Last night I was chatting with a new potential coaching client about their plans to leave their corporate job and start their own business based on their unique intellectual property. It was like most discussions I have with Corporate Escapees in that the only real barrier to them doing what they are most passionate about are their own beliefs and a formal process to build the business assets. This made me think about what is really required to become a successful Corporate Escapee.
Here are some thoughts on the three essential steps you need to be a successful Corporate Escapee (and one you don't):
Customers:
It sounds pretty obvious but I see many people leave their jobs without having at least one customer. When I suddenly left my last corporate job after an argument with my old boss I was confident about starting my business because I had already been operational and sold my core product many times. A business without a sale is a hobby, so ensure you have at least one sale before jumping ship. You will then know there is demand for your business and you just have to repeat the process.
Support:
Trying to do everything yourself is tough. It can be done, but it's much easier with some support around you. As I tell my clients...
Entrepreneurship is a game of the mind
So to stay in top mental shape many people get coaches. Support groups are also useful as well as an accountability group of similar stage Corporate Escapees. It can mean the difference between giving up and progressing, so ensure you have the support resources set up before you need them.
Courage:
This is the big one! Courage is a byproduct of a good plan. If you can see the end result and work towards it daily, then you are more likely to maintain your self belief. There will always be days of doubts and setbacks, but taking small actions regularly will give you confidence in your plan. At the end of the day, though, it takes a certain amount of courage to dive in. Invest in help to build your plan, tell people you are going to do it, and commit.
The thing I recommend you don't do is rush into doing expensive marketing. Many early stage business owners I meet will do a Facebook or marketing course and think that will bring them customers. The first thing you need to build your business is your personal brand. You will get your first customers from those who already trust you and will give you a go - not strangers on the internet. That comes later when you have a robust brand, business and products. Save your money! Invest in you.
If you would like to get together with some like-minded Corporate Escapees, Social Star is running an event with four entrepreneurs who have made the jump.
Join Outcome Life and Social Star on August 8th for a storytelling night of sorts where you will get to hear from and speak with business owners from a variety of backgrounds about how they followed their passions and never looked back. From a dating expert to a communications goddess and more, these stories will get you motivated about turning your passion project into major profits.
The event will open and close with wine, finger foods, and networking with other entrepreneurial-minded people from around the city. RSVP is required, but is only $10. Head over to MeetUp now to secure your spot: https://bit.ly/2J5P2U4
