Small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) have long been hailed as the backbone of the economy, driving innovation, creating jobs, and fostering healthy competition. However, there is a lie that has been perpetuated about the reality of running a small or medium-sized business. In this article, we will uncover the truth behind this misconception and shed light on the challenges faced by SMBs.
The Myth of Easy Success
One of the biggest misconceptions about SMBs is that they are easy to start and manage, and that success is guaranteed. The reality, however, is quite different. Starting and running a small or medium-sized business requires dedication, hard work, and perseverance. It is not a path for the faint-hearted.
SMB owners often wear multiple hats, taking on various roles within their organization. They are responsible for everything from marketing and sales to finance and operations. This level of multitasking can be overwhelming and stressful, especially for those who are new to entrepreneurship.
The Financial Struggle
Another lie about SMBs is that they are financially stable and profitable from the start. In truth, many small and medium-sized businesses face significant financial challenges. They often struggle to secure funding, especially in the early stages when they lack a proven track record.
Furthermore, SMBs often have limited resources and must make careful financial decisions. They may need to prioritize certain expenses, such as investing in technology or hiring skilled employees, while cutting back in other areas. This constant juggling act can be a source of stress and uncertainty for SMB owners.
The Impact of Competition
While competition is healthy for the market, it can be a significant challenge for SMBs. The lie that small and medium-sized businesses can easily compete with larger corporations is far from the truth. Big companies often have greater resources, brand recognition, and established customer bases, giving them a significant advantage.
SMBs must find creative ways to differentiate themselves and carve out a niche in the market. They need to leverage their agility, personalized customer service, and unique offerings to stand out from the competition. This requires constant innovation and adaptability, which can be a daunting task.
The Importance of Support
Despite the challenges they face, SMBs play a crucial role in the economy. They create jobs, drive local economies, and contribute to the diversity of products and services available. Recognizing the importance of SMBs, it is essential for governments, organizations, and communities to provide support and resources to help them thrive.
Support can come in various forms, such as access to funding, mentorship programs, networking opportunities, and simplified regulatory processes. By providing the necessary support, we can help SMBs overcome the obstacles they face and foster an environment where they can flourish.
The Truth Behind SMBs
It is time to dispel the lie that small and medium-sized businesses are easy to start, financially stable, and can easily compete with larger corporations. The reality is that SMBs face numerous challenges, from financial struggles to fierce competition. However, they also offer unique opportunities for growth, innovation, and job creation.
By acknowledging the truth behind SMBs and providing the necessary support, we can create an environment where these businesses can thrive. Let us celebrate the resilience and determination of SMB owners and work together to build a stronger, more inclusive economy.
As a businessman, the most important thing you need to do is understand your market. You cannot purport to be preparing for a great future if you are not familiar with the wants and needs of your target customers. That being said, today we would like to give you a bit of market intelligence regarding the top 7 fastest-moving consumer goods in Africa (FMCGs).
Why is this kind of information important? Knowing what goods consumers are looking for will make it easier to tailor your business to meet these needs as you deepen your market reach. Here is a sample the nine kinds of goods that are on the list of local consumer’s needs.
7. Personal Care
From cosmetics, fragrances, oral care, bath and shower products, and child care items, the personal care industry in Africa takes up a significant 2.8% of the average African household consumption budget. If you want to capitalize on this, consider baby diapers, hair care products, beauty products, barber shops, and salons.
6. Dairy Products
In developing countries, Kenya included, demand for dairy products is growing with rising incomes, diet changes, urbanization, and population growth.
According to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), this offers an excellent opportunity for potential entrepreneurs to enhance their livelihood through increased production.
Dairy products gobble up 3% of household consumption expenditure.
5. Non-alcoholic beverages
This industry broadly comprises soft drinks and hot drinks.
Soft drinks include sodas, juice, packaged fruit blends, and mineral and carbonated water and ot drinks include coffee and tea. According to the World Bank, these beverages comprise 7% of the average African consumer’s budget.
4. Other Edibles
More than 11.5% of the local consumer budget is spent on other edibles like margarine, chocolates, sugar and spices. These items are consumed more among the middle class than in the high-end and low-end consumer markets.
3. Meat & Fish
Meat and fish have been part and parcel of the African menu since immemorial. And despite a significant diet change, appetite for animal and fish protein seems to be at an all-time high, with most consumers spending at least 20% of their budgets on them.
Behind this industry lies massive opportunities ranging from agribusiness, aquaculture, and value addition (e.g., converting meat into sausages) to butcher/choma businesses.
2. Vegetables & Fruits
You can never go wrong if you invest in the food business in Africa. A bulging population and increased rural-to-urban migration means demand for essential food will grow.
It’s not surprising that veggies and fruits take up 25% of the average African consumer’s budget.
1. Cereals, Grains & Wheat
The World Bank data suggests that cereals, grains and wheat comprise the largest share of household spending on FMCG products.
Gross household expenditure on cereals, grains and wheat surpassed $85.5 Billion in 2022, representing 24% of the overall consumption budget. Some business opportunities around this include cereal supplies, milling, agribusiness, and value addition.
Conclusion
No marathon race has ever been won by those who did not start the race. If you like any of the ideas discussed above and have what it takes to actualise them…then don’t wait to start… do it.
Intelligent people are a lucky lot. Besides scoring good grades in school, their brains are like libraries. They possess numerous ideas that can potentially transform not just their pockets but society. But these sharp minds seem to have extraordinary lives, investments, and business challenges.
The majority of them make good employees, but beyond that, there’s nothing much they do worth writing home about. Past trends have shown that those we consider as weak in class end up pulling a game-changer in life by acing their way through business and investments.
It is no wonder the controversial phrase “C students end up employing A students to work for them” has become so popular of late. Why do these A students perform terribly regarding investment and life goals?
Well, if you are one of them, I am sure you will agree that, at one time or another, you have come face to face with the enemies of progress.
