Two: How much time do I have available each week to spend working in and on my business?
For a business to be successful, it needs to be treated like a business not a hobby. Sit down with your weekly schedule and think about what your “office hours” will be; the physical time you have to focus. Many of us mums have babies and kids running around in the background while working. You see it in the standard work-from-home-mum photos. Yes we are good at multitasking, but you need space away from the family to be able to concentrate and deliver your best to your customers and clients. Begin to schedule that into your week. Better yet, don’t just schedule, show up. If you had a job with an employer you would not be late, you would show up ready to work. Make the same commitment to your business.
Three: What three qualities do I need to be a great business owner?
As a bonus, name three areas that you need to develop to make you a great business owner. Self-reflection is a key ingredient to a high-quality business person. You need to be able to identify your gifts and allow them to shine brightly but you also need to see where you need to develop skills, attitudes and abilities.
For example, many mums I speak with say they are great with people and can develop relationships, but they hate “selling”. Sorry to say it, but any successful business requires some degree of “selling”. We're not talking the "hard sell". We're talking about you becoming great at telling people why they should buy and use your product or service. Make it your mission to sell your business in a way that aligns with you values. This is one quality that will definitely be an asset. Learn from the best and develop your skills.
So, here's a bonus question to ask yourself. Because I like to give you more than you were expecting. The first question I wish I’d asked myself at the beginning of my business journey, “How can I surround myself and learn from others who are already creating what I want?” Being an Entrepreneur Mum can be a lonely role. Usually an Entrepreneur Mum starts her business alone and is responsible for all aspects running it. Unlike working for an organisation, there's no one around to answer questions or offer advice. No one to keep you motivated or moving forward. You have to go out and find your people and make it happen. It's been proven that surrounding yourself with successful people increases your likelihood of success. It’s like keeping up with the Jones’s. Having a strong network to keep you on track and focused on your outcomes helps you achieve your goals quicker. And if you are looking for your network, I know exactly where you can find it….