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Customers Are Always First
If you don't have customers, you don't have a business
If you don't have customers, you don't have a business. And if you don't get paid, it's not a business; it's a hobby.
We'll deal with the second issue next time, but when you start a business, your ability to attract customers as quickly as possible will determine whether or not it was a good idea to do your own thing in the first place. Ideally, you will have already lined up a few clients who you secured while you conducted your initial research into your venture's viability.
Now is the time to work your network of friends, relatives, and acquaintances to pitch them on hiring you for that special job. Of course, be very careful when dealing with people you know. As with all clients, it's important to manage their expectations. Make sure that you both agree on the job, what product or result you will deliver, and the deadline for delivery.
You will also need to let the rest of the world — the segment that aren't relatives or friends — know that you are open for business.
Sending out a press release isn't a bad idea, but your local newspaper or other media outlet is unlikely to publish it unless it has some actual news value. If you are already well known in your community, like a decorated war hero or triumphant athlete, you may have a shot. Even if you're just a normal person, there's still hope.
First you'll need a good release. If you don't already know how to write one, there are ample resources telling you how on the web. Many newspapers run announcements of executive promotions, so you might want to position your message to fit into that category. Pick up a copy of the paper or do a search of its website to get a feel for what it publishes, and craft your announcement accordingly.
We'll deal with the second issue next time, but when you start a business, your ability to attract customers as quickly as possible will determine whether or not it was a good idea to do your own thing in the first place. Ideally, you will have already lined up a few clients who you secured while you conducted your initial research into your venture's viability.
Now is the time to work your network of friends, relatives, and acquaintances to pitch them on hiring you for that special job. Of course, be very careful when dealing with people you know. As with all clients, it's important to manage their expectations. Make sure that you both agree on the job, what product or result you will deliver, and the deadline for delivery.
You will also need to let the rest of the world — the segment that aren't relatives or friends — know that you are open for business.
Sending out a press release isn't a bad idea, but your local newspaper or other media outlet is unlikely to publish it unless it has some actual news value. If you are already well known in your community, like a decorated war hero or triumphant athlete, you may have a shot. Even if you're just a normal person, there's still hope.
First you'll need a good release. If you don't already know how to write one, there are ample resources telling you how on the web. Many newspapers run announcements of executive promotions, so you might want to position your message to fit into that category. Pick up a copy of the paper or do a search of its website to get a feel for what it publishes, and craft your announcement accordingly.
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