1. Paralysis Of Analysis
They over-analyze situations to the point that they do not make any decisions or take any action. They decide not to decide. So, for example, they look at agri-business from a bird’s eye view and see that despite it offering immense potential, the country is heavily reliant on rain-fed agriculture.
Given the prevailing drought, they shelve that idea. They then look at the business of importing goods from cheaper markets like China and re-selling them locally and conclude that it’s terrible for the economy because it alters the balance of trade.
They keep chewing on facts and theories until the cows come home. They don’t invest in anything their entire lives and end up going down the grave with cabinets full of pending ideas.
2. The Comfort of Good Jobs
Government organizations and blue-chip companies love smart people in equal proportions. So, as the rest of the population struggles to put food on the table, intelligent people enjoy free niceties like house allowance, sitting allowance, medical allowance, etc.
Banks also love these people, meaning they quickly get loan funding against a paycheck. It’s such a comfortable lifestyle when you are brilliant! So they take a back seat, grab popcorn, and cruise through life. This comfort level makes them settle for a below-average life, hardly making meaningful investments in their heydays. They only regret it once they grow too old and must return to the village.
3. They Think They Know Pretty Much Everything
Smart believes there’s nothing new you can teach them. They have acquired several degrees from an elite learning institution, and you have none!
Who are you to advise them? So, they try navigating the murky waters of entrepreneurship using their well-calibrated knowledge drawn from theoretical case studies. As they do that, they lose touch with reality only to come down tumbling.
This inherent belief that “I am too educated to sit with school dropouts” or “My status doesn’t allow me to do dirty jobs” prevents them from making any headway.
No one has a monopoly of knowledge. Even a clueless grandfather in the village can teach you a thing or two about success. One of the most valuable lessons I have learned is that everyone needs help, and the help is not from the billionaires and the top ranks in the economy. It is just within help, and you need to ask.
3. They Are Quite Complicated
Intelligent people have a flair for the unusual, complicated, or different stuff. They don’t like to follow the KISS principle (Keep It Simple and Stupid), an essential ingredient for business success.
You will find them in workshops trying to re-invent the wheel, which was done several decades ago. You can’t blame them. Our education system is a fraud by itself. It teaches us to memorize complex things instead of promoting intelligence. So these intelligent fellows, having gone through the system, come out thinking that life is all about complicating things.
But investments and entrepreneurship are not about complication. It’s about simplification of things. A good example is an application like WhatsApp, a simple innovation that makes life better. It is just a simple re-organization of activities that transformed service delivery. The world out here is not looking for complicated solutions but somewhat simplified models – a truth these intelligent people don’t seem to grasp.
5. They Are Afraid of Failing or Getting Bad Grades In Life
Of course, they spend most of their time in school getting A grades and can’t stomach the idea of getting E grades. In other words, they fear failure. Yet failure is pretty much inevitable in entrepreneurial life. In the process of trying to maintain a clean record sheet, intelligent people end up playing safe. They stick to a lousy job that guarantees job security and do get out. They would rather keep their money in the bank than invest it and fail.
Our schools have taught that failure is BAD and success is GOOD. Students who failed in class were punished, while those who got A grades were celebrated. But that’s not the way things are supposed to be in life. Failure is not that bad after all. Failures are part of life. If you don’t fail, you don’t learn. If you don’t know, you will never change.
Final Word
If you are reading this, chances are you are intelligent. You have a computer, and you know how to use it. You have internet, and you know how to activate and de-activate it.
You have gone through school and have some certificates. You probably have a job and a consistent paycheck every month. Could it be that your smartness is hindering your progress in life?
Many people don’t like to hear the truth about themselves, especially if this truth showcases weaknesses, shortcomings and downfalls. We all want to listen to words like “you are your own boss,” “you are in control of things,” and “you are one step closer to personal freedom”.
But while being a businessperson comes with many perks, sometimes our very own behaviours can be a liability to the businesses we are trying to build. Your habits could be the ones causing your business not to grow.
Here are five notorious personal habits that are common and ones that could be taking a toll on your many years of hard work.
1. Mixing Business with Friendship
If you struggle to maintain boundaries between family, friends and business, then you are likely to have a difficult time managing your business. Likewise, I am sure you have heard of the old quote, “Mix women with business and you will see dust”.
While that quote may sound sexist, it passes a vital message. If every time you secure a government tender, you rush to get a second wife or the so-called “side dish” and vice versa, then chances are that you will not go far as a businessperson.
It all boils down to self-discipline and the ability to draw the line between the good and the bad. Just because personal freedom is a perk that comes with entrepreneurship doesn’t mean you have the right to over-indulge. Moderation is key.
2. Withdrawing Capital for Personal Expenses
Most people get into business thinking it will solve all their personal finance problems. They get into it to sustain a lifestyle their white-collar or blue-collar job could not cater for.
While there is nothing wrong with having a strong monetary motive for getting into business, withdrawing money recklessly from your business account just because your girlfriend has been pushing you to take her to Dubai for shopping is a big no-no.
The problem with being in business is that no one will limit you or dictate how you handle cash. But restricting your access to money is imperative if you want to make meaningful progress.
An excellent way to go about it is by regarding yourself as an employee of your company, whereby you earn a regular salary. It may sound like a retrogressive approach, but it can help you stabilize your cash flow, especially at the early stages of growth.
3. Bad character
I am not here to lecture you on how to behave, but if your character is the only thing standing between you and your success, then we have to discuss it. How refined are your manners? Are you the kind of boss who always scolds your employees in the presence of customers? Are you the type that always runs away with suppliers’ money? Are you the type that writes bouncing cheques and then switches off the phone? Or you are the kind that cannot work without smoking cigarettes or drinking one for the road.
No matter how ratchet your personal life is, don’t let that burden your business. Consider hiring an image consultant. Better still, invest in structures whereby someone else can handle delicate things like customer care, accounts and debt collection.
