Start-Up Venture Progress
What is working?
So far what is working well for my business is the execution of the services I provide. The actual towing and relocation services have gone smoothly in the limited number of times I have had the opportunity to provide them. I have not had many customers but the few I have had were pleased with the quality of work I provided. In addition, since I am running the business from my family home, it has also been easier than I expected to keep my business separated from my family (as I initially wanted to avoid any tension that may cause), although it may be beneficial to utilize my family's assistance going forward.
What is not working?
I am realizing that it difficult to manage my time in order to actually reach out to customers and set up a transaction for my services/products. Due to my full-time job, in which I often times work night shift, it has been a challenge to work around my schedule to make time for my business endeavour.
How do you feel the project is coming?
I think the project is coming along well. There are many things that still need to be fine-tuned and fully developed, however I am enthusiastic as to what the future of the business will bring.
What are you learning about running a business?
I am learning that success comes to those who work. I find it difficult to devote time to this project due to my full-time work, however I can easily see how a business like this one could develop into something worthwhile if enough time and energy was spent on it. I have also learned follow-up is crucial to business. I will have to continue to work towards touching base with potential customers more frequently in order to develop strong relationships with them as well as lay the foundation to what my sales process will be going forward.
What are you learning about yourself?
I have learned that I may need to change my mentality as to what my working hours are going to be. I think this business will take up portions of time throughout the day, instead of continual 9-5 work. This may work better for my working schedule as I have found difficulty navigating that as well as encourage a more flexible and creative business model. Going forward I think it will also be beneficial in the long run to celebrate small successes of mine as well. I have also learned that I very much enjoy being in charge and look forward to continuing both that mentality and behaviour.