Succeeding Without a Degree: A Guide To Starting Your Own Business

Achieving success in business doesn't require a college diploma. You can successfully pursue entrepreneurship without one by creating a plan that outlines your goals and the tools you need to achieve them. Here are some top-notch tips from the Pierre Area Chamber of Commerce to help make your dream of being an entrepreneur come true, even without a degree.

Utilize Online Learning Resources

The internet is filled with amazing resources that allow anyone to learn just about anything they want. Take advantage of free online courses, podcasts, and tutorial videos that teach various topics like coding and web design. Utilizing these resources is key when starting your own business, as it will give you the knowledge needed to create a strong foundation for your company.

Grow Your Connections in the Industry

It’s important to build relationships with people who are already working in your field of interest. Reach out and join groups related to your industry on social media, attend meet-ups and conferences, or even start your own networking events. Having strong relationships with people who understand the ins and outs of running a business can help give you the confidence and guidance needed for success.

Maintain A Strong Portfolio

Having an impressive portfolio with examples of completed projects is key when entering the world of business without a college degree. Make sure you showcase any successes from past projects as well as any skills that make you stand out from other applicants. This portfolio should always be up-to-date, as it will be one of the most important tools when applying for jobs or pitching ideas to potential investors/clients.

Build Your Social Media Presence

Social media platforms such as Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn, and YouTube are great tools for connecting with others in your industry while also showcasing yourself as an expert in whatever field you choose. Posting regularly about topics related to your field will help grow your audience and show potential investors or clients that you know what you’re doing before they even meet with you. Make sure you keep your professional pages just that; posts about personal topics should be limited.

Look For Funding

Money is always an issue when starting any type of business, so having access to funding can make all the difference between success and failure. Look into grants available through local governments or organizations focused on helping entrepreneurs get started, as well as crowdfunding sites like Kickstarter, angel investors, small business loans, and venture capitalists. All of these sources should at least be considered when looking for financial assistance when starting up any project or enterprise.

Use Free PDF Tools To Your Advantage

Setting up files using PDF tools can help keep track of documents such as contracts, invoices, and proposals. When combined with simple file organization techniques like folders for each client/project, this helps ensure that nothing ever gets lost amongst all the paperwork associated with running a successful business. Click to learn more about how to handle tasks like converting a Word file to a PDF.

It’s entirely possible to succeed in your career without attending college first. The key is to utilize online learning resources where possible, build connections within your industry, and take advantage of free tools that will make staying organized easier, such as PDF converters. By creating a solid plan and outlining your goals--as well as gathering the tools you need to reach them--you can become a successful entrepreneur and build the career you've always dreamed of.

Ready to make some local connections? The Pierre Area Chamber of Commerce has lots of resources that can help.