Deciding to start your own business is no easy task. In fact, it’s one of the scariest things I’ve ever done while simultaneously being the most rewarding. You may be surprised by the best investments I’ve found for starting an online business.
There’s literally thousands of ways to create an online business, from starting from scratch with a website or instagram profile to finding help from a business brokerage firm and buying an existing business, and something I learned early on is investments are everything. The saying “if you want to make money, you have to spend money” holds true for starting an online business. There’s resources, education, processes and extra help you need in order for your business to be successful and sustainable.
Examples of the types of online businesses you can have include a health coach, an e-commerce business, a virtual assistant, a digital marketer, a blogger, a graphic designer, a mental health provider, a dog-walker, literally anything. Everyone’s business looks different, but I do believe there are key investments that almost everyone can benefit from.
As a travel and lifestyle blogger, I have been able to secure clients, work with brands and hotels, join affiliate link programs, network and build a business from the ground up all by believing in myself and investing in what’s important.
The Best Investments For Starting An Online Business
Remote Work Equipment
The first investment you should make, honestly. If you’re dedicated to building and scaling an online business, you’ll want to have the right equipment.
You’ll need a laptop, laptop cover, mouse, blue-light glasses, and a monitor for dual-screens. There’s so many other helpful pieces of equipment that you can invest in based on your needs, but those are most important to me.
I will say that blue-light glasses specifically have made a huge difference in my productivity since they help prevent the blue light from the screens that I’m staring at all day. My eyes are really sensitive and can get quite red. The blue-light glasses help prevent this.
Having a monitor as a second screen is also a game changer. I adapted to this work-style when I worked at my corporate job and now I can never go back. Productivity is at an all time high when you have 2 screens. Invest in the monitor, I promise it’s worth it.
Other not so crucial things include getting a name plate for your office, some cute desk decor, your favorite candle and some photos to make your workspace warm and welcoming. Although it may seem pointless, it makes a huge difference in your work day and mood.
Whether you’re diving into the world of online business with a focus on producing goods or offering cutting-edge services, understanding the technology behind your equipment can set you apart. Grasping robot operation basics is not just for tech enthusiasts; it’s essential for anyone looking to enhance their online business’ efficiency and innovation.
Quality Industrial Equipment
Investing in quality industrial equipment is essential. There are a variety of machines that can help you produce goods and services, such as industrial lathes, lasers, saws, and mills.
For example, 3D printer manufacturers often use CNC machines to create intricate designs in their products. Similarly, jewelry and watch manufacturers may use CNC machines to create intricate designs in their products. You can also find CNC machines at metalworking facilities, as they can be used to create metal components with a high level of accuracy.
If you’re looking for quality industrial machines to get started, Revelation Machinery can provide a great solution. They offer used machines that are perfect for those who are worried about the startup costs of using heavy-duty equipment. Plus, they offer machines at a reasonable price, so you can get the equipment you need to make products made of wood, glass, or steel without spending a fortune.
In addition to CNC machines, businesses may also benefit from investing in other industrial equipment. For example, some businesses may use industrial-grade sewing machines to create custom t-shirts, clothing and accessories, while others may use presses to create products like t-shirts or mugs. Businesses that need to work with hard materials, they may invest in industrial-grade drills and saws.
No matter what type of online business you’re starting, it is important to invest in quality industrial equipment. With the right tools, you can create products with the highest level of accuracy and precision.
Online Courses
Investing in my first online course is one of the best decisions I’ve ever made for myself. I remember sitting in my California apartment debating whether I should buy into a $400 online course that would teach me to scale and monetize my Instagram.
It was a scary decision but I couldn’t have asked for a better outcome. The course I took completely transformed the way I think about Instagram, social media and building an online business. I will always give credit to this course for jumpstarting my passion and career goals.
The beautiful thing is there are hundreds of online courses designed to help you get from A to B in a plethora of topics. Anything you want to learn or get better at, there’s a course for.
I highly recommend investing in a course that covers exactly what you’re looking for and will help you solve problems. Since online courses can be quite pricey, make sure to research them, find out more about the creator and read reviews and testimonials.
Website & Branding Design
Another pricey yet invaluable investment. Having a professional, functioning and legitimate website is key for your business.
While there are tutorials and step by step instructions available, I highly suggest hiring someone to build and design your website. It’s extremely cumbersome and honestly stressful if you don’t understand how to build a website.
Allowing someone else to build, design and make your website what you want it to be is the way to go as you want it done the right way and for it to be working properly longterm.
Another important investment is your branding. I will say that it’s easier to start and design your own branding in the beginning, but eventually a branding expert should come into play.
There’s so much more that goes into branding besides a logo. There’s font, colors, moods and messaging that all help tell your audience a story. With clear branding, you can stay “on brand,” remain consistent and attract ideal audiences and customers.
Monthly Services
This investment came later than the rest as it’s more of a longterm and consistent investment. One of the hard truths of building an online business is you won’t be good at everything. It’s just not possible or sustainable to do everything yourself as you grow. Thankfully, there’s experts out there in every topic to help you.
I decided to invest in a Pinterest Manager to help drive traffic to my website and affiliate links and it’s lifted such a weight off my shoulders. Creating pins and growing on Pinterest is extremely time-consuming and I found it stressful and taking away from things I’d rather be doing.
I also invested in an SEO service that helps me optimize my website and blog posts every month so I can have a better chance at ranking on Google. SEO is something I’ve struggled with in the past and never got a true grasp on. Now I have a team helping me write the best blog posts and cover topics people want to read about.
Whatever it is you’re struggling with in your business, rest assured you can get help for it. It might seem like a scary investment, but it’s totally worth it. The money will come back to you when you’re able to make time for other tasks.
Travel
This may not be relatable to some people, but this is what my business revolves around. Travel. I invest in hotels, destinations, activities and food in order to deliver my best work and write amazing hotel reviews and travel guides for my audience.
Whatever your topic of expertise is, invest in that. Whether it’s food, fashion, health, design, home decor, etc. You have to spend money to earn money. Make sure you’re spending money in the right places.
About the Author
Jess Litras is an entrepreneur and Travel and Lifestyle Blogger who focuses on building a business online and encouraging women to travel while looking and feeling their best. After working at a start-up company and a corporate company over the last 5 years, Jess has taken a leap of faith to build the life and career of her dreams. She specializes in event planning, blogging, social media, building communities and creating travel guides. When she's not traveling, you can find her cuddled up on the couch with a good book or true crime show.
Website: https://www.jessicalitras.com/