So, you have decided to jump in and start building your business online! You have opted-in to numerous expert’s newsletters, joined as many social media sites as possible, started your blog, and made a few connections. Now what?
Well, that is a very good question that I would like to answer for you. Are you ready?
SET A SCHEDULE!!
Did you think I was going to tell you something else? Setting a schedule for your business is the same as knowing what time you have to arrive at work, what your daily tasks are while there, and most importantly, what time you get off. Why should working from home be any different?
First, start by setting your hours. What time and days are you going to open your business? This is essential in planning your daily income producing activities (IPA). Look at your schedule and see what family commitments are planned, what days you do not want to work, and begin to build your schedule from there. How many hours should you be working? If you are considering this a full-time career, start with 20-30 hours per week. For part-time, try up to 10 hours a week or work on the weekends.
Next, since you have decided to become a social butterfly, I would highly recommend that you set a time limit on this. You can become easily distracted by the other discussions and get sidetracked with your purpose. The goal in this step is to get your message out, interact with a few people, develop relationships, and build your business. It is okay if you go over time if you are performing these tasks, but do not just sit there watching other posts, playing games, and watching silly unrelated videos.
How do you plan your social media time? If you are a beginner, select one site for social marketing, one site for content marketing, and one site for advertising. Intermediate and Advanced Marketers can do two or three of each if you have the time. Once you have selected your primary sites, decide on a weekly goal. How many contacts do you want to have? How many posts are you going to make? How many articles are you going to write? Your answer to those questions will help guide you in making a schedule.
Last, but definitely not least, is self-development. Please, please do not neglect your mind and your body. Continue learning about your industry. There are so many changes in social media, pay-per click, and even technology that it is almost impossible not to stay informed. Also, remember to take care of your body. Take at least 30 minutes a day to exercise to keep yourself in good shape. What is the point of making all the money if you are unable to enjoy it??
Those are three easy steps to jump start your business online. Remember, setting a schedule for your business, your interactions, and yourself are all major parts in being successful in any business online or offline.