What's one piece of advice you would give to clients who are considering starting their own business? What are some key things to consider, and what resources can help them succeed?

Question

Starting a business can be a daunting yet rewarding journey. This article presents expert-backed tips to guide aspiring entrepreneurs through the process of launching their own ventures. From embracing problem-solving to focusing on niche markets, these insights provide a comprehensive roadmap for business success with career coaching support.

Max Shak · Answer

When someone tells me they're thinking about starting their own business, my first instinct is to smile—because I remember that exact feeling of excitement mixed with uncertainty when I was launching Zapiy. It's a bold step, and I always remind them that the idea is just the spark. What determines success is the ability to stay resilient and resourceful when things inevitably get messy.
One piece of advice I often share is to fall in love with the problem, not the solution. When I started out, I was convinced my "solution" was perfect. But it was only through conversations with clients across industries that I realized my assumptions weren't always aligned with their real challenges. That shift—listening more than pitching—completely reframed how we built and positioned our services. Too many entrepreneurs get attached to the product before validating whether the problem truly needs solving.
Another key consideration is cash flow. I learned this the hard way in the early days when I underestimated how long it would take to land recurring contracts. Growth doesn't kill startups—poor cash flow management does. It's not glamorous advice, but understanding your runway, building lean, and avoiding unnecessary overhead can be the difference between burning out and breaking through.
As for resources, I always suggest tapping into communities—whether that's local entrepreneur networks, online founder groups, or even informal mentor relationships. Some of the best advice I've ever received wasn't from a book or a conference; it was from a late-night coffee chat with another founder who had been through the exact storm I was facing. Tools and frameworks help, but conversations with people who have lived it give you perspective and shortcuts you can't Google.
Starting a business will test your patience, creativity, and ego. There will be moments when you wonder if you're cut out for it. But if you stay close to the problem you're solving, keep an eye on your cash flow, and surround yourself with the right people, you give yourself a fighting chance not just to survive, but to build something meaningful.

Cindy Cavoto · Answer

My best advice for anyone thinking about starting a business is to truly understand the 'why' behind what they're doing. It's not enough to just have a great idea; you need to be passionate and deeply connected to your purpose. This passion is what will fuel you through the tough times, and there will be plenty of those. I've seen so many people get caught up in the excitement of a new venture only to lose steam when the first obstacle appears. Starting a business is a marathon, not a sprint, and your purpose is the fuel that gets you to the finish line.
When you're first getting started, focus on building a strong foundation. You'll want to get a firm grasp of your market, your ideal customer, and your financial needs. Talk to as many people as you can in your industry. Don't be afraid to ask for advice from mentors and fellow entrepreneurs. There are also great books and online courses that can provide a roadmap, like those from SCORE or the Small Business Administration. Having a solid plan and a network of people you can rely on will make a world of difference as you turn your dream into a reality.

Justin Abrams · Answer

Starting a business feels a lot like stepping into a new city without a map. You know the streets you want to walk, the cafes you'd like to visit, but you can't predict every detour or traffic jam. You bring energy, ideas, and skills, but the world around you, from customers to costs to trends, will always surprise you. The trick is learning what you can control and spotting what you can't. The economy, supply chains, even viral trends – they all ripple down to your door. If the price of materials jumps, your handmade goods suddenly cost more to produce. If clients tighten their budgets, your service might sit on the shelf a little longer. Understanding this chain reaction – if A happens, then B, then C – lets you plan smarter, not just react faster.
Tools and mentors make a difference. A simple cash flow app can show rising expenses before they hit hard. Talking with other entrepreneurs or joining local business groups gives perspective you can't get alone. These aren't abstract lessons; they're real solutions that help you avoid the surprises that sink so many new businesses. Habits matter too. Checking costs weekly, listening to customer feedback, testing ideas in small doses – it all adds up. A few small steps today prevent big headaches tomorrow. And yes, mistakes will happen, but noticing patterns early turns them into lessons rather than disasters. Success isn't about playing it safe. It's about seeing risk clearly, responding quickly, and using practical tools to turn uncertainty into opportunity. When you stay alert and flexible, the surprises become part of the journey instead of roadblocks.

