The process of starting your own business may not be as daunting as you think. Many people dream of running their own business yet they're put off by the apparent complexity involved in getting a new business off the ground. While there are financial and legal aspects to consider, you "don't necessarily need a degree in business or finance to be successful," writes Diane Gilleland. Here, she shares a roundup of essential resources that will guide you through the process of starting your own busi...

With online sales set to continue growing, there's never been a better time to start your own online business—and there are plenty of ecommerce solutions available to help you get started. As with any other software, each ecommerce platform has its pros and cons and it's important to pick one that's a good fit for your business, enhances the customer experience, and offers a range of features to match your level of experience while allowing room for growth. Here, Manish Dudharejia discusses...

While there are some key decisions to make before launching your own business, by starting small you can be up and running in just 30 days. Thanks to the internet, it's quicker and easier than ever to start your own business and you don't need any special training. What you do need is "an idea, a good plan, the desire to learn and adapt, and the ability to take action," says Candice Landau. Here, she shares a step-by-step guide covering everything from laying the initial groundwork and vali...

Building your own business without having to give up the financial security of a regular salary can be a great way to test the water and validate your business idea before taking the plunge into full-time entrepreneurship. Many successful entrepreneurs start working on their business as a side hustle. And while it may be hard work, research shows they're less likely to fail than those "who jump in without having the safety net of employment," writes Pratik Dholakiya. Here, he shares his top...

While purpose, passion and profit are key ingredients, you need to follow the right steps when creating a recipe for business success. Your purpose is what motivates you to get out of bed every day, your passion brings your purpose to life, and profit is essential for a sustainable business. "To succeed in business you have to know where you're headed, so you can make a plan with the proper strategies and tactics to reach your goals," writes Kendra Sette. Here, she shares how to bring the e...

Starting your own business can be a daunting prospect and you need to carefully weigh up the pros and cons, especially if it means having to give up the security of regular employment and a steady income. People start businesses for a variety of reasons. You may have an idea for a product or service that will help solve a problem or a passion you want to turn into a thriving business. Or maybe you just want to be your own boss. Starting a business isn't the right move for everyone however. To he...

Building your own business requires some sacrifices and you not only need prepare for the challenges that lie ahead, you also need to be aware of the pitfalls. One issue that's often overlooked is the loneliness that can creep up on startup founders and CEOs. Here, Sharon Lechter shares some top tips on how to "avoid this silent enemy, or overcome it if you are already experiencing it," while smoothing your transition from employee to entrepreneur and building your reputation as a well-respected...

Turning your hobby into a business may sound like the ideal solution when you're dissatisfied at work and want to quit your job and be your own boss. Even though you may have a genuine talent for something you enjoy doing in your spare time, it may not translate into a thriving business. And, although there are advantages to making a career out of your hobby, you also need to consider any disadvantages. Here, Maria Cannon shares the questions you need to ask yourself and if you decide to go...