The Adventures of a Young Entrepreneur
Check out the July Issue of New Business Minnesota. All new minnesota business startups in the last 12 months received a copy of the hardcopy issue with Tyler Olson, President of SMCpros on the cover. Download available here - NBM July 2009 – Social Networking Issue.
Starting a business in the down economy is tough. Many people are looking to start a business because there is nowhere else to turn. Unfortunately, many startup business owners are forgetting to take into account the true cost of starting up a new company.
Yesterday, I spoke at an event focused on training people what they need to know to startup a business. In today’s world, business runs on technology and marketing is frequently conducted through the web. Technology can provide great efficiencies, but as one panelist pointed out, can become a huge distraction if misguided.
Some key points from the conversation:
1. If you can’t instantly find what you are looking for on your computer, you are missing out and should upgrade.
2. Please backup your computer. Do it right now if you know it isn’t backed up. It’s cheap and it’s effective.
3. You need a web presence. Be prepared to invest in a good website. A good website can help make your life easier, generate leads for you, and impress the people you are trying to impress.
4. Be active online. Use Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and others. You will get business from them.
Technology is meant to help your business get off the ground and help it run effectively. Accidentally underbudgeting for technology needs could spell disaster for your startup. Think through the complete set of needs your new business will have and don’t be afraid to ask for advice. There are people out there looking to help you.
