The idea of working for yourself and administrating your own time is, at least, interesting. Thinking about some advantages of being your own boss, many professional designers are trying to get their slice of the market. Let’s discuss when is the best time to start a business, if it’s really worth, how to get started and other relevant issues.

This is such an important decision to take, there are many aspects to consider. Why do people start their own business? Some are trying to get their best, some can’t find a good job, some are just tired of working in agencies. Whatever is the reason, you must be sure that you can handle it. It’s great to think that you won’t have a boss anymore, that you can control your time and work and that all the incomings are only for you. On the other hand, it’s not that good to know that you have to take care of everything, that there will be no more free weekends (you’ll always take work home, even if it’s not really working, you’ll have too much to think about, now it’s all about you and YOUR business) and you have to pay all the expenses. The more power you have, the more responsibilities you have too.

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How far is it good?

Be sure you are prepared to this big project in your life. Many recent ex-students get away from college and start their own business. But even being great designers, it’s not enough for business. You must have some experience working on agencies to learn about the work flow and the issues of a company. It’s not good to skip steps. But if you’re sure that it’s possible to go ahead for your own, go fight for it!
One of the important things to do, before starting the process, is a viability study. You must know if your service is really needed in your area, this will ensure that you will have work. Learn more about the expectations and needs of your target audience. Check competitors to see what they offer and what you can innovate. If you are not going to make something new, some point must stand you out from your rivals. Think about what could you do to make the difference, getting rid of being common ground.

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Make your business stand out

Start making a business plan, a document with the proposal of your business. There will be everything since the explanation of services/products to the marketing strategies. It’s a good way to organize your needs and check if everything is running according to the plan. Here is a good article about How to write a business plan.
After making the business plan, you must know how much you are going to invest at the moment. This time you may need help from an accountant, a bank or even the government if you don’t have the cash to start. There are many options for getting this help to launch your project. Ask professionals to indicate you the best for your business.
The rest is up to you. Work hard to make it go well, use marketing strategies and do not give up. The start is always the hardest part, but once you went through this, the return will come naturally. Keep the ethics and give your best.
We would like to hear your own experiences and how you took this decision. Share your story with us.