How to Manage Finances When You’re Working as a Freelancer

Successful Founders Share Their Advice for Starting Your Own Business

Image Credit: geralt on Pixabay

If you’ve long been dreaming of joining the ranks of successful founders, read on. We’ve culled some of the best advice from the world’s most successful entrepreneurs. What’s more, we hope this post gives you the clarity and motivation to forge ahead and follow your dreams.

Believe in Yourself and the Good of Your Enterprise

Ariana Huffington, co-founder of the Huffington Post and one of the world’s most successful founders, has said, “If you’re going to start a business, you need to really love it, because not everybody is going to love it. When The Huffington Post was first launched in 2005, there were so many detractors. I remember a critic who wrote that the Huffington Post was an unsurvivable failure.”

It’s hard to believe that something like that can be said about the successful and enduring Huffington Post, but it’s true. What this tells us is that every endeavor worth its salt will often come with naysayers. What’s more, it’s often best to ignore them. When you believe in your business, the opinion of others should matter only if they’re saying something that is aligned with your growth.

Do What You Love and Love What You Do

Apple CEO and co-founder Steve Jobs was born February 24, 1955, and died of cancer on October 5, 2011. He also had something to say about work: “Your work is going to fill a large part of your life. And the only way to be truly satisfied is to do what you believe is great work. And the only way to do great work is to love what you do.”

Simply put, believing in your work will be your North Star. What’s more, your belief will help you persist when challenges arise and obstacles lie in your path.

Be a Problem-Solving Enterprise

The first American black woman to become a self-made millionaire and one of the most successful founders of her time was Madam C. J. Walker. Madam Walker got started on her path to success when she noticed that black women had specific hair problems and concerns that required new solutions. Over the years, Walker developed, marketed, and expanded her growing line of hair and scalp care products. She believed in her products—she personally used them—and she filled a void in the market.

Madam C. J. Walker’s success is a perfect example of how a business can succeed when it solves a problem. Therefore, no matter what enterprise you start, be sure to ask yourself what value you are offering others. When you can confidently answer this question, you will be on the path to becoming one of the world’s successful founders.

Must Successful Founders Always Invent Something New?

However, this does not mean your goal is to invent something totally new. This is especially true now when new things pop up every other day.

On the contrary, the trick is to innovate. See what’s already out there and figure out how you can improve it to serve a specific market. Send Later CEO Nathan Latka says, “Don’t invent something new. Copy what works and make tweaks to push it over the top.”

In other words, successful founders often think in terms of product innovation. For example, consider smartphones, which get yearly refreshes. Likewise, when it comes to the product you have in mind, think of ways you can improve it. What new features can you introduce?

Successful Founders Find New Solutions

Elon Musk, founder of PayPal, did right by consumers all over the world by creating an efficient platform for sending money online. Today, we take for granted that we can pay for goods and services within seconds. Moreover, Musk created this platform in a world where paying online by credit or debit card was already commonplace.

However, Musk took it one step further. That is, he combined money transfer with payment for goods and services without having to expose your credit card to all the merchants you transact with.

Successful Founders Get Technical

Profit is one of the cornerstones of entrepreneurial success. After all, if you’re not making any returns on your efforts then why pursue them?

However, if you want to know if an endeavor is making enough profit, it pays to know the details of your financials. This is especially true when you are just starting out and are still in no position to hire a lot of staff. As you go it alone (or with a very lean team), learn to do many tasks on your own. This is particularly true with tasks that require performance monitoring.

Sian Lenegan, founder of widely successful digital agency Sixth Story, advises entrepreneurs to personally attend to their finances. Doing so, she says, will allow them to discover growth opportunities as they come to terms with their company’s real numbers.

Get Help When You Need It

However, are you not so good with math and accounting? No problem, says Lenegan. Fortunately, there are resources that can help entrepreneurs manage their finances. Lenegan also goes on to say that she personally uses a virtual financial director service that’s designed for both small- and medium-scale businesses. This helps her to manage her business’s financials.

