Mums, technology and business

Work at home mum, Mumpreneur or just a business woman? However you identify yourself more and more women are taking advantage of technology and setting up their own businesses. Antonia Chitty explains why, and how you can do it too.

Women start a business for different reasons. You may be bored at home or, like many, in need of a few extra pounds each month. For lots of women there just aren’t many jobs available which fit in with the family routine, and such jobs that there are can be low paid and less interesting than running your own enterprise.

Why is technology such a help to mums who want their own business? The internet means that you can develop your business from home at any time of day. As ‘Mum Inventor’ Louise says, “Now we have the internet it is a lot easier to assess the competition, research the market and set up as a seller than it was before.” Once you have come up with a business idea, the internet also makes it easier to reach customers and have your online store working for you even if you are busy cooking tea. And through the wonders of Facebook, Twitter and other online networking sites you can reach more potential customers than ever before.

So, if you want to run your own business, what are the first steps to take?

Come up with a great business idea. This may be a unique invention, or an existing idea which you think you can do better. You might want to sign up to a franchise or direct selling business which is new to your area.

Technology tip: Use the internet to browse sites like www.mumandworking.co.uk and www.familyfriendlyworking.co.uk for lots of inspiring ideas.

Do your research. Make sure that there is a market for your business.

Technology tip: The internet makes it easier to scan for competitors and see what they offer. Check out Companies House online to see if there are similar businesses using the same name, which could cause you problems.

Technology tip: Use online survey sites to ask potential customers about what they are after and how much they would be prepared to pay. A survey site like www.surveymonkey.com can make it simple to set up a great looking survey and spread it to a wide audience. Aim for at least 100 responses.

Make a plan. A business plan sounds daunting, but is a great way to make sure you have covered all the bases before your business launches. A plan is essential if you are applying for a loan or grant, but can help any business owner work out their aims and the steps needed to achieve them. It will also help you understand your business finances.

Technology tip: Use an online business plan programme to help you develop your plan. My Mumpreneur Guide Business Development Programme can help with this.

Get Going! Work on your business every day. Find a time that suits you and fits with the family routine. Make sure you do something towards business promotion daily too.

Technology tip: Use excel or an online customer relationships programme to develop databases of customers and potential customers.

Technology tip:  Aweber, Vertical Response or Constant Contact can help you manage your contacts and stay in touch with them through attractive newsletters and emails.

Once you’ve got started on your business, make sure you link up with other business women, either face-to-face or online through forums like the one here on www.mumandworking.co.uk.  Support while you are growing your business is invaluable. Running your own business can be hard work, but nothing beats being your own boss. Make a start on your own enterprise today, and you and your family will soon feel the benefit.

It's also Technology Month on the Mumpreneur Guide.

Antonia Chitty is author of The Mumpreneur Guide (£18.00)  available from www.themumpreneurgude.co.uk, www.amazon.co.uk and to order from any bookshop if you quote ISBN 9780955534522