Ahmad Faiz · Answer

If there's one piece of advice I'd give to anyone thinking about starting their own business, it's this: focus on building trust before chasing numbers. In roofing, and in business in general, the fastest way to fail is to treat customers like transactions instead of people. When I started Achilles Roofing and Exterior, I learned quickly that no marketing budget or sales pitch can cover up poor workmanship or broken promises. Word travels fast, and your reputation will either become your strongest asset or your biggest liability.
The first key thing to consider is whether you're ready to handle the weight of consistency. It's not about doing one good job or having one good month; it's about delivering quality day in and day out, even when it's inconvenient or costs you more than you expected. Business owners who cut corners for short-term gain usually end up paying for it later—whether in callbacks, bad reviews, or lost referrals.
Another factor is people. You can't do it all alone, so surround yourself with the right team. In roofing, I know that the crew on the roof represents me just as much as I do when meeting a homeowner. Hiring the right people, training them, and setting a clear standard of accountability makes all the difference.
As for resources, don't underestimate the power of mentorship and industry networks. I leaned on experienced contractors and suppliers who had been through the ups and downs. Their advice saved me from costly mistakes. Also, understanding your numbers—cash flow, overhead, and profit margins—is critical. Too many new business owners underestimate the financial side and end up burning out, even if the work is steady.
At the end of the day, success in business isn't about luck. It's about discipline, reputation, and relationships. If you can keep your focus on those three things, the rest will fall into place. That's what's kept Achilles Roofing growing and earning the trust of homeowners year after year.

Alim Sheykhislyamov · Answer

Starting a business can be both thrilling and daunting, and if there's one piece of advice I would share, it's this: embrace resilience and remain adaptable. As the owner of Judo Club Challenge, I've witnessed firsthand how staying flexible in the face of challenges can lead to unexpected opportunities for growth.
One key thing to consider when starting your own venture is to have a clear vision of what you want to achieve - both in terms of business goals and the impact you wish to have on your community. In our case, at Judo Club Challenge, we don't just focus on athletics; we aim to develop strong, confident individuals who carry the values of discipline and respect into their futures. Ensuring your mission aligns with your personal values will not only guide your decision-making but also resonate with your audience.
Next, understanding your target market is crucial. Conduct thorough research to identify who your potential customers are, what they need, and how your business can fulfill that need better than anyone else. For us, this meant recognizing the demand for quality judo training programs for youth and adults in Vaughan, Ontario, and tailoring our offerings accordingly.
Additionally, consider investing time in mentorship and community resources. Networking with other business owners can provide invaluable insights and support. Organizations such as local small business associations often host workshops and events that can guide new entrepreneurs in essential areas like marketing, finance, and operations. I've personally benefited from engaging with mentors and participating in workshops that sharpened my leadership skills and understanding of the market landscape.
Finally, it's important to remember that failures are often stepping stones to success. At Judo Club Challenge, we've faced our own hurdles, from adapting to the pandemic's challenges to evolving our training methods to cater to various skill levels. Each setback taught us something valuable and ultimately led to a more resilient and innovative club.
In essence, the journey of entrepreneurship requires perseverance, a commitment to learning, and a willingness to adapt. It's about creating not just a business, but a lasting impact in your community. If you approach your venture with these principles in mind, you'll be on the path to not just survive, but thrive.

Chris Rowland · Answer

The best advice I'd give is to ensure you know your numbers from day one. When I started Rowland Pest Management, I focused so much on acquiring customers and delivering excellent service that I didn't pay enough attention to margins. I was booking jobs and staying busy, but once I sat down and looked closely, I realized some of that work wasn't profitable after factoring in time, labor, and materials. That wake-up call changed how I priced and planned growth.
For anyone starting a business, build a simple system to track expenses and revenue early, even if it's just basic accounting software and a good bookkeeper. Don't wait until tax season or a cash crunch to figure it out. Clear financial visibility is what allows you to make smart decisions and avoid surprises, and it's one of the biggest factors that will keep you in business long-term.

Anthony Sorrentino · Answer

One lesson I'd share is to get comfortable with saying no early on. When I first started, I took every job that came my way—big, small, or completely outside my expertise—because I thought more work automatically meant growth. Instead, it spread me too thin and made it harder to deliver consistent quality. The real turning point came when I started narrowing my focus to the services we did best. That shift not only improved customer satisfaction but also gave me a clearer direction for building the business.
If you're just starting out, think about what kind of work you want to be known for, not just what pays the bills in the short term. Saying no to the wrong opportunities creates space for the right ones to stick. A good resource is connecting with other local business owners who've been through it—they'll tell you firsthand which opportunities are worth chasing and which ones will drain you.

