Starting a business? Read me first!

With the rise of remote work over the past year, I've had friends, former colleagues and even clients ask me for advice on how to start their own freelance business. In my past I've had incredible mentors help me form the foundation of my business, so I'm only happy to give back. Plus, I get it... dreaming is one thing, doing is another! But I promise, it's not that scary once you have a plan.

The conversation with my budding entrepreneurs usually goes something like this:

Friend: I've recently decided that I want to start my own business. The problem is, I don't know where to start. How do determine what I want to sell?

Kristina: Do a little soul searching. Have you heard of the concept of ikigai? Make a list of the things you value, the things you like to do, and the things you're good at. At the intersection where these three things meet -- this is your purpose in action. My example: I enjoy creating solutions, I've always loved brand strategy in business, and I believe in transformation -- sometimes breaking down the present walls to build something even better. After all, only transformation can lead to growth. A freelance brand strategy business was my ikigai.

Friend: That makes sense. I think I know what I want to do...but how do I make money?

Kristina: Define your units of sale. Determine what specific services you offer and what those services cost. With each service you provide, identify your audience and why they need you. This is where brand strategy comes into play. Do a little research to understand who your competition is, what unique service offering you'll provide, and how you want to target your ideal audience. (PS: I can help with this!) Branding creates clarity -- for you, and your customer. Once your brand is established, you can build an effective sales and marketing strategy.

Friend: How do I keep track of the money I make and the time I spend on clients?

Kristina: Invoicing software has been a God-send for me. I personally use Bonsai to keep track of clients, contracts, proposals, invoices, time-tracking and more. There are several different invoicing software products on the market, do your research and see what works best for you and your business.

Friend: Great. I've done all this...now what? I have all my ideas on paper, how do I bring it to life?

Kristina: Build a high quality website (Wix and Squarespace are always good options) and work that network! Reach out to your friends, former colleagues, college roommates, teammates, pilates instructor, book club members, Amazon delivery driver (only kidding) etc. You get the idea. Tell the world that this business is happening! Social media networks like Linkedin Premium and Alignable are excellent ways to connect with like minded individuals to branch out. Depending on your business (usually ones with very visible product offerings) you can create social media pages on Facebook, Instagram and other sites as well.

Friend: Alright. I've made my website, defined my brand and service offerings, connected on social media...but I'm not getting any clicks. What gives?

Kristina: SEO is key. Keyword optimization is everything. SEM Rush offers helpful tools that allow you to see what keywords are leading people to your site, and Google Analytics gives you some additional robust data on your audience and how they're finding your new business. Creating an effective marketing strategy is the next step -- and I'll cover a few tips in my next blog.

However...the biggest lesson I've learned? Give it time. Rome wasn't built in a day, but it's lasted 2,773 years...so I think the effort was worth it!

Want more tips like this? Send me an email -- I'd love to design a custom solution for you.