Can I do it?
Everybody asks this question and the short answer is YES!
But there is more to starting out in business than having a good idea.
This self-assessment guide will help you take a good look at yourself and assess your strengths as a potential business owner. Answer the questions truthfully, there is nothing to be gained from kidding yourself and anything less than honest answers may come back to haunt you in the future.
1 Are you a self-starter?
a) I use my own initiative. I don't need anyone to tell me what to do.
b) Once someone has told me what to do, I get on with it
c) I only put myself out when I want to.
2 How do you get on with other people?
a) I make sure I get on with everybody.
b) I have a close circle of friends. I don't need other people.
c) I am never at ease in company.
3 Can you lead and motivate others?
a) I am good at getting most people to follow my lead.
b) I can give orders once I know exactly what is required.
c) I will join in once something has already started.
4 Can you take responsibility?
a) I like to take charge of things and see them through.
b) I will take over if I have to but I would rather let someone else be responsible.
c) There is always an eager beaver waiting to show off. I leave them to it.
5 Are you a good organiser?
a) I like devising a plan and sticking to it. I am usually the
organiser.
b) I am okay when everything goes to plan but if things get too difficult I may quit.
c) I take things as they come.
6 How conscientious a worker are you?
a) I will go the extra mile for something I really want.
b) I work hard for a while but when I have had enough, that is it.
c) Why push myself? People take it easy and still get by.
7 Can you make decisions?
a) I often make snap decisions. They usually work out well.
b) If I have time to think about them.
c) I prefer others to make decisions.
8 Can people trust what you say?
a) I always say what I mean.
b) I try to be honest but sometimes I just say what is easiest.
c) Sometimes I just say what I think other people want to hear.
9 Can you stay the course?
a) Once I have a goal nothing will stop me achieving it.
b) I usually finish what I start.
c) If it does not go right first time, I lose interest.
10 Is looking after your health important to you?
a) I like being fit. I look after myself so I will stay that way.
b) What will be will be.
c) It is my mind, not my body that is important.
11 Do you have the support of your family and friends?
a) My family know the risks involved and are happy to support me.
b) They are not sure what is involved, but think it is worth a try.
Total up the number of a, b and c answers. If it is mainly As you have probably got what it takes to make it by yourself. You are motivated, decisive and good with other people, all essential qualities for starting and running a successful business.
If you have mainly ticked Bs and Cs, then think again. You could be letting yourself in for more than you can cope with. Do not abandon your plans totally. There may be a different way. Setting up with someone whose talents complement your own could be an option.
Most importantly, be clear from the start about your personal goals and those for your business.
You must know exactly what you are doing and why you are doing it. Vision, drive and passion are as vital as experience and knowledge if a business is to prosper.
