Interested in Business

To be an entrepreneur, business owner

Do I have what it takes to be an entrepreneur?

To be an entrepreneur? Entrepreneurship is often seen as an exciting and rewarding career path, with the potential for financial success and personal fulfillment. However, the decision to become an entrepreneur is not one that is taken lightly. Indeed, it requires a unique set of skills, personality traits, and a willingness to take risks. So, what motivates a person to become an entrepreneur? The answer to this question is complex and multifaceted, as there are many factors that can drive someone to start their own business. For some, it may be a desire for financial independence or a need to escape the confines of a traditional job. For others, it may be a passion for a particular product or service, or a desire to make a positive impact on the world.  Additionally, some may be motivated by a need to prove themselves, or a desire for creative freedom and autonomy. Whatever the reason, it is clear that entrepreneurship can offer a range of benefits. For example, the potential for financial success, personal growth, and the satisfaction of building something from the ground up.  However, it is important to note that entrepreneurship is not for everyone, and it requires a great deal of hard work, dedication, and perseverance to succeed. Nonetheless, for those who are willing to take on the challenge, the rewards can be substantial, both personally and professionally. To be an entrepreneur is to start your own business Starting your own business requires a unique set of skills and personality traits. While there’s no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, there are certain characteristics that may indicate whether or not you have the right personality to start a business. Here are some traits that are commonly associated with successful entrepreneurs: Keep in mind that these traits are not set in stone, and you don’t need to possess all of them to be a successful entrepreneur. However, if you find that many of these traits describe you, you may have the right personality to start your own business. The story of John whose wish is to be a Business Owner  “Sacrifice is a great art. It goes without saying that if you focus on too many things, you’ll do none of them well” – Steve Jobs John had just finished Grade 12, and he had always dreamed of studying business economics at university. However, he was devastated when he found out that he didn’t qualify for a business loan, which meant that he couldn’t afford to pursue his dream. John lived with his grandparents in Johannesburg and had been seeking permanent employment, but he had not been successful so far. One day, John came across an article about young entrepreneurs who had started successful businesses, and it sparked his interest. He began to wonder if he had what it takes to become an entrepreneur himself. John knew that he was a good communicator and had done well in bookkeeping at school, but he was unsure if he had the right qualities to start his own business. To start his entrepreneurial journey, John needed to take some practical steps. Here are some suggestions on how he could get started: While John may face challenges and setbacks along the way, he can take inspiration from successful entrepreneurs who have overcome similar obstacles. With hard work, dedication, and a willingness to learn, John could become a successful entrepreneur and achieve his dreams. Concluding In conclusion, the desire to become an entrepreneur can stem from a variety of reasons, including financial independence, personal fulfillment, creative freedom, and a desire to make a positive impact on the world.  While entrepreneurship requires a unique set of skills and personality traits, it is not limited to a select few. Anyone can become an entrepreneur with the right mindset, willingness to learn, and determination to succeed. Successful entrepreneurship can have a positive impact on both the community and the individual’s family and friends. It can create jobs, stimulate economic growth, and improve the standard of living in the community. Additionally, successful entrepreneurship can provide financial stability for the individual and their family, and can serve as a source of inspiration for others. However, it is important to note that entrepreneurship is not without its challenges and risks. It requires hard work, perseverance, and the ability to adapt to changing circumstances. Nonetheless, for those who are willing to take on the challenge, entrepreneurship can be a rewarding and fulfilling career path. Do you have what it takes to be an entrepreneur? Read also: From Rags to Community Leader, a Good South African Story Feature Photo by Anna Shvets Affiliate Disclosure: This blog may contain affiliate links, which means that if you click on one of the product links and make a purchase, I may receive a commission. This commission comes at no additional cost to you. All opinions expressed on this website are my own and are not influenced by any affiliate partnerships.

