Recently released figures from the U.S. Census Bureau found that of the nation’s 16.6 million businesses, about 49 percent are home-based, with about 56 percent of those being women-owned ventures. Now, more than ever, women small business owners are leading the trend when it comes to owning and operating a business from the home.
But how do smart women business owners manage to stay on top of day-to-day logistical operations while increasing the breadth and scope of their business? They make the most of their time. They make the most of tools offered to them. And, they make it all happen from their home headquarters.
In 2003, I began my home-business journey when downsized out of a well-paying hospital job. Looking to beginning a new career, I thought I'm intelligent and a hard worker. I'll simply follow an ad to begin working at home. Shouldn't be too hard, right ? I tried a few "promising" programs. They all came crashing down. Having no training in MLMs, the programs I chose were not successful.
A good friend suggested I begin marketing real estate with her. Then, the bottom fell out of the real estate market. Next, we began marketing REO portfolios. Spending 20 hours per day on my computer, and making no money was crazy. So, I began the search for traditional employment.
Once I had a steady paycheck, however, the thoughts of working from home and being my own boss were too compelling to ignore. No longer would I be at the whim of my bosses. I wanted to be my own boss.
My next move was into social networking sites. I made some fantastic friendships and belonged to 70+ of them. I learned more about MLM's and advertising. I watched and listened. My next forays were more successful. But, never enough to support myself full time.
A close friend explained that I needed to brand myself. Not exactly sure how to do that, I placed my trust in him. Thus, begins another exciting journey ! I'm challenged, stimulated, and motivated to become one of the 56 percent women-owned ventures.
Great Post Sam...Great to know when building an online business.
ReplyDeleteAloha Sam,
ReplyDeleteThis is a great post. Both of us have been involved in online marketing in the same programs and like you said, most of them came crashing down after making a few dollars from them. Experience has taught me to find a company with great products and awesome compensation plan. I have found it and I am working my way to make a residual income and be able to live comfortably from it.