AD | Collaborative Post
One of the things that the digital age has enabled is the ability to set up additional streams of income. Plenty of people are making use of the digital world and setting up a side-hustle to earn a few extra pounds. But many also have setup business that can also have a storefront if they desire, so for example ‘pop-up’ shops and market stalls. Spending some time on getting the niche for your business right as well as the associated branding is key. Choosing those that you wok with, for example do you want to work with a wholesale kids clothing company to supply your new business or are you aiming for handmade? Whatever you choose, here are some top tips to help you on your way.
Finding the right industry
My advice is always to choose something that you’re passionate about. There’s no point setting out to sell something if it’s not something you have a real passion for; any initial enthusiasm will soon die away. If you’re passionate and interested in children’s fashion then setting up a children’s clothing boutique might be the way to go. Equally, if you’re really interested in web design then set up doing that.
Working with your own passion and interests means that you are far more likely to be successful. Getting a business up and running and off the ground but if it’s something you have a real passion and zeal for then it makes it that much easier and more enjoyable!
Creating the brand
This is the fun bit! Creating your brand is key. Think about whether you want to be fun or serious, neutral colours of bright and funky. Consider how your brand scheme might look across different web devices as well as different social media platforms. What works on a website might be difficult to translate into an Instagram square.
Also, consider what you’re going to stock. If we stick with the children’s fashion brand idea, think about what end of the market you’re aiming for, and ensure your branding reflects this. If you’re going to have business cards, banners and bags think about the sizing of these and any key information you want to see printed on them.
Stocking your store
Now the really fun bit! Stock your store. It may be worth giving consideration to the type of company you want to work with. Do their values align with yours? Do you want to support other parents setting up their own businesses? If you’re looking for wholesale kids clothing then companies such as Kimi Dog which are run by entrepreneurial mums and have the expertise to deliver might be worth considering to stock your business. Your supply chain is important, and ensuring that they share the values you do and knowing you’re supporting someone with a similar ethos is as key to your business as many other things.
Shouting about your brand!
When you’re ready to launch it helps to generate a buzz. Create social media feeds and start a countdown to when websites will be live. Put a name and face to the business – letting your potential customers see the real person behind the business is a great way to make connections. Look to work with key influencers in your niche. If you’re launching a children’s book then get the right book bloggers and parenting bloggers engaged. If you’re launching a fashion brand then look to get key influencers in your target demographic engaged too.
Enjoy it!
Enjoy the experience and seeing your business take off from an idea to an actual business that earns you money. It can be a lot of hard work but it’s so rewarding to see the efforts you’ve put in come to fruition. Anyone can set up their own side-hustle business; it just requires some time, thought and a little bit of planning.
