Do you spend your working week dreaming about quitting your day job and becoming your own boss? I did too! Read my top tips for starting your own business and escaping the 9-5 grind!
Back yourself, if you don’t, no one else will. Taking that first leap can be incredibly scary. I remember the first morning I switched on the Carrie Elizabeth website 4 years ago, I was so nervous about how it would be received and if I would actually sell anything! That moment when the first order came through and I realised that this was actually happening was the most exhilarating (and nerve wracking!) to date. Leaving the stability of your 9-5 and everything that comes with it is incredibly tough but if you’re feeling unfulfilled, have a yearning to be your own boss and know that your passion lies elsewhere my advice would be take that leap and see where it takes you!
Look before you leap. Its extremely important to thoroughly research your chosen field before setting out on your own. Make sure your venture is both financially viable and sustainable. Is there a clear demand for what you are looking to offer? Is your pricing competitive? Are you offering something different or better to the market? Do you have a reliable source or supply base? Do you need to gain financial backing? These are all key questions you need to ask yourself. Having a comprehensive business plan in place will give you the tools and guidance you need when starting out in business.
I’m often asked, what makes your business successful and why do people choose to buy your jewellery over someone else’s? The answer to this is simple…USP. In a saturated market being unique is crucial. Design is so important to me and I hope that translates into each and every one of our pieces. Not only is it important to ensure your product is different, but it is also key to differentiate yourself in every other aspect of your business…in terms of packaging, marketing, imagery…every element comes together to create the whole package for your customer and so I always pay special attention to every last detail of my brand.
Before setting out alone I had clear ideas on how I wanted my brand to look, the overall brand aesthetic and my USP and from this I quickly managed to build a visual mood board to inspire me. Pull together clear images or words that inspire you and define your unique selling point and align these with your business plan.
Starting your own business is not plain sailing. You have to be ready to take knock backs, be adaptable to a completely new way of working and above all be open to receiving negative feedback and criticism for something that is ultimately so personal to you. In my experience the highs do outweigh the lows and so it is important to take any negatives on the chin. And remember, every challenge is just a stepping stone to success!
They say that if you’re lucky enough to work in a field you love, then you never work a day in your life. It’s a little cheesy…but kind of true! I adore gemstones, jewellery and styling people. I’m lucky enough to have turned my passions into my career and for this I’m forever grateful.
My advice above all is to find what you love and pursue it…and if you don’t succeed, do you know what…at least you’ll have had fun trying!
