Six Things to Consider When Starting an Online Business

Katy Fleming Author

Here are six key considerations you should have in the forefront of your mind when you decide to take the plunge into the world of online business.

In today’s ever-changing real estate market, it’s becoming clear to many investors that having multiple income sources is a smart move. Whether you’re looking to boost your earnings or follow your passions, starting an online business is a great way to stay ahead of the curve. As with any entrepreneurial adventure, there are some crucial factors you need to keep in mind to ensure you stay on the right track.

Let’s take a look at six key considerations you should have in the forefront of your mind when you decide to take the plunge into the world of online business.

1.  Define Your Niche and Audience

Before you dive headfirst into your online venture, you need to know who you’re targeting and exactly what you’re offering. Your niche and your target audience (often referred to as your “avatar”) are like the bread and butter of your business. Spend some quality time researching and clearly defining your niche market. Who are your potential customers? What problems or needs can your business solve? Think of it like creating characters in a novel – you’re crafting your buyer personas to tailor your products or services to suit their specific needs.

2. Market Research Matters

In the online world, it’s a jungle out there. Competition is fierce, and trends shift as quickly as the wind changes directions. To stay the course and thrive, you need to conduct market research. Identify your competitors, study their strategies, and spot opportunities in the market that you can seize.

Ask yourself how you can stand out.  A well-researched business plan is your treasure map – it will guide your actions and ensure you’re at the forefront of your chosen niche.

3. Legal and Regulatory Compliance

Let’s talk about the boring (but necessary) stuff – legal and regulatory compliance. Running an online business means you’ve got to play by the rules. Depending on where you’re based and what kind of business you’re running, there could be a bunch of legal hoops to jump through. You might need to register your company just as you may have done for your real estate investment business, get licenses, or make sure you’re on top of tax laws. For this part, it’s a wise move to consult with legal professionals or experts in online business regulations to ensure you’re walking the straight and narrow.

4. Develop a Solid Online Presence

Building a strong online presence is your ticket to attracting customers and building credibility. It’s like putting on fancy clothes for a job interview – it makes a world of difference. Start with a professional website, invest in top-notch content, and think about using social media platforms to connect with your audience. A website that’s optimized for success and a solid online brand can work wonders for your business’s reputation.

5. Effective Marketing and Sales Strategies

Now, let’s talk about the fun stuff (depending on your area of interest) – marketing and sales. Crafting winning marketing and sales strategies is what’s going to drive traffic to your site and put money in your pocket. Consider using various online marketing techniques, like SEO, content marketing, email marketing, and pay-per-click advertising. Think of it as building a well-constructed funnel that guides your visitors from their first interest all the way to making a purchase.

6. Financial Planning and Sustainability

Lastly, but certainly not least, let’s talk about money. Financial planning is the backbone of any business. Create a detailed budget that covers your initial setup costs, ongoing expenses, and expected revenue. It’s like having a financial safety net to catch you if things get tough in the early stages of your business. Keep a close eye on your finances and be ready to tweak your strategies if needed to ensure your business’s long-term survival.

Starting an online business is an exciting adventure filled with opportunities for personal and financial growth. It’s a dynamic process that requires continuous learning and adaptation. With dedication, perseverance, and a well-thought-out plan, you can turn your business dreams into a reality.

Exploring side businesses is just one way to adapt to the changing real estate landscape, giving you a boost while also exploring your passions, Who knows how following your heart might not only enrich your own life, but also make a positive impact on the people around you?

AND to Practice What I Preach…

I’d love to share two ways I create supplemental income myself. I’ve had many opportunities through the years to use affiliate links. These are the only two I use because of the amazing quality and value they provide:

1. In 2009, I began using Legal Shield to support my real estate business. It has saved me thousands of dollars through the years. I felt so strongly about the value, that I became an associate. If you are currently a real estate investor or considering starting a new business, it is inevitable that legal issues will arise. I’m happy to share more with you if you have questions. Or CLICK HERE visit my Legal Shield webpage to check it out.
2. If you are considering an online business, you’ll need a place to not only build and host your website, but to also create and hold your contact list, write emails, create marketing funnels, deliver courses if you choose to provide training, and possibly write blogs like this one. I found an incredible resource four years ago called New Zenler that has not only done a stellar job of providing all that, but does it for an amazing value AND provides the best community of support I’ve ever found. Again, I’m happy to answer more questions. If you want to check it out, CLICK HERE

Would you like to figure out your next steps with the support of a strong accountability community?

The Investors Network Community (INC) Mastermind Program is a great community of investors who meets consistently in small groups of 5-7 members. Members support one another’s dreams and plans, brainstorm new ideas, share resources and most importantly, provide accountability so you stay on track. Being a member of this tight-knit group is a great way to make good investment decisions as well as explore supplemental ways to earn income. The brain sparks fly when you have a “third mind” (Mastermind) that forms when everyone comes together to explore ideas.

If you would like to learn more about the INC Mastermind Program, feel free to contact Katy who can answer your questions so you can see if it's a good fit for you.

A Mastermind group is one of the most valuable additions for your toolbox to help you achieve the life of your dreams.

Katy Fleming, Director can be reached by email at success@fleming2u.com.

Categories: : Business Practices, Entrepreneurs, Online Business, Online Marketing, Supplemental Income;