What does being a small business owner really mean? If you
think it is merely putting an Open for Business sign on
your doorstep, think again.
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As a small business owner, particularly if you are a home
business entrepreneur, you should be prepared to take on
multiple responsibilities and tasks at the same time. You have
to wear more than two hats at any one time the business
owner, accountant, bill collector, and others. Here's a look at
some of the roles that you have to play when you are running
your own business:
Strategic Planner
you
need to set the vision, mission and goals of your company to
determine where your business will be both in the short-term and
long-term. This entails the preparation of the business plan
crafting the operation plan, marketing and sales plan, financial
plan, and contingencies. You will also be responsible for
planning and executing any changes, whether you will expand the
business or change its product line.
Market Researcher
unless you have money to burn, you need to do some form of
research to determine your market prior to starting your
business. You need to know who your customers are, where they
are located, and their purchasing habits. You also need to know
the level of saturation of the market, and your competitors'
strengths and characteristics.
Bookkeeper and Accountant
you need to be responsible for what records to keep and how
to keep them, even if you are hiring an accountant to help you
out. If you do not have an accountant, you will need to handle
your tax and financial statements preparation. In such case, you
need to have some knowledge of accounting and interpreting your
financial statements.
Bill Collector
you
need to set up payment mechanisms that will be easy for your
customers to pay and easy for you to collect. However, in the
event that customers are unable to pay, you will have to take on
the task of collecting overdue payments. You need to know what
you can and can't do in terms of collecting the payment, and
when to give up and write off the debt.
Technology Expert
with the critical role played by computers and technology in
business nowadays, the task of choosing the equipment to use
will lay on your shoulders. You also need to know how to install
software programs, troubleshoot breakdowns and failures, and
load upgrades. You also should be aware of new technology that
could improve the efficiency and performance of your business.
Clerk and Secretary
you also need to be your own typist, clerk, receptionist, and
secretary, particularly if you are a solo business operator. You
need to manage and organize your files, do your mailing, answer
your telephones, and make your appointments.
Sales and Marketing Executive
you will be responsible for planning and executing your
marketing and advertising plan. To some extent, you also need to
be craft your own marketing materials from your press/media
kits, advertising copy, to classified ads, press and news
releases, even article contributions to publicize your business.
You will spend a considerable amount of time in a day marketing
your business and networking with potential buyers, suppliers,
or advisers.
Customer Service Representative
in addition to marketing your products, you are your
business' sole link to your customers. You will handle customer
feedback, act on their complaints, and make sure that their
requests are taken care of.
Being a small business owner is a tough job, but someone's
gotta do it!