The first of a new series of business features for business-shy people by the local author and creative director Antonella Caputo, who has over 20 years’ experience in copywriting and visual marketing and part of the Team Sputnik design agency.
Whatever the reason why middle-aged women go into business, if you are a woman over 50 this idea can feel farfetched. Being myself an over 50’s woman, the first problem I needed to address was my mental set-up.
My first doubt was: is there space in the market for my idea? The market can accommodate endless business ideas. This is because each one is unique and offers a distinctive solution.
TIP: If you have an idea about a product or service, you can be sure that will be someone interested in it. What you need to do is to find out who these people are.
My second doubt was about my ability to create a business because I am not a “born” businessperson. This involves a leap of faith. If you don’t try you never know what you are capable of. There will be some setback for sure, but why don’t enjoy the ride?
TIP: each of us has strengths and weaknesses. And yes, being able to organise a party for 40 kids, make little money go further and dealing with a stroppy teenager count as experience and ability.
I had a good idea, and I was ready to take a jump. But what about all the technical stuff like creating a brand image? Although being a graphic designer myself, when it came to creating MY OWN business, I had some reservations. I had several tries before committing to the brand colours, fonts and creating a logo.
TIP: Check your competitors for ideas. Look for common vibes in your field of business, and then come out with your own personal take. Bear in mind that everything you do is about communicating your brand philosophy with your audience.
The silver lining of being over 50s is that we went through some rough patches in our lives. We grow resilient and patient.
TIP: Find a group of women you can share your experience with. In this circle may find support in the ups and down that every business owner goes through.
Creating a business has its own cost. The MUST n#1 is drawing up a list of all the expenses and decide an affordable budget.
TIP don’t go cheap. Paying a fiver for a logo design it shows and tells your audience that you are not very serious of what you are doing.
Did any of our tips resonate with you? Let us know in the comments below!
A good branding project needs time, research, and strategic thinking. For this reason, I have created three simple step-by step branding notebooks covering all the aspects of creating a brand. For more information, click here www.teamsputnikvisual.com/notebook