Thinking you might want to work for yourself? This article is for you if you have a suspicion that entrepreneurship might be for you but don’t have the first idea about what to do about it.
Wondering where to start? Should you start working on your BIG idea? A business plan?
Well, maybe yes and probably no. Sometimes that’s where people start and that can be okay, but I have some other suggestions.
People usually come to see me because they have a desire to do something different, but they aren’t sure what that is. They don’t want to rule out anything and might want to explore both “traditional” and self-employment options.
I think that step #1 on the journey is to learn a few things about entrepreneurship through actual entrepreneurs. Reading books or googling articles on entrepreneurs can provide you with some case studies and other good information but I have an even better option.
A different option for taking a peak into this world is to find a job working for an entrepreneur to get a taste of the lifestyle -- while also earning an income. This is great because you can learn from someone else’s mistakes, and come to better understand business systems and processes that have worked well.
Another place to start is to do a review of the things that come easily to you and that you are good at. Take some time to think about how you could add value to others by using these skills and strengths. Also think about what you enjoy doing (there could be overlap here with what you are good at also). Consider also if what you are currently doing at your day job could transfer into some type of private practice (this is what I did). Consider a variety of industries and types of businesses that sound appealing to you—do you like the idea of brick and mortar? Online? Both? Consulting? Franchise-related? Sales?
I think my best advice is this: Don't pursue Entrepreneurship just because you hate your day job. If you are in a job you feel miserable in, I recommend looking at what's not working first. Don't like the company but like your role? Consider changing companies first. Don't like your role but love the company? See if you can reinvent yourself at your current company first. Give yourself a chance to find a fit working for somebody. If you do but you're still drawn to self-employment then by all means, dive in. Trying to escape a bad situation isn't the greatest reason to go out on your own. Does that sometimes work for people? Sure! I say this only because Entrepreneurship can be a little less sexy than it appears from the outside. It's not all freedom and autonomy. At least not at first.
If you're sure you're not running away from anything and instead running towards something you're truly committed to doing then I say do it!! Start something -- anything -- where you can learn about entrepreneurship. You’ll learn a ton by just starting up some type of venture. Depending on your situation, you could consider starting up a low capital venture with low risk. If you don’t have a high risk appetite, start a business while you are working full-time at another job. The best way to know whether you are an entrepreneur is to try it.
Lastly, think about exploring entrepreneurial events in your area. Talk to people who are doing it. Surround yourself with like-minded people and learn from them.
Working for myself has been a great decision for me but it's not for the faint of heart. If you're considering it and would like to work with a career counsellor, I've worked with many entrepreneurs.
I know something brought you here and maybe it was a search for what to do next about your career. There are a few ways I can help:
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Sarah took the Make Work Better quiz and said this:
“Christine! I wanted to say thanks. I completed the quiz and then it clicked: I don't feel my contributions are recognized or valued by my employer. Time to have a tough conversation and make some decisions. Thanks for the nudge.”
Kim, a one on one coaching client had this to say about working with me:
I followed Christine on social media for quite some time before I reached out so I felt confident that she was the right coach for me. I’d recommend her coaching for anyone who feels stuck in their career and doesn’t quite know where to begin – anyone looking for accountability and motivation to change. Working with Christine led to a huge shift in my thinking about the level of power I have over my personal contentment. What I liked best about working with Christine was that I felt safe – she is genuine, honest and supportive – so I was able to be vulnerable and easily share what I needed in order to move forward. Her constant reassurance that it’s okay to continue exploring, shifting and changing as I grow was invaluable for my piece of mind. Most importantly, Christine believed in me when I had trouble believing in myself. She helped me truly internalize that no matter what obstacles and challenges arise, I can persevere and continue moving forward.
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