Photo by Glenn Carstens-Peters on Unsplash
Have you ever had a business idea and wondered if it had the potential to be the next big thing?
Starting a business takes time and energy, and long periods of self-reflection are required to find a business idea that is both realistic and viable.
Better yet, how can you be certain that a good idea will blossom into a profitable venture? These early stages of planning are critical. Don’t skimp on brainstorming, and then put your ideas to the test.
Here are the 17 most useful methods and steps I find most helpful.
1. What do you desire?
All subsequent ideas, activities, and actions are dependent on your specific goals. Begin from there.
2. Inquire with your target market
If you already have a good understanding of your target market, which you should, you can easily begin by asking some of your potential customers about their wants, needs, or problems.
3. Chose places where your creativity can be at its highest level
Brainstorming business ideas requires creativity. Choose carefully where your creativity shines, and go there when you want to brainstorm business ideas.
4. Maintain an open mind during the brainstorming session
An open mind will liberate you from various biases when it comes to business ideas and will aid the process.
5. Always keep a notebook with you
You should always jot down any ideas you have, no matter where you are! Even the most insane and stupid ideas can become the best in the future.
6. Attend trade shows
Many ideas can be generated by attending trade shows related to the niche/industry you are interested in.
7. Travel
Travel broadens your perspective and increases your creativity. It can be a valuable source of various business ideas.
8. Think of some bad ideas
Do not exclude bad ideas from your process; many times, a good idea will emerge from a bad one.
9. Extend your own perspective
In your brainstorming session, avoid becoming too focused. Maintain a broad perspective and consider all angles.
10. Don’t think too hard
Too much thought will suffocate your own creativity. Good and unique business ideas require your creativity.
11. How can you set yourself apart?
Always ask yourself, “How can I be different from others?”
12. Look at the giants
Good ideas can sometimes come from the big companies at the top of your industry.
13. Look at other startups
Examine how other startups in your industry are meeting the needs of their customers. This can be a great way to get a fresh perspective on things.
14. Build a great team
You cannot achieve success on your own. Create a fantastic team and collaborate to create an even better business plan.
15. Ask for help or opinions
Never leave a question unanswered. When you are brainstorming, it is better to seek help and advice from others than to come up with bad ideas that will result in bad business. Get help if you need it!
16. Socialize
The more you socialize and learn about the people around you, the better your ideas will become.
17. Read books
Books are a fantastic source of information. There are numerous trends, opinions, and points of view to be found.
Final Thoughts
The decision to work on a small business idea is a personal one. Money is important, but you’ll need more motivation to keep going than that.
Bounce ideas off friends and family until you find the ideal solution that fits your schedule, fulfills your life’s passion and makes financial sense.