RELATED ARTICLE: LEVERAGE DEBT AND TAXES TO BECOME RICH: TIPS FOR SMART ENTREPRENEURS

Recruit People You Admire

Once you feel that you’re ready to get others on board, it is important to be prudent about whom you welcome into your entrepreneurial fold. This applies to all individuals who will play a part in your business. Therefore, whether you’re aligning with a new partner or hiring an administrative assistant, look for people who share your mindset when it comes to work.

LinkedIn co-founder Reid Hoffman shares that the one quick way to change yourself is to be in the company of individuals whom you admire. You need to see the kind of good you like in the people who are part of your team.

Focus on Incremental Growth

When you have a great start and your business is doing really well, you might see this as a sign to take it to the next level. While that’s the natural way of doing things, remember that a good approach is to concentrate on your next small step.

Coach.me founder and CEO Tony Stubbelbine says, “Focus on the next step and don’t try to make your five-year vision happen tomorrow.” In other words, aiming for the stars is perfectly acceptable. But focusing on small expansion goals will be easier and poses fewer risks. Always remember that small gains add up. Moreover, before you know it you will be in a whole new level of doing business.

No Two Paths Are the Same

Remember: When it comes to entrepreneurship, it’s going to be different for every person. If an entrepreneur runs more than one endeavor at a time, it will be different for every type of business he or she runs. There is no linear formula that every person can follow to success. In fact, for many there will be roundabouts, one step forward and two steps back, and so on.

These wise words from successful founders will certainly help a lot. But a large part of getting your endeavor up, running, and thriving will be based on your gut feel and personal assessment of how things are going. Leave room for mistakes, take opportunities as they come, and always stay the course!

The post Successful Founders Share Their Advice for Starting Your Own Business appeared first on Business Opportunities.

source http://www.business-opportunities.biz/2019/02/09/successful-founders-share-advice/

Exchanging Money Abroad: 10 Simple Tips for Getting a Better Deal

Image Credit: Pixabay on Pexels

Whether you’re traveling for business or for pleasure, in order to be able to spend money abroad, exchanging money is essential. In other words, you will have to exchange your currency to the locally accepted currency of the country where you are visiting.

Keep in mind that the exchange rate will determine how much money you get. What’s more, that rate varies. Therefore, it’s a good idea to become acquainted with the best places for exchanging money, as well as the best times to make an exchange. For example, if you are visiting the Canadian city of Winnipeg, you can make your exchange at currency exchange Winnipeg.

All the same, you need to be informed when it comes to exchanging currencies anywhere in the world. To that end, here are ten simple tips you can make use of when you’re exchanging money abroad.

1. Exchange Only Small Amounts of Money at the Airport

Airports often have poor rates. That’s because they have no competition. However, since you need a little cash to move around, just make a small exchange. However, only get enough of the local currency to allow you to get into the city and get your bearings.

2. Find a Touristy Street for Better Rates

When it comes to exchanging money, savvy travelers look for places where there are many tourists. That’s because they know that any touristy street is likely to be a good place for exchanging money, since the level of competition there makes currency exchanges more competitive.

What’s more, you could even shop different streets around the city for a chance of getting better exchange rates.

3. Currency Rates Are Volatile

It is always wise to monitor the currency rates. That’s because they are constantly changing. However, also keep in mind that tomorrow’s rate may cost you more for exchanging money than today’s rate does.

Also, it is a good idea to know about the best times to make an exchange. Generally speaking, Monday through Friday are the best days for exchanging money.

4. Do Not Exchange Money on a Weekend

The forex market is not open on weekends. As a result, weekends are not a good time to exchange your money for the locally accepted currency. Besides, every money-changing vendor will be using the last quote made on Friday. Therefore, it is better to wait until Monday.

RELATED ARTICLE: WHAT IS FOREX TRADING AND HOW DOES THE FOREX MARKET WORK?

5. ATMs Are Great Places for Exchanging Money

If your bank has an international ATM or a partner bank in the city you’re visiting, you could save money on withdrawal charges.

