As a skilled professional, you’ve spent years honing your craft (whether it’s hair styling, barbing, catering, or plumbing). Now, you’re ready to take your business to the next level by stepping into the online world. But here’s the truth: transitioning from offline to online can be tricky. Many talented professionals make mistakes that hinder their online success.

If you’re a hairstylist, caterer, or carpenter looking to harness the true power of the internet, this post is for you! Let’s look at 10 common mistakes skilled professionals make when going online and how you can avoid them to ensure your business thrives in the digital space.

1. Failing to Identify a Clear Online Goal

One of the biggest mistakes is not defining what success looks like for your online presence. Are you trying to gain clients, share your expertise, or sell products? Without a clear goal, you’ll be lost in the sea of content online.

Solution:
Before going online, identify specific goals like:

• Gaining a certain number of clients.
• Building brand awareness.
• Selling a specific product (e.g., eBooks or courses).
  Having a clear and measurable goal will guide your strategy and help you track progress.

2. Ignoring the Power of Personal Branding

Many skilled professionals make the mistake of thinking they don’t need personal branding. The truth is, that your unique personality and expertise are your most valuable assets online.

Solution:
Develop a personal brand that highlights who you are, what you do, and why you do it. Share behind-the-scenes content, client testimonials, and stories that show your authenticity. Your audience wants to connect with you, not just your service.

3. Not Leveraging Social Media Effectively

Social media is more than just a platform to share photos or thoughts. Many professionals simply post sporadically and don’t have a content plan. This makes it difficult to grow a meaningful following.

Solution:
Create a social media content plan to post regularly about:

• Tips and tricks in your area of expertise.
• Success stories or client reviews.
• Educational content that teaches your audience how they can benefit from your skills.

Be sure to use platforms that your target audience spends the most time on (Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, etc.).

4. Failing to Build an Online Portfolio or Website

Not having an online portfolio or website is a huge missed opportunity. A website or a digital portfolio makes it easier for potential clients to find you, understand your offerings, and trust your professionalism.

Solution:
Build a simple website or portfolio that:

• Showcases your work (photos, testimonials, before/after images).
• Includes a contact form for easy communication.
• Provides clear information about your services and prices.

Invest in a basic website to make it easy for clients to find you online.

5. Overlooking the Importance of Search Engine Optimization (SEO)

If you’re not optimizing your content for search engines, your potential clients won’t find you. Many professionals overlook SEO, assuming social media alone will drive enough traffic.

Solution:
Optimize your website and content with keywords that your target audience is likely to search for, such as:

• “How to grow my hair styling business online”
• “Plumbing tips for homeowners”
• “Catering services in [your city]”
  Include these keywords in your blog posts, website pages, and social media posts to rank higher in search engines.

6. Not Using Visual Content Effectively

A picture is worth a thousand words, and for skilled professionals, visual content is key. People want to see the results of your work.

Solution:
Post high-quality images and videos of your work:

• Showcase your haircuts, cakes, or plumbing installations.
• Record time-lapse videos of your work process.
• Share customer testimonials through video to build trust.

Make sure your visuals are well-lit and professionally presented to stand out.

7. Not Engaging with Your Audience

Many professionals think that simply posting content will be enough. But without engagement, you’re missing out on the opportunity to build relationships with potential clients.

Solution:
Engage with your followers:

• Respond to comments and messages promptly.
• Ask questions in your posts and stories.
• Run polls, quizzes, and Q&A sessions to spark conversations.
  By being active in the comments and responding to direct messages, you’ll build a loyal community around your brand.

8. Underestimating the Power of Email Marketing

Email marketing is one of the most effective ways to convert leads into clients, yet many skilled professionals neglect it. You may have followers, but if they aren’t on your email list, you’re missing out on nurturing those relationships.

Solution:
Create a lead magnet (like a free guide or checklist) that people can download in exchange for their email address.
Then, send regular emails offering value, such as:

• Exclusive offers or discounts.
• Educational content or tips.
• Personal updates and behind-the-scenes insights.

9. Not Tracking Analytics

You can’t improve what you don’t measure. Many professionals don’t track their online performance, which makes it impossible to know what’s working and what isn’t.

Solution:
Use tools like Google Analytics, Instagram Insights, or Facebook Analytics to track:

• Website traffic and conversions.
• Social media engagement.
• Email open rates and click-through rates.

By analyzing these metrics, you can adjust your strategy and focus on what brings the best results.

10. Expecting Quick Success

Going online and achieving success doesn’t happen overnight. Many skilled professionals expect immediate results, which leads to frustration and inconsistency.

Solution:

• Be patient and consistent. It may take time to build a strong online presence, but by sticking with it, you’ll see results.
• Focus on creating value, building relationships, and continuously improving your online skills.

Conclusion

By avoiding these common mistakes, you can effectively leverage the power of the internet to grow your skilled profession into a thriving online business. Whether you’re a hair stylist, plumber, or caterer, the digital world is full of opportunities if you take the right approach.

Remember to set clear goals, optimize your content for SEO, and engage with your audience consistently. It takes time and effort, but with dedication, you can turn your offline skills into a successful online business.

