Starting a business
Tuesday 23 September 2008
Got an enterprising idea? Want to start your own business? Make Your Mark is a new campaign that can help.
Down to business
Getting a job can be really hard when you’re a teenager. You’re too young to have much industry experience, have no money and often no car.
But if you have an enterprising spirit the answer could be to create your own business opportunity! All you need is the energy to make it happen and of course - a good idea.
What can I do?
Are you wondering what you could do? Why not start by breaking down what you have around you?
- Firstly write down your skills and talents. It could be anything from being good at compiling playlists to designing websites, making music, writing blogs – whatever.
- Then start thinking about the actual resources you have, such as access to the internet or a space to work from.
- Also, have you got any contacts in that field? Perhaps you know a family member who is involved with something relating to your idea?
- Finally make a list of physical resources you have such as a computer or a phone.
Now look at your lists. What could you actually do with these skills and resources?
Have a plan
Almost any entrepreneur of whatever age will tell you that one of the keys to making a business work is having a plan. Think carefully about what your business will actually do and how you will do it and then write it down.
It might also be worth talking to a family member and running the idea past them.
I can’t do that!
Sounds too much like hard work? Do you feel that you’re too young to really make any money or make a success of a business? It’s often the simplest ideas that are the most successful...
Fraser Doherty started making jam in his parents' kitchen in Edinburgh in 2002 when he was 14. Word spread slowly and in 2007, Waitrose started selling the jams in its 184 stores! The company is now worth over £1million.
It’s also worth thinking about ideas that are directly relevant you and your friends. Then you already have a market...
Sam Kilcoyne started the Underage Club – a club for teens to dance and see live bands in 2006 when he was also 14. This summer saw him host hugely successful Underage Festival in London for the second year running.
Make your mark
If you’d like to give it a go but it all still sounds too daunting, check out Make Your Mark.
The campaign aims to help young people set up their own business and put entrepreneurial ideas into action. They’re all about confidence, motivation, capability and ambition.
Here are some ways you can get involved:-
- Enterprise Week – running from 17-23 November and involving activites, workshops, advice anre more.
- You can register your school for the Make Your Mark Challenge aimed at 14-19 year olds.
- Girls! Make Your Mark is aimed at, erm, girls, and amongst other activities puts you in touch with inspiring role models.
- Have a look at all the ways you can get involved via the website.