Nonetheless, even if that’s not the case, any ATM is still fairly inexpensive when it comes to exchanging your money for the locally accepted currency, even taking into account the transaction fees. So consider looking for an ATM when you want to exchange your money abroad.

6. Stay Away from “No-Fee” Bureaus

Avoid any bureau that has sign out front offering a “no-fee” currency exchange. Such a sign outside a money-exchanging bureau is an indication that you could be walking into a scam. The sign is just a way to lure you in. However, if you check their rates carefully, you will see that they are offering higher rates than you would get at an ATM.

7. Do Not Use Your Credit Card for a Cash Advance

As much as credit cards offer competitive rates, they often charge higher fees and interest rates on cash advances. What’s more, the interest on the advance will start as soon as you take the money. You won’t even get the usual interest-free grace period you receive for your credit card purchases.

8. Have Some Cash for Emergencies

Apart from your travel money, you should have an emergency fund stashed somewhere. Therefore, keep a U.S. one-hundred-dollar bill hidden away with you while you’re traveling. That’s because this is a currency that is accepted anywhere in the world, and it could get you out of a jam.

9. Do Not Use Your Debit Card for Purchases Abroad

Always use your ATM or debit card for cash withdrawals but not for purchases. This is because your bank account is likely to be debited immediately for any purchases. And if you decide to ask for a refund, it can take a week or more for that refund to be credited back to your account. This can be a big inconvenience while you’re traveling.

10. Use Credit Cards for Large Purchases Instead of Exchanging Money

Most credit cards will charge you a small percentage for the purchases you make abroad. However, they are still the least expensive and safest way to make payments for large purchases. Besides, credit cards often add their fee on top of the interbank rates. This can give you a better conversion rate even with the paid fees.

Be Sure to Have a Plan for Exchanging Money When Traveling

In conclusion, have a proper plan for exchanging money when you’re traveling internationally. In short, understand when, where, and how to exchange your money for the local currency. Knowing these things will help you to avoid unnecessary costs.

The post Exchanging Money Abroad: 10 Simple Tips for Getting a Better Deal appeared first on Business Opportunities.

source http://www.business-opportunities.biz/2019/02/08/exchanging-money-abroad/

The 5 Truths All Rental Business Owners Should Know

Rajasthan, India: The Business Traveler’s Ultimate Guide

Photo by Ankush Rathi from Pexels

The state of Rajasthan in India attracts not only tourists but also an increasing number of business travelers. But even if you’re visiting Rajasthan strictly for business purposes, be sure to take advantage of all there is to see and do while you’re there.

The majestic splendors of the state’s palaces and forts make it one of the most visited tourist destinations in the world. If your company’s business happens to take you there, be sure to take time to visit its colorful cities, including white Udaipur, pink Jaipur, and blue Jodhpur. And don’t miss its many beautiful lakes and lofty mountains.

To get more ideas, go to eRajasthanTourism.net. There you’ll find tips as well as alluring tour packages at greatly discounted prices.

RELATED ARTICLE: TIPS FOR BUSINESS TRAVELERS WHO ARE PLANNING TO VISIT BHUTAN

Reaching Rajasthan

There are plenty of options for traveling to Rajasthan. It is well connected by road and air. The international airport at Jaipur has regular flights from multiple domestic and international destinations. Rail is another popular means of travel. That’s because a vast network of local and express trains fan out across the state. Moreover, Rajasthan has an excellent road transport facility as well.

When to Visit Rajasthan

Summers in Rajasthan can be sweltering. For this reason, the best time to enjoy the state and its attractions is during winter, when the temperatures are pleasant for sightseeing and other activities. One can also enjoy Rajasthan during the monsoons because the temperatures drop then. In short, the months between October and March are the most comfortable times of the year.

Traveling Within Rajasthan

Transportation within Rajasthan comes in the form of cycle rickshaws, taxi, metro, and buses. Buses run between the major cities and make special trips to the major attractions. In addition, one can rent out a vehicle or hire a taxi to explore the state. You can also book significant transfers from the airport or the station to reach your destination. If you wish, you can also fly from one city to another within the state. That’s because Rajasthan has airports at various cities. For instance, Jodhpur, Jaipur, Kota, Jaisalmer, Ajmer, and Udaipur all have local airports.

