HOW TO TURN A PASSION INTO A BUSINESS IN 6 SIMPLE STEPS
Perhaps you've heard the old adage, "Do what you love, and you'll never work a day in your life." Whatever its truth, it's certainly a good saying when it comes to enjoying your work. And if you are a hobbyist, the good news is that you may be able to achieve this lifestyle goal.
If you like to spend hours in the store building furniture, knitting while watching TV or waiting in line at the DMV, or making sweet-smelling soaps and candles, you may be capable of turning your hobbies into a business.
In this article, we will discuss some hobbies that are easy to monetize, what to consider before venturing out, and how to build your business. On this page, you will find tips to help you take the first step from hobby to business.
From Hobby to Business, 6 Steps
In the hobby world, you may not know where to start from a business perspective. We are here to help you.
First, we will research your hobby to determine if there is demand for it and if it can create value in the marketplace. Next, we decide whether the hobby will be a side business or your main business. At this point, you will also determine if the hobby is sustainable as a business and if it can last for several years.
If the initial prospects are good, take the following steps to make your hobby a business.
1. choose a business model
First, decide what type of business you want to run. The type of business model you choose will depend on a variety of factors, including
- Work preference: Job preference. Do you want to be responsible for manufacturing the product and running the business yourself? Or do you want someone else to help you run your new company, such as managing inventory and finances?
- Production: Do you want to outsource part of the production process, manage production yourself, or sell finished goods or services?
- Sales Method: Are you intending to sell online, in person, or both?
Making a business strategy will assist you in answering these questions. It will also assist you in determining the timing for launching your business, the cash required, and any other needs.
2. establish a brand
The next thing you need is a brand. A brand is what will distinguish you from similar hobby-turned-entrepreneurs and ensure that you build a relationship with your target audience.
A good brand is more than just a business name or logo. Your brand should be a statement of your values, your story, your personality, and your vision for the future. Some of the assets you need for branding include
- The brand's voice (the personality you use in your content)
- Visual guidelines (brand fonts, colors, images, etc.)
- Brand values (what you stand for)
Once you have created these assets, use them consistently across all channels, from email to social media to product packaging, to ensure consumer recognition.
3. explore funding options
If your business began as a hobby, you most likely already have much of the equipment required to make your product. However, you may need funds to upgrade some machinery or tools to meet increased demand.
The specific costs of a new business will depend on the type of company you want to build. For example, if a dance instructor wants to package his or her dances into virtual lessons, consider the initial costs of cameras and lighting equipment.
Hobby businesses are usually funded by the founder, but in some cases, they may need grants, loans, or capital source for small businesses. Another option is to raise funds through crowdfunding, but in this case you will need to explain to people what they are donating before they donate. A PowerPoint presentation should be sufficient to handle this.
4. streamline your workspace and processes
To turn your hobby into a business, you need to streamline your workspace and processes as much as possible. Knitting jumpers on the couch may be comfortable at first, but it is probably not the most efficient way to mass produce a product.
Take a look at your current workspace and see if anything can be added to expand your operation. You may be able to invest in additional equipment to improve manufacturing productivity. You may also be able to modify workspace flow lines to conform to ventilation and safety requirements. Make the appropriate changes to ensure growth and profitability.
5. choose your sales channels
Once the production process has been streamlined, it is time to develop sales. Today, you have a variety of sales channels to choose from. First, you can set up your own website, host your products there, and have complete control over your e-mail list and brand presence.
Another possibility is to expand your reach by selling on popular marketplaces related to your interests. For example, Etsy is a good place to sell handmade items, Udemy is for educational content creators, TikTok is a starting point for hobby-turned-brands, and now you can sell directly on TikTok through Shopify.
With the right sales channels, you can get in front of the right buyers, even with a small marketing budget.
6. brand launch and promotion
Now it is time to start your business. Create an announcement article to communicate that you are transitioning from a hobby to a business. If you had support from family and friends when you were a hobbyist, use them as the main source of support and spread the word about your new brand by word of mouth.
You can also send out emails before the official launch to generate buzz and grow your followers and list. In addition, there are several organic marketing tactics that can be used by hobbyists-turned-entrepreneurs on an even lower budget.
Hobbies that can be turned into businesses
1. writing
Writing and online publishing can become a full-time business. If you choose a niche and take the time to build a readership, you can start your own blog and sell advertising space.
2. cooking
Cooking is one of those hobbies that can be transitioned into a business in a number of ways, such as selling your own food products or setting up a food truck business.
3. music
Your passion for music can create a source of income in several different ways. For example, you can record your own songs and sell them on your website or on platforms such as SoundCloud. Another great idea is to create beats and samples that podcasters can use in their outros.
4. gardening
Gardening is a hobby that may help you become healthier, happier, and wealthier. You can sell your plants on a monthly basis or as a one-time buy. You can also sell gardening supplies to help customers pursue their passion for growing.
5. DIY Crafts
Have fun with your handiwork. Jewelry, soaps, candles, bath bombs, and much more can be made and sold. Your friends and family can be your first customers and best advocates.
6. photography
You can become a freelance photographer, but consider selling your photography as stock photos or prints as a more scalable side business.
Turn what you love into a business.
Turning a hobby into a business can seem intimidating, especially if you have never started a business before. But don't worry. Once you understand the basics of the steps, all you have to do is keep learning and growing every day.
The most important tip we can give you is to not be afraid to fail. Don't be afraid to fail, keep an open mind and do your best.