Going into business for yourself can be scary, but it is important to go into it with your eyes wide open. One of the best ways to do this is through research. Research can look like talking to people, taking business classes, and reading business books. It is important to cover all your bases before beginning.
Hit the Books
Reading books about business is one of the most helpful things you can do for yourself. Learning about your specific business is important, but learning about business in general is invaluable as well. Learning from other successful people through their books will help give you a leg up when starting your own company!
Rich Dad Poor Dad by Robert Kiyosaki
Kiyosaki’s books has become one of the number one personal finance books of all time. He uses this book to look back on his life and examines each of the influential men who taught him about finances. He also covers common financial misconceptions that keep people from reaching their full potential.
Start with Why by Simon Sinek
Staying motivated through ever stage of creating a company can be hard, and Sinek takes this concept, and helps his readers to fight that common struggle. Through this books, Sinek reflects on the idea of why. He focuses on the why of starting a business, and how to help that why keep you going.
Good to Great by Jim Collins
Collins wanted to answer the question, “why do some business last, while others don’t” and he did exactly that through his book. He created a group of elite companies, and analyzed what made them different. Through his book, you can find how to make your company be one that lasts.
How to Win Friends & Influence People by Dale Carnegie
Carnegie’s books is one of the most famous business related books of all time. Though it was published in 1936, its information is still invaluable today. A huge part of owning and maintaining a business is selling your ideas. Carnegie uses his book to teach good habit of communication and bridge building with others.
Ignore Everybody: And 39 Other Keys to Creativity by Hugh MacLeod
MacLeod recognizes how hard it can be to maintain your own voice in today’s business world. His book focuses on the importance of finding your own voice, and sticking with it. Staying true to your company, and keeping your voice and vision aligned with that, will help you create a solid base.
It’s Never too Early to Start Planning
Staying informed and constantly learning ways to improve your business is a great way to help your company. Even if you are still in the beginning stages, you can never invest too much time into trying to prepare yourself. Taking tips from other successful titans of industry is a great step!