Call to Action

If you’re ready to take your business online and need guidance, sign up for our free weekly webinar where we discuss strategies to grow your online presence. Or, download our free eBook on “10 Steps to Transform Your Skills into a Profitable Online Business.”

Running a successful importation business (either mini or large) involves a lot of strategic partnerships with various businesses. As it involves the movement of goods across the borders of two countries, several third parties are involved such as the bank (for the payment structure banks), freight agents (involved in the logistics of goods), Quality Control and Government associations such as the customs, Standard Organisation of Nigeria(son), NDLEA, FDA, NAFDAC (to manage/enforce regulations and policy) etc.

The most secure way to build or scale an importation business is to have the right tools at one’s disposal to enforce significant differences in productivity, efficiency, and overall success. With the advancement of technology, the tools goes beyond having a smartphone, tablet or personal computers, wifi internet devices etc

This tools are systems that streamline the importation processes from start to finish. This will enhance communication with suppliers, swift payment and confirmation and help you stay organized.

In this article, we will explore five essential importation business tools that are crucial for the various scope of operations (small or large)

What are Importation business tools?

The importation business is a multilayer business which involves activities such as product sourcing, research and development, assessment and evaluation, procurement and payment, packaging/branding, Quality control, Shipping and Customs Clearance etc

This chain of operations is deeper than it looks for example Segun lives and sells running shoes for ladies in countries A and Tola, a graduate of economics in country B sees the advert of the shoe while engaging in some tiktok shots. Tola decides to buy this shoe, the number of operations that will be carried out from the time Tola ordered the shoe from Segun will be in a chain-like movement such that it could take from 3 -5 days to 2 months sometime before the goods are delivered

The importation business tools are various equipments, tools and systems implemented in the various chain of operation listed above. For proper categorization, we are classifing it into 5 essential tools.

5 Essential Tools to Run Importation Business Successfully

The various tools used in various sequences where this importation process takes place are what we want to consider so that as a beginner or expert. You can fully grasp the need and importance of each tool. Utilizing the right tools can significantly simplify and enhance your operations to achieve these objectives. Let’s delve into the five essential importation business tools that you need today.

1: Database Management Tools

Running a successful importation business requires the database management of every activity you do, this helps us to become accountable, growing the business over time and giving access to investor and grants.

Products been imported could be physical or digital, the processes involved are records which can be managed as a database, this includes suppliers’ information, contact details, shipping information, pricing agreements, products list, pricing agreements and product catalogues etc.

Database management keeps the importation business organized, and trackable (which is good for personal and external audits) streamlines supplier onboarding, tracks performance metrics, and maintains a transparent, efficient supply chain. and effective communication strategies.

They also function partly as inventory management system which provides real-time be visibility into your inventory levels, enabling you to track stock across multiple warehouses, monitor product demand, and set automatic reorder points.

These tools could be free or paid plans and they includes:

• Google Sheets or Microsoft Excel
• Google Documents
• Google Drive, One Drive, Cloud

2: Marketing Systems

Navigating through the whole process of importation is geared towards making/maximizing profit but how can this be realized if there are no marketing campaging for promotion. Irrespective of the size(mini or large), the goal of whatever been imported is to be sold, used for processing or personal use

In the case its to be sold, several tools (better regarded as systems) can be employed to. This can be futher grouped as Online or Offline systems due to the advent of technology

Online Systems

• Online Marketplaces such as Amazon, ebay, Jumia, Noon, Jiji depending on your location
• Online directories of shops and business such as Google my business list, yellowpages, social media groups
• Content System such as blogs, Vlogs, Podcast
• Social media advertisement via facebook, twitter, instagram, pinterest, youtube
• Affiliate Marketing
• Email Marketing

Offline Systems

• Supermarket, Shops, Local market distrubtions
• Tradeshows and Exhibitions
• Walkin shops and roadside stores
• Stickers, Posters, Billboards and Banners
• Radio Talkshows and Interview
• Roadside Outreaches

3: Payment Gateway Tools

Payment gateway are systems set up to enhance and build trust amongst sellers and customers in the importation business. this systems varies from place to place with thw sole responsibility to receive payment of goods boughts, put it in an escrow (with a notification to the seller that moneEfficiently managing your inventory is essential for importation businesses to prevent stockouts, redy has been paid but can only be retrieved or received if the goods is packaged, sent and delivered) or sent directly to the seller to process the goods shipment

This systems helps to ward off scamming actions, thus building trust between both parties. General systems implemented worldwide are

• Paypal
• Alipay, Google pay
• Third party applications such as Quickteller, paystack, stripe etc.
• Direct bank transfer account number
• Western Union
• Mastercard, Visa and Verve cards

4: Packaging, Shipping & Freight Forwarding Tools

Importation is all about moving goods across borders (international suppliers shipping to your warehouse or home country)

It involves the services of a proper and well specialized freight forwarder to simplify, coordinate logistics and provide comprehensive solution for diverse range of shipments with features such as shipment tracking, freight rate comparison, document management, and collaboration with freight forwarders.

