First Steps to Starting Your Own Business

Starting a business is usually difficult under the best of circumstances; if you're a first-time entrepreneur, it can be downright bewildering. While the intricacies of starting your own business will vary depending on your industry, location, and circumstances, the basics look the same for most (if not all) business owners. Here, we'll walk you through some of the first steps in how to start your own business, as well as some helpful tips for first-time entrepreneurs.

1. Do Your Research

Unfortunately, not all business ideas are created equal. Moreover, the fate of many businesses comes down to timing, location, and market. Starting a surfboard rental company might be an excellent idea in California—in Alaska, not so much. Before you commit to an idea, make sure you've done your market research to ensure that the idea is viable. You'll want to think about things like your target audience, local competition, and market trends. 

2. Create a Business Plan and Budget

Business plans effectively serve as maps for entrepreneurs, and they're an indispensable part of the entrepreneurial process. Creating a business plan will help you refine your idea and get specific about how you plan to get your business off the ground. You'll also want to get an idea of how much the startup process will cost so that you can look into financing options. 

3. Do the Paperwork

The first thing you'll want to do is choose the structure for your business. Do some research on LLCs, sole proprietorships, and corporations to see which one is the best fit for you. Depending on which one you select and whether you plan to hire employees, you may also need a federal employer identification number (EIN) for tax purposes.

Finally, look up licensing requirements for your state, county, and local governments, and make sure you submit everything you need to be in compliance. 

4. Create a Web Presence

In the modern digital age, having an internet presence is indispensable for businesses. What's more, tools like social media and Google Maps effectively amount to free online marketing, if you know how to use them. Visibility is key for new businesses, and the internet is a key tool in that regard. 

Ready to make the leap on your small business idea? We can help! Business & Leadership is one of YWCA Oahu’s Key Mission Areas. We offer a variety of support and resources for women businessowners through programs like the Patsy T. Mink Center for Business and Leadership (MCBL) and the MBDA Enterprising Women of Color Center (EWOC).

YWCA O'ahu is on a mission to empower women, promote peace, and eliminate racism. As one of over 300 nationwide communities, YWCA O'ahu is committed to creating opportunities for women and girls.

How to Make a Great First Impression at a Job Interview

Image courtesy Dress for Success Worldwide

There's a lot that goes into a first impression. Everything about a person — including their physical appearance, the way they talk, their nonverbal mannerisms, and even their surroundings — can impact the way they are perceived. And even though these impressions take only seconds to form, they can last for months. 

Especially when it comes to job interviews, first impressions come with a lot of pressure — and unfortunately, they can seem even more difficult when you're nervous. If you've ever walked out of a job interview and wanted to crawl under a rock, you're not alone, but you're also not doomed to repeat the experience. Next time you have an interview coming up, keep in mind these important tips for how to make a good first impression:

Prepare Beforehand 

Being unprepared is a surefire way to look bad. To avoid this, you can prepare for a job interview by researching the company and rehearsing your answers to common questions. Answers that you've rehearsed ahead of time are more likely to sound well-articulated and confident.

Pro tip: Consider asking a friend to pretend to be your interviewer and helping you practice questions such as, "What are your strengths and weaknesses?" and "Why do you think you would be a good fit for this job?" 

Look the Part

In thinking about how to impress at a job interview, many people tend to focus on what they'll wear. While professional, appropriate clothes are essential, they're not the only aspect of your physical appearance to consider. Make sure to get a good night's sleep beforehand so that you look alert and refreshed. If you wear makeup, perfume/cologne, or jewelry, go for a more understated look (or scent) on your interview day. 

Image courtesy Dress for Success Worldwide

Be Mindful of Body Language

Our body language is a window into how we're feeling. Project confidence and attentiveness by sitting up straight, making eye contact, and remaining as relaxed as possible. Even more importantly, avoid body language that can be interpreted negatively, such as fidgeting and crossing your arms or legs. 

Be Yourself

People can sense insincerity, so whenever possible, it's always better to be genuine and candid. In a job interview, this means finding a careful balance between being honest and letting your personality show while avoiding language or mannerisms that are too casual. This might also require a little practicing, but the potential payoff will be worth it. 

Image courtesy Dress for Success Worldwide

YWCA O‘ahu is on a mission to empower women, promote peace, and eliminate racism. As one of over 300 nationwide communities, YWCA O'ahu is committed to creating opportunities for women and girls. Programs such as Dress for Success, the MBDA Enterprising Women of Color Business Center, and our community-based furlough program are designed to give women the resources, expertise, and support they need to be able to thrive and make a difference. If you or someone you know could benefit from our services, contact us today or consider donating to support our work!