Business Must Haves and Nice to Haves

Are you just starting a business? Here are must haves, nice to haves, & don’t needs when you’re in the beginning stages of business.

If it is a dream planted in your soul to own your own business, then you have come to the right place. I am absolutely obsessed with business and so wildly passionate about helping you get through the beginning stages quickly! So, today let’s talk about what you must have, what is nice to have, and what you just don’t need right away when you’re starting your business. When you’re an entrepreneur you 100% need to have resourcefulness, skills, energy, and perseverance – but if you’re reading this, I know you already have those things!!! So, let’s dive in!

Must Haves:

1. Your why

You absolutely must have an understanding of your “why” when you are starting your business. People don’t buy what you sell, they buy WHY you sell it!

2. Your offer

Without an offer that solves a problem, you do not have a business. People buy products and services that are going to fix a pain point in their lives. Whatever you’re selling, make sure it is so transformative that your customers have to have it! Serve your community with what you offer.

3. Confidence 

Cue Demi Lovato “What’s wrong with being confident? Uh huh huh!” Confidence is the ultimate must have when starting out in business. Only YOU can make that happen, no one else can do it for you. I want every single entrepreneur out there to feel confident going into business! Confidence in yourself and in your offer will set the tone for your business and will create trust with your customers!

Nice to Haves:

1. A support system 

Having people in your life who support you is one of the most valuable things you can have when you’re just starting out. BUT I know that this is not always the case for everyone, therefore landing it in the “nice to have” category. It is truly invaluable to have at least one person in your life that is going to be there when you fail. Because, reality check, the failures are going to happen. (P.S. check out this (link to previous post) blog post about redefining failure – it is a game changer!) 

2. Paid advertisement 

Never underestimate the power of organic word of mouth marketing. Pitch yourself (when appropriate) to everyone and anyone you know. Show up to everything and network, network network. Your network is going to become your net worth! This is SO valuable and I guarantee that it is your most powerful marketing tool early on. 

3. A full time income 

Did you know that typically businesses don’t turn a full time income profit for 3 years. That’s just a fact. Kind of a brutal truth to swallow at first, but keep reinvesting to fuel your business growth!

Don’t need quite yet:

1. Your forever logo

Your business is going to ebb and flow when it comes to the most basic and superficial branding tools. The logo, colors, and website design are 100% the easiest things to change down the line, compared to your business’s character and feel. Start with what feels good, but know that it doesn’t have to remain forever! 

2. A team 

I know that not everyone will agree with me on this… But your business doesn’t need to start with a team. It only needs you. Over time, as your business grows and you have the financial capacity to grow a team – HECK YES grow that team! But do not believe for a second that you need to start with that.

3. Multiple streams of revenue

Keep in mind that this is directed towards baby business owners… Take this for example… Let’s say you’re a potter. Sell the HECK out of those stunning vases that you’re making. Make sure your community knows you, likes you, and trusts you when it comes to your vases before you start adding other offers. Down the line, yes!!! create an online course, or add new offers to your business. But establish yourself first as an expert in what you do. Leave your clientele wanting more because they are already in love with your skills.

If you’re in that baby business stage… this is for you! OR if you’re a seasoned businesswoman I would LOVE your opinion on your must haves, nice to haves, and don’t needs! The business journey is different for everyone and that’s what keeps it exciting and so so beautiful. It is a mental pursuit and you will have days that push you beyond your limits. Embrace that, learn, breathe, and keep going. 

Love,

Suzy