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From Rags to Community Leader

From Rags to Community Leader, a Good South African Story

Photo by Ono Kosuki Rising from rags to community leader, is a story that almost all South Africans want to hear. That South Africa needs to hear good stories, is unquestionable. After all, our people are subjected to continuous headlines on all the media screaming crime, poverty, high unemployment and destruction of our infrastructure. Unfortunately, and unfairly is it the poorest of the poor that suffer the most of these mostly self-inflicted antisocial realities. Putting it in context, it is because of a failed government. So, more than 29 million South Africans rely on a social grant to make ends meet (Daily Investor). Even worse, according to Statista, the youth employment rate in South Africa stands now at 49.86%, the highest ever. The only outcome for some of the unemployed youths is a R350 monthly relief grant. Hardly enough to feed themselves… Even more, the South African economy is not growing and its taxpayer basis is declining. A double whammy! But, maybe it’s time for us to bite the bullet to make a difference. Hence the story of Sipho (a fictional but inspiring story). The story of Sipho, from rags to Community Leader A story of hope… Sipho had grown up in a small township just outside Johannesburg. His family had always struggled financially, and when his parents passed away, he was left to fend for himself. He survived on a small social grant of R350 per month, barely enough to make ends meet. Despite his difficult circumstances, Sipho had a dream. He wanted to start his own business and employ people from his community. He saw how unemployment was rampant in his neighborhood, and he believed that he could make a difference. Sipho had always been an industrious young man, and he knew that he had the skills to make his dream a reality. He had learned carpentry from his father, and he was always tinkering with machines and building things in his spare time. He knew that he could use his skills to start a small business. But Sipho had no money to invest in his business. He had no capital, no equipment, and no resources. He knew that he would have to be resourceful if he wanted to make his dream a reality. How Sipho started… So, he started small. He used the materials he could find around his neighborhood to build a small workbench and some basic tools. He started taking small jobs, fixing broken furniture, and building simple structures for his neighbors. Word of his work soon spread, and before he knew it, Sipho had a steady stream of customers. He saved every cent he earned and reinvested it in his business, slowly expanding his operations. Sipho’s business grew steadily over the years, and he was eventually able to employ several people from his community. He paid them fair wages and provided them with on-the-job training, teaching them the skills they needed to succeed. As his business grew, so did his reputation. Sipho became a well-respected member of his community, known for his hard work and dedication. He was an inspiration to many young people in his neighborhood, who saw that it was possible to overcome even the most difficult circumstances. Sipho is giving back to his community Through his business, Sipho was able to give back to his community in many ways. He provided much-needed jobs and skills training, and he also used his profits to support local charities and schools. Despite his success, Sipho remained humble and focused on his goals. As a result, he continued to work hard and to invest in his business, always looking for new opportunities to grow and expand. And in the end, it was this dedication and perseverance that allowed him to succeed. Today, Sipho’s business is thriving, and he is known throughout South Africa as a model of entrepreneurship and community development. Concluding Sipho’s journey from a young man surviving on a meager social grant to a successful entrepreneur and community leader is a testament to the power of hard work and determination. Indeed, his story shows that with perseverance, even the most difficult circumstances can be overcome, and that one person can make a real difference in the lives of those around them. Sipho’s success has had a ripple effect throughout his community, inspiring others to believe in themselves and pursue their dreams. By creating jobs and investing in local charities and schools, he has helped to uplift his community and create a brighter future for everyone. Through his dedication and hard work, Sipho has shown that entrepreneurship can be a powerful tool for social change. He has demonstrated that it is possible to build a successful business while also giving back to the community, and his story serves as a model for others who seek to make a positive impact in the world. As Sipho continues to grow and expand his business, there is no doubt that he will inspire others to follow in his footsteps. Afterall, his legacy will live on as a testament to the power of perseverance, determination, and a deep commitment to improving the lives of others. Inspired? Then you can be the next Sipho! However, you need to have vision, passion, adaptability, and resilience…Indeed, from rags to community leader! Best of luck! Read also: Challenges for Small and Medium Size Enterprises in South Africa Affiliate Disclosure: This blog may contain affiliate links, which means that if you click on one of the product links and make a purchase, I may receive a commission. This commission comes at no additional cost to you. All opinions expressed on this website are my own and are not influenced by any affiliate partnerships.

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single mom, how can i make money

I’m a Single mom, how can I make money?

