For a small business just starting out, having multiple streams of income can often affect the success or failure of a venture. You should have clarity and focus about your core products or services but be willing to ‘think outside the box’ with respect to where & how you sell them.
There are so many options that it’s important, at least initially, to look at them all. See what works and what doesn’t, then try to determine why you are getting (or not getting) the results you want. Don’t be afraid to brainstorm with other entrepreneurs so that you can learn ways to improve what you are doing.
Aside from the traditional retail outlets, where else can you market your goods?
· Trade shows
· Craft fairs
· Music festivals
· Local bazaars
· Flea markets
I’m sure you can add to the list too. What about online opportunities?
· eBay
· Facebook
· Etsy
· Kijiji
· Craig’s List
· Artfire
· Your own website
One important thing to remember is to be persistent. The old saying was never truer than when you are working to get your business established....’If at first you don’t succeed, try try again’. And once you find the strategies that work best for you, drop the ones that have not produced the results you want or need. Good luck to everyone. I can’t wait to hear your success stories.