Where to Stay

When it comes to lodging, Rajasthan has almost endless options, whatever your budget. For example, business travelers can take advantage of popular business hotels. To name a few, there are the Trident in Jaipur, Shahpura House, Golden Tulip Jaipur, Hilton Jaipur, Ramada Jaipur, and many more.

What to Do and See in Rajasthan

During those times when you’re free from meetings and seminars, be sure to visit as many of the following attractions as you can. Above all, take some time to unwind and relax while you’re in Rajasthan. Moreover, keep in mind that it doesn’t matter which city you visit in Rajasthan. That’s because wherever you go, there is plenty to see and explore here.

For example:

Jaipur is a particularly popular tourist attraction. That’s because of its palaces, forts, and temples.  Major attractions there include Jantar Mantar, Nahargarh Fort, Amer Fort, Hawa Mahal, and the City Palace.

In Jodhpur, explore Mehrangarh Fort and marvel at the massive walls that encircle it. Also, visit Jaswant Thada, the elegant Umaid Bhavan Palace, and Mandore Gardens.

Visit Udaipur, home to the City Palace, Rajasthan’s largest palace. Additionally, the Garden Palace is there as well, as is the Lake Palace at the banks of Lake Pichola. Also, you can explore the 15th-century fort of Kumbhalgarh as well as many other attractions.

Enjoy majestic views from Mount Abu. Major attractions there include Dilwara Jain Temples near Mount Abu and the Nakki Lake.

In the city of Bikaner you’ll discover epic forts such as Junagarh. Additionally, you’ll enjoy the stunning architecture of Lallgarh, as well as several other amazing places to visit in Bikaner.

But wait. There’s more:

See the sights in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan’s golden city, famous for its majestic forts, ancient havelis, and grand palaces. Further, enjoy a breathtaking view of the Thar desert with its high sand dunes.

Chittorgarh, too, is loaded with attractions. For example, explore Chittorgarh Fort, the Kirti Stambh, Rani Padmini’s Palace, the Vijay Stambh, and more.

Finally, Ajmer is a well-known center for Muslim pilgrimages. What’s more, be sure to visit Adhai Din Ka Jhonpra, Akbari Fort, Ajmer Sharif Dargah, and Taragarh Fort, an excellent example of Muslim architecture.

Shopping and Eating in Rajasthan

The exotic state of Rajasthan is famous for its tourist-friendly destinations and its traditional bazaars and colorful street markets. Explore these markets and shop for jewelry, handicrafts, miniature paintings, leather goods, traditional Rajasthani artifacts, and footwear.

But even when you’re visiting Rajasthan strictly for business, do enjoy tasting the local delicacies and authentic Rajasthani cuisines. For example, try the traditional Rajasthani thali as well as other delicious dishes. And don’t go home without tasting, for instance, Dal Bati Churma, Mohan Thaal, Laal Maas, Mawa Kachori, Mirchi Bada, Mohan Maas, Pyaaz Ki Kachori, Gatte, Kadhi, and more.

The post Rajasthan, India: The Business Traveler’s Ultimate Guide appeared first on Business Opportunities.

source http://www.business-opportunities.biz/2019/02/06/rajasthan-india-business-travelers/

Kerala: A Business Traveler’s Guide to God’s Own Country

Photo by Vivek Kumar on Unsplash

Kerala lures travelers from near and far. Known as “God’s own country,” this tropical paradise boasts verdant coastlines, lush tea gardens, and languid backwaters.

Tourists come to Kerala from all over the world. Business travelers, too, have begun to follow in recent decades. A melting pot of Indian and colonial traditions, Kerala has something for everybody. Moreover, before you go, it is a good idea to browse eKeralaTourism.net. There you’ll find special tours with handsome deals and promotions.

When to Go to Kerala

Most travelers agree that the best time to enjoy Kerala is during the winter. That’s when the temperatures are mild. Avoid summer, however. Those months can be hot and humid. Kerala is at its natural best during the monsoons. However, it can be cumbersome to enjoy because of the heavy rains.

