How To Start A Business (2023): Guide For First-Time Entrepreneurs -

The knowledge of how to start a business is important and an exciting experience. The thrill of crafting an idea, and the journey of molding it into a tangible entity is inspiring. From my experience, combining technology with the lessons I’ve learned, here’s an authentic guide that reflects both expertise and personal narratives, ensuring you step forward with confidence.

How to Set Up Your Website?

Your website is the digital storefront of your business; it’s where your audience gets to know you, your products, or services. So, how do you set up a website that resonates with your brand and serves its purpose effectively?

Why I Love Squarespace:

Squarespace holds a special place in my entrepreneurial heart. I’ve set up numerous sites on this platform, and they have consistently delivered both in terms of rankings and conversions. The allure lies in its user-friendliness; its intuitive design tools make it accessible even for those new to website creation. Plus, with Squarespace handling backend maintenance, I’ve had more time to focus on content and audience engagement.

WordPress.org vs. WordPress.com: Difference

If you’re venturing into the world of WordPress, it’s crucial to know the difference between WordPress.org and WordPress.com. The former allows you full control over your site, letting you add plugins, themes, and more. It’s this version of WordPress that has earned my respect over time. Although it requires a bit more hands-on management, especially with plugin updates, its flexibility is unmatched.

The Challenge with WordPress

However, it’s not all rosy with WordPress.org. One challenge I’ve frequently encountered is the need for regular plugin updates. Failing to do so can make your site vulnerable to security breaches. While this does demand a level of attention and vigilance, the vast ecosystem of plugins and themes can make it worthwhile for those seeking deep customization.

Shopify: For E-commerce Enthusiasts

If you’re diving into e-commerce, Shopify is a platform you shouldn’t ignore. Catering specifically to online stores, it offers robust features, from inventory management to seamless checkout processes. The platform’s integrated payment system can be a boon for first-time entrepreneurs looking for an all-in-one solution.

The choice of platform often boils down to your business needs and personal preferences. While I’ve had great success with both Squarespace and WordPress, it’s essential to evaluate what aligns best with your vision and operational comfort. And if e-commerce is your arena, Shopify is undoubtedly worth considering.

Why you should hire freelancers?

Freelancers are an entrepreneur’s secret weapon. They bring in expertise without long-term commitment, allowing projects to be accelerated. My journey with freelancers began with the intent to supercharge my tasks and, over time, it became an integral part of my business strategy.

Upwork.com

While there are myriad platforms out there, my go-to remains u pwork.com. It’s a bustling marketplace of professionals from varying fields. But navigating Upwork requires more than a cursory glance.

Upwork Pro Tip: Filter your freelancer search. Target those who’ve earned more than $5,000 and have a trail of positive reviews. This narrows down your options to experienced freelancers who have consistently delivered.

Quality Over Cost: A Lesson Learned

It’s easy to be swayed by the allure of saving a buck. The thought process often goes: “Why not find someone cheaper if they can do the job?” But here’s the crux – “You get what you pay for.”

When kickstarting an e-commerce business, if you cut corners with a budget developer, it’s a recipe for unforeseen glitches and potential revenue loss. I’ve treaded down this path and faced its repercussions. Opting for a freelancer based on price alone can backfire; I learned it’s about the value they bring, not the dollars you save.

The Stark Reality: Finding a freelancer who’s both cheap and exceptional, who meets deadlines and delivers quality is akin to finding a needle in a haystack. The odds? Probably 1/100.

Making The Right Investment

Freelancers are not mere outsourced help – they’re extensions of your team. Instead of juggling multiple freelancers to save some change, invest in the right talent. Pay them their worth, ensure clear communication, and build a working relationship. The dividends this pays, in the long run, is monumental.

Learn to Code: Why you should do it?

In the rapidly evolving digital landscape, a mobile app can set your business apart, offering a unique touchpoint for your audience. But what if you don’t have the budget for a professional developer? The answer is simpler than you might think: Equip yourself with coding knowledge.

Professional app developers come with their set of advantages, but they also bring along a hefty price tag. For a bootstrapped entrepreneur, that may not always be feasible. Learning the ropes yourself can not only save you money but also grant you greater control over your project. Plus, it’s empowering!