I’m a Single mom, how can I make money? Sadly, is this a question that others usually ask, but not necessary a single mom… Afterall, are single moms a diverse and dynamic group of individuals, who exhibit a wide range of characteristics and traits. However, many single moms share a strong sense of determination, resilience, and compassion, which allows them to successfully navigate the challenges of single parenthood. According to the Human Sciences Research Council (2021), 60% of South Africa’s children have an absent father, and 40% of mothers are single parents (NEWS24). As a result, many mothers in South Africa must, apart from all the other challenges, become beggars. They will do it because no one could ever surpass the love of a mother to her own child.   This post will speak directly to all the single moms. Maybe you can identify some opportunity here that will make a difference… Challenges that single moms must face every day. Despite being determined, showing resilience, and having compassion; being a single mom can present many challenges, including: Financial strain Single moms often have to support their family on a single income, which can be difficult, especially if they have limited job opportunities or face other financial challenges. Even more, with the cost of living strongly rising every year, it must be draining just to plan where the next meal will come from. Being a parent while working Single moms often have to juggle work and parenting responsibilities, which can be challenging and require careful time management. For example, your kids need to participate in after school activities. Now, how will they get there, and back? How safe is it? What will it cost? Daunting indeed… Lack of support Single moms may lack support from a partner or extended family, which can leave them feeling isolated and overwhelmed. Also, the mom must make most child-rearing decisions alone. They can’t consult the other parent for support on day-to-day problems and concerns (Be Strong Intl). Emotional stress Single moms may experience emotional stress related to the responsibilities of being a sole caregiver. In addition, they have the challenges of navigating the dating world, or managing relationships with their children’s father. Health concerns Single moms may neglect their own health needs in order to focus on their children, leading to health problems or chronic stress. Social stigma Single moms may face social stigma or discrimination based on societal expectations of family structure, which can be emotionally and mentally taxing. Despite these challenges, many single moms are strong, resilient, and successful. By seeking out support, managing their time and resources effectively, and focusing on their own health and well-being, single moms can overcome these challenges and provide a stable and loving home for their children. So, I’m a Single mom, how can I make money? Ok, here we’re at the crux of the matter. Indeed, making extra money can relief some of the pain points of being a lone parent. So, let’s get straight to it! As a single mom, making money can be challenging, but there are several ways to earn an income. Here are some options to consider: Options to consider how to make money if you’re a single mom. Freelancing Photo by Sarah Chai Freelancing is a type of self-employment. Instead of being employed by a company, freelancers tend to work as self-employed, delivering their services on a contract or project basis (N26) Therefore, if you have a skill, such as writing, graphic design, or social media management, you can offer your services on freelance platforms like Upwork or Fiverr. Virtual Assistant A virtual assistant is an independent worker who assists with administrative, business development, social media, marketing or other tasks (Small Biz Trends) Many businesses and entrepreneurs need help with administrative tasks such as data entry, email management, and scheduling. Even more, you can offer your services as a virtual assistant and work from home. Online Tutoring The most common type of online tutoring is done via the internet. The tutor interacts with the student either through chat or email. If you have expertise in a particular subject, you can offer your services as an online tutor to students who need extra help. Selling products online Photo by Miriam Alonso Here, you can make money if you’re good with art and craft. Indeed, making clothes, furniture and leather works are ideal to do some selling online. You can sell products online through platforms like Facebook, Etsy, Amazon, or eBay. Babysitting Having a good knack with entertaining and controlling babies, then babysitting may earn you extra money. Also, if you have experience caring for children, you can offer your services as a babysitter or nanny to families in your area. Delivery services If you have a road-worthy car, and good driving skills, and a good temperament, then you may try deliveries. You can work for delivery services such as Mr D Food and Take-a-Lot, delivering food or groceries to customers. Remember, finding a way to make money as a single mom requires creativity, hard work, and dedication. Consider your skills, interests, and schedule to find the right opportunity that works for you and your family. Concluding I really can even imagine what it is like to be a single mom. All I know is that you are silently the bastions of our nation. It goes without saying… I hope that you can get something from this piece. In fact, if it get you thinking about other outcomes, then you are on the way. Read also: Three Good Reasons to have a Business Plan before Starting your Business Please WhatsApp met  Douw: 071 670 5883 if you want to share something with me. Feature photo by nappy Affiliate Disclosure: This blog may contain affiliate links, which means that if you click on one of the product links and make a purchase, I may receive a commission. This commission comes at no additional cost to you. All opinions expressed on this website are

