Something Nubian

Many of us still have a regular 9 to 5 that we are struggling to get away from but do not know how and then wind up selling a dream from another company still not knowing who we are or what we want.

I have wanted to own my own business for at least 20 years, I have a degree in business and instead of recognizing my dreams I followed someone else’s get rich quick or pyramid scheme . Back then these weren’t even real products it was just a way to convince someone to buy in and make the person who showed you the name more money. Today they are slick; there is a product but they tap into your soul to make you feel God designed it just for you!

I will give you 10 ways to start your journey and finish strong:

1.  Acknowledge your talents 

If you have an idea or something you are passionate about dedicate a lot of time and research to it. It does not matter if it is an idea someone more successful than you have already executed: no one is you and that is your power!

2. Practice 

Once you have researched your idea, rule out any negativity that is thrown your way about how it should not proceed and practice implementing what would make it work for you.

A lot of businesses and ideas have been duplicated. Oprah had to compete with Phil Donahue and now she has her OWN network. Pepsi and Coca-Cola have been competing for years but that never stopped them from marketing. There is a superabundance of companies known and unknown that are successful that is just like another one. You just have to decide how well known you would like to be.

Like minds attract just as well as opposites

3. Be Bold 

In order to stand out,  you must be shocking, whether it is funny or shocking. Being bold attracts attention. The way you choose to be noticed will entice a person that may need your product or service. Like minds attract just as well as opposites. If you have a service that is inexpensive compared to a seasoned company you just gained a new client but you won’t know unless you tap into your abilities and wit.

4. Be Fierce

Your tenacity introduces itself before you do. We have different ways to express ourselves in many ways all be it jewelry, make-up or clothing. When you are fierce it can set you apart from savage or tempestuous! The way we present ourselves sale more than what comes out of our mouth at times. So be fierce in your approach to your product or service.

5. Be 100% sure 

Now that you are ready to present what you have to offer, make sure of what you are providing is legit. Don’t lead anyone to a dark hole or leave them questioning what to do next. If that is the case make sure you have something complementary product or service to back it up if you feel the need to separate the two.

While owning a business is about freedom, it is also about generational wealth

6. Get a coach

It is natural that we at some point think that we are perfect but sometimes you just need some advice to lead you the right direction. A business or spiritual coach is great especially when you are not sure if the business you are creating is aligned with your spirituality. Many are not willing to sell their soul to get a client.

While owning a business is about freedom, it is also about generational wealth. You have to leave a legacy that you would not be apprehensive about leaving to your offspring but before you get that far make sure you have someone to hold you accountable and that you can seek guidance from.

7. Understand trends

Technology is forever changing! As soon as you learn and become effective in something a new way to make it better has already been created. When you are aware of trends find ways to make them work for you as well. Before websites, there were simple business cards. Now you can create virtual business cards through an app called Red Stamp. You have the ability to impress your client easily and they will remember you.

8. Know your target market 

It is wise to reach out toward those who need what you are presenting. Not being aware of who needs you could be a waste of time and money. I recently presented my new book The Black Woman’s Guide to Minding Her Own Business to a group of people and it was a mixed crowd of men, women,  and non-Black! I made contacts and sales but could have reached more if they were all women who were Black.

The funny thing is I have had just about the same support from my friends that are not Black as I have from my friends that are in promoting and selling my book, however when they are not aware of who you are and your product is not for them they are reluctant to purchase.

Maintain your success

9. Think Critically

Whatever is logical is different from a strategic move. Not every customer will think your product or service is for them and so in some cases,  you have to think objectively and use creativity reach out to a certain demographic in order to get noticed.

I can not go to a predominantly white neighborhood and hope my book will sell. Therefore I have to seek out people of color and sell my story to them. I have to show them my product also comes with a service to help them triumph over their negative belief system and get them moving in the right direction of being a strong Black Woman with these tough issues we are facing on a daily basis.

10.   Stay committed

No one is going to promote your business like you would unless you are paying them. Do not expect people to sell your product or service for you. Yes a lot of business are successful due to word of mouth but you are the one who practiced, boldly attracted, fiercely approached, was 100% sure, paid for the coach, understood trends, reached out to your target market, by critically thinking about who would buy into your craft! Now is not them time get complacent.

You must stay committed and start all over from #1 to get to the next level of making sure you maintain your success!

Namaste