Aneta Vančova · Answer

Starting your own business is an important and complex decision. It's not only about the "hard" business facts — market data, financial planning, or strategy — but also about the "softer" elements: your emotional intelligence, empathy, and intuition. In my experience, success comes when these two sides are aligned.
Often, decisions that look logical on paper may not turn out to be the right ones if they ignore these other dimensions. Learning to stay present, to reconnect with intuition, and to listen to the body's signals can make a real difference between growth and burnout. The good news is that these are skills that can be developed with practice.
To clients, I recommend regular self-reflection as part of their entrepreneurial journey. This doesn't always require expensive programs or mentoring. Self-help tools can be very effective if used consistently. One example I often suggest is KEYS to your relationships, a reflective tool created by Peter Shogun Trnka. It brings together a comprehensive book and a set of 90 cards, each connected to a theme with guiding questions, reflections, and practices that help move insight into real experience. The process is simple: you draw a card, explore the question, and use the practices to connect self-awareness with action. This helps entrepreneurs step out of automatic patterns, see challenges from new perspectives, and tap into their inner wisdom — which can be one of the most reliable guides when building something new.

Andrei Kurtuy · Answer

It's always a thrill to see candidates we've helped transform into entrepreneurs, taking a bold leap in their career journey. My top advice for aspiring founders is to treat your current job as your first startup investment. The best place to learn the ropes of running a business is inside one, viewing it through a leader's lens.
First, don't just master your role. Get curious about the whole operation. How does marketing spark leads? How do sales seal deals? What bugs customer support? How are finances handled? This big-picture view is essential for founders.
Second, solve problems like a boss. Don't just flag issues. Propose fixes, volunteer for cross-functional projects, or lead small initiatives to hone ownership and resource management.
Third, build your network with purpose. Connect with colleagues, mentors, and clients. These relationships could become your future advisors or customers.
Supplement this with resources like "The Lean Startup" by Eric Ries, Y Combinator's Startup School, or the "How I Built This" podcast for real-world inspiration. Your entrepreneurial journey starts when you begin thinking like an owner in your current role.

Nathan Barz · Answer

Good Day,
Thinking about launching your own business? Before you pour your savings into fancy logos and website design, make sure you test the waters first. Avoid the "build it and they will come" trap by focusing on a tiny, realistic slice of your hypothetical customers. Ask them what's keeping them up at night, then design a super-cheap "proof of concept"—maybe a tiny survey, a no-frills landing page inviting pre-orders, or a half-day workshop. Track the positive responses, then make the obvious choices your blueprint. When the signals are positive, design a stripped-down business engine that runs on positive cash flow rather than on the intoxicating applause of social media stats. To stabilize that engine, sharpen your unique selling point, nail a price point that customers smile at, and list the tangible steps needed to produce more of your product without crashing your sleep schedule. Lean mentors at SCORE, the no-cost trainers at small-business resource hubs, and fellow entrepreneurs in niche online forums can provide you with shortcuts you didn't even know existed.
If you decide to use this quote, I'd love to stay connected! Feel free to reach me at marketing@docva.com and nathanbarz@docva.com

Matt Purcell · Answer

A piece of advice I'd give is to focus on surrounding yourself with people you trust, not just people with the right skills. When I started PCI, I thought hiring was only about technical ability. I quickly learned that the wrong fit—even if they were good at the work—could create stress, slow down progress, and hurt morale. When I shifted to prioritizing character and reliability, everything got easier. Training someone who's dependable and aligned with your values is far better than fixing the damage of someone who isn't.
For new entrepreneurs, the key thing to consider is how much time and money the wrong hire can cost you. A solid referral network, mentorship from other business owners, and leaning on tools like structured interviews can help you spot the right people early. The right team won't just help you grow—they'll keep you from burning out.

Andre Oentoro · Answer

One piece of advice I always share with clients considering starting their own business is: focus early on clarity. Clarity of who your audience is, what problem you're solving for them, and why your solution matters. Too often, new founders get caught up in perfecting the product or service without sharpening the message, and that slows momentum.
From my experience, having a clear narrative keeps your team aligned when tough decisions come up. Key things to consider are your positioning (what makes you stand out), your cash flow (how long you can sustain before profit), and your support system (mentors, advisors, or peers who've been there).
As for resources, I'd recommend tapping into entrepreneurial communities, accelerators, or even content like podcasts and case studies from founders in your industry. These can save you from common mistakes and inspire practical strategies that you can adapt to your own journey.

James DeLapa · Answer

I always advise clients to start small by identifying their existing skills and designing a simple service they can confidently offer to people they already know. This approach allows you to land initial contracts while maintaining your current job, creating a safer transition into entrepreneurship. The key is to begin with what you know and gradually build from there, rather than making dramatic changes that could put your financial stability at risk.

