How important is a foundation?

I am often asked in interviews what I feel is the best advice to pass on to other people who are thinking about starting a business. My answer can be summed up in two words "Strong Foundation."

Foundations are very important in everything in life. Without a strong foundation in our relationships, they fall apart. Without a strong foundation buildings fall to the ground, and without a strong foundation for your business the same will occur.

1. Strong Personal Relationships are key to starting a business:
You have to have friends and family that will support you as you go through this process...there are going to be ups and downs, good days and some not so good days and this is where your support system comes in. You will need the friends and family to call and share the good days as much as you will need them to encourage you on your bad days.

2. Strong Business Relationships:
One of the best choices I have ever made for helping me grow my business is hiring a Business Coach! They are amazing at seeing the big picture and knowing how to guide you there. I would suggest to anyone starting a business to hire one right away instead of trying to"figure it out yourself". I have seen tremendous growth in my business as well as in my own confidence as a business owner since I have been working with my coach.

Another important thing to do with your business relationships is to know what you are good at, and know what you are not so good at. One of my biggest assets to my business is a behind the scenes contractor that I hire for all of my online presence and administrative work. I have also seen growth in my business by working with other entrepreneurs that work in related fields. This works wonderfully because you can both send refferals back and forth to each other.

3. Make sure you have a strong business foundation:
This is key! You start off on your business venture with tons of passion and energy, but not always the best foundation. Do you have the forms you need to get started? Do you have the list of questions you need to make consultations go efficiently and smoothly? You know that you want clients, but do you know how to keep track of them as you grow? All of these things may seem overwhelming at first, but this is where your key personnel relationships and business relationships come in. You will not know everything, but someone you know will either have the answer, a helpful suggestion or a contact that can lead you on the right path.

Just remember NO ONE has all the answers, but there is always someone that can help you with  one of the answers :)

Thank you and good luck!

Houston Interior Designer Karen Nelson is "bringing beautiful designs into every home." The interior design services that are offered can be completed online (via skype) or in person within the greater Houston area.  For more information please click Hire Karen Nelson