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Challenges South Africa

Challenges for Small and Medium Size Enterprises in South Africa

Challenges for Small and Medium Size Enterprises in South Africa is for the wrong reasons in the news lately. Indeed, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in South Africa face a number of challenges, some of the most significant ones are here included. Sadly, many of the challenges is from the macro-environment. As a result, can SMEs do little about it. And if they must do something, it will cost them money. Richard Quest, CNN editor-at-large, recently visited South Africa. Indeed, he’d stayed over in lovely Cape Town. According to  Alec Hogg, writing for BizNews, Richard’s main takeaway from his visit to Cape Town is the shock of experiencing regular power outages. So, let’s start with the power outages as our first of the challenges for small and medium enterprises in South Africa. Interrupted electricity supply Load shedding, or scheduled power outages, is having a significant impact on small businesses in South Africa. In fact, the country has experienced frequent and prolonged power cuts in recent years due to a shortage of electricity generation capacity. Consequently, disruptions in operations, reductions in productivity, and increased costs for businesses are the order of the day. Small businesses are particularly vulnerable to the effects of load shedding. Because they often lack the resources to invest in backup power systems and other mitigation measures. As a result, they experience direct losses from power outages, such as spoiled inventory and lost sales. After all, the uncertainty created by load shedding also makes it difficult for small businesses to plan and make decisions. This usually results in reduced investment and less jobs that can be created. In addition to the direct impacts, load shedding has indirect effects on the economy. For example, a reduction in consumer confidence and lower economic growth. For this reason, there’s a lower demand for goods and services, that further affect the viability of small businesses negatively. Overall, load shedding has a negative impact on the competitiveness and sustainability of small businesses in South Africa.  Undoubtably, addressing the country’s energy challenges will be critical for supporting the growth and development of these businesses. Crime Crime has a significant impact on small businesses in South Africa. For instance, here’re some of the ways that crime affects small businesses: Photo by RODNAE Production Overall, crime can have a devastating impact on small businesses in South Africa, making it more difficult for them to succeed and grow. Indeed, to mitigate the effects of crime, small businesses may need to invest in additional security measures and work with local authorities to improve public safety in the area. Collapse of the infrastructure The collapse of infrastructure in South Africa has a significant negative impact on businesses. Some of the ways this has affected small businesses include: Overall, the collapse of infrastructure in South Africa has serious consequences for small businesses in the country. Therefore, it’s crucial for the government and other stakeholders to work together to address this issue and support the growth and development of SMEs.  Lack of skills to solve the challenges for Small and Medium Size Enterprises in South Africa The lack of skills in small businesses in South Africa can have serious consequences that can impede their growth and success. Some of the effects include: Overall, the lack of skills in small businesses can have far-reaching and damaging effects. Therefore, it’s crucial for small businesses to invest in employee training and development. Doing that, they will enhance their competitiveness and long-term success. Concluding Small businesses in South Africa continue to face numerous challenges in 2023, here’s some more: Despite these challenges, small businesses play a critical role in the South African economy, providing jobs and contributing to economic growth. Most importantly, addressing these challenges will require a collaborative effort between the government, private sector, and financial institutions to support small businesses and ensure their success. So, are you going to close shop? Think again before doing it. I mean, you have all the experience and learned skills, and you know the market… Maybe this quote from Richard Quest in BizNews may influence your decision: “Of course not a hopeless case. Absolutely not. A country of this size with this number of talented people with sheer drive and dynamism – absolutely no question that there’s no hopelessness about it. I think the issue is the level and depth of the mess at the moment.” Lastly – look at South Africa’s famers. They were thrown is the deep water with no lifejackets (e.g. agricultural boards). Indeed, they needed to produce the best quality of agriculture produce, cost effectively and with superior quality. The free market has groom them to be reckoned the best farmers in the world. Galileo Capital CEO Theo Vorster said on Radio 702 “South African farmers are some of the best in the world in an almost hostile environment, and not with a friendly government.” Can we overcome the Challenges for Small and Medium Size Enterprises in South Africa? Yes, we can! Read also: The Challenge of Doing Business in South Africa Feature Photo by Jean van der Meulen Affiliate Disclosure: This blog may contain affiliate links, which means that if you click on one of the product links and make a purchase, I may receive a commission. This commission comes at no additional cost to you. All opinions expressed on this website are my own and are not influenced by any affiliate partnerships.

