How to Start a Small Business and Create Community

*Guest post by Iris Mullins of workhomelife.net.

Small businesses and local communities work in a symbiotic way, each providing something that the other needs. Chamber of Commerce cites statistics showing that 52% of small businesses are home-based. Whether you work from home or not, you can still foster connections with fellow residents. If you are looking to start your own venture, the town is likely rooting for you and offering support.

Find Your Mission

You likely already have an idea of the type of business you want to create, considering your core mission will help you find resilience when you face challenges. The reflection involved in honing your purpose will also mean a better understanding of what you have to offer and how it benefits your town. Simon Sinek made this famous in his TED Talk by coining the phrase “find your why.”

Once you find your core objective, you will be better prepared to let others know what you’re all about. You should also include this in your business plan, which will help you with the practical steps of getting your business up and running.

Learn What It Takes to Launch a Business, Including Creating a Business Plan

Your business plan will state your mission, show financial projections, and explain your company structure. This will serve as a thorough roadmap for investors to review when deciding whether to commit funds to your business. The document will also include how you plan to market your product or services. First, you’ll need to research how to start a business. In addition to drafting a business plan, this entails business formation tasks and applying for permits and licenses, which is determined by your local authority.

Get Your Finances in Order

Whether you are self-funding or looking for investors, you’ll need to get your finances in order early on. From setting up a business account to tracking income and spending, there are many apps that can aid you in the process. Make sure that you keep track of expenses closely and use an easy-to-use bookkeeping system.

Make Your Work (and Living) Space as Positive as Possible

If you’re working from a home office, you’ll be spending even more time at home, so take measures to ensure the area is conducive to peace and productivity. Signs that negativity has made its home in yours include excessive complaining from others living there, as well as people playing the blame game. Steps to replace bad vibes with good ones include decluttering, cleaning, and even incorporating Feng Shui concepts throughout the house.

Enlist Help

Success often comes through networking and connecting with others. You may not be ready to hire an entire staff when you first launch, but that doesn’t mean other people won’t want to be a part of your journey. You can offer internships to those who are looking for experience or simply reach out to other entrepreneurs in your area to chat about the trials and rewards of starting a business in your city.

You can also join online groups specifically for people like yourself. This can be extremely helpful when looking for resources or guidance when you get stuck. Talking to those who have gone before you offers you a chance to draw from their knowledge. 

Get the Word Out

Once your business is up-and-running, you can advertise in your community and encourage friends and loved ones to help spread the word. Remind yourself of your mission, and make sure you let others know too. This will help them connect with your intentions, and they will be more likely to invite others to check your company out for themselves.

Encourage others to share their positive experiences with your business on social media. You can also collect testimonials or run specials for those willing to offer reviews so you can solidify a good reputation upfront.

By following some of the tips above, you can create a successful business while connecting with your community. Remember to discover your mission, learn what it takes to start a business, and make your home as stress-free as possible. Economic achievements feel good, but helping others will feel even better. Remember to reach out to your support groups whenever you get stuck.

*Iris Mullins and workhomelife.net (W.H.L.) are here to inspire and inform anyone who is struggling to juggle the crazy mix of work, remote work, and home life that we’re all currently experiencing. When you need to reset, W.H.L. can help you get back to balance so you and anyone else in your household can feel happy and relaxed.

Thank you, Iris, for the wonderful guest post!