By Darrell Finkeldei
As exciting and full of possibilities as it is, there is
nothing magic about the Internet. Putting a business on the
Internet does not magically make it successful.
The Web is just another avenue on which to conduct
business. And doing business on the Web carries with it
most of the same demands that offline businesses have.
For long term success you still have to build customer
trust, customer support, provide quality goods or services,
take phone calls, make phone calls, practice good business
ethics, and a hundred other things.
You must realize that it takes time, commitment, patience,
and money to create a successful Internet business. Don't
mislead yourself into thinking that it'll be any easier
than a conventional job.
Many people look to the Internet for a "free and easy" way
to wealth. Those who do are terribly disappointed to find
out that business on the Web often takes more time, money,
and involvement than the "9-to-5" they so eagerly want to
leave.
The truth is that starting an Internet business is very
similar to working your job. The difference is that you
will likely work twice as hard with longer hours for a lot
less pay!
The good news is that an Internet business still can be
started with a lot less financial risk than almost any
offline business. Although things are just beginning to
change, "shoestring" start-ups are still possible.
Don't wait too long, though. In the not-too-distant future
it may cost much more to start and maintain an Internet
business. There is a trend towards charging fees for what
many of us have taken for granted would always be free.
Fees for search engine listings, email delivery, and
information are on the horizon. Those already making
incomes from Internet business will see at least a little
less profit. Those starting out will find they need more
capital to survive long enough to see success.
While it's not magic, the Internet still offers some great
benefits. Right now, things like instant FREE
communication, instant FREE delivery of digital goods,
inexpensive virtual space (as opposed to expensive "brick
and mortar" rent), and automation of sales and
administration still exist. And they should remain that way
for several years yet.
Just keep in mind that these benefits were born out of the
ingenuity and hard work of industrious and innovative
people - NOT magic. The same ingredients that, if you apply
them, will make your Internet business successful.