Others include optimizing shipping routes (such as selection of the air, air+sea, sea cargo and express cargo), adequate packaging against damages, water and ensuring the timely delivery of your goods.

Tools Involved are

• printer: deskjet, inkjet, thermal printer and printer accesssories (paper, nylon)
• courier bags, stickers, sylofoam, cartoons
• logisitcs vehicle such as bikes, cars to enhance pickup and delivery of goods from/to the doorstep
• webistes for documentaation of goods, sorting and tracking
• shipping calculator to give out quote and calculate shipping expenses

5: Communication and Collaboration Tools

Effective communication and collaboration are vital towars the success of an importation businesses (as it cut across borders of a particular country)

To successfully do this, efficient and effective communication/collaboration is required. This tools help facilitate seamless interactions and improve team productivity (virtual meetings, share project updates, and collaborate on tasks in real-time regardless of geographical barriers). They Include

• video conferencing software such as zoom, skype, video call apps
• project management platforms, such as asana, trevo
• instant messaging apps such as livechat, whatsapp, wechat etc.

Importance of Importation Business Tools

This tools or systems helps to simplify individual organization and businesses in variety of ways, some of which are

• streamlining of activities: This tools helps to define and decode the core responsibility of each section for example a database management tools helps to sort, filter products easily online (just as arranging books in a book shelves), track and audits order easily thereby avoid overstocking or understocking which in return improves customer satisfaction through timely deliveries.
• b. automation: Without been there physically, this tools ensure the implementation of each function. With a website, customers can open an account, get confirmed and then input the goods to be sent with a tracking number allocated to him or her irrespective of the time of the day
• it helps to reduce costs and minimize errors unnecesarily
• Highly efficient and effective for oprimization of roles/functions in the business
• Improve productivity and customer satisfaction easily

In today’s competitive importation business landscape, this tools give you a significant advantage through incorporation thereby giving you the opportunity to stay ahead of the competition and establish your importation business on new heights by leveraging these indispensable tools.

Which of this tools do you think is more valuable? Kindly feel free to share in the comment below

How to make money online is quite challenging for quite a majority due to a lack of necessary prerequisites such as formal/informal training and certification. The four walls of the university and various educational institutions are no different especially when considered real-time, one of the things you will discover missing in our school curriculum are technologies that drive innovation in this digital age

This has restricted the adaptation of people to the various ways to make money online, our goal is to help you reach your potential by leveraging the vast internet opportunities in various fields such as an e-commerce business to working remotely as a freelancer, content-creating etc.

The year 2023 is an era of the digital age where making money online has become very accessible to people irrespective of age, gender, race, skilled or unskilled etc, unlike centuries before it. We at Online Business Room are here to guide and train you.

This era has been explosive to the extent that whatever you want to do on the internet can be showcased and disbursed over the various continents of the world in less than 2 minutes for example do you remember how Buga, a song written by Kizz Daniel became a song for not just Nigerians alone

This strategy to make money online is no different from the random ways by which we already know but with some tweaks here and there (often misinterpreted or misunderstood). Let me break it down into 5 easy steps

• Finding your niche
• Choosing your platform
• Creating your brand
• Building your audience
• Monetizing your online presence

Finding Your Niche

This is the foundation for making money online, it includes an area in which you specialize and focus your efforts. In choosing your niche, it’s important you consider your skills and interests. What are you good at?

Are you a talented writer, artist, or musician?

Do you have experience in marketing, finance, or technology?

By leveraging your skills and interests, you’ll be able to find a niche that you enjoy and are passionate about.

Choose Your Platform

Once you’ve found your niche, the next step is to choose the platform (website or social media) that you’ll use to reach your audience and sell your products or services.

There are platforms Some popular platforms include:

• E-commerce like Shopify, WooCommerce
• Freelance marketplaces like Upwork. Fiverr. Teraworks
• Social media like Instagram and TikTok
• Content creation like YouTube and Medium

When choosing your platform, consider your target audience and how you’ll reach them. For example,

if you want to target young adults, you may want to focus on social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok.

If you’re targeting business professionals, you may want to focus on LinkedIn and other professional networking sites.

Creating Your Brand

Your brand is the personality of the online business (such as your identity online which includes logo, colour scheme, and messaging)

When creating your brand, consider your target audience and what will resonate with them. Your brand should be consistent across all platforms and should communicate your value proposition clearly.

Building Your Audience

With your brand in place, it’s time to start building your audience(which can be described as a community)

This is a group of people who will be interested in your products or services based on their interest and need, this will ensure engagement with your brand, follow on social media, sign up for your email list, and visit your website.

To build your audience, consider the following tactics:

• Social media marketing: Use platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook to share your content and engage with your audience.
• Email marketing: Build an email list and send regular newsletters to keep your audience engaged and informed.
• Content marketing: Create high-quality content that is informative and valuable to your target audience.
• Influencer marketing: Partner with influencers in your niche to reach their audience and promote your products or services.

Monetizing Your Online Presence

Once you’ve built your audience, it’s time to start monetizing your online presence. There are many ways to make money online, including:

• Sell products or services directly to your audience through your website or e-commerce platform.
• Promote other people’s products or services and earn a commission on each sale.
• Display ads on your website or social media platforms and earn money based on clicks or impressions.
• Partner with brands to create sponsored content or promote their products or services.