Affordable Learning Platforms

While there’s no shortage of resources online, two platforms have particularly stood out in my journey:

Udemy.com: This platform is a treasure trove of structured courses that are often led by industry experts. But before you make a purchase, here’s a quick tip: Always scour Google for promo codes. I’ve often landed discounts of 90% or more, turning a pricey course into a steal. There’s one course I particularly cherish, led by an instructor who guided me through my foundational phase.
YouTube: This video platform has been indispensable. It taught me the lion’s share of coding knowledge I possess today. Simply input specific keywords, like “Swift tutorials for beginners,” and you’ll be greeted by a plethora of comprehensive guides.
Stack Overflow: Coding is a rewarding journey, but it’s not devoid of challenges. Every coder, amateur or veteran, faces hurdles. For those inevitable moments when you’re stumped, Stack Overflow is your savior. It’s a buzzing community of coders where you can throw in your questions and often get insightful solutions in return.
Codecademy: Unlike the largely passive learning experience of watching videos, Codecademy offers a more hands-on approach. The platform is built around interactive lessons, allowing you to write, test, and debug code in real-time. This “learning by doing” philosophy has been instrumental in cementing my understanding of various programming languages and concepts. What’s more, they offer structured paths, guiding you step-by-step, from absolute beginner to proficient coder. While they do have a Pro version with advanced features, their free content is robust enough to get you started on the right foot.

Golden Rule: Never splurge more than $100 on online coding courses. The internet is a goldmine of free information. If someone’s pitching a coding masterclass at exorbitant prices, chances are it’s not worth the buck.

By integrating platforms like Udemy, YouTube, and Codecademy into your learning regimen, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a self-sufficient developer, ready to bring your app ideas to fruition. Remember, in the world of coding, consistency is key. With each line of code, you’re not just building an app, but also paving your path to digital empowerment.

How to Learn SEO and Why?

With Google’s new emphasis on expertise and experience, understanding SEO is crucial. But what exactly is it?

SEO is an organic method to improve your website’s visibility on search engines. To truly excel, focus on quality, original content, and prioritize the user’s experience.

Over the years, I’ve honed my SEO skills by diving deep into the wealth of knowledge shared by some of the industry’s leading figures. Below I’ll share the resources that have helped me remain at the forefront of SEO best practices.

Ahrefs Blog: This platform is more than just a suite of SEO tools. Their blog offers in-depth articles, tutorials, and case studies that have provided me with actionable insights. From understanding link-building strategies to mastering keyword research, the Ahrefs blog has been a very useful resource for my SEO.
SEMRush Blog: SEMRush is another tool in the SEO world. Their blog serves as a comprehensive guide, updating me on the latest trends, algorithms, and tactics. Over time, I’ve found their articles on competitor analysis particularly helpful.
Backlinko Blog: Run by Brian Dean, Backlinko is the go-to for anyone wanting to get a grasp on advanced SEO techniques. The blog combines theory with actionable steps. One of my personal favorites was a guide on “Skyscraper Technique” – a concept introduced by Dean himself.
The SEM Post: This is where I head to when I’m looking for in-depth analyses of the latest updates from Google and other search engines. Their detailed breakdowns have often helped me pivot my SEO strategies.
Search Engine Land: An industry stalwart, Search Engine Land provides news, analyses, and how-tos from the marketing world. What I especially love is their consistent coverage of all things SEO, helping me stay informed about the bigger picture.
SEO Round Table: Last but not least, SEO Round Table offers a unique mix of discussions, reviews, and round-ups. Their community-driven approach often brings forward varied perspectives, offering a holistic understanding of intricate SEO challenges.

How to build backlinks to your website and Why?

Backlinks are endorsements from other websites. They’re like a friend vouching for you in the digital sphere.

Genuine Insight: Quality over quantity. One link from a reputed website is worth more than several from lesser-known sources.

I’ve explored a lot of techniques over the years, but I’m here to share a distinct approach that has delivered promising results for me time and time again.

