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Tech-Focused Tips for Booze-ting Success as a Solopreneur
You’re a solopreneur — a risk-taker, a lone wolf, perhaps a bit of a maverick. You’re passionate about your venture, and you’re ready to take it to the next level. While this oftentimes can be a conundrum, the good news is that technology can pave the way. To that end, check out the following tips, ideas, and tools, brought to you courtesy of Bumming with Bobcat.
Stand Out from the Crowd
Even if you’re just barely getting started with a budding business, these days, a showstopping website is a must-have. As Kaz Design Works explains, when your customers (or potential customers) are searching for you, the internet is the first place they will look. The last thing you want to do is offer a weak introduction to would-be customers — or worse, none at all. They will immediately move on to your competition, taking their hard-earned money with them.
Your website is more than a landing spot for your customers, too. Your web presence provides credibility, and it’s available to your audience 24/7. It can also be tailored to meet customers’ needs, as it’s a great way to communicate and provide round-the-clock service.
Clearly, something you don’t want is a humdrum, unprofessional-looking website. A great website allows you to stand out. It provides your customers with the information they are seeking, is engaging, and it doesn’t flood visitors with more information (visual or otherwise) than they want. It’s easy to read and easy to navigate, and it definitely doesn’t leave visitors wondering what it is you do. This also means hiring a pro to create your website, but it’s an investment that can pay off in spades over time.
D Up Against Cybercriminals
Customers aren’t the only ones looking for you online. There are hackers searching for you, too. And here’s a shocking statistic: the average cost of a data breach to a small business is $36,000 to $50,000. What’s more, cybercriminals are targeting small businesses at an alarming rate — largely due to a lackadaisical, it-won’t-happen-to-me attitude, paired with particularly poor security measures. Don’t become a statistic! Beef up your online practices before you become a victim. Learn how to recognize a threat, and be sure to perform routine updates, use encryption, and follow proper password protocols.
If you have trouble remembering all the crazy passwords you have to come up with, let a password management system come to the rescue. And if you aren’t sure where to start with your security measures, you can hire a data security consultant to help you formulate a plan.
Cover Your Assets
Solopreneurs might be risk-takers, but there are some things that simply shouldn’t be left to chance. With that in mind, don’t leave your personal assets swinging. When it comes time to choose or change your business structure, opt for a limited liability company (LLC).
Just like it sounds, an LLC protects you from liability. It also offers other perks, like tax advantages and the ability to grow as your company expands. While the laws for LLCs vary from state to state, you don’t need to worry about hiring an attorney to establish yours, since technology allows you to file online through an easy-to-use service.
Do Yourself a Solid
No matter what direction you plan on taking your venture, and no matter how well you have things in hand, Entrepreneur explains that a solid business plan is critical. Your business plan outlines your ultimate goals and how you will reach them, and it can come in handy if you decide to apply for a grant or loan, or if you’re seeking an investor. Firm up your ideas with an online template, but keep in mind that solidifying this now is just a stepping stone; the plan should change and flex as your business grows.
You’re a solopreneur, and that takes guts. But taking your business to the next level—these days, that takes technology. Embrace these tech-focused tips, handpicked especially for booze-ting your business’s success!
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