It’s important to choose a monetization strategy that aligns with your values and your brand. For example, if you value transparency and honesty, you may want to avoid advertising or sponsorship deals that conflict with your values.

The key is to be persistent, patient, and willing to learn and adapt. Making money online requires hard work and dedication, but with the right mindset and strategies, anyone can succeed. As the world of online entrepreneurship is constantly evolving, and there has never been a better time to start a business online.

By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can take the first steps towards achieving your financial goals and living your dream lifestyle. Remember to stay focused, stay motivated, and always be open to new opportunities and ideas.

With the right mindset and a willingness to learn, you can turn your passion into a successful online business. Would you need help with the right and most profitable way to begin?

Feel free to let us know in the comment below

Over the last century, the evolution of technology (the internet) has changed the dynamics of the earth. The order of the day is running an online business for every entrepreneur. However, there are more questions to be asked when aspiring to have or have an online business.

This question put up the challenge of managing an online business on the lack of physical interaction and the need to balance work and personal life.

This article aims to address this challenge by stating the top 10 productivity hacks for running an online business in 2023

What are productive hacks in starting an online business?

One of the essential resources in this world is time, how we use and spend it determines how productive we can be in life, When we consider the internet phase (not the physical world), it’s not so different. However, distractions from time-consuming activities can eat up our productivity

Productivity is a measure that qualifies or quantifies economic performance based on the output and input, this simply means the ability to determine the result(output) from the input you put into a specific task, production. In the case of an online business, optimum productivity can be a high number of viewers, comments, likes shares, subscriptions etc and low productivity can mean otherwise

Productivity hacks are simple, easy-to-define techniques, and methodologies used in influencing the input you are putting in to have a quantifiable result.

Running an online business in 2023 can be challenging especially when you consider the various to-do lists such as creating content, social media management, keeping tabs and responding to emails, and keeping track of finances etc. It’s easy to get overwhelmed and lose sight of your goals. However, with the right productivity hacks, you can take control of your workload and achieve success.

Top 10 Productive Hacks for starting an Online Business

When you consider various online businesses in the world, you will find out there are levels of success attained. From a beginner to an intermediate and then an expert, Here are 10 productivity hacks to abide by to become a successful business

1. Set Goals

The first step is to set goals. Without goals, a clear, well-defined direction or purpose cant be attained which will be easy to get distracted or sidetracked by other tasks. As a business owner or entrepreneur, you need to ask yourself what are your goals (ensure its something realistic)

Goals can be set in two ranges

a. short-term goals: these goals are within a target of weeks, months to 3 years. They are goals set for the time being(present moment). For example: starting with social media, listing on various established e-commerce websites (Jumia, eBay) and

b. long-term goals: these goals are within years to centuries and decades, they are enduring and long shelf goals for the future for example having a personalised website, getting a camera to begin vlogs

Ensure whatever goals you have or choose, they are specific, measurable, and achievable. Write them down and keep them in a visible place so you can remind yourself of what you’re working towards.

2. Prioritize Tasks

After ironing out the goals, next is to put priority on this item on your goals. Priority can be likened to product labels (that it is made from this country or the other), in this case, they are labels of importance or preference(i.e this is to state what goal has to be done daily or first)

A number can be attributed to this goal or plan, then they can be regrouped in ascending or descending order. From this, a daily, weekly or monthly to-do list can be drawn out.

A to-do list helps to stay organized and focused on the most important/critical task which in return gives a sense of accomplishment when you tick off items on your list thus avoiding bogged down by less important tasks.

3. Use Time-Blocking

Time-blocking is an effective technique for managing your time and increasing productivity. Instead of working on tasks as they come up, schedule blocks of time for specific tasks throughout the day. A good example can be implementing the Pomodoro Technique (which is a relatively simple timing technique that is thought to be effective for helping someone get something specific done or to work more efficiently over the long term).

Someone using the Pomodoro Technique will set a timer for 25 minutes and work on a single task for the duration of that time. When the timer goes off, they will take a 5-minute break, reset the timer for 25 minutes, and start again (either on the same task, if needed, or on a different one). After working for four “Pomodoros” (each 25-minute unit counts as one Pomodoro), they will take a longer break usually 15 to 30 minutes. The Pomodoro Technique was named for the tomato-shaped timer its creator, Francesco Cirillo, used to devise the technique (Pomodoro is Italian for “tomato”). 

This will help you stay focused and avoid distractions while still having a work-life balance like exercise or spending time with your family.

4. Take Breaks

It’s easy to get caught up in work and forget to take breaks, but this can harm your productivity (mental and physical health). Studies have shown that taking breaks can improve productivity and creativity.

So, make sure you take regular breaks as this can help you recharge and stay focused, ensure you make good use of that time to stretch, meditate, or simply walk around etc.

