In 2018, almost 40% of small businesses in Australia were owned and run by women.
That’s a good proportion of the Aussie economy in hands of us gals, and the number is ever increasing.
Stats show that women are increasingly likely to start businesses in their thirties, with the main reasoning being flexibility of work/life balance. With the leaps forward in technology making it so simple to start your own business, it’s not surprising more & more women are doing it. Many start as a hobby that turn profitable and others may only require a good idea and an internet connection.
When thinking about a start up or if you are wanting to turn your hobby into an income stream, you will need advice on what do and the best way to do it. As someone who’s been through this before I can tell you every man and his dog will give you their views on what they think you should do. There is so much information out there it can be really overwhelming, frustrating and scary to know exactly what needs to be done.
Research is always necessary, and I’ve listed my personal favourite business books that should definitely be on your bedside table if you are serious about starting a small business.
The E Myth Revisited – Michael Gerber
The first business book I ever read and it still one of my favourites. If you own a small business or you would like too, then you need to read this book. It illustrates why most small businesses don’t work, but the people who run them do. How most people are working far too hard for the return they are getting, not because they don’t work hard enough but because they are doing the wrong work. The E-Myth steps out a process of understanding why it’s important to work on your business, rather than in it. Grab your copy here
This Nasty Gal found she had a knack for selling vintage clothes on eBay. What started as a way to make some quick cash turned into Nasty Gal, an online vintage haven worth upwards of $250 million dollars. All achieved without taking out a business loan. All done by learning and doing (and sometimes failing). Love this book. Proof of what a strong willed woman can do when she wants something. There is also a great Netflix series based on this book, which is great viewing! Grab your copy here.
Screw It, Lets Do It – Richard Branson
“Screw It, Lets Do It!” is apparently one of his favorite sayings! In this book he explains why & how he started in business and includes many antidotes along the way. What worked for him, what didn’t and why it’s important to believe that anything is possible. A really inspirational read, the first of many great books from the undisputed master of entrepreneurial business. Get your copy here
My first and most favourite online business mentor. What this guy doesn’t know about online business probably isn’t worth knowing. This is a great book that helps you step out your idea and test it, all before spending a cent. It’s a great step by step guide and Pat gives loads of real examples to help you truly understand what you may be getting yourself in for. Grab your copy here
My advice as someone who’s dabbled in small and online business is to just start. No matter if you are writing a book, selling on Etsy or setting up a stall to sell candles at your local market – you can’t let the information overload stop you from getting going. Mistakes will most definitely be made but that’s how you learn. There will never be a perfect time to start – you just have to jump in!