4. Lack of Trust in Delegating Responsibilities
Almost everyone makes this mistake in one way or another. We sometimes get too possessive of our business to the extent that we run everything from our handbags or briefcases.
You want to avoid anybody else handling the cash because you think they will misappropriate it.
You don’t want anybody else to make key decisions in your company because you want to feel like you are in control of things. Therein lies the problem with most businesses. That’s why we only have a few businesses that have been handed down across generations for decades.
When the founder dies, he goes with all his ideas, and the company collapses. Isn’t that what happens? You must realize that the business is more significant than your ego and insecurities. The world’s best companies of our time are the ones in which the founder invests in other people and lets them play a role in organizational growth
5. Avoiding loans
We all grew up listening to horror stories about loans. How Mr. So and So took a loan to start a dairy farm only for his business to be auctioned and left bankrupt. Or How Mrs So and So developed high blood pressure due to the frequent sighting of debt collectors near her village shop.
Whereas these stories are valid and should not be ignored, not all loans are bad. You only need to take them for the right reason and with the right motive. Sometimes, a bit of loan financing is all it takes to overcome those primary cash-flow challenges that cause 80% of start-ups to fold up in less than two years.
Final Word
As Warren Buffet once put it, chains of habits are too light to be felt until they are too heavy to be broken. So, could your habits be getting in the way of your business success, but you are too busy to notice? By addressing these common pitfalls, entrepreneurs can pave the way for sustained growth and long-term success in the competitive business landscape.
here is a famous saying that goes, “Customer is always right,” but you and I know that this statement is not always correct. However, whether the customer is right or wrong, it is the responsibility of the entrepreneurs to make the customer feel right. To effectively handle difficult customers, it’s important to first identify the type of difficulty they present and then use the most appropriate approach to resolve the situation. Even the most challenging customer can be served with minimal stress if the right approach is used. Let’s now look at some common types of demanding customers.
Mr. Know-it-all
Have you ever encountered people who seem to have extensive knowledge about everything, including your business, product, or service? They may come across as highly critical and rude while trying to showcase their knowledge. They also tend to talk excessively and dominate conversations.
Dealing with this type of customer can be quite challenging as their intentions can be unclear. Their attitude might be a negotiation tactic to make your product or service seem inferior to negotiate a lower price. It is important not to fall for such tactics. They enjoy being the center of attention and have an ego problem.
How to handle the Know-it-all
If you encounter a know-it-all customer, try to massage their ego by complimenting their knowledge of your product or service. Give them your undivided attention and ensure that your compliments are genuine and not patronizing. This approach can help you handle such customers effectively. It’s best not to argue with a specific type of customer, as it could lead to a prolonged dispute. Additionally, it could end up damaging their self-esteem.
Instead, if you need to correct them and provide some factual information, you could try using a line like: “You’re right, and the reason why … .” Maximize the use of positive conjunctions such as ‘and’ and ‘actually’, and avoid negative conjunctions like ‘but’ and ‘however’. This will boost their ego and make it easy for you to close. As long as the “Know-it-all” feels that you’ve given them your undivided attention and they leave with their ego intact, this type of customer could become loyal.
The Bully
This type of customer can be very challenging to deal with. They tend to get angry quickly, are highly critical, impatient, and often rude. They can be very aggressive and verbally abusive and often believe that their needs and demands are more important than anyone else’s. Bullies are not known for their patience, and they want to be served immediately.
Bullies, whether male or female, use intimidation tactics to get what they want. They may scream, complain, and even become physically aggressive.
How to handle the Bully
Dealing with bullies can be challenging, but it’s essential to remain calm and confident when resolving the situation. Remember that bullies may not care about your explanations, so it’s best to save them for someone who will listen. Instead, try apologizing for the problem and let them know that you’re willing to help find a solution. By taking a friendly and understanding approach, you may be able to defuse the situation and come to a resolution that satisfies everyone involved.
It’s important to maintain eye contact with a bully as it shows them that you’re not intimidated by their behavior. Avoid getting into a shouting match with the bully or matching their aggression, instead, respond politely without raising your voice, and don’t take their insults or criticism personally. It’s your responsibility to remain calm and composed while the bully is still in a fit. If your attempts to handle the situation with the bully fail, it may be best to cut them off. Some customers, particularly bullies, can be detrimental to your business and don’t deserve your service. However, if the bully happens to be a high-value customer, it’s worth reaching out to them at another time when they may have cooled off. In some cases, ‘converted bullies’ can become very loyal customers and even ambassadors of your business.
The Indecisive
This customer seems to have trouble making a decision. No matter how much information you provide, they just can’t seem to pull the trigger and make a purchase. These customers are known as indecisive. Indecisives are very cautious and want to be certain that they are getting the best deal possible. They will ask a lot of questions and compare different options before deciding. They are afraid of making a mistake and want to make sure that everything is perfect before buying.
The problem with indecisives is that they can be time-consuming and take up a lot of your energy. They won’t buy even after you’ve provided them with all the information they need. Although they are polite, they can be very draining on your productivity.
How to handle the Indecisive
To effectively handle an indecisive customer, it’s important to identify what they’re most concerned about. Do they prioritize price, quality, quantity, or features? Once you know their hot button, you can use it to motivate them to decide. If they decide, it’s great as you’re more likely to make a sale. However, if they continue to be indecisive, it’s best to move on and focus on other customers.
One effective strategy to encourage an indecisive customer to decide is to offer incentives such as discounts, free samples, or money-back guarantees. Creating a sense of urgency can also help to encourage them to decide. It’s important to be firm with indecisive customers, as they can be time-consuming and drain your energy without leading to a sale. By following these strategies, you can minimize the impact of indecisive customers and focus on building positive relationships with your customers.
The Habitual Complainer
Customers often complain, which can be a positive and constructive source of feedback for businesses. However, when you encounter a customer who complains incessantly about even the most minor things, you may be dealing with a habitual complainer. These individuals complain about everything, from pricing to office layout, clothing color, and even the weather. They are never satisfied, which makes it nearly impossible to fully satisfy them.
