How to Make Your First Business Profitable

You have the great American dream. You have an amazing product or service idea that is going to change the world. There is just one problem: you are not quite sure how to make your first business profitable. Do not worry, we have all been there. With a little bit of creativity and elbow grease, you can make your first business profitable in no time. Here are a few tips I used when I was first getting started and launching Whiskey Bones.

1. Know your audience: It is important to know who your target market is and what needs they have that your product or service can fill. If you do not know who your target market is, you will not be able to sell them anything. Take the time to research your target market and figure out what needs they have that are not being met by other businesses like yours.
2. Keep expenses low: When you are first starting out, it is important to keep expenses as low as possible. Do not go overboard on office space or inventory until you know for sure that there is a demand for your product or service. One way to keep expenses low is to bootstrap your business, which means using personal funds instead of taking out loans from banks or investors. I started small by ordering a small batch of prototypes then posted them on Etsy to get my first sells.
3. Generate positive cash flow: In order for your business to be successful, you need to generate positive cash flow. This means that the money coming into your business has to be greater than the money going out. One way to generate positive cash flow is to offer discounts or special promotions on your products or services. This will entice customers to buy from you instead of your competitors.
4. Offer something unique: In order for customers to choose your business over others, you need to offer something unique that they cannot find anywhere else. This could be a new take on an existing product, a unique service, or even just exceptional customer service. Whatever it is, make sure it is something that sets you apart from the competition and that customers will be willing to pay for. When I created Whiskey Bones, I recognized that premium whiskey stones didn't exist - only basic shapes. There was an opportunity to create a standout stone that could cool your beverage and be a work of art.  

Starting a business can be a daunting task, but it does not have to be impossible. With a little bit of creativity and hard work, you can make your first business profitable in no time flat. The most important thing is to know your audience, keep expenses low, generate positive cash flow, and offer something unique that sets you apart from the competition. Follow these tips and you will be well on your way to success!