Starting a Business

Got an enterprising idea? Want to start your own business? Make Your Mark is a new campaign that can help.

Down to business
Getting a job can be really hard when you’re a teenager. You’re too young to have much industry experience, have no money and often no car.

But if you have an enterprising spirit the answer could be to create your own business opportunity! All you need is the energy to make it happen and of course - a good idea.

What can I do?
Are you wondering what you could do? Why not start by breaking down what you have around you?

Firstly write down your skills and talents. It could be anything from being good at compiling playlists to designing websites, making music, writing blogs – whatever.
Then start thinking about the actual resources you have, such as access to the internet or a space to work from.

Also, have you got any contacts in that field? Perhaps you know a family member who is involved with something relating to your idea?

Finally make a list of physical resources you have such as a computer or a phone.
Now look at your lists. What could you actually do with these skills and resources?

Have a plan
Almost any entrepreneur of whatever age will tell you that one of the keys to making a business work is having a plan. Think carefully about what your business will actually do and how you will do it and then write it down.

It might also be worth talking to a family member and running the idea past them.

I can’t do that!
Sounds too much like hard work? Do you feel that you’re too young to really make any money or make a success of a business? It’s often the simplest ideas that are the most successful…

It’s also worth thinking about ideas that are directly relevant you and your friends. Then you already have a market…