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Expert Answers to Biz Questions
Listen in! Pick up some expert advice to a reader's question that we selected from CyberSchmooz.
6 Things You Need For Your On-The-Go Business
Having a business that's on the move leads to some challenges. You have to overcome obstacles that other businesses don't, and sometimes the ability to overcome these challenges are what can make or break a business. You need certain things in order to make your on-the-go business a success, and without them your business may never get off the ground. Here are a few of the things you'll need for your on-the-go business if you want it to succeed.
Payment Options
Since you're going to be moving around, you won't have the luxury of installing a cash register at the counter. And while you could deal with only cash or checks, this limits the payment options for your customers. Giving them the ability to pay with credit or debit cards is a great convenience to them, and will likely lead to more return customers. You have several options when it comes to accepting credit/debit payments on the go - the simplest of which can be a device that plugs into your smartphone. You can visit this link for more information on payment options for small businesses.
Reliable Transportation
If you're going to be moving around, you need a reliable way to get from place to place. You can say goodbye to a customer if you have to cancel something because your car broke down, or you couldn't get a ride. No matter what type of business you have - whether its a flower delivery service or a moving company - you need a reliable way to get around. Make sure your car/truck/van is in good condition, and make sure you bring it in for regular tune ups.
The Right Insurance
Driving around a lot means more chance that something could happen to your vehicle. To protect yourself and your business, you want to have the right insurance. Under some plans, using your car for business requires additional coverage, and your current personal plan may not cover it. You can learn more about vehicle insurance from The Insurance Place, and figure out what type you need to ensure you are safe. Don't get on the road without being properly covered.
Good Marketing
Just like any business, you need to market yourself well if you want people to find you. One advantage that you have is that you can turn the act of driving around all day into a mobile advertisement. Add some stickers to your car that promote your business, or consider getting a custom car wrap if you really want people to notice it. If you own a truck, be sure your logo and slogan are painted on the side, along with a phone number to contact you. You may not get a ton of sales from people seeing your vehicle, but it will certainly help with name recognition.
Organization and Time Management Skills
People who work in one location all day have time to figure out their schedules, and a place to store the things they need to operate. A business on-the-go isn't always afforded this luxury. In order to prosper, you'll need to become adept at managing not only your supplies, but your time as well. At the end of each day you should plan out the following day, and create a schedule for yourself. You should also make sure everything you need is organized, and stored in a place where you can always get it (like the trunk of your car). Here is a list of some vital time management and organizational skills to help you out.
A Good Cell Phone Plan
Finally, you'll likely be doing a lot of talking will on the move, so you'll need a good phone plan. You won't have the benefit of being in an office with WiFi, or a dedicated phone line, so your phone's data plan should reflect that. Also consider getting a phone that has GPS (most do these days), to help you get around from customer to customer.
Have The Right Tools For The Trade
If you want your mobile business to succeed, you need to have the right stuff. Your business has different needs than those in an office, so you should get the tools and skills that fit your style of operation. Hopefully this list got you thinking about what your mobile business will need, and you'll be able to take your on-the-go business to the next level.
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