How to handle the Habitual Complainer
It’s important to be cautious when dealing with habitual complainers, as their constant negativity can be exhausting and stressful. It’s essential to realize that you can’t please everyone, including habitual complainers. Accepting this fact can help you avoid going out of your way to satisfy them every time.
However, this doesn’t mean that you should ignore them. Give them your attention and let them know that you’re listening. Avoid making excuses or explaining your way out of their complaints. Regardless of what they say, respond calmly, kindly, and with a smile if possible. If there are valid complaints that you can address, take action. Make a note of all the things they are asking for and try to address them at once, to avoid multiple interactions with them.
Madam ‘No Boundaries’
I used to have a client who had no regard for boundaries and would contact me on odd hours to discuss a matter that was neither important nor urgent. This customer expected immediate responses to her requests, regardless of the time. She would send emails, texts, and even calls during my off days. This is the type of client that invades your personal space and can make you feel overwhelmed.
How to handle the ‘No Boundaries’
If you come across a customer who tends to overstep boundaries, it is always best to communicate your limitations clearly. You can do this by stating your boundaries in your contract or emails or by displaying signs in your business. I’ve often seen in movies how a customer arrives just a minute after closing time, and the seller would immediately turn the sign to indicate that the store is closed. I feel bad for these customers since I have also been in their shoes more than twice. It’s important to give a little leeway, but let your boundaries be defined clearly. For instance, you may write, “Our business hours are from 8 am to 6 pm, Mondays to Fridays. Unless it’s an emergency, we will respond to your email on Monday morning.” Despite what you communicate, this type of customer may still send you emails over the weekend. It is important to enforce your boundaries by your actions, rather than confronting them directly. Only respond to their emails on Monday morning. Moreover, it is advisable to set expectations with such a client. If not, they may bombard you with requests, which can be overwhelming
Conclusion
It is inevitable that you will come across difficult customers at some point in your business journey. Despite this, it is still your responsibility to handle them with care and success.
Fortunately, most customers are reasonable and straightforward. Remember that your ability to successfully handle difficult customers will result in increased respect for your business, hig returning customers, higher sales, and better morale among your staff. It is not enough to simply blame the problematic customers. By applying the techniques outlined in this article, you can adapt to their tactics and, with any luck, win them over as friendly and loyal customers.
l age, having an online presence is crucial for small businesses. A website allows companies to showcase their products or services, connect with customers, and increase search visibility. With numerous free website builders available, creating a new website has never been easier or more accessible.
Selecting the right website builder is key for businesses seeking an easy-to-use platform with features like web design tools, analytics, social media integration, and content management. Options like GoDaddy, WordPress Wix, Mailchimp, and Weebly offer free plans with varying capabilities for building an online store, custom domain, and more .
GoDaddy: Best Overall
GoDaddy is an excellent choice for users with limited technical knowledge, those seeking an easy website building experience, and businesses or brands aiming to leverage online marketing tools. Its user-friendly interface and AI-powered tools make it a beginner-friendly platform for quickly getting a website online.
Key features of GoDaddy include:
Social media integration
Branded content creation tools
Email marketing (up to 100,000 emails per month)
Comprehensive SEO tools
Booking and appointment features
Ecommerce capabilities on the Commerce plan.
GoDaddy’s AI tools are particularly noteworthy, including:
Artificial Design Intelligence (ADI) for building custom templates
AI-powered branded content creation
Domain name suggestions using ChatGPT.
However, GoDaddy may not be the best fit if you require total creative control over your website, need specific apps or plugins, require advanced ecommerce features, or want a completely mobile-responsive site.
Plan
Price (Monthly)
Key Features
Free
$0
Beginner-friendly site editor, ecommerce, unlimited storage & bandwidth (50-page limit)
Basic
$10.99
–
Premium
$14.99
–
Commerce
$20.99
Advanced ecommerce features
Prices increase after the first year.
While GoDaddy offers over 200 templates with 20 theme customizer options, its AI-generated designs can sometimes appear generic or outdated.
WordPress
WordPress.com is an excellent choice for developers, bloggers, and those seeking a fully customizable website with low-cost plans to connect their domain. It offers a free plan that includes beautiful themes and patterns, unlimited pages and users, built-in newsletters and RSS, brute-force protection, smart redirects, and a 10% transaction fee for payments.
The Starter plan ($4/month) adds a free domain for 1 year, access to dozens of premium themes, an ad-free experience, extremely fast DNS with SSL, email support, and an 8% transaction fee for payments.
The Explorer plan ($8/month) includes live chat support, access to all premium themes, the ability to customize fonts and colors, a 4% transaction fee for payments, 4K video uploads with VideoPress, unlimited automatic social shares, a site activity log and in-depth analytics, and 13 GB of storage.
WordPress.com provides resources like support, news, website building tips, a business name generator, a logo maker, daily webinars, and WordPress learning materials. Its website builder offers a drag-and-drop interface, customizable layouts, fonts, and color palettes, and the ability to add multimedia content Wi.th over 50,000 plugins and add-ons available, users can expand their website’s functionality. WordPress.com also provides features for marketing, monetization, custom domain names, built-in forms, and the ability to earn ad revenue through the WordAds program. Higher-tier plans offer optimized hosting with fast speeds, security, unlimited bandwidth, real-time backups, one-click restore, and 24/7 expert support. Professional website design services are available for those who want an expert-built site.
Wix: Best for Local Businesses
Wix is an excellent choice for local businesses seeking an all-around website builder with an easy-to-use interface and a wide range of features. It offers over 800 templates and an intuitive drag-and-drop editor, making it accessible even for those with limited technical expertise.
One of Wix’s standout features is its AI builder, which simplifies the website creation process. Additionally, Wix provides advanced SEO tools on its free plan, helping local businesses improve their online visibility and discoverability.
Key features that make Wix ideal for local businesses include:
Free web hosting and secure content storage.
