I love talking to beginner entrepreneurs who want to start a new business and listen to their thoughts and brainstorm ideas (a.k.a strategy sessions). I find those early stages thrilling and love the excitement of talking through a new idea with someone who is excited about it, bouncing ideas back and forth, and writing down final thoughts at the end. I like the idea of doing this as a part time consulting "side hustle", but I have no experience. I'm not well spoken, I have some "Ums" when I talk. But I just like listening to people and giving my opinion on things that could help them when I can. I do have a pleasant personality (I think) and am a good listener. However I have no experience in the real world. Can I get started as a "Professional listener" to small business beginners who want someone to listen to their idea and give feedback? I think I can just read books by good authors and repeat some of that knowledge to clients and that would be helpful to them. And join a Toastmasters group to communicate in a more polished way. I would love to offer short 30 minute Skype sessions to people. Any thoughts on how I could get started? My fear is to have clients ask questions that I can't answer, and them feel they wasted their time. I would be perfectly happy starting out for free to gain experience, or offering clients a free 15 minute trial to see if I'm a right fit for them. I love the idea that as years go by I'll get better and better and can seriously increase my income with more experience.
As with any business you have to figure out how to position what you offer in the marketplace and the value proposition. What is it that you will provide people for payment? If you enjoy talking to entrepreneurs I would suggest going to Meet-ups in your area targeting that group. It would be a great place to get feedback on your sales pitch and get a better understanding of their needs. In addition, you could start your own group targeting those folks. Also, many incubators, co-working spaces and formal professional organizations have meetings open to the public where you can talk to entrepreneurs. Just like any business it comes down to offer, sales and marketing effectiveness. Best of luck!
Answered 8 years ago
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