wine if necessary!

Home Hub
We know some people can be a bit snobby about setting up a business from home, but why would you risk loads of cash on office space or a retail premise before you’re ready? We’ve met some amazing women who’ve started businesses from their kitchen table, including the likes of pottery genius Emma Bridgewater and famous inventor Mandy Haberman. Hanging out at home until you’re ready is the smart thing to do.

Local People
Make use of local websites and newspapers to spread the word. Local journalists are always on the look out for new businesses, and especially during the recession and the current economic doom and gloom positive news will be welcomed with open arms!

Network Your Socks Off
Get involved in local groups (like More To Life Than Shoes!) to build your network. You’ll be amazed at the power of word of mouth and how quickly news of your new venture starts to spread. Plus, having a supportive network of likeminded ladies to help you make it happen will come in very handy.

Tweet On
Twitter is a fantastic tool - and it’s free. Get onto Twitter and start engaging with people in your area who share your interests and business will start to blossom. Just, remember, to chat to people first and foremost, and not to endlessly plug your stuff!