To celebrate
National Women’s Small Business Month, the October Carlsbad Business Journal includes a special feature with advice on starting a business from some of the Chamber’s women-owned businesses.
We received so many responses, that not all could be included in the issue, so we’re sharing them on our blog. Look for a second post with even more advice soon!
Alden Reynoso
“Just like in the “corporate world” – if you want to get ahead, find yourself a mentor. You need to make connections with similarly situated, but experienced, business people. Being at the top can be lonely and frustrating when there are problems to solve! Get yourself a network of brains to pick!”
“Create a great team, with strengths that differ from your own; training people with the right attitude is best; collaborate don’t compete; access wonderful mentors.”
“Start with a unique idea and build from there. P.S. Join the local Chamber of Commerce and co-promote other local business.”
“Maximize the time you have now to prepare, prepare, prepare. Get the education, experience, and your financials as much in order as possible before you begin. Learning on the job will happen, but the more surprises a business owner can limit the better off you and your business will be. Create the business, regardless of what it is, that is reflective you as an individual- it’s an extension of you at the end of the day so give it some personality!”
“Don’t give up on your dreams. Reach out to other Chamber members for advice.”
Reegan Lessie
yoga80
“Be prepared with as much knowledge about your industry, create a group of mentors you can call on when needing business advice and be ready to work for as many hours each day as it takes to make your new business successful.”
“You have to love what you do! The first 1-3 years is about growing and hard work but after that it will pay off. Just keep your nose to the grind. Networking and marketing are a key ingredient to growing your business.”
“Get involved in the Chamber and the community you work in. Someone told me once, “People like to do business with people they like.” Keep positive. It takes hard work to get up and running.”
Consult with like-minded business owners prior to launching your own.
Marie Studer
“Have confidence in your product…ask advice from successful women….prepare to work hard…and love what you do…”