You have a great idea for a new business, but you just aren’t ready to take the plunge into a full-scale operation. After all, a new business often represents an enormous gamble for a small business owner. How do you know you’re ready? Is there an easier way to test market interest and viability without getting over your head in start-up investments? Between the internet and social media, many innovative entrepreneurs have found great success by starting out with unconventional, mobile business models. They use mobile trucks, farmer’s markets, festivals, pop-up locations, kiosks and more in order to bring their products or services to the public. These smaller approaches allow them to build a reputation, capitalize on guerrilla marketing via social media, and get invaluable feedback. They also provide the opportunity to work out the kinks as new business owners so that they learn from mistakes early on, rather than when they have too much at stake. Before you undertake the financial risks of a larger start-up investment, think about how these unusual models may help you learn and prosper so that your business grows in both an organic and profitable manner.
Tips for Success in Starting Your Small, Mobile Business
While a small-scale start-up provides many benefits, it still requires the same care with marketing, bookkeeping, and logistics as any small business. Here are some things to keep in mind:
- You will still need the permits or applicable certifications as any business in your field, so never assume that mobile businesses are exempt for local regulations.
- You will need advice from an accountant as to how to log and track expenses, as well as how to manage taxes. Unlike brick-and-mortar businesses, your unusual operation needs careful financial management to make the most of every possible deduction.
- Regardless of where you do business, you need to include mobile credit card processing. Many people no longer carry cash, and you will discourage a huge chunk of your potential customer pool if you think you can operate a cash-only business.
- Lastly, innovative marketing and locations make up a huge component of your potential success. Utilize all social media avenues, get creative, and place yourself where you have the best chance of reaching your target audience.
Remember, as you start out, AVP Solutions partners with businesses across the nation, and our innovative payment solutions like mobile phone credit card processing allow them ultimate operational freedom. If you are interested in learning more about how we can help, or about our mobile phone credit card readers, call our representative at 1-800-719-9198 and let us help you on your road to success.