Instead of the popular “Broken Link Building”, let me introduce you to the “Resource Page Link Building” method. Here’s how it works:

Discover Resource Pages: These are pages that curate and list valuable resources for their audience, specific to a particular niche or topic. Start by using Google search queries like “[your topic] + resources” or “[your niche] + useful links”.
Analyze the Page for Relevance: Before reaching out, ensure that the resource page is actively maintained and that your content would genuinely add value to it.
Craft a Personalized Outreach Email: Contact the website owner or content manager, expressing appreciation for their well-curated resources. Then, introduce your high-quality content and explain why it would be a valuable addition to their list. Remember, your goal is to offer value, not just gain a backlink.
Provide Additional Value: Sometimes, this could mean offering to share their resource page with your audience or suggesting other high-quality resources (not necessarily your own) they might want to include.

Additionally, while diving into backlink strategies, I’ve noticed a recurring set of mistakes on numerous websites:

Quantity Over Quality: Chasing high numbers of backlinks without considering the quality and relevance of the linking sites can do more harm than good.
Ignoring Internal Links: While external backlinks are crucial, the power of interlinking your own content shouldn’t be overlooked. It not only improves user navigation but also boosts the authority of your pages.
Neglecting Anchor Text Diversity: Using the same anchor text repeatedly can appear manipulative to search engines. Aim for a natural mix of branded, keyword-rich, and generic anchor texts.

Remember, the internet is all about connection and value. When you approach backlinking with a genuine desire to provide value, you’re not only building links but also fostering lasting relationships in your niche.

How to Join Startup Communities and Why?

Engaging with like-minded individuals can be a game-changer. Authentic Voice: Join forums and Q&A sites. My personal favorite? It’s not only one. I’ve discovered a few platforms that have provided great value, and I’d love to share them with you.

ProductHunt: Before I delve into other platforms, let’s talk about ProductHunt.com. It’s an essential hub for launching new products and start-ups. Making connections with influential members can make a significant difference when it’s your turn to present your brainchild to the world.
Reddit’s Goldmine: Ah, Reddit! The ‘front page of the internet’ is much more than memes and news. Subreddits (specifically dedicated communities on Reddit) have been instrumental in my entrepreneurial journey. However, there’s an art to engaging here:
- Be Genuine: Start by joining communities and really immersing yourself. Be a keen listener before you become an active speaker. I recommend these subreddits for every entrepreneur:
  - r/Entrepreneur
  - r/startups
- Provide Value: Jumping in and immediately self-promoting can be off-putting. Instead, share insights, ask questions, and contribute meaningfully.
Indie Hackers: A platform that’s been gaining traction, Indie Hackers is a vibrant community of indie entrepreneurs sharing their experiences and collaborating on various projects. Engaging with members here can lead to partnerships, mentorship, or even friendships.
Leveraging Twitter: In today’s age, don’t underestimate the power of direct outreach via social media. Influential figures in the start-up community often have Twitter profiles, and a well-crafted, genuine message can lead to meaningful connections. Remember, brevity is key, and always be courteous.

Remember: Every successful entrepreneur once started where you are now. The right community can not only guide your steps but also amplify your successes.

Why you need your Email list and how to do it?

Email marketing is often overshadowed by the allure of social media. But, if there’s one thing I’ve learned in my entrepreneurial journey, it’s that an engaged email list is a veritable gold mine. It offers a direct channel to an audience that has already shown interest in your brand, and this channel is not subject to the ever-changing algorithms of social platforms. Here’s a deeper dive into my experiences and some recommendations:

The Early Bird Strategy: It might seem premature, but collecting emails should start before your product or service even sees the light of day. How? By setting up a compelling landing page. This not only creates intrigue around your upcoming launch but also allows you to gauge early interest and build momentum.

Tooling Up: Over the years, I’ve experimented with several email marketing tools, and a couple have stood out:
- MailChimp: One of the most user-friendly platforms out there, MailChimp offers a fantastic balance between ease of use and powerful features. From beautiful templates to detailed analytics, it’s been an invaluable tool in my arsenal.
- OptinMonster: To convert website visitors into subscribers, you need an effective lead generation tool. OptinMonster has been that for me. With its array of pop-ups and opt-in forms, it’s helped capture leads that might otherwise have been lost.
Nurturing Relationships: Starting an email list is one thing; maintaining it is another ball game. It’s crucial to keep your subscribers in the loop. Share your start-up’s milestones, offer them exclusive insights, and solicit feedback. A two-way conversation can foster loyalty and trust.
The Launch Day Advantage: When the day finally arrives to introduce your product to the world, an engaged email list can provide an immediate boost. With a list of eager subscribers, you’re not launching to crickets. You’re unveiling your hard work to an audience primed and ready to engage.