Ability to create a custom domain name and business email address for a professional online presence.
Intuitive design tools to customize the website according to business needs.
Integrated tools and features to support business growth, such as:
Dropshipping
Secure payment processing
Invoicing
Social media and SEO tools
Live chat
Email marketing
Analytics
Mobile app.
Plan
Price (Monthly)
Key Features
Free
$0
800+ templates, drag-and-drop editor, AI tools, advanced SEO features.
Combo
$22
Free domain for 1 year, 3 GB storage, ad-free experience, site analytics.
Unlimited
$27
Unlimited bandwidth, 10 GB storage, professional logo, site review.
VIP
$49
Priority support, advanced security, visitor analytics, professional logo, site review.
With over 220 million users growing their businesses online, Wix has established itself as a reliable platform for local businesses. Its websites are designed for performance, with fast loading speeds, built-in SEO capabilities, and enterprise-grade security. Additionally, Wix websites are accessible and inclusive, ensuring a seamless experience for all users.
Mailchimp: Best for Solopreneurs and Microbusinesses
Mailchimp is an excellent choice for solopreneurs and microbusinesses seeking an all-in-one platform for website building, email marketing, and e-commerce capabilities. Its free plan offers a range of features tailored to the needs of small businesses and independent entrepreneurs:
Integrated Email Marketing: Mailchimp’s free plan includes powerful email marketing tools, allowing users to create and send marketing emails, set up automated campaigns, and track performance metrics.
Appointment Scheduling: The platform provides a built-in appointment scheduling tool, enabling businesses to streamline their booking process and manage appointments efficiently
E-commerce Capabilities: Mailchimp’s free plan supports basic e-commerce functionality, allowing users to set up an online store and sell products or services directly from their website.
While Mailchimp’s free plan offers a comprehensive set of features, it does have some limitations. For instance, the free plan restricts users to a maximum of 2,000 contacts and 10,000 monthly email sends. Additionally, advanced features like custom domains, removal of Mailchimp branding, and third-party integrations are only available on paid plans.
For solopreneurs and microbusinesses seeking a comprehensive platform with email marketing, appointment scheduling, and basic e-commerce capabilities, Mailchimp’s free plan can be an attractive option. However, as businesses grow and require more advanced features, upgrading to a paid plan may become necessary.
Weebly: Best for Free Online Stores with Square
Weebly is a free online website builder that offers ecommerce features through integration with Square. It provides customizable webpage designs and tools to help businesses build and grow their online presence. Key features of Weebly include step-by-step guidance, professional website design options, all-in-one ecommerce tools, and integrated marketing tools.
Weebly offers a free plan to get started with building a website, and paid plans with additional features are also available.
Plan
Key Features
Free
Unlimited ecommerce for up to 5 products, 500MB storage
Professional
$12/month, free domain, unlimited storage, advanced site stats
Performance
$26/month, high-res video uploads, HD audio player, $200 ad vouchers.
Weebly is now part of the Square product suite, allowing businesses to never miss a sale and let customers pay how they want. The Square integration enables payments and order management for both online stores and in-person sales. Weebly users will need to create a Square account to continue using the product and access additional features . which is free, and users can link their existing Square account if they have one.
Square Online automatically syncs inventory, sales, and customer data across all Square tools. It offers more search engine optimization features, a modern mobile-friendly design, faster editing, and integration with social media. The Square Online site editor is optimized for ecommerce, with customizable sections instead of themes and drag-and-drop elements. Users can access a wider range of apps and integrations through the Square App Marketplace, but the Square Online site editor is not compatible with the Weebly App Center.
Conclusion
In today’s digital landscape, having an online presence is essential for small businesses to thrive. The various free website builders discussed offer diverse features and capabilities tailored to different business needs, ranging from user-friendliness and AI-powered tools to e-commerce integration and marketing functionalities. Whether you’re a solopreneur, a local business, or a growing venture, platforms like GoDaddy, WordPress.com, Wix, Mailchimp, and Weebly provide accessible and cost-effective solutions to establish a professional online presence.
Ultimately, the choice of a website builder depends on your specific requirements, technical expertise, and long-term business goals. By carefully evaluating the features, pricing, and limitations of each platform, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your brand’s vision and growth trajectory. With the right website builder, businesses can leverage the power of the internet to connect with customers, showcase their offerings, and unlock new opportunities for success in the digital realm.
The print-on-demand business concept has gained significant traction in recent years, driven by the growing demand for custom printing solutions. This innovative business model allows entrepreneurs to create and sell unique products without needing large-scale inventory or upfront investment in production.
As an artist, the concept of print-on-demand opens up a world of possibilities. But what exactly is print-on-demand? It’s a business model where products are only created once an order is placed, eliminating the need for upfront inventory. This approach is particularly appealing to artists because it allows them to showcase their creativity through a wide range of products without the financial risk of holding inventory.
My personal journey into print-on-demand began with a quest to find innovative ways to share my art with the world. Discovering print on demand was like stumbling upon a hidden treasure chest. I experienced both initial successes and failures, learning valuable lessons along the way. Embracing this business model has allowed me to turn my passion for art into a thriving venture. Along the journey, I have learned a few lessons, and here I have highlighted what you will need to consider before venturing into this business.
Choosing your print and demand partner
When establishing a print-on-demand business, the choice of suppliers plays a critical role in ensuring reliable production and maintaining high standards of quality. Thorough due diligence is imperative when selecting suppliers to guarantee that they can consistently deliver exceptional products.
To begin with, entrepreneurs should prioritize suppliers with a proven track record of reliability and consistency. This entails researching various suppliers, reviewing their portfolios, and seeking recommendations from industry peers. Additionally, evaluating the supplier’s capacity to handle fluctuating demands and commitment to meeting deadlines is essential for seamless production processes.
