Business

by Louise

I really want to start a business, but I also need some guidance. I know there are many sources out here, but I chose to ask a Pro. I’m very young, don't make too much money. In college, I want to be a young entrepreneur, in retail with clothing. I've started a plan, but where or who can I talk to about getting help to start a business.

I want to get it rolling while I’m very young. I want to become a young entrepreneur. Make money, not stay broke. I need some advice on where to start. I have business license. That’s it.

Can you help me?

YOUR ANSWER

The first step is to clarify your idea for a business. You have said that you want to have a retail clothing business. Are you planning an online business or do you want to open a store?

What age group are you targeting with your clothing? Male, female, teens, children?

What about the style of clothing, and the price range - up market or discount clothing?

Are you going to buy from a manufacturer, wholesaler, local designers or are you going to design and manufacture the clothing yourself? How are you going to find suppliers? Do you want to start with known brands or are you going to go with new or unknown brands?

How big is the market or segment you want to enter, and how competitive is it? Why will your target customers buy from you and not from your competitors?

When you have firmed up your business idea into a viable business model, the I suggest you do a bit of research to see if there is any demand for the products you want to offer. If there is and you can demonstrate that in the form of a business plan you can move forward with your business.

If you want to know more about developing a business model you could try starting with What a Business Model is, or you could approach your local small business association.

Have a think about it all, work on your business model and when you are ready for the next step I will be more than happy to answer any further questions that you have.

Good luck...