5. Eliminate Distractions

Distractions are the number one killer of productivity such as unending social media notifications, TikTok comedy videos, youtube sports highlights, email alerts, or noisy surroundings

A colleague of mine who worked as a designer/video editor is a good example, he gets easily distracted when he switches on his phone after a WhatsApp message. Next is the tiktok video which became a concern as he could not finish up work on time

To avoid this, eliminate every form/appearance of distraction, if it takes you to hide or keep your phone on aeroplane mode, have a personal workstation rather than lying on your bed to type a report or article. Then do it because distraction spoils creativity

There are no laws or regulations set down that will automatically eliminate distractions, what you can do is Identify what distract you mostly while working and then look for ways to eliminate them from the surrounding of the workspace/environment. No business owner can avoid distraction easily without putting restrictions, some examples are discussed earlier. However, others include using noise-cancelling headphones to avoid notifications, putting some security on their website to ensure once they spend an appropriate time, it automatically logs out

6. Delegate and Outsource Tasks

As a business owner, it might be tempting to try to do everything yourself within your power. However, studies and analyses from several business management have revealed that its imperative for a business owner to work more on the business rather than in the business

This means that while you are running an online business, you as the business owner need to work on critical roles of expanding the business rather than doing tasks that you can engage interns, volunteers, and freelancers to do with payment in cash, training etc

If you engage in doing tasks yourself, in no time you will burn out and productivity will be abysmal. Instead, delegate tasks to others whenever possible (such as hiring, outsourcing or delegating certain tasks).

7. Use Productivity Tools

There are several categories of productivity tools available in the market that can help you streamline your workflow and increase productivity. From project management tools to time-tracking software, social media management etc.

There are always productivity tools in whatever online business you find yourself doing, experiment with different tools to find the ones that work best for you. Some of which are

• Social media management tools: Hootsuite, sprout social, buzz sumo, canva etc
• Project management tools: Trello, Asana, and Evernote.
• Ecommerce tools: alisave, chatgpt,

8. Automate the Process

Automation is another great way to save time and increase productivity. Look for ways to automate your processes as this can help you focus on more important tasks

9. Practice Self-Care

Running an online business can be stressful, don’t pay negligence with health. The fuel that ensures the body and mind of an entrepreneur get productive is our health. Make sure you take good care of your body by getting enough sleep, eating well, and exercising regularly, making time for activities that bring you joy, whether that’s reading, practising mindfulness, seeking support when needed, and taking time off when necessary.

10. Reflect and Adjust

Regularly reflect on your productivity and adjust your strategies as needed. Take time to evaluate what’s working and what’s not, and be open to trying new approaches. Remember that productivity is not a one-size-fits-all solution, and what works for one person may not work for another.

As a business owner, here are ways to evaluate your productivity,

• start by measuring your progress towards your goals.
• Are you making progress, or are you falling behind? Then, evaluate your work processes and
• identify any areas where you could improve.
• be open to feedback from others and use that feedback to adjust your strategies as needed.

Running a successful online business requires focus, organization, and motivation. By implementing these 10 productivity hacks, you can take control of your workload and achieve success. With these strategies, you’ll be well on your way to running a successful online business.

FAQs

1. How do I know which productivity tools to use?

There are countless productivity tools available, so it can be challenging to know which ones to choose. Start by identifying your biggest productivity challenges, such as time management or organization. Then, research tools that address those challenges and experiment with a few to find the ones that work best for you.

2. How do I delegate tasks effectively?

Delegating tasks can be a challenge, but there are a few strategies that can help. First, make sure you’re delegating tasks to the right people. Choose team members who have the necessary skills and experience. Then, clearly communicate your expectations and provide the necessary resources and support to ensure success.

3. Can I be productive without sacrificing my personal life?

Absolutely.Takingg care of yourself and making time for personal activities can actually increase productivity. Make sure you’re setting realistic goals and prioritizing your tasks, so you have time for both work and personal activities.

4. How do I stay motivated when I’m feeling overwhelmed?

It’s natural to feel overwhelmed at times, but there are a few strategies that can help. First, break tasks down into smaller, more manageable pieces. Then, focus on one task at a time and celebrate small wins along the way. Also, make sure you’re taking breaks and practising self-care to avoid burnout.

5. How do I balance my workload as a solo entrepreneur?

Balancing your workload as a solo entrepreneur can be challenging, but there are a few strategies that can help. First, set realistic goals and prioritize your tasks. Then, consider outsourcing certain tasks or hiring a virtual assistant to help with administrative tasks. Finally, make sure you’re taking breaks and practising self-care to avoid burnout.

Offline vs Online business is a comparison between the physical/traditional way of carrying about business by the roadside or in stores/commercial regions from the informed and recent way of doing business via the internet

There are differences and similarities between both businesses, starting and scaling any of these businesses lies in the fundamentals.

It’s also one of the most critical decisions that every business owner from a retailer to an entrepreneur has to make while starting or scaling a business.

In recent years, the trend has shifted towards online businesses, but is it the right choice for everyone?

In this article, we will compare and contrast the two business models and provide you with the pros and cons of each.

By the end of this article, you will have a better understanding of which model suits you the best.

What is an Offline Business?