Furthermore, transparency in communication and the ability to accommodate customization requirements are key factors when assessing potential suppliers. Establishing clear lines of communication and understanding the supplier’s willingness to adapt to specific design or material preferences can significantly impact the overall quality of the end products.
Choosing Your Niche and Products
Picking a niche allows you to focus your creative energy and target a specific audience, increasing the likelihood of connecting with passionate buyers who resonate with your art. Popular products in the print-on-demand space include custom apparel, unique home decor items, and personalized accessories. However, these products’ demands change from time to time, and it will be very important to do simple research to know what is trending in your niche at that season. Exploring these product categories can provide valuable insights into what resonates with consumers in today’s market.
Design Tips for Print-on-Demand Success
Designing for print on demand involves adapting your artwork to suit various products. Each item presents its canvas, whether it’s a t-shirt, mug, or poster. Embracing this diversity and tailoring your designs accordingly is key to captivating potential customers. Additionally, using the right tools and software can streamline the design process, enabling you to bring your artistic vision to life across an array of merchandise. The designing process does not have to be complicated; you can start with simple tools such as Canvas.
Implementing Effective Quality Control Measures
Maintaining high production standards in a print-on-demand business requires the implementation of effective quality control measures. These measures encompass the systematic evaluation of product quality at every stage of the manufacturing process to ensure that the end result meets customer expectations.
One crucial aspect of product quality management is the establishment of clear quality control procedures. This involves defining specific criteria for assessing product quality, conducting regular inspections, and implementing corrective actions when deviations from standards are identified. By adhering to stringent quality control protocols, businesses can uphold consistency and reliability in their offerings.
Furthermore, integrating advanced technological solutions such as automated inspection systems and precision measurement tools enhances the precision and accuracy of quality assessments. These technologies enable businesses to detect imperfections, verify dimensional accuracy, and validate material integrity with a high degree of reliability.
In addition to in-house quality control processes, collaborating with accredited third-party testing laboratories can provide independent validation of product quality. Partnering with reputable testing facilities allows businesses to obtain objective evaluations that reinforce their commitment to delivering superior products.
By prioritizing quality assurance through meticulous quality control practices and leveraging technological advancements, print on demand businesses can instill confidence in their customers while differentiating themselves as providers of exceptional custom-designed merchandise.
Establishing Your Print-on-Demand Store
When setting up your online store, choosing the right platform is crucial. Look for platforms that align with your brand and offer seamless integration with print-on-demand services. Consider factors such as user-friendly interfaces, customizable design options, and reliable customer support. Making your store stand out amidst online businesses is equally important. Incorporate captivating visuals, compelling product descriptions, and easy navigation to provide an exceptional shopping experience for your visitors. Shopify is one of the greatest platforms tailored to e-commerce businesses and, hence, easy to integrate. Shopify is a great option if you want full control; other platforms that serve the same purpose are Woo-commerce and WiX. Alternatively, you can upload your products to established ecommerce platforms such as ETSY, Amazon or eBay.
Optimizing the online store for mobile responsiveness is essential in catering to the growing base of mobile shoppers. With increasing consumers browsing and making purchases via mobile devices, ensuring a smooth and intuitive mobile shopping experience is paramount for maximizing sales opportunities.
In addition to setting up the online store, implementing search engine optimization (SEO) strategies can enhance visibility and drive organic traffic to the e-commerce platform. By incorporating relevant keywords, optimizing product descriptions, and creating compelling meta tags, businesses can improve their ranking in search engine results pages, thereby increasing their online presence.
The establishment of an effective e-commerce platform not only expands market reach but also provides valuable insights through analytics tools. These insights enable businesses to track customer behavior, identify popular products, and make data-driven decisions to optimize their offerings for maximum impact.
Promoting Your Products
To establish a profitable print-on-demand business, it is crucial to recognize the prevailing market demand and implement efficient production processes. Understanding consumer preferences and staying abreast of market trends is essential for success in this dynamic industry. Additionally, optimizing production to ensure timely delivery and consistent quality is paramount for customer satisfaction.
Continuing to learn and grow is a perpetual theme for artists in the print-on-demand space. The creative journey is an ongoing evolution, marked by new techniques, trends, and opportunities. Stay curious and open-minded, exploring fresh avenues for artistic expression. Whether it’s mastering a new design tool or delving into a different art style, each learning endeavour contributes to your growth as an artist-entrepreneur.
Social media has become a powerful tool for promoting products and engaging with potential customers. Implementing effective social media strategies can significantly boost the visibility of your print-on-demand business. Utilize platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest to showcase your artwork, engage with followers, and run targeted ad campaigns. Some platforms where I have garnered many sales are YouTube shorts and TikTok; these platforms easily get a lot of traffic and have made it easier to link your products directly driving crazy sales. Collaborating with other artists and influencers can also expand your reach and introduce your creations to new audiences. Building genuine connections within the artistic community can lead to mutually beneficial partnerships that elevate your brand’s visibility.
In addition to social media, consider exploring collaborations with influencers who resonate with your artistic style. Their endorsement can introduce your work to a broader audience while adding authenticity to your brand. By leveraging these promotional avenues, you can establish a strong digital presence and cultivate a loyal following for your print-on-demand business.
People always start a business based on two reasons either to look for an extra income or they have some money somewhere and they want to invest it. That why you if you analyze google searches Phrases like ” Which businesses to start with $10,000″ are very popular.
And honestly there is not the wrong way to start maybe you’re unemployed, or maybe you’re looking for a side hustle to boost your income. Perhaps, like many people you are a parent taking a temporary break from the workforce – the transition back can be tricky, but hey, you got to do what you got to do!
Actually, most of the of the entrepreneurs I have interacted with started for a reason which lies between these two reasons, they did have a business idea, but trough feedback from a friend they helped they realized they can turn their “helping’ to business. I usually call this “Business by mistake. But before you start here are some valuable lessons to consider before you start.
