Freedom, flexibility and financial stability – these are the three major aspects that are motivating several individuals with disabilities to start their own business.
Right from support nonprofits and organizations to scholarships and government programs, there are various aids available for helping the disabled run their businesses today. In addition to convenience and independence, running one’s own business can also help meet his/her career aspiration and goals.
However, the road to becoming a successful entrepreneur is quite difficult and requires patience and perseverance. While this is a challenge for all businessmen, the disabled entrepreneurs have to take care of several additional aspects.
If you’re disabled and wish to start your own business, here are few tips that can help you in your entrepreneurial journey.
1. Create an Effective Business Plan
A comprehensive and effective business plan serves as a strategic and operational road map for starting and running a venture. Hence, it needs to be drafted with the utmost professionalism.
Taking a plunge into the competitive arena without a plan can prove to be time-consuming in the long run. Time spent preparing a solid business plan will be worthwhile. Here’s what you must keep in mind while drafting one:
- Ensure that the plan sticks to predefined goals and objectives.
- Outline the future potential of a business and convey your vision in a compelling manner.
- Be concise and get rid of the fluff.
- Be realistic when mentioning about potential challenges and opportunities.
- Show your commitment to investors, partners and allied stakeholders.
- Research the desired market segment and formulate marketing strategies.
2. Seek Support to Make Your Business Grow
There are various resources and programs that can help disabled entrepreneurs fuel their company’s growth. Right from low-interest loans and government grants to coaching and mentorship, there are several options available. Don’t hesitate to seek help as securing sufficient funds will help you grow your business.
Moreover, it’s important to know that there are certain tax rules that apply to disabled employees and owners. So, it is better to seek help from a tax accountant about them, especially if you plan to utilize special financial instruments such as disabled employee tax laws.
The U.S. Small Business Administration, Job Accommodation Network, Small Business Administration, The Abilities Fund and Disabled Businesspersons Association are amongst the various helpful resources that can assist you with the following:
- Provide online access to a wide variety of resources and technical assistance that help disabled people start, grow and manage a small business.
- Offer a number of low-interest loans that help disabled people obtain startup financing.
- Maximize your potential in the business world to work with vocational rehabilitation and government.
3. Maximize Your Online Presence
In this digital era, potential customers expect businesses to have a strong online presence. Ignoring this important potential marketing platform would be a huge mistake.
Considering the power of the Internet today, making the best use of online platforms will help ensure your business’ growth and establish a brand name for itself.
Social media is a brilliant tool that can be utilized to promote your business. Effective social media marketing can enable you to connect with the right target audience, and achieve your business goals.
Search Engine Optimization is another significant online marketing strategy that can help your business get the much needed exposure. Moreover, it can help improve your business’ ranking on Google, likely leading to an increase in the customer base.
A powerful online presence can help form a positive impression of your company in the customer’s mind, making future sales more likely.
4. Focus on Your Strengths
You will stand a greater chance of success, if you focus more on your strengths than your limitations. By putting the effort in developing your skills and strengths, you are more likely to grow your business at a faster pace.
By developing your strategies on the basis of your strengths, you will be able to provide maximum value to your customers. Not only will this help you stand out in your niche, but will also accelerate your performance.
It is, therefore, crucial to discover your innate talents and apply them productively to achieve fruitful outcomes.
Also, technology-based assistive devices can aid you greatly in working efficiently. They can help enhance functional independence and make your daily living simpler. Mobility aids such as wheelchairs, knee walkers and pride mobility scooters can also help you to a great extent. These devices can empower the disabled and help them lead a successful life.
Conclusion
Having the freedom to create your own schedule, developing your work conditions, and setting aside the resources necessary to handle the disability are amongst the many aspects that inspire the disabled to become entrepreneurs. Remember, starting and managing a business is a significant undertaking, so take sufficient time to do your research. Further, think of all the related matters before you embark on your entrepreneurial journey. There are several resources available to help disabled entrepreneurs get their businesses operational and successful. Follow the above mentioned tips and you will be able to turn your dream of running your own business into a reality.
Featured Image Source: theselfemployed.com