This is a physical business located in residential or commercial buildings at different locations around the world, It’s been in existence for centuries since the era of our great grandfathers from the market square to community square to self-rented/acquired properties. Here are some of the pros and cons of this business:

Pros(Advantages) of an Offline Business

Personal interaction with customers

It provides the opportunity to have face-to-face interactions with their customers which allows for a more personalized shopping experience, which can lead to customer loyalty and higher sales.

Tangible products

Customers can touch, feel, and try products before making a purchase. This can lead to more confident buying decisions and less likelihood of returns.

Localized marketing

Local marketing efforts, such as flyers and advertisements in local newspapers, can reach potential customers in a specific area.

Cons/Disadvantages of an Offline Business

Limited customer reach

This business has a limited customer reach because it can only attract customers within a certain geographic location for example is a billboard by a road side, the information is only restricted to people moving through that axis

High cost of setup

The cost of setting up a physical store is much higher than an online store, including rent, utilities, and inventory costs.

Limited hours of operation

The business operates within limited working hours of operation, which can be inconvenient for customers who have busy schedules.

What is an Online Business?

An online business involves any kind of business that is carried out via the Internet, it includes the purchase and sale of goods and services, training, consulting or trading of tangible and intangible goods via an electronic network, mainly the Internet.

Here are some of the pros and cons of an online business:

Pros (Advantages) of Online Business

Global customer reach

The reach of an online business is not restricted to the local area where it has been domiciled rather it cut across boundaries towards a global reach (to anyone, anywhere in the world).

Low cost of setup

The cost of setting up/starting an online business is much lower than a physical store. With a smartphone or laptop and a moderately priced subscription to the internet, an online business can be set up best as a service (consulting, freelancing, training) etc

24/7 availability

Online businesses are available to customers 24 hours a day, 7 days of a week while you sleep, eat, or play which is quite convenient.

Multi-channel selling

Online businesses can sell their products on multiple sales channels, such as websites, social media platforms, and e-commerce stores which can lead to increased sales.

Cons (Disadvantages) of Online Business

Inability to have physical interaction

Online businesses lack the physical interaction with customers that brick-and-mortar stores (offline/traditional business) offer. Most interactions are done electronically via google meet, zoom, video meetings, and social media apps (Facebook calls, skype etc).

Expensive marketing possibilities

The marketing possibilities for an online business are efficient and effective but expensive to maintain in the long run unless you engage in the free marketing opportunities

High competition

The competitive rate for a variety of online businesses is high, it is quietly challenging to stand out from the crowd without

Periodically Infrastructure maintenance

Maintaining an online store requires regular updates and maintenance, which can be costly to run from data usage to payment cost

Which Model is Right for You?

Looking at the comparison above, it is clear that online businesses have an upper hand, with multiple additional benefits over physical stores. However, this does not mean that a physical store does not have its advantages.

Depending on the type of business and the target market, a physical store may be a better option. Ultimately, it depends on your goals and preferences.

This question is not restricted to one age bracket or a particular gender, we all want to make money online especially seeing the astronomical earning of celebrities and icons such as Broda Shaggi, Kiekie, Toke Makinwa, Macaroni etc.

As much as they earn, you too can earn like them if you are ready to play by the rule of the internet or the digital world, it is full of numerous opportunities for people with or without skills, experiences and time. It is a world on its own where you can play, carry out tasks, and interpret what you know with little or no capital, either with your smartphone, tab or laptop.

The digital world is liberal with various devices (so far it can connect to the internet), and it has the power to attract and connect people from all corners of the world in real time (although this can be a disadvantage, as you are competing with several millions of people)

With a smartphone, you can start an online business without needing a physical store or significant startup capital. This article outlines some online business ideas that can be done with a smartphone and provides tips on how to start.

List of Online Businesses with a Smartphone

1. Ecommerce
2. Content Creation
3. Online Services
4. Web/App Development

1. E-commerce

This is the buying and selling of goods online from the comfort of your home, whatever form of goods you can buy traditionally from nearby shops or supermarkets can be sold online via the internet

The goods are divided into

a. physical goods: these are goods that you can see, feel and touch, for example, generators, phones, laptops etc

b. digital goods: these goods are available in a variety of forms, they can’t be physically touched or felt. They are bought or sold as intellectual or commercial property, for example

• software for the installation of programmes, games etc
• templates for website development, graphics, and social media ads
• ebooks, video guides, practicals on one subject area or the other
• graphics etc

Under this e-commerce, several online business ideas which you can explore with your smartphone are

• Dropshipping
• Online Store
• Logistics /Courier services
• Preorder
• Importation and Exportation

Dropshipping

Dropshipping is an online business model that enables you to sell products without physically owning a physical shop where you can manage and store the inventory of goods. It’s a business model which includes you selling a product(s) on behalf of a supplier or manufacturer to the customer, the farther you move down from the primary supplier (the lower your profit margin)

This business model is easy, and profitable to start and scale using your smartphone, all you have got to do is ensure your smartphone has an excellent camera to shoot quality product photos because that’s like the first force of attraction from your customers. Once a customer places an order, the supplier can ship directly to you before you ship to the customer or he can ship it directly to the customer.

