As a product manufacturer that supplies and educates spray-tan professionals, we meet many people interested in becoming their own boss. Starting a spray-tan business is a great way to do it! For the right type of person, it is both fun and profitable. So, how do you know if being an entrepreneur or pursuing the spray-tanning business is right for you? Just off the top of my head, I can tell you the common attributes I see in successful people, not only in the spray-tan world, but in business in general: you need passion and knowledge. Excellent follow-up and follow through are important, as well. If you plan to be an owner-operator, you should have the sort of personality that puts others at ease. Shameless self-promotion goes a long way, too!
Starting a new business is always exciting; but where your focus lies can make the difference between success and failure. The reality is the majority of first-time entrepreneurs fail early and often. Being bold is one key to success, but you can get so carried away that you ignore danger signs or don’t take care in your planning. Entrepreneurs can improve their odds and avoid common mistakes by asking themselves some questions. A few of those questions include:
Are you going into business for the right reasons? Some people are drawn to business ownership because they like the image that being an entrepreneur evokes – someone who is rich, famous, and smart. That is not exactly the best motivation, and the image they have in mind isn’t going to mean a lot when the reality of what it takes to succeed sinks in. Be honest with yourself.
Are you seeking advice from the right people? Anyone launching a new business or buying an existing business or franchise definitely needs advice. But it should come from people most qualified to give it, and that’s not necessarily a relative or sorority sister. Make sure you have wise and learned people weighing in on each component of the business – the right people. A lawyer shouldn’t give advice on the balance sheet, and the accountant shouldn’t weigh in on growth strategy.
Do you understand the time commitment that will be required of you? Most would-be entrepreneurs probably assume they will work long hours. They are wrong, they won’t work long hours; they will work long, long, long hours. Outside of an act of God or just blind good fortune, business owners work more hours than any other category of employment. This is fact.
Are you passionate about the industry you’re considering? Without passion, the Wright brothers would never have made fixed-wing powered flight possible; without passion, you will not make any business fly.
Are you knowledgeable about the industry and all its players? For something to be sustainable, you have to understand who your competitors will be, who you will buy from, and how you will make people want to do business with you. What will set you apart?
The way to make the entrepreneurial experience more rewarding and less dictated by stress is to pick a business or industry you actually like, and if that is sunless tanning, Hurrah! Play to your strengths. If you already have some background knowledge – either from work experience or because the field just always fascinated you – you will be ahead of the game. If not, there is a wealth of information out there to point you in the right direction.
Starting a new business is always exciting; but where your focus lies can make the difference between success and failure.
