Is it possible to go virtual in the Caribbean? I say yes? Are there challenges? Sure, as in anything else. Working as a virtual entrepreneur requires a change in mindset. You are no longer an employee, but an employer, a virtual business partner. You are now running your business and will need to make critical choices for you and your clients. Here are seven tips for you, if you are considering going virtual, in the Caribbean, in 2012:
1. Get the buy-in of your Support Group: And by ‘support group,’ I do not mean ‘all’ of your friends. In the Caribbean we do love extended families and our social circles. However, in this instance you need to consider those significant persons who will be impacted by your decisions; and receive their support.
2. Conduct a personal skills assessment: Take some time and update your Resumé. Include the projects you have worked on and any specific achievements. Review your Resumé and then identify those areas which you really enjoyed and were passionate about. Use these as a starting point to determine the direction you would like your virtual business to take.
3. Determine your Market: Research the market to determine whether there is a need for your services. However, do not limit yourself to your local market, for remember virtual is global.
4. Select Business Name and Register your Business: Choose a name for your business that ‘speaks’ to you. What are you selling? Also, select an appropriate tagline for your business. Check the Internet and your local business registration centre to determine whether the name is available. Decide on the form your business will take and register your business as required locally.
5. Secure Domain Name and develop Website: Once you have chosen your business name check to see whether some form of it is available for a website, and secure that name with a web hosting company. You will need to determine whether you have the capabilities to develop your Website or whether you would need to get it done professionally. Whatever you decide, please remember that your Website is your online presence and projects you. Therefore, it should have a professional and pleasing appearance.
6. Equip your home-office adequately: Do ensure that your home-office is equipped with the necessary items, hardware and software. Computer, with reliable Internet access; a good quality printer; a scanner; and some office supplies, are some basic items to start with. I have also found a filing cabinet useful, yet you could decide to go paperless and maintain your files electronically.
7. Let you friends know: Let your friends know that you are a virtual entrepreneur. To this day, when I am dressed up to attend a meeting away from base and run into some of my friends/acquaintances, I do get asked, “Are you working?” It takes a while for persons to understand: ‘Yes, I am operating a business, even if it is from a home-based office.’ Remind them gently. Invite them to refer their friends for your services.
Being a virtual entrepreneur affords you the flexibility and luxury of working from home. However, it requires perseverance and hard work to grow your business. It is not a get-rich-quick system. Yet as you focus, make the most of the technology and keep going despite the odds, the rewards will come.
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