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An entrepreneur is in the unique position of transforming ideas into reality. However, the road to success is not always easy. Statistics show that only half of new start-ups are still in business five years after launching, so consider these tips to increase your odds for success. Here are some tips and resources to help you get your new business off the ground.

Assess Your Options

If you plan to launch a company, be strategic when choosing the type of business you want to run. It's wise to pursue something that doesn't require a large capital investment, and thankfully, the digital age makes this easier than ever. The e-commerce marketplace provides many opportunities to stake your claim:

• Start a dropshipping business that allows you to act as the middleman between customers and manufacturers
• Utilize your expertise by becoming an online consultant
• Offer online courses in your field
• Leverage your social media status to receive affiliate marketing commissions
• Use your creative talent to sell art directly to consumers via online platforms

Work from Home

Save money and reduce risk by running your company out of your house. Not only can you reduce overhead expenses, such as rent and utilities, but you can also save money with a home office tax deduction.

Stay Flexible

When you launch a business, it can be difficult to predict the future. Although you start out focusing on a particular product, the market may eventually lead you in another direction.

To leave yourself with enough flexibility to branch out or change course, create a "doing business as" name for your firm. Filing for a DBA name allows you to do business under alternative branding, and if you diversify later, you can assign different labels to each new enterprise. Additionally, if someone has claimed your company's name for a website domain, having a DBA designation allows you to market your product under a different name.

Invest in Marketing

A company's success hinges on reaching potential customers and garnering sales. To do this, invest time and effort into your marketing strategy.

One of the first things shoppers notice is your business logo. Because first impressions count, you need a well-designed logo that captures their attention, communicates your company's message, and gives you the edge over your competition. Let the pros at Red Goose Design create a one-of-a-kind logo that represents and enhances your brand.

You also need to reach and engage potential customers. Social media is a great way to do this. By developing a marketing strategy that takes advantage of multiple social platforms, you can increase brand awareness, boost community engagement, and drive traffic to your website.

Another strategy is to create a YouTube video marketing your products or services. Create a professional and engaging video and then use a YouTube banner template to design a customized banner that incorporates your brand.

Get an MBA

As an entrepreneur, your company's success rests on your shoulders. To ensure you are equipped to handle the responsibilities that come with running a business, consider enrolling in an MBA program. The coursework can improve your knowledge in several key areas:

• Business strategy
• Product development
• Personnel management
• Leadership skills
• Assessment techniques

Online programs give you the flexibility you need to earn a degree and grow your business simultaneously. Moreover, the skills you gain from your classes can benefit your company, since you will be better informed when making important decisions.

Launching your own start-up provides you with the opportunity to pursue your dreams. To increase your odds for success, plan carefully and make strategic decisions at every stage of the process.