Internet home businesses are being launched in record numbers. While working from home creates a unique set of challenges, working on the internet is often an even greater obstacle. There is no doubt that the internet environment provides more distractions than a three ring circus. Here are some simple steps to save you tons of time and money.
Define a specific goal
Do not fall into the "make money" trap. That's not a goal. It's an exit. Your goal is to build a lasting business and successfully market a product or service. But even that is too vague to prevent you from becoming just another clown a taking a financial roller coaster ride.
To succeed you must specifically define a niche market, an in demand product and a marketing strategy. You may choose rose gardeners as your target market. Your research shows that rose gardeners are quite trying to rid their bushings of aphids. Your product is the Aphid Eliminator.Your marketing strategy will probably include building a simple website to sell the product, driving traffic with articles, and following up with visitors via an autoresponder series.
Adopt an "all business" mindset
For the next few weeks you must devote your time exclusively to the Aphid Eliminator. Anything that diverts you from reaching your goal of successfully marketing this product is a sideshow. Ignore it, at least during your working hours.
You must stay on your chosen path to take your product to market. Later, you will adjust your strategies. These changes will be based on the tracking data you collect. If you allow yourself to be diverted before testing your strategy, you will just be wasting time and money.
You do not need to invest in the latest side show that guarantees a flood of traffic, until your web stats tell you that your not generating enough website visitors with your current methods. Even then, carefully consider the cost versus the possible return.
Create a timetable
Break the tasks down into manageable steps. During week 1 create 10 articles about aphid problems and solutions. During week two set up your autoresponder and create a series of informative articles and tips about the joys of rose gardening and reminding your subscribers about your easy solution for aphid problems. During week 3 set up a simple website to sell your product. Do not allow your targeted completion dates to be changed. Procrastination seldom leads to success.
Internet home businesses fail frequently. Stay focused and succeed. The circus will not leave town before you're comfortable showing a profit.