1. Complex Strategies Often Fail
The thing about starting a business is that things change very fast. The shiny business plans you spent hours crafting might not translate perfectly to the real world. Most of the valuable knowledge you will gain comes from experience in the market, not just research reports. Don’t get me wrong, doing market research is important and it is very necessary before starting your business. However, this research can be misleading, often leaving out crucial factors like overhead costs.
Take an example of a drop shipping which is a very popular business with Influencer, you might hear someone brag about making 10,000 dollar a month, they will show you the results, but they probably won’t mention that more than 70% of their customers are from their audience, they won’t mention the blood, sweat, and tears they poured into building trust and loyalty of their customer base. Learn from your mistakes, pick yourself up, and keep moving forward.
2. Have a Success Mindset: Grit over Degrees
Why would a college dropout run a business successfully while someone with a master’s in business administration struggle to break even? Because the drop-out might be more action-oriented, less likely to get bogged down by overthinking. They’re willing to get their hands dirty, to hustle and learn from their mistakes.
Starting a business is a wild ride, unlike popular belief, more than 70% of businesses fail. There’s a reason why a single mom who is a roadside vendor is also running multiple apartments – it’s a testament to the power of hard work and determination. Graduates goes with plan B, C up to E, but a drop out Know’s there is no option B is either Sucess or Sucess. So go into the Business and hustle like a drop out.
3. Avoiding the Greed Trap
Don’t get greedy. Focus on securing enough capital to get your business off the ground. Remember, you get what you deserve. Entering in the business ventures requires sacrifice and one of it might be discounts and offers. Think about ways to keep your overhead costs low. Can you share space or internet expenses? High overhead eats into your profits, even if your revenue is good. Cash flow is king – make sure the money coming in is always more than what’s going out.
4. Business is a Balancing Act
Don’t confuse profitability with just making a sale. For instance, marketing might not guarantee immediate profit, but it’s an investment in your future success. As your business grows, remember to take care of yourself too. Burnout is real. Step away from the daily grind sometimes. No business is foolproof; unexpected events can happen (think forex fluctuations wiping out your savings). Focus on building a sustainable business, not just chasing a quick buck.
5. Paying Yourself: Patience is a Virtue
When your business is young, you might not be able to pay yourself a regular salary. Most people quit their job to start a business with an expectation that the business will pay them better. Surprisingly it might take you even up to 7 years before you start making the money you were being previously paid by your employer. As a matter of fact, some of your employees in your business will be getting a higher salary that you; and you are the owner. So, remove your focus on money and focus on growth first. As your company flourishes, so your salary. It’s crucial to separate your personal finances from your business finances. Discipline is key here. Don’t be tempted to dip into the business funds just because you have a million shillings “on paper.”
6. Mindset Matters More Than Money
Strong business principles are the foundation of success, but your mindset and character are even more important. That’s why you see supermarkets going bankrupt in one location while another one thrives in the same spot. It’s all about approach and how you adapt to challenges.
Bonus Tips:
Network with other business owners, learn from their experiences.
Explore getting funding from relatives or microloans to supplement your capital.
Don’t pay for everything upfront. Negotiate payment terms to manage your cash flow effectively.
Remember, wealth is built on what you don’t spend, so be mindful of unnecessary expenses.
Make your money work for you! Explore investment opportunities.
Treat every customer with respect, even if you have a feeling they won’t buy – you never know!
A supportive spouse can be a game-changer in your entrepreneurial journey.
This is just the beginning of your business adventure. There will be bumps
Procrastination is the enemy of productivity. We’ve all experienced it: facing an approaching deadline and a long list of tasks, and yet, here we are wasting time watching cat videos (because, hey, those cats are impressive). As someone who specializes in productivity and has struggled with procrastination many times, I assure you that you’re not alone. Procrastination is common, but it doesn’t have to control your life.
In this post, we’ll explore the sneaky tactics of procrastination, understand why we engage in it, and most importantly, provide you with practical strategies to finally overcome it.
Why Do We Procrastinate?
Understanding the reasons behind procrastination is the first step towards conquering it. Procrastination isn’t about laziness; it’s often about fear. Fear of failure, fear of not meeting expectations, or even fear of success. It’s a defense mechanism that our brain uses to protect us from the potential pain of these fears.
Fear of Failure: Sometimes, the fear of not doing something perfectly can be paralyzing. We convince ourselves that it’s better not to try at all than to risk making mistakes.
Feeling Overwhelmed: A large, daunting project can feel impossible to tackle. We procrastinate in order to avoid the initial stress of not knowing where to start.
Lack of Motivation: Some tasks are just plain boring. We postpone them in the hopes that sudden inspiration will magically strike (spoiler alert: it usually doesn’t).
Perfectionism: The pursuit of perfection can be a major obstacle. We get trapped in endless cycles of editing, never feeling “good enough” to move forward.
The Tactics Used by Procrastination
Procrastination is a skilled manipulator. Here are some of its favorite strategies to be aware of:
The “Just a Few Minutes” Trap: We convince ourselves that quickly checking social media won’t do any harm, only to find ourselves sucked into a time-consuming black hole.
The “I’ll Do It Later” Deception: This one plays into wishful thinking. We persuade ourselves that our future selves will be more motivated and have more time (spoiler alert again: our future selves are probably busy watching cat videos too).
The Myth of Multitasking: Balancing multiple tasks simultaneously may seem efficient, but it actually reduces productivity and increases mistakes. Procrastination thrives when we spread ourselves too thin.
Strategies to Overcome Procrastination
Enough with the explanations about why and how procrastination happens. Let’s look on the practical methods that can help you beat it! Here are some actionable tips to finally get things done:
Break Down the Task: Divide that large project into smaller, manageable parts. Concentrate on finishing the first tiny step, and you’ll build up momentum.
Set Clear Deadlines: Establish specific timelines for each phase of your task. Having a sense of urgency can motivate you to take action.
Eliminate Distractions: Identify potential sources of distraction in your environment and minimize them as much as possible. Put away your phone, close unnecessary tabs on your computer, and create a focused workspace.