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A Business Plan with Financials by eBizplan

Watch this video! So, why do you need a business plan with financials? Starting your own business and doing so successfully is one of the surest ways to protect yourself again catastrophic events such as the COVID-19 pandemic. Indeed, if you are a current business owner, it’s unlikely that yo can carry on doing business as before. Your customers have changed their shopping behavior with the lock-down. They’ve been forced to look for their products and services online, and probably enjoyed the experience. Sadly, many of your customers probably have lost their jobs and now have little or no money to spend. This domino effect will also hurt your cash-flow and sustainability. But, with every catastrophic event, opportunities come to the fore. So, maybe it’s time to press the reset button of your business. Or, if you’re starting a business, it’s time to do the right thing from scratch! It’s now the time to change everything urgently. Such as, adding an online channel, or to innovate new marketing tactics. But, you need to take control. eBizplan can help you to start over again… please view this video to see how. A Business Plan to Take Control of Your Own Destiny Answer the following questions about your current situation… Then You Need a Business Plan with Financials! Read also: The value of business plans when you start a business Please fill in the form below to get a quotation:

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Mastering the Science of Business. Is it worth the trouble to get a University Degree?

Is it worth the trouble to get a university degree? Is that a fair question? If not a degree, then what is the alternative? After all, the ‘new normal’ post the COVID era will be anything but normal. There you have it. Here in South Africa there’re lots of movements, at least one for every issue that we can think of. Indeed, there is even a movement that represents unemployed graduates – The Unemployment Graduate Movement (UGM). That’s scary, because I thought that once you have your bachelor degree, you can walk in almost every job.

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Add your Business Online and so Defeat the Virus

What should you do to add your business online? For one thing, you should add the online channel urgently to your business model. Why? Because, we’re now for months in the devastating grip of the CORVID-19 lock down, and with little relief in sight. As a result, your customers are staying at their homes for most of the time. No ways that they’ll visit your shop to feel good, or to go for an outing. Sadly, no shopping experience for them then… In fact, there are many obstacles that your customers must endure before they can walk into your shop. Things like: Wearing a mask – uncomfortable but essential; Getting decontaminated continuously with suspect chemicals; Standing for hours in a que to get their essential goodies – because the shops are limited to the number of customers that may be in the store at any time; Wondering if they’d picked up the virus this time – because not everyone was wearing a mask…

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innovative person

Why Every Business Needs an Innovative Person (or Two)

Most of us won’t recognize an innovative person in a group of people. Indeed, maybe you’ve worked for years alongside an innovative colleague without noticing him. Even more, you’re so used to his behavior and mannerisms that you have tagged him as “odd”, but manageable. For that reason you have all along squandered an opportunity to lift your company out of mediocrity into competitiveness… Consequently, it’s very regressive indeed. But let’s have a look at innovative persons, how to recognize them, how to utilize them and how to keep them. However, first we need to understand what innovation is…

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Is your Website Homepage the Receptionist of your Business?

Back in the old days, almost every business of note had an office with a receptionist. Nowadays, almost every business has a website with a homepage. A website homepage serves the same function as a traditional receptionist at the office of a physical business. Indeed, the duties of a receptionist are, according to Wikipedia, answering visitors’ inquiries about a company and its products or services, directing visitors to their destinations, sorting and handing out mail, answering incoming calls on multi-line telephones. Also, importantly, is a receptionist often the first business contact a person will meet at any organization. So, most first (and lasting) impressions about a business are made at its reception desk. It may well be that a good receptionist adds value to the company’s brand. Or that a bad experience at reception may hurt it… All right, back to the 21st century: How good a receptionist is your website homepage?

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Online Business Models that can earn you Extra Money

Online business models have evolved and have grown with advances in digital technology.  Indeed, the digital platform is giving everyone with internet access the opportunity to earn extra money or even to become very rich. Let’s have a look at some of the established online business models to see how they fare in you quest to becoming a millionaire…

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