The best time is now to put your business on the web
Retailers have been in the news lately because revenue is down. Part of the blame is slated to bargain priced internet websites. That might be true, but it also might be true that we are spending money elsewhere. Like on services, food and housing loans. Continue reading to see my thoughts about what business works on the web.
Business is good in Australia
Politicians don’t help the economy by talking it down or complaining about taxes or fears about balancing the budget – creating fear and indecision – the enemy of small business. To most of us it’s a political smoke screen – just ignore them or tell them to get on board with small business. Small business employs way more people than the 1000 or so large companies that get all the attention and business welfare.
Australia is doing OK as an economy. Just talk to some of the young travellers from England and Ireland they’ll tell you things are pretty grim in those countries for work. But not in Australia. Look around you and you will see people spending money. No more excuses – if you have a business, get online and start promoting your business. Your learning curve starts now.
Internet costs are low for business
No rent, storage costs, especially if you are working from home and just the cost of your labour and some set up costs. If you have a product you make or buy that’s where your costs are. If it is information then the initial cost is the biggest, then minimal costs from then on. When you offer a service it’s charged out hourly or on a quotation basis.
What business should you put online?
In the Barefoot Investor article in the Sun, September 17, 2011 Scott Pape quotes Phil Ruthven of IBIS World:
“This year marks the first time we will spend more money on personal outsourced services [think gardeners, eating out, handymen ] than we do on retail sales.”
Pape goes on to say that 94% of people in Australia have a job. But that it is worth finding out what you can do to make an investment in yourself , maybe learning new skills or by starting a small service business on the side.
“In short, stop bitching, and start pitching.”
Anything really, but preferably something you love doing or can do.
Crafts are a multi-billion dollar business in Australia – but almost invisible. Been to a quilting show? Think about all the people across Australian meeting in small towns, members of craft groups or just sitting at home knitting or sewing. You can sell patterns, products, expertise and more. Just think about it and get started.
Food is multi-billion dollar businesses. Been to a farmer’s market recently? Think about preserves, jams, recipes and more.
These are just a few – most ideas are already out there – it’s ok to copy a good idea, apply it elsewhere, sell what you love doing – maybe helping people to do stuff you find easy. Just let your mind open up to the possibilities and give it a go.
It is now more than ever affordable to set up a cost effective website that you can keep up to date. WordPress websites let you blog or write about what you love – create a following and create a business. It doesn’t take much, just a start and see how it goes. What are you waiting for?
