A Glimpse Into the Fast-paced Entrepreneurial World
Do you ever get an inspiring idea but need to figure out how to pursue it? Do you ever get stuck along the way and unsure how to continue? I talked with people and groups that provided me with some answers to these questions and their ideas on entrepreneurship and taking risks. Expert Kim Kaupe and the Zurich International School (ZIS) Entrepreneur Club have some exciting answers and points of view on these questions. What does it take to start something? What obstacles do you face to be successful?
"you know you've made it when you got haters."
-Kim Kaupe
Kim Kaupe owns a "Bright Ideas Only" company that makes physical products and marketing programs for entertainers and brands such as Oprah, Shawn Mendes, Paul McCartney, Daddy Yankee, and the New York Mets. She started this company 11 bright years ago because she realized that admirers of musical artists like Taylor Swift, Rihanna, the Beach Boys, or Kiss would be interested in learning more about them. So, she developed the idea to make merchandise that would pair with the music. Companies would hire her to make this idea come to life.
How did she turn this good idea into a real business? Her answer might surprise you. She offered her product for free at first. Then, if the client liked her work, she would ask for them in return to promote her business, to the point where she could start charging for it. Kim didn't have to take out a loan because she was "selling a service, not an item." her business partner and her invested their money into the project instead of seeking venture capital. It is essential to know that every entrepreneur will need money to put into the company, whether that is their own money or looking for investors. When Kim started her business, there was no Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat, or even Spotify, it was a different world.. Therefore, they have adapted and updated it frequently to remain relevant in the modern world. Entrepreneurs must be aware of trends and pay attention to the changes in the market.
What is the best part of being an entrepreneur? For Kim, "The freedom to dictate your own schedule." In her corporate job, she had to work 40 hours a week, Monday through Friday, from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. She had to be in the office at a specific time according to an office schedule. As an entrepreneur, she can choose her schedule. Maybe she works 2 hours one day and 12 the next. Or maybe she works on a Saturday or Sunday. A business owner can establish their hours. She can also do her job remotely as long as clients are happy. you can schedule in fun too!
And the most challenging aspect of being an entrepreneur? Kim said it is the responsibility of managing the business and making decisions on the business's behalf. It can be stressful to be in charge and carry the weight of her choices.
"Everything has already been done. adapt your ways to be better, faster, and wiser." said Stella Loven advisor of the ZIS Entrepreneurship Club. I was able to attend a club meeting and take notes. The group of Upper School students and an advisor meet every week to discuss their ideas and how to pursue them. Some of the inspiring advice I heard included: It's essential to be on top of the game by remembering to always be selling. Take any chance to talk up "in a not-so-smug way" about your business! You have to be realistic when dealing with a serious idea. When faced with pushback, prepare a plan. They are what make a smart, savvy and on-top business owner. You don't always have to be confident, but you always have to be sure of your idea. Would you invest, use, or buy from this company? Ask yourself this question before asking it to the rest of the world.
Future entrepreneurs can learn a lot from businesswoman Kim Kaupe or ZIS's very own Entrepreneur Club. as Kim says, be brave, be sure, and be you! These are the 3 keys to the business and entrepreneurial world.