Hunter Garnett · Answer

Based on my experience starting my personal injury law firm at age 29, I strongly recommend carefully considering your life stage and financial obligations before launching a business. I strategically chose to start my venture when I was young with minimal expenses and before taking on significant family financial responsibilities. This timing allowed me to take necessary entrepreneurial risks while maintaining financial stability during the critical early stages of business development. Consider your current financial obligations and personal circumstances, as these factors will significantly impact your ability to weather the inevitable challenges of entrepreneurship.

Mandi StGermaine · Answer

My top advice for clients starting their own business is to identify and focus on a specific target market rather than trying to appeal to everyone. When I launched my company, I initially spread myself too thin until I narrowed my focus to busy mothers aged 30-45, which allowed me to tailor my offerings and marketing more effectively. Finding your niche helps you stand out in a crowded marketplace and enables you to develop deeper expertise in serving the unique needs of your specific customers. This focused approach, combined with creating sustainable systems and strategic networking, will provide a stronger foundation for long-term business success.

Erik Daley · Answer

Based on my experience working with new entrepreneurs, I strongly advise having at least six months of operating expenses saved before launching your business. Many first-time business owners significantly underestimate renovation and startup costs by 30-40%, which can create serious cash flow problems during the critical first year. Proper financial planning is essential to weather the inevitable gaps between expenses and revenue that most new businesses face. This financial buffer will give you the stability needed to make sound business decisions rather than desperate ones.

Brooks Humphreys · Answer

Based on my experience starting in real estate during the 2009 market downturn, I would advise new business owners to prioritize patience and adaptability above all else. Managing over 1,000 properties during that challenging period taught me that success rarely happens overnight, and the ability to adjust your strategy as market conditions change is invaluable. Focus on continuous learning rather than seeking immediate perfection, as this mindset will help you navigate the inevitable obstacles you'll face as an entrepreneur.

Jasper Cool · Answer

My top advice for clients starting a business is to ensure they have a profitable process before attempting to scale operations. They should focus on pricing their products or services to fully cover their business costs and only consider seeking outside funding once they've established consistent revenue and proven their business model works. This approach prevents the common mistake of expanding too quickly with virtual assistants or other resources before their deal flow can support them. Building a sustainable foundation first will position them much better for long-term growth and reduce unnecessary financial strain during their critical early stages.

Joseph Commisso · Answer

When starting your own business, I strongly recommend connecting with professional advisors such as lawyers and accountants who can guide you through complex business regulations. Understanding the legal landscape is crucial for new entrepreneurs, and these professionals can help you navigate potential pitfalls while ensuring compliance. Additionally, take advantage of online government resources and industry workshops, which provide valuable information about business laws and regulatory requirements. These resources were instrumental in my early entrepreneurial journey and can significantly reduce your learning curve while helping you build a solid foundation for your business.

Joe Hartman · Answer

Based on my experience launching Perry Hall Investment Group, I would advise new business owners to focus on how quickly they can close their first five deals. The speed of securing those initial clients validates your business model and demonstrates your ability to deliver real value. This early momentum builds trust with potential customers and investors alike, creating a foundation for sustainable growth. Setting specific goals around these early wins will help you measure progress and make necessary adjustments to your approach.

Mona Hovaizi · Answer

Preparation matters, but real-world experience proves that flexibility and observation are just as important. Consider teaching a toddler to brush their teeth: you can demonstrate the steps, but you must be patient, adjust when needed, and celebrate progress. The same applies to a new business; you need a plan, but you also need to watch, adapt, and learn as you go. Every stage of a child's development has its challenges, and a new business has its own. Toddlers thrive with routines, and startups thrive with structure. If you help your child brush regularly, they're less likely to get cavities. If you set clear daily goals for your business, small wins build into bigger successes. Parenting today often blends structure with exploration, and businesses do best when planning meets room for experimentation. That balance is key to growth.
Daily experiences teach both children and entrepreneurs valuable lessons. Kids learn problem-solving and cause-and-effect through play: stacking blocks, exploring textures, or sorting shapes. Similarly, trying out your product or service hands-on helps you see what works and what doesn't before reaching customers. Travel or exposure to new cultures builds curiosity and adaptability in children, and exploring different communities or markets can do the same for your business. Observation and hands-on learning are more powerful than theory alone.

