So you want to become an entrepreneur, huh?

It’s a lot more than just “Yeah, I started my own business.” It’s about having a vision, drive, passion, and the determination to make something happen. Whether you’re starting your own business or going off on your own in a freelance career, there are important aspects to consider.

You have to establish your brand, understand the numbers and logistics, network, find yourself in a community, and most importantly – hustle.

Can anyone be an entrepreneur? How can I get started? Will I be successful? 

Don’t worry, we’re here to answer those questions for you.

How To Become An Entrepreneur: 5 Pieces of Advice

1. Focus on what matters

What matters to you? What matters to your target audience? Who is your target audience? How will you grow your brand? So many questions, yes, but you have to ask and answer these before you can develop your business.

It’s pretty obvious that we’re living in a millennial driven, technology advanced world. With that being said, 95% of millennials follow brands on social media. If it’s not clear already, millennials are your target audience. Whether or not your products or business pertain to them, you have to do and say something that grabs their attention, because eventually, word will get out about you. So how do you get them to notice you?

Talk about what matters: social movements like sustainability, being a supporter of the LGBTQ+ community and equal rights for all races and genders. It’s not just about making a profit but establishing something that is important.

2. Establish your brand

Once you figure out what’s important to you and your target audience, then you can actually create something substantial.

Develop a voice! Figure out who you are, what you stand for, what your mission statement is and what services you’re offering. Put it down on paper.

You can even use these materials–business cards, posters, and clothing–to market in real life! Plant those seeds, baby! Don’t forget to establish your brand online, too. Create a website and showcase your portfolio, talents, and services on social media. The content online is so overly-saturated and you have to stand out!

3. Get organized

There’s a lot that goes into being a business or a freelancer. You have to get organized in order to see progress and, eventually, success.

• Have an effective social media strategy. Make sure your website, portfolio, and social media accounts are up-to-date on contact information, pricing and services. Read up on social media do’s and don’ts and make sure you’re not going in the wrong direction.
• Figure out the logistics of your business, including mundane things. Create a business email, set up a PayPal account, find a bank that works best for you (a small business). Know the numbers for project tracking, pricing, invoicing. Don’t sell yourself short but also don’t be unrealistic. Remember your worth!
• Have high-quality visuals. If you want to get noticed and get business, you have to have high-quality content. No one will take your business seriously if your photos are blurry, low-resolution, or obviously just Stock Photos you’ve downloaded. You’re going to have to hire a professional photographer! They have the skills, the tools, the gear, and the talent to provide you with the best content.

4. Network and build meaningful relationships

You want success, right? Of course, you do! For that to happen, you need to build meaningful relationships throughout this process–even before you start getting into the thick of things.

Network even when you’re first starting out. Whether if it’s online or in-person, make connections with people who you think might need your services. For example, if you’re a freelance photographer, find potential clients and reach out to them about your services. Ask for testimonials and referrals. If you’re a brand, be transparent about what you’re offering. Authenticity is the key to success!

Related: Brands, Strive For Authenticity And You’ll Make A Profit 

5. Hustle!

If you’re a freelancer or starting your own business, you’re in charge. Although you are your own boss and you create your own hours, that doesn’t necessarily mean you can give half of what you’ve got. You have to hustle!

You’re selling yourself. Make sure you’re putting your best foot forward and doing the most to get repeating clients. You will have to work extra hard to create a substantial, sufficient business and a brand that is well-thought-out. Do some research on how you can excel at what you’re doing, read books about starting your own business, and listen to some podcasts about entrepreneurship.

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If you’re still unsure about how you can become an entrepreneur, don’t stress. Do your research about what matters in this day and age and use that to your advantage.

Find your voice, work on your brand, and get organized on every level. Hustle, hustle, hustle. Remember: anyone can be an entrepreneur, but in order to be successful, you have to have the drive, passion, skills, and authenticity.