Find an Accountability Partner: Share your goals and progress with someone you trust. Knowing that someone is checking in on you can provide an extra push to stay on track.
Reward Yourself: Create a system of rewards for completing tasks or reaching milestones. Treat yourself to something enjoyable as a way to celebrate your accomplishments.
Remember, overcoming procrastination is an ongoing process. Be patient with yourself and keep implementing these strategies consistently.
Now that we’ve uncovered the secrets of procrastination and armed you with effective techniques, it’s time to take action! Start applying these strategies today and reclaim control over your productivity.
Raising capital is the focus point of every startup but before you hit the fundraising circuit, take a deep breath and consider this: capital is a tool, not a magic bullet. The intention of the business is supposed to inform how you raise your capital. If you are building a family business, surrendering a large chunk of ownership through extensive investor dilution might not be the most desirable path but that would be opposite if you want to build a unicorn.
Prioritizing immediate profitability might mean taking a slower approach to expansion. Conversely, aiming for aggressive market domination might require sacrificing short-term profits to reinvest in rapid scaling. Let’s be honest, focusing on both honesty is being a little bit too ambitious – it’s better to be strategically focused than spread too thin. The very essence of your business, its core purpose, should be the driving force behind how you secure that capital. After
They invest in you not the product.
It took me long to learn Investors will bet on you the entrepreneur more than the product. In his interview Masayoshi Son (one of the famous Asian billionaires) stated that he invested in Alibaba because of Jack Ma’s sparkling eyes and Charisma. ‘Sparkling eyes’ sounds as one of the dumbest reasons for an investor to put money in your business, but that was it.
Investor don’t just throw money at ideas. They back the people behind them. You need to be prepared to deliver solid information and data, not just a polished presentation. But more importantly, be the living embodiment of your vision. Investors are betting on you, so showcase your credibility and unwavering belief in your project.
Your business idea is worth nothing.
It does not matter how big your idea is, the fact remains that it is just an idea. Before pitching your idea to investors, they have probably seen 5 more people with the same idea.
If you’ve spent any time around entrepreneurs, you’ll know that ideas are worth (almost) nothing. What Investors want to see proof of concept. A minimum viable pilot demonstrates you’ve taken your idea beyond theory and into the real world. It shows you can iterate, learn, and adapt – crucial skills for any entrepreneur.
It’s true that you can get funding wit just an idea, but this is so rare. The best way is to get the initial funding from friends and family to launch your product. This is called pre-seed capital and it’s so crucial for your business. It allows you to launch your business but more importantly it gives your business access to human resource who are less transactional.
No one care’s as much as you do
No one will ever be as passionate about your business as you are. I am a big fan of Shark tank show and sometimes I see entrepreneurs who are so passionate that they cannot be convinced otherwise, that fire is essential, but so is a healthy dose of pragmatism. Remember you need to convince people who are applying logic and has been in the field long enough. and doing that will need a balance between your emotions and logic.
Protecting Your Vision
Not all capital is good some are punitive. While they are called angel investors some of them there is nothing angelic about them, beware of terms that could cripple your future. Remember money is not the goal but it’s a means to the goal. One of the people to study is the CEO of Facebook – Mark Zuckerberg. He had measures in place to safeguard his vision, allowing him to build a tech empire. I know if you are probably reading this you don’t love Mark Zukerberg and I don’t love him that much either. But he a force to reckon with. Probably you don’t agree with this point but here’s are 5 CEO who have been fired from their business, and boy are they many, 5 is just adjust like a drop in the ocean.
Founders CEOs who were fired from their own company
1. Sam Altman, OpenAI – Sam is the most recent example and he was fired from Open AI in 2023, the board said they had no confidence in his leadership. However, he was re-hired after few days.
2.Steve Jobs, Apple – Jobs was fired from Apple in 1985 the board claimed he is too young and temperamental to run the company. He went ahead and build two other companies NeXT and Pixar before rejoining Apple after 11 years.
3. Jack Dorsey, Twitter- Dorsey was fired from Twitter in 2008 by his co founder Evan Williams two years after Launching it in 2006. Evan claimed that Dorsey have poor management style.
4. Travis Kalanick, Uber- Travis was forced to resign in 2017 from uber due to reports of the company’s unethical corporate culture,
5. Jerry Yang, Yahoo – Jerry was forced to resign from Yahoo in 2008 after their shares decline because he walked away from Microsoft acquisition deal
Once I was asked what I would do if I was fired from my own business and my answer was “ I would cry” and then after I moment I added, “eeerr and probably start all over again like Steve Jobs.” Because at the point of being fired there is not much you can do. The best time to protect your vision is at the initial stage, and you don’t do this by owning 90% of your business because this will cripple it. Owning even 10% is more than okay but make sure to vet who you bring into your business, have legal gaps closed and your papers in place.
Don’t be desperate.
Once you secure your first capital you it is easier to raise the next round of capital. But there is one problem that might catch up with you, desperation. Make sure that you have cash reserves that can sustain you for at least a year when you are going to the next round. Don’t wait until your accounts are running dry because the investors will smell your desperation.
They smell desperation from a far no matter how much you try to hide it. When you seek investment without desperation, you negotiate from a position of strength. Without sufficient runway, you risk diluting your stake more than necessary.
Additional tips
Don’t be greedy, Investors will invest in a leader who understands that not all boxes need to be checked immediately. Some aspects can be deferred, provided the core objectives are met.
There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to fundraising. Striking a balance between explosive growth and long-term stability requires careful consideration.
Investors who fixate on short-term results are not the best partners for your long-term vision. In the fast-paced world of startups, what you truly need is patient capital.
Investors care about your team too; so it is important to partner with talent, experience and character.
You might receive more Nos before getting a Yes so the wider you cast your net, the greater the chance of finding a perfect catch: and more importantly don’t burn bridges; the venture community is not very big so people talk and you might as well loose an investor or get a referral.