New tech startups seem to appear online every day. Some are destined for great things, others more likely to fade away. The fate of a tech startup depends largely on the experience, instinct, and qualifications of its owner. Here are some tips to give your business the best start in life.
#1 Learn everything that you can
Most business owners study in the area of the products that they plan to sell. For example, a green tech startup might learn about new methods of energy generation and renewables, but too few tech startup owners study exactly how to run a business. These companies thrive or die on how well they’re advertised and marketed, and these are two skills that can absolutely be taught. A Public Relations and Advertising degree will give you advanced knowledge of how to market your business, attract clients, foster long-term industry relationships and make your company stand out. The tech startup field is crowded, so invest in learning to help yourself cut through the noise.
#2 Consider how you’ll operate
It was once common practice for businesses to start by finding office space, settling in, hiring staff and then expanding when necessary. This is a costly endeavor, though. It brings a range of costs into play, including rent, energy bills and various types of insurance. The pandemic taught businesses around the globe that remote work isn’t just possible, but that it might even be preferable. Rather than seeing productivity dip when employees were sent home, many businesses actually saw it increase. Employees prefer remote work because they spend less time commuting. Cloud software makes data sharing easier than ever. It won’t be suitable for every business model (and some will opt for a hybrid model), but remote work is a massive money saver.
#3 Leverage social media
The business world is ever-changing, but there’s one constant that always stays the same: the importance of social media. Platforms like Facebook, Instagram and Twitter are vitally important for any business, and nowhere is that more true than for tech startups. Social media gives you easy access to customers, helps you to build a brand and get eyes on your products. Although social media algorithms have squeezed organic (free) reach in recent times, you can still launch successful advertising campaigns without paying money. Posting frequently, keeping engagement high by replying to all messages and comments and using the correct hashtags will help your business to establish a foothold.
#4 Start with a niche
Any business should be aware of and focus on its niche, but this point is especially pertinent for tech startups. Start with a single product that you’re passionate about and keep the business model lean with a laser-sharp focus. Rather than trying to develop a wide range of products or spreading yourself too thinly, pour all of your attention and passion into a single item. There’s plenty of room to grow in the future, but starting small means focus and economy.
