Welcome to the 6th installment in the series of posts about starting your own tech business!
You have all the pieces now! Oh, you may need to buy some tools for your trade, but you are ready to go! There are but a few more things to cover, but they can make all the difference.
So let's start out right.
Get the right attitude. This is especially important if you have never had your own business. Sign up for some free podcasts about business and marketing. (you don't need an Ipod, figure it out!) It doesn't matter if the podcast isn't related to a tech business. You need to absorb the attitude, understand the challenges and gain the enthusiasm.
You can listen to those podcasts on your PC or laptop. Personally, I redeem the time I spend driving by listening to podcasts. You can't get a college education that will teach you what you need to know for this bold new venture. The right podcasts will give you a wealth of information that you can apply. They're gold!
Dress appropriately... all of the time. I'll never forget the time when I was grocery shopping and ran into an old friend. He works in finance and has contacts with a lot of businesses. I can't imagine that I made a positive impression in my torn up jeans and my worn "Rock On!" T-shirt! Ask for advice from those you respect if you have an inkling you aren't dressing appropriately.
Join! I'm talking about the local chamber of commerce, local networking events and community projects. Don't just spout about your business and hand out cards. Get to know people and help them out.
Pursue business relationships. Find businesses that can find value with your services. Be willing to subcontract or take a lower rate initially. Give local companies your business.
Be open. Always watch for ways to make your business more profitable. This may mean dropping a service that you thought would be a money maker. You might end up finding a niche that isn't being filled.
Look for marketing avenues. Never stop doing this. Unless, of course, you have too much business.
A final note. I can't tell you how much local exposure Twitter has given my company. Jump on Twitter, learn the etiquette of tweeting and join the community!
We hope you've found this series valuable. Please let us know your story, either here or at www.acmetechworks.com!
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