How to Reach Kerala

You can conveniently reach Kerala by road, air, rail, and sea. International airports in Kochi, Calicut, and Thiruvananthapuram connect Kerala to the rest of the world. Moreover, national highways and more than 200 railway stations connect cities within Kerala with the rest of India.

On the other hand, perhaps you plan to travel by sea. In that case, ships sail regularly toward the Lakshadweep Islands. There are also ferry services. Additionally, speed boats and houseboats invite you to explore Kerala’s extensive internal water navigation system.

Where to Stay in Kerala

The state boasts a plethora of hotels and resorts suited for business travel. Visitors can enjoy a comfortable stay along with the latest amenities for business meetings. For example, Hotel Park Residency and Park Connect are some great options for business travelers.

As an aside, most Keralites call themselves Malayalis. Moreover, their main language is Malayalam. However, communication is easy for international travelers because most residents speak and understand English.

What to Pack for Exploring Kerala

Kerala boasts an extensive network of buses. Use these for visiting various destinations within the state. Additionally, take advantage of auto rickshaw, buses, or local ferries and boats.

As the weather here is mild and warm, pack comfortable cotton clothing. This is especially the case when you’re traveling during the summer or the monsoons. Flip-flops are essential for the beaches. In particular, be sure to pack mosquito repellent and sunscreen.

Tourist Destinations in Kerala

Be sure to take some time off from your business activities to enjoy the serenity of Kerala’s beautiful hills. Alternatively, spend some time on its pristine beaches and visit some colonial landmarks.

Here are just a few ideas for your trip:

In Munnar, the mountains play with the clouds. Here, appealing tea plantations and rivers spread across the land.

Thekkady is perfect for nature lovers and hiking enthusiasts. Nature walks, jungle expeditions, and plantation tours abound.

Kovalam is the land of palm-fringed beaches along the southern coast. Here you’ll find respite from the hectic life of the cities.

Just a few more suggestions…

For romantics, Kumarakom is perfect with its serene houseboats gliding through gentle backwaters along picturesque beaches. But while you’re there, don’t miss the electrifying snake boat races!

Cochin beckons locals and tourists with its languid backwaters and its dazzling beaches. But don’t miss its exciting festivals and its delicious cuisine.

Alleppey’s luscious greenery, shimmering canals, and alluring beaches make it another favorite destination.

Alappuzha boasts an intricate network of inland canals.

RELATED ARTICLE: TRAVELING ABROAD: HOW IT WILL HELP YOU GROW AS AN ENTREPRENEUR

In Wayanad you’ll find twisted jungles, waterfalls, even wildlife sanctuaries. These are only a few of the many lovely places to visit in Wayanad.

Thrissur, formerly known as Trichur, is known for its spiritual culture and its colorful temple festivals.

Finally, explore Kumarakom, famous for its backwater tourism. This area is also home to the state’s largest freshwater lake, Vembanad Lake.

Shopping and Eating in Kerala

Before you leave, you really must try Kerala’s mouthwatering local delicacies. For example, enjoy appam, a light and crispy pancake, with stew. Or try Kerala beef fry with Malabar porotta. Not to be missed is Kerala’s best seafood, the prawn moilee.

Finally, be sure to shop for local spices, tea, and coffee straight from the plantations. Other favorites are banana chips, cashew nuts, local handicrafts, and aromatic oils.

The post Kerala: A Business Traveler’s Guide to God’s Own Country appeared first on Business Opportunities.

source http://www.business-opportunities.biz/2019/02/06/kerala-business-travelers/

Locksmithing: A Great Way for Florida Retirees to Be Their Own Boss

Retiring and moving to Florida is a dream for many workers. What’s more, if a retiree is lucky, they will have enough money saved to be financially secure. But with the economy being so stagnant lately, many retirees need to take on a job to make ends meet. One option is locksmithing.