Online Store

An online store is another online business idea that can be done with a smartphone, it can be illustrated as having a physical shop on the Internet where you have your products or services listed for patronage by online customers. There are several ways to do this such as

a. free platforms to leverage such as Facebook marketplaces, jumia, jiji, Konga, eBay, amazon etc. These platforms have significant traffic from customers who visit them on a frequent basis, you can leverage this and sell your products. In this method, competition is high but it is highly advisable for beginners who want to start selling online

b. paid platforms such as creating a website with WordPress, Wix, and Shopify. This is like building a shop from the foundation of a piece of land, you are responsible for driving traffic to this store with little or no competition. This method is advisable for people who want to build a brand or name for themselves in little or no time

With your smartphone, you can manage your store, process orders, and communicate with customers.

Logistics/Courier Services

As a result of the movement of goods and services online in e-commerce, logistics remain a crucial factor. Logistics can be otherwise referred to as courier services, it is the movement of goods/services from one place to the other via different modes of transport such as air(aeroplane), land(bus, kekenapep, bike) or sea

With your smartphone, you can begin as a logistics or courier services expert because of the high volume of goods people want to move vis dropshipping or importation. All you have to do is understand what kind of logistics or courier services you want to do because it can be broken into two

• Local Logistics
• International Logistics

Local Logistics is the movement of goods from one place to the other within a country, this can be via air or land. Most of the movement of goods is majorly done via land within a particular state but if it exceeds or moves out of a particular state/region, air can be utilised

International Logistics is the movement of goods from one country to another, this is carried via air, sea or land for example the movement of goods from Nigeria to Ghana can be carried out via air or land. The various mode of business which explore this method are Importation or Exportation

To begin with this, you have got to find out existing and top logistics companies in your country/area which can easily be done via the help of a smartphone.

2. Content Creation

This business involves you curating, and creating content for a product or service, there are various types of content you can produce based on your experience, skill set etc. Examples of content vary from media to media such as articles, videos/vlogs, graphics, podcasts etc, doing this over time can make you an influencer or a go-to expert in a variety of topics.

Online businesses you can explore under content creation are

• blogging
• podcasting
• video creation
• Graphics

Blogging

Blogging is an online business idea which includes visual content such as writing articles based on your review, critique and understanding of a subject or topic, With a good smartphone, you can write a guide, share ideas or product reviews etc which can then be monetized through various means, such as affiliate marketing, sponsored posts, or advertising.

Podcasting

Podcasting is another content creation business idea similar to blogging which can be done with a smartphone, this business idea is all about an audio discussion via a phone microphone or a random smartphone speaker published and uploaded on various media to educate, entertain and inspire a set audience. This audio discussion is called a podcast which can be monetized through sponsorships or advertising.

Video Creation

Video creation is an online business idea that includes audio-visual content (content that people can see, watch and hear), this type of content is available in long and short formats such as Youtube videos, youtube shorts, training videos on udemy, Coursera, entertainment videos such as Facebook reels, TikTok, Instagram reels etc. It can be monetised through advertising or sponsorships.

A very good smartphone with an excellent camera and good storage is a very good way to start and scale a business online

Graphics

This is the online business idea which includes visual or illustrative diagrams/patterns of content, they are used to convey/interpret information graphically to customers. This kind of content is used in social media, media and advertisements, they are also used as artworks which can be monetized through advertisements, sponsorships and affiliate marketing

3. Online Services

Freelancing

Freelancing is an online business idea which affords you to offer your services in exchange for money, it basically links a potential business owner or client with a specific task to be done with the recommended expert who can carry it out easily. There are several freelancing platforms (Terawork, Upwork, freelancer, fiver, Guru) which you can leverage easily with your phone today and earn massive income with your services as a freelancer, such as writing, graphic design, or web development.

Online Consulting

Online consulting is an alternative to Freelancing, here you utilise your experience/expertise to help another business in an area of need. With your smartphone, you can begin a consultation business on a variety of topics such as social media management, finance, inventory management

Virtual Assistance

Virtual assistance is an online business idea in which you can offer your services such as email management, social media management, pick/end calls, listing products or appointment scheduling tasks etc to businesses or individuals. With your smartphone and good internet, you can leverage working as a virtual assistant.

4. Web/App Development

Gaming Apps

Creating gaming apps is an online business idea you can use with app development tools to create games that are both entertaining and monetizable through in-app purchases, ads, or sponsorships.

Educational Apps

Educational apps are another development business idea you can create to help users learn new skills or knowledge. Educational apps can be monetized through in-app purchases, ads, or subscription models.

Utility Apps

Utility apps are also app development business ideas you can create to provide solutions to specific problems, such as language translation or photo editing. Utility apps can be monetized through in-app purchases, ads, or subscription models.

How to Start an Online Business with a Smartphone

Starting an online business with a smartphone requires planning, dedication, and effort. Here are some tips to help you get started:

Build a Strong Online Presence

Building a solid online presence is essential for any online business. You can use social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram to promote your business and engage with your audience.

Identify Your Niche

Identifying your niche is crucial for the success of your online business. It would be best if you focused on a specific niche that you are passionate about, solves a problem and has a market demand.

