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Work-at-home moms like to share tips and tricks for helping each other succeed. There is no perfect formula or guarantee of a huge income while you do nothing (and anything that promises that is likely a scam!), but those who have succeeded or know others who have succeeded have some good ideas. In fact, it is this networking and sharing that is success tip number one.
1. Social networking
Join groups with similar interests. There are entire online communities dedicated to supporting the work-at-home mom (WAHM). Some of these online communities are free to join, while others require a fee. As noted above, moms who work at home usually enjoy sharing success tips and having a supportive community can really help when you have questions. You can also share your own tips and successful “moments.”
2. The latest technology
Don’t be afraid of things like Twitter and or Facebook ads. Success is more likely to come your way if you are connected and available. You might consider a mobile device so you can update people as to the latest information on your business, and so you can respond to clients and prospective clients right away. If you are feeling apprehensive about stepping into unfamiliar waters with Facebook ads, starting a blog, or even trying Twitter for the first time, tap into other WAHMS you know. Chances are they will be willing to show you the basics and possibly even barter for some of YOUR skills!
3. Love what you do
It’s hard to be successful doing something you dislike. You might be able to “fake it” for a while, but it will catch up to you eventually. If you aren’t passionate about what you do, you are likely to lose motivation. If you don’t like the product you’re selling, the information you are writing about, or the client work you are doing, work can seem like drudgery. Your passions and interests may not be conducive to a WAHM business, but if you are really honest with yourself, you can probably find something that interests you that would make a fulfilling business venture.
4. Be decisive
One of the pitfalls that can happen with WAHMs is a distraction. Another pitfall is uncertainty. If you aren’t sure that you want to do this particular business or even whether or not you want to work from home, then decide before venturing into business. You can research and ask before deciding, but it can be a mistake to do things halfway (such as starting a website but having no idea how to promote or update it).
5. Keep it personal
One of the things that business customers sometimes complain about is that they can’t seem to talk to a “live human” in customer service. If you are courteous and take the time to answer people’s concerns, it ups your chance for success. Tools like Skype and Google Talk allow you the benefit of chatting with people face-to-face even when you are oceans apart. Go the extra mile and stay connected with your customers and clients. Not only will it help you benefit in business, but it will also lend to having more pride in what you do.
More Resources to Help You Along Your Side Hustle Journey
MOM BOSSING
MOM BOSSING: The Freedom to Create the Business You Love is a book filled with personal stories, resources, support, wisdom, and encouragement from a solopreneur who has been in the trenches as a mom boss. This step-by-step guide shares the truth, fears, tears, and cheers of being a mom who is building a business empire on her own terms. If you are looking for a new career for the “second half of life,” venturing into direct sales, rocking a home business, or dreaming of leaving a dead-end job, this book provides the building blocks needed to move forward with a healthy dose of humor authenticity. In many ways, this book could also sport the tagline of Building a LIFE on Your Own Terms.
I was lucky to have Becky Flansburg join us at Multicultural Children’s Book Day when we first began our nonprofit. She was the “head elf” which meant she did everything from project management to help us get sponsorships. In the early years, we weren’t able to keep her busy for more than a few months a year and even that was very part-time. Becky’s contribution to the team helped us grow our nonprofit, and, in turn, we were able to keep her busier. Now, as a “mom boss,” Becky is sharing her journey and her wisdom for moms who want to try solopreneurship. It’s particularly helpful for anyone who wants to become a VA (Virtual Assistant).~author and mompreneur, Mia Wenjen
Also available on IndieBound.com.
FREElance FREEdom: Creating the Work-From-Home Life You Crave
Have you ever dreamed of working from home on your own terms instead of being confined to a corporate cubicle or windowless office? Have you ever dreamed of earning a steady and honest income while still having plenty of time for friends and family?
Lucky for you, it is all very possible. It’s a life that I have successfully been living for over 7 years…and I can’t imagine supporting my family (and following my dreams!) any other way.
Within the pages of this robust 90-page e-book and resource guide is the motherlode of excellent information about working from home (on your own terms) all rolled into a handy read-at-your-own pace guidebook.
Whether you are looking to pursue a career as a freelance writer, virtual assistant, graphic designer (and more) this Resource Guide will provide the insight, tools, guides, advice, and strategies that can apply to any freelance business. If you want the very basics of getting started without the benefit of support and coaching, this eBook is for you.
For anyone looking to start their freelance career, or up their game, this book is the perfect place to start. Jam-packed with actionable items and details about even handling unruly clients, well-meaning visitors, and kids while working from home – this book has it all! Highly recommended!~author and mompreneur, Carissa Andrews
For those who are contemplating the freelance lifestyle but need a guidebook with baby steps, this is your manifesto! Becky Flansburg shares her tips for balancing a freelance career with a family including the nuts and bolts such as the online tools she uses for networking and running her business. Becky is a gentle and realistic cheerleader for anyone who wants to work at home as a solopreneur.~Mia Wenjen
FREElance FREEdom is Available on Kindle
Also available on IndieBound.com.
Available in Paperback on Amazon: mybook.to/FREElanceFREEdompprbk
The Dose of Reality says
Great tips!! I think the social networking is *so* important. It can feel very isolating when you WAH. Fantastic! –Lisa
Rebecca Flansburg says
You are SO right, Lisa. I catch myself isolating myself on occasion and that’s just something you do NOT want to do. Thanks so much for stopping by 🙂