With locksmithing, you get to help others. Even better, you can work your own hours. What’s more, you can be a locksmith in West Palm Beach, Tallahassee, or anywhere in the state you choose. Florida doesn’t require extensive certification like other states.

Following are some of the requirements and other benefits for retirees wanting to become a locksmith in the sunshine state.

RELATED ARTICLE: 5 STEPS ON HOW TO START YOUR OWN COMPUTER SERVICING BUSINESS

Why Locksmithing?

Being a locksmith is great for people who enjoy helping others. A locksmith regularly helps people who are locked out of their car, home, or business. They also can help business owners get into safes they have forgotten the combination for. 

It’s always a plus to see a smile on a customer’s face because you could help them out. It is also a great career for people who enjoy puzzles and taking apart and rebuilding mechanical devices. 

What Skills Will You Need?

A formal education isn’t required to become a locksmith in Florida. However, taking a vocational program at a local technical college or earning a certification through an online university will help immensely.  It also will help to have the following skills:

Manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination

Picking locks requires an eye for detail. That’s because you will be dealing with very small parts that at times you can only feel.

Good at problem solving

Every situation is different. However, good locksmiths relish the chance to problem solve tricky locks. Experience makes the solutions to many problems second nature.

Good memory

The best locksmiths know the type of lock or key needed by sight because of working on that type previously.

Being a people person

People who are locked out or can’t get into something locked usually are frustrated and in a bad mood. Being a people person helps locksmiths to defuse the situation and get customers to relax.

What Requirements and Certifications Will You Need in Florida?

To become a locksmith in Florida you will need to be at least 18 years old. Further, you must not have a criminal record, and you need to be able to pass an FBI background check. However, there are waivers available for potential locksmiths who have received misdemeanors if that is an issue.

Reputable locksmiths are members of the Associated Locksmiths of America (ALOA) and have one of these certifications:

• (RL) Registered Locksmith
• (CRL) Certified Registered Locksmith
• (CPL) Certified Professional Locksmith
• (CML) Certified Master Locksmith

Each certification level requires passing a certification exam with a score of 70% or better.

What Are the Different Types of Locksmithing Services?

Everyone uses locks at some point. Therefore, there are times when almost everyone needs a locksmith for a variety of reasons. There are six basic services that locksmiths provide, with Certified Master Locksmiths being experts in all of the following:

Installing locks

Locks are necessary to keep entrances secure. Options include key locks, keypads, and card swipe locks. A locksmith can change the locks or pass code and provide enough keys for everyone who needs access.

Repairing locks

Locks usually can last for years. At times, however, locks may need repair. For example, keys sometimes break off in the lock or the latch mechanism sticks. A locksmith can determine if the lock can be repaired on the spot or if it needs to be replaced.

Cutting keys

Locksmiths have machines that can cut a new key in case one is lost or has broken in the lock. 

Providing access

If someone finds themselves locked out of their home or office a locksmith can unlock a door. Then the person can either find the key or determine if a new one is needed. This can occur at any time. Therefore, providing this service 24 hours a day is important.

Cutting car keys

Modern cars use specialized keys. However, locksmiths can open cars and cut keys for almost all cars.

Security and protection

The main reason for having a lock is to protect your assets. A good locksmith knows about the different types of locks and the level of security they provide.

What Are the Benefits of Being a Locksmith?

Ideally, a new locksmith will train under someone until they become adept enough to open their own company. Once this occurs you will be able to create your own schedule. However, nights, weekends, and holidays are the most lucrative times to work as a locksmith. 

Another benefit of being a locksmith is that you can turn your home into your office. This can give you a break on your taxes.

Lastly, being a locksmith will allow you to be your own boss. You can run your business from anywhere in the state. Therefore, your success or failure will fall squarely on your shoulders.

Locksmithing is a great career idea for retirees. It will enable you to be your own boss while performing a needed benefit for others. While it may take a little personal investment to get started, the results will be worth it.

The post Locksmithing: A Great Way for Florida Retirees to Be Their Own Boss appeared first on Business Opportunities.

source http://www.business-opportunities.biz/2019/02/05/locksmithing-retirees/