PR for People Monthly OCTOBER 2015 | Page 28

The journey I have been through to become an entrepreneur and business owner has been quite challenging, I would to share the steps I took. My first step was developing my personal network and building on that base once my network grew. By building strong relationships, I learned the right information to bring my company to the forefront. The next step was developing the structure of my company and developing a business plan along with an accurate financial statement so that I could move forward. My next step was to develop a relationship with a business mentor to contact from time-to-time to give me information for connecting with the right people and organizations. By spending time networking, I was able to build long-term relationships that helped me to conquer many obstacles. Making contacts gives me access to funding, loan information, knowledge about how to bring a product or service to market, and how to identify the right target markets. Through networking, I am able to make contact with financial, legal, technical and all types of business resources. My last step involved knowing my business and service well enough so I could shine the spotlight on my company in any type of business conversation. So far the journey has been challenging, rewarding, and I’m learning a lot.

Christina Otto lives in St.Clair Shores, Michigan.

From Detroit:

Christina Otto on being a Young Entrepreneur