Neda Hovaizi · Answer

When you focus on genuinely helping people, your practice grows naturally. It's also important to balance skill with experience. We combine advanced dental technology with a holistic, patient-centered approach, offering everything from routine checkups to cosmetic and restorative dentistry. Creating a calm, welcoming environment isn't just about luxury; it's about making patients feel safe, valued, and understood. For anyone starting a practice, investing in both quality equipment and the right team is key to delivering care people trust.
I've seen patients transform, both in their smiles and their confidence. One patient came to us self-conscious about chipped teeth, and after a smile makeover with veneers and whitening, she walked out beaming. Moments like that remind me that providing exceptional care isn't just about dentistry; it's about restoring self-esteem and joy. For anyone starting out, resources like dental associations, mentorship programs, and continuing education are invaluable. They offer guidance on best practices, patient care, and running a successful business. Building a strong reputation online and in your community also helps attract patients who value a personalized, comfortable experience.

Jeremy Golan SHRM-CP, CPHR, Bachelor of Management · Answer

Do not live in the moment of your success, the point where your work pays off and you can celebrate your achievement. Instead, live in the here and now and think of all the moving parts that need to come together for your dream to come to fruition. Understand who your ideal customer is, like an avatar of sorts, and think about why you are the exact person to deliver what they are looking for. Do not make vague generalities; rather, think in actionable steps that can be judged as either complete or incomplete. You will not be able to do everything yourself, no matter how badly you want to, since you cannot perform effectively while being spread so thin. Do what you do best, better than anyone in the area.

Soozy Miller · Answer

The number one piece of advice that I would give clients who are starting their own business is that you will spend 80-100% of your time in the first 2-3 years on marketing and sales. I don't care how many leads or prospects you have, or even how many current clients you are helping. That will plateau at some point, probably soon, and you will have to find a way to find more customers. So be prepared to spend more time on soliciting business than actually doing business for the first few years. That amount goes down after a while, but you'll still have to do it as long as you're in business. SCORE.org is free and full of free resources to help you.

Robert Chen · Answer

Choose a Niche with Long-Term Potential and Technical Barriers to Entry
As the VP and CIO of DataNumen, a data recovery software company, my top piece of advice for aspiring entrepreneurs is to select a field that combines long-term growth prospects with meaningful technical barriers to entry. This dual approach has been fundamental to our success in the data recovery industry.
Why This Strategy Works:
Long-term potential ensures your business can sustain and grow over decades rather than chasing short-lived trends. Technical barriers naturally filter out low-quality competitors who lack the expertise or resources to deliver professional-grade solutions, allowing you to establish and maintain a competitive advantage.
In our case, data recovery requires deep technical knowledge of file systems, storage technologies, and complex algorithms—expertise that takes years to develop. This has helped us build a defensible market position while serving clients who need reliable, professional-grade recovery solutions.
Key Considerations:
Don't get bogged down in perfectionism during the early stages. Many entrepreneurs spend excessive time and energy on minor details instead of focusing on core product development and customer acquisition. Launch with a solid foundation, then iterate based on real market feedback.
Resources for Success:
Join communities specifically focused on small business growth in your industry. Early in our company's development, we participated in the Association of Software Professionals (ASP), which provided invaluable insights, best practices, and networking opportunities tailored to small software companies. These specialized communities offer practical advice you won't find in generic business resources.
The key is finding your technical sweet spot where expertise creates value and barriers, then building systematically without getting lost in the details.

25 Tips for Starting Your Own Business With Career Coaching Support

25 Tips for Starting Your Own Business With Career Coaching Support

Embrace Problem-Solving and Financial Prudence

Build a Strong Foundation with Purpose

Adapt to Market Forces and Seek Mentorship

Prioritize Trust-Building and Team Development

Cultivate Resilience and Community Impact

Master Your Numbers for Sustainable Growth

Focus on Core Strengths for Quality Service

Balance Logic and Intuition in Decision-Making

Leverage Current Role for Entrepreneurial Learning

Test Market Demand Before Full Launch

Hire for Character and Reliability

Clarify Your Message and Positioning

Start Small with Existing Skills

Consider Life Stage Before Launching

Focus on a Specific Target Market

Save Operating Expenses Before Launch

Practice Patience and Continuous Learning

Establish Profitability Before Scaling Operations

Seek Professional Advice for Compliance

Focus on Closing Initial Deals Quickly

Balance Structure with Experimentation

Invest in Quality Care and Team

Focus on Actionable Steps and Delegation

Prioritize Marketing and Sales Early On

Choose a Niche with Technical Barriers