It’s no secret that having a college degree can open many doors. But what if you don’t have one? With the right set of skills, it’s possible to succeed in business without holding a four-year degree. The River Country Chamber of Commerce has put together a list of valuable advice to help you get started on your entrepreneurial journey.

Think Small at First

When starting out as an entrepreneur, it’s important to start small and work your way up. Don’t try to take on too much at once or you may find yourself overwhelmed and discouraged. Start with one project or goal and then slowly start taking on more tasks as you become more comfortable with the process.

Learn to Network

Networking is a major component when it comes to finding success in business. Having connections with people who can provide valuable advice, insight, and resources can be invaluable. Take time each week or month to reach out to new contacts or network with old friends who could potentially help you grow your business.

Use PDF Tools to Stay Organized

It's not always easy to manage all the paperwork that comes with running a business; between payroll, tax forms, invoices, and bills, it can be overwhelming for new entrepreneurs. The good news is you can utilize free tools that will allow you to keep track of those important documents as well as edit and share them. You can even change a Word file to PDF online, which will provide security for sensitive information since PDFs can be encrypted.

Read Up On Your Industry

It’s important to stay up-to-date on industry news so that you can make informed decisions for your business. Make sure you're signing up for newsletters and reading industry blogs so that you know what is happening within your field at all times. You can also consider taking online courses that will help you learn more about your field without committing to a full degree program.

Gather a Support System

Sometimes running your own business can be lonely and overwhelming, so it’s important to have a support system in place that understands what you are going through. Connect with other entrepreneurs online or at networking events, and join support groups to learn from their experiences as well as share your own successes and failures with others. You can also talk to friends and family members about your goals and ask for their help when you need it.

Learn Careful Accounting Practices

No matter what business venture you decide upon, strong accounting practices are a must. Having accurate records of income and expenses will make tax season less painful while also providing clear visibility into how well your money is being managed throughout the year. This allows entrepreneurs to adjust their spending habits accordingly should certain areas need improvement over time. It's also wise to consider hiring an accountant to help manage finances if needed.

Starting out in business without a college degree doesn't have to be daunting or overwhelming. There are plenty of online resources and free tools available that will make the process a smooth one. By creating a strong plan, learning basic accounting skills, utilizing free PDF tools to keep your documents safe and organized, and learning more about your industry, you can build a successful business of your own without the aid of a costly four-year degree. Don't forget to start networking as soon as possible so you can make valuable connections both online and in-person.

The River Country Chamber of Commerce is dedicated to helping small business owners reach their potential. Take a look at the resources we offer today.