With patience, persistence, and the right strategy, your email list can become one of your most treasured assets in the entrepreneurial journey.

Why it is important to have a mentor?

A mentor can offer direction, prevent pitfalls, and provide much-needed encouragement.

Personal Story: I met my mentor at a startup event. Their guidance changed my entrepreneurial journey. Here’s a more detailed reflection on my experiences:

The Value of Authentic Mentorship: In the vast sea of self-proclaimed ‘gurus’, it’s essential to discern between genuine mentors and the many snake oil salesmen. A true mentor is not just someone who talks the talk but has walked the walk. I learned early on that it’s better to be guided by someone who has hands-on experience, has faced failures, and come out successful, rather than by someone who only offers theoretical knowledge.
Finding Your Mentor: Begin by looking within your network. Reach out to people you admire or who have achieved success in your field. Sometimes, genuine mentorship doesn’t come labeled. It might be a senior at work, a university professor, or even a friend who has embarked on a similar journey. Also platforms like SCORE can help you find one too.
Gain More Knowledge: Apart from personal guidance, immersing yourself in the wisdom of trailblazers in written form can be transformative. I’d recommend a classic must-reads:
- “Zero to One” by Peter Thiel
- “The Hard Thing About Hard Things” by Ben Horowitz
Reciprocity: Remember, mentorship is not a one-way street. While you gain wisdom and insights, ensure that you’re also bringing value to the table. Whether it’s fresh perspectives, dedication, or sheer grit, make sure your mentorship relationship is symbiotic.

Why you need to build online presence and how to do it?

Jotting down experiences provides clarity and can be an excellent engagement tool.

Why Do It: Sharing your journey, perhaps in a blog or a video channel, not only aids reflection but also connects with your audience authentically, offering real-life experiences and insights.

Medium.com: Its clean interface and engaged community made it an ideal place to share in-depth narratives, insights, and reflections. The best thing in Medium is that you just speak from the heart. Each article became a chapter in my business storybook.
YouTube: After gaining confidence in writing, I ventured into the realm of visual storytelling via YouTube. Creating a channel was about building a community. From behind-the-scenes snippets, challenges faced, to small victories celebrated, it became a living archive also. For those more comfortable in front of the camera or for whom visual demonstration plays a key role in their journey, YouTube is a goldmine.
The Personal Growth Factor: Apart from being a resource for others, documenting became an introspective exercise for me. It allowed me to reevaluate decisions, appreciate milestones, and derive motivation on tougher days. It’s been a compass, often pointing me back to my ‘why’ when the journey gets murky.
Engaging with a Like-minded Community: Sharing my journey attracted fellow entrepreneurs, budding business minds, and curious readers. This created a supportive ecosystem where we exchanged ideas, constructive critiques, and words of encouragement. The camaraderie made the ups and downs of the business world a shared experience.

What Not To Do?

Endless Research: While it’s vital to understand your domain, it’s easy to fall into the trap of perpetual preparation. Continuously researching how to start a business, without taking actionable steps, can be a recipe for stagnation. I’ve seen peers, including a close friend, spend years talking about their entrepreneurial dreams. All the while, I took the plunge, made mistakes, iterated, and grew.
Fear of Mistakes: Embrace errors. They aren’t signs of failure, but badges of learning. In your entrepreneurial journey, the mistakes are often as valuable, if not more, than the victories. Through every misstep, there’s a lesson waiting to be learned.
Seeking Validation: A hard pill to swallow early on is realizing that, in most cases, no one will be as invested in or as excited about your venture as you are. It’s possible that even those close to you might not show interest or support. And that’s okay. Your passion must fuel your drive. It’s your vision; others will come around when they see it come to life.

Wrapping Up

Starting a business isn’t just about the end goal. It’s about the wild ride, the ups and downs, the lessons you pick up along the way, and how much you grow from it all. Don’t get stuck overthinking or being scared of messing up. Just jump in, get your hands dirty, learn as you go, and take that first step. After all, every big adventure starts with deciding to try.