Share this Article:
Share Article on Facebook Share Article on Linked In Share Article on Twitter

By Debbie Gregory.

At VAMBOA, we salute the entrepreneurial drive that members of the military and military veterans display. Managing risk, operating with limited resources and working well under pressure are skills learned during military service that serve you well as you start your business.

But regardless of your preparation, it is inevitable that you will make some mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls and ways to avoid them:

  • Failing to Have a Plan– Without a business plan to guide your startup and growth, you’ll struggle to make decisions, obtain loans, or bring investors on board. The solution is easy- have a plan. Venturing out on your own requires ambition and a willingness to take risks.   Remember that you need to have a plan for how you’re going to make money. A written plan helps you stay focused on the right customers, opportunities and business objectives and on course. There are many tools available online to guide you through the process of writing your business plan.
  • Failing to Define Your Purpose– Many businesses never define their real purpose for existence. Americans want to give back to those who serve, so make sure your military/veteran status is front and center. If you give back a percentage of your profits to a cause, promote that! Let your clients know your mission.
  • Failing to Understand your Customers– It is not enough to have a good idea. Make sure you conduct market research to pinpoint your ideal target customers, and then create dynamic messages that solve a problem, meet a need, or fulfill a desire.
  • Waiting to Long to Hire Employees or Hiring the Wrong Ones – Are you trying to save money, or do you just not want to delegate anything? Both of those will cost you in the long run. The greatest mistake entrepreneurs make is to believe they can do it all by themselves. Hire carefully and thoughtfully. Don’t wait until you are desperate for help. Delegate small tasks or outsource the tasks you need help with until the right team is in place.   Hire people who can grow with your business.
  • Losing Focus of your Cash Flow – Finding small business financing can be time-consuming, and if you wait until you really need the money, you may be forced to settle for more expensive options. Stay on top of your cash flow and keep in mind that applying for financing while your business finances are in good shape will increase your chances of approval.

In summary:

  • Have a Plan
  • Have a Purpose
  • Understand Your Clients
  • Hire the Right Employees at the Right Time
  • Focus on Your Cash Flow

Once done with these key steps – you will then be well on your way at optimizing your business and avoiding common mistakes!

Veteran and Military Business Owners Association, VAMBOA,