Starting an Online Business: It's Important to Be Clear on Why You Are Doing It by Helene Desruisseaux

There are all sorts of reason why you might, and what does it matter, you might ask? After all, isn't online success determined by your ability to get traffic, create a list, and convert that to sales? Figuring out your reason for the business is not on that list.

Fair question.

Why you start the business may not be directly talked about in the "how to start your internet business" courses, but it impacts how you go about building it and the marketing techniques you'll use.

You would handle yourself quite differently if your online activities represent a part-time source of income selling other people's products, than if you want to find consulting clients on the web to fill your practice.

And it would be different again if you want to grow a consulting firm which you will eventually sell to someone else.

The "why" you are in business includes not only money goals, it also involves lifestyle preferences. There is of course the ever present question: how hard do you want to work, and there are other factors to consider such as:

Do you want to be anonymous, or build a personal reputation?

Do you want to partner with others?

Do you want to work with your clients in person, or online?

How much do you want to travel?

Assuming all goes well, how big do you want to get; do you want employees?

Some of the answers will depend on what this business means to you:

Are you motivated by more than money, even more than lifestyle? You might want to be an agent of change in the world, or at least in a little piece of it.

Do you want to finally live your life purpose? (Assuming you know what it is)
Or do you just want more money and you'll find your meaning elsewhere.

You would be wise to also consider your preferences, strengths and weaknesses: do you hate writing, love talking, need the intimate feedback of one-on-one connection, etc.

And we're just scratching the surface!!
This is not meant to be overwhelming, but rather to be a reminder to look within to sketch out your intentions before deciding on specific marketing techniques.

So take a step back and ask yourself: why do you want in starting your internet business?

About the Author
Helene Desruisseaux (Helene D.)helps entrepreneurs design their businesses around their purpose, unique strengths and personalities, so that they can have both success and a high quality of life. Attend her free interactive teleseminar:"How to Start An Online Business That Gives You Both Money And Meaning" and ask her how to avoid costly mistakes. Sign up at http://WhereBusinessMeetsSpirit.com