After years of running my business from my kitchen table…I decided to give myself a promotion. Before becoming a Shark Tank Entrepreneur, a vague memory of a promotion in corporate America meant a corner office with a view. In a work from home mom’s world (WAHM) it meant moving my papers, computer, files and self to my dinning room. I would never again have to pack up my mobile office each night to serve dinner! I had arrived!
Last year I had the good fortune of being selected to appear on ABC’s Shark Tank. National exposure got me out of the kitchen and forced me to look at my business like a shark.
Shark Tank Entrepreneur Tips:
1. Get Out of the Kitchen
Meet other entrepreneurs for lunch. Tell your neighbors about your business. Network with other enthusiastic entrepreneurs. You might find out that your business is more impressive than even you thought. I personally had no idea that selling 30,000 books from my kitchen without the backing of a nationwide publisher was an amazing feat. I was prepared to defend my sales to the investors (sharks), but they stopped me in my tracks…no need to defend…it was time to be proud.
2. Surround Yourself with Dream Keepers
Spend your time and share your ideas with friends and relatives that believe in you. It is hard enough to be an entrepreneur. A positive attitude supported by positive people will bring positive results.
3. Outsource
Most of us try to do everything: bookkeeping, marketing, writing, social media, oh and did I mention… run a family. It is impossible to be effective in all areas at the same time. Hire help on an as needed basis. Even 1 hour a week of help can be rejuvenating and allow you to focus your talents where they are most needed.
4. Have a Business Plan
We all dread the business plan. I practically cried (OK, I cried) while writing mine, but it opened my eyes and helped me to see where my focus was needed in order to grow my business and live my dream.
5. Over-Prepare
If you are speaking, going to a bank or investor, or pitching in any way… be prepared. I learned that when you think you are over-prepared you are barely prepared. Many of us think our passion is enough. Passion will get you in the door but you better be ready to back it up with hard-core numbers. Sharks get hooked by numbers.
And that’s how it is when you get out of the kitchen!
More Information about Lori Lite on Shark Tank
Stress Free Kids founder Lori Lite is a freelance blogger, social media strategist, parenting expert, and successful entrepreneur. Her line of books and CDs are designed to help children, teens, and adults decrease stress, anxiety, and anger. Ms. Lite’s books, CDs, and lesson plans are considered a resource for parents, psychologists, therapists, child life specialists, teachers, doctors, and yoga instructors. Lori’s award winning books received national attention on Shark Tank and her sort after accessible tips have been featured in hundreds of publications to include: CNN Living, Real Simple Magazine, USA Today, Family Circle, Working Mother Magazine, and Web MD. For more information visit Stress Free Kids and for daily advice follow Lori on Twitter and Facebook.
Hi Lori, your tips are quite appropriate for me right now – I have recently taken to plunge to work full time from home!
Only once I read it did I fully comprehend how true Tip 1 is! Some days are always going to be harder than others, and it becomes all too easy to forget what you’ve already achieved. But talking with others, and being assured that what I’m doing is fantastic and worthwhile always recharges me for the next day.
I’m going to take your advice – starting on that business plan in the morning!
Clare
How exciting for you Clare! Business plans are a necessary evil….get the tissues out!
All great advice. I outsource work I cannot do so I can focus on the work I am truly passionate about and I like to do lunch, coffee etc often!
Yes, I am so much happier when I can focus on the work I am passionate about…creating is my happy place for sure…
I too run my business from my kitchen table! And wow, what an inspiration to see what you’ve achieved doing just that 🙂
People make a big difference to me, so I love connecting with other entrepreneurs who share the dream of doing business on their own terms. And you’re right, it’s so important to have positive and supportive people around you. In fact that’s why I started a child-friendly networking group in my local area after I had my second daughter (who’s now 2).
Thanks so much for sharing Grace…maybe you too will give yourself a promotion! LOL
Congratulations Lori on your success! I’m a business owner (www.tail-wags.com) who works out of my home as well so I can totally relate to your comments.
In Canada, we have the Dragons’ Den instead of Shark Tank. I was just taped on Dragons’ Den for the “Second Chance” episode but I can’t tell you the outcome until the episode airs.
Awesome Karyn….. I’ll keep an eye out on youtube for your episode…Keep us posted
Awesome Karyn, I wish you much success. I hope you have recovered from your visit with the dragons! I know it took me a while after swimming with the sharks!
Thanks for sharing your experience. ..I had a feeling I needed to get down to a business plan and you’ve given me the inspirational ‘shove’ that I needed!