Conduct Market Research

Conducting market research is necessary to understand your target audience and competitors. You should analyze the market trends, consumer behaviour, and competitors’ strategies to create a unique value proposition.

Use Social Media

Using social media is crucial for any online business for promoting its products or services, engage with its audience, and build brand awareness.

Invest in Your Skills

Investing in your skills is essential for the success of your online business. You should continuously learn new skills, such as digital marketing, content creation, or app development, to stay ahead of the competition.

Challenges of Online Business with a Smartphone

Starting an online business with a smartphone has its challenges. Here are some of the challenges you may encounter:

Limited Screen Size: The limited screen size of a smartphone can make it challenging to perform complex tasks. You may need to invest in a larger screen or use external peripherals to overcome this challenge.

Inadequate Storage: The limited storage capacity of a smartphone can restrict your ability to store large files or data. You may need to invest in external storage devices or use cloud storage

Limited Battery Life: The limited battery life of a smartphone can limit your productivity and disrupt your workflow. You may need to invest in a portable charger, or power bank or optimize your battery usage

Inability to Handle Complex Tasks: The inability of a smartphone to hang or respond slowly to some specific tasks can be frustrating, the solution is to get a powerful device with a very good RAM

Starting an online business with a smartphone is possible with the right mindset, tools, and strategies, irrespective of the challenges. You can use your smartphone to create a successful online business and achieve financial freedom.

Don’t be dismayed using your smartphone, Lasisi Elenu (a Nigerian comedian uses his phone to shoot his comedy skits and he gets a high number of views which makes him quite a fortune). All you have got to do is ensure you have a good smartphone with a good camera, internal storage and random access memory(ram)

What have you learnt from this article? Comment with the very business idea you will want to start/scale with. We are here to help you with whatever form of consultation/inquiry, feel free to contact us

If you are looking to start an online business, then you need to understand the importance of choosing a niche market.

By focusing on a specific audience, you establish credibility, create a more focused business, and make it easier for interested customers to find you. In this article, we will define what a niche market is and give you examples to help you get ideas.

What is an Online Business Niche Market?

An Online business niche market is a segment of a larger market which is defined by unique needs, preferences, or identity, this is a distinct and specialized market tailored to a particular set of customers who share common characteristics and requires products or services that are tailored to their specific needs, for example, instead of selling shoes to everyone, you might decide to shoes for plus-sized women, or palm sandals for men. By doing this, you narrow your market and make your message clearer.

Let’s take an example of a product “A,” which is targeted at everyone in the marketplace. Although everyone in the market may be interested in product A, interest is not enough to guarantee sales. Affordability, features, and other factors may influence their purchase decisions.

A subset of the market, such as the three individuals who want a smartphone with an excellent camera, may have different needs than the broader market. They represent a niche market, and they require a different product to satisfy their specific needs.

Why Do Online Business Niche Markets Exist?

Niche markets in an online business exist because customers’ needs are different. Although customers may be interested in a particular product category, their specific requirements may differ, necessitating a distinct and specialized product.

A good example of this is the car industry. Let’s say you are interested in purchasing a car, but you do not know what type of car you want.

A car magazine that caters to your particular subset of the market may provide a solution for you. Although it is a different product category, it is still a subset of the car market that you need to consider.

Sometimes, a company may build a completely different product that feeds a particular section or subset of the market.

Alternatively, they may build a product with different features, and pricing, or fit the targeted section of the market.

Why Are Online Business Niche Markets Important?

Online Business Niche markets are essential because they enable the online business to compete and succeed in a market dominated by large corporations.

Online businesses may not be able to afford to target large markets with significant competition. Instead, they can target a smaller subset of the market by providing unique solutions to their specific needs.

Niche markets also enable businesses to reduce marketing costs. There is less competition in a subset of the market, which means less money is required to market the product or service. This is a significant advantage for small businesses with limited budgets.

How Can Online Businesses Use Niche Markets to Their Advantage?

Online businesses can use niche markets to their advantage by identifying a particular subset of the market that is underserved or unserved at all (this means they are not currently being served or not properly served).

By providing a unique solution to that subset’s needs, they can differentiate themselves from their competitors and reduce marketing costs.

To successfully target a niche market, every online business must:

Conduct thorough market research

Identify the needs, behaviours, and preferences of the target market. This will help businesses develop a product or service that is tailored to the niche market’s specific needs.

Develop a unique value proposition

Create a value proposition that differentiates the business from its competitors. This will help the business stand out in a crowded marketplace.

Utilize targeted marketing strategies

Targeted marketing strategies such as content marketing, social media marketing, and email marketing can help businesses reach their target audience more effectively.

In conclusion, choosing & understanding a niche market is important as it helps to establish credibility and dominate that corner in a crowded market.

By targeting a specific subset of the market and providing unique solutions to their needs, online businesses can differentiate themselves and reduce marketing costs based on consumers’ needs and preferences.

The examples listed above are just a few ideas to get you started. Remember, the key is to find a niche that you’re passionate about and that has a market of people willing to spend money on your products or services.

What have you learnt so far in this article? Kindly share in the comments below