When summer rolls around, there is anticipation on the part of students for both work and play. Of course, leisure time is always a nice way to spend sunny days, but earning money and experience is usually a necessity, so young people across the province will check out the local Student Summer Jobs with an eye to spending their summers productively. Some students, however, will aspire to something more: to pursue their own business ideas. These student entrepreneurs will take a chance at doing something they love, and/or gaining experience in a field that truly interests them. Here are some things to consider if this approach to summer work appeals to you.
Your number one priority should be to choose a line of work that you know is of interest to you. It is a basic fact that entrepreneurs usually end up putting more hours into running their business than a typical employee at even full-time work. Imagine putting all that energy into something that bores you - or worse! For your own sake - and for the extra motivation that you will likely need - choose carefully, with an eye to your particular strengths and interests.
Once you have your basic idea (one that you feel positive about), you should double check that this idea is a realistic one. This means testing it for weak spots. First of all, can you honestly make money doing it? Is the field a crowded one? What new wrinkles will you offer? You will only do yourself a favour by making sure that this is not some pie in the sky, but rather something you can actually make happen with your efforts.
If you think you are on the right track, find out for sure with a business plan. This is a formal, structured document that provides a detailed overview of your projected business. That includes a complete budget, marketing plans, requirements, and so on. Spend some time working on it, doing research, if necessary. You want it to be thorough. And then give it to other people to read and consider. Ask them for their honest feedback. If they like it, great; if not, you do not have to give up. Just take their advice into consideration and, if need be, adjust your plans.
Get help when you need it. Consult other entrepreneurs or, if possible, people in the same field, when you have questions. Do not feel you have to go it alone. See if there are grants or loans available to you to help you get started. Network, both online and in the real world.
There are many Summer Jobs Ontario young people can work at. But some may find it much more rewarding - in all senses of the word - to try to make a go of their own ventures.
Your number one priority should be to choose a line of work that you know is of interest to you. It is a basic fact that entrepreneurs usually end up putting more hours into running their business than a typical employee at even full-time work. Imagine putting all that energy into something that bores you - or worse! For your own sake - and for the extra motivation that you will likely need - choose carefully, with an eye to your particular strengths and interests.
Once you have your basic idea (one that you feel positive about), you should double check that this idea is a realistic one. This means testing it for weak spots. First of all, can you honestly make money doing it? Is the field a crowded one? What new wrinkles will you offer? You will only do yourself a favour by making sure that this is not some pie in the sky, but rather something you can actually make happen with your efforts.
If you think you are on the right track, find out for sure with a business plan. This is a formal, structured document that provides a detailed overview of your projected business. That includes a complete budget, marketing plans, requirements, and so on. Spend some time working on it, doing research, if necessary. You want it to be thorough. And then give it to other people to read and consider. Ask them for their honest feedback. If they like it, great; if not, you do not have to give up. Just take their advice into consideration and, if need be, adjust your plans.
Get help when you need it. Consult other entrepreneurs or, if possible, people in the same field, when you have questions. Do not feel you have to go it alone. See if there are grants or loans available to you to help you get started. Network, both online and in the real world.
There are many Summer Jobs Ontario young people can work at. But some may find it much more rewarding - in all senses of the word - to try to make a go of their own ventures.
About the Author:
Joan Jaynes is a non-affiliated Web-based author with interests in jobs and entrepreneurship for young people. Student Summer Jobs, including Summer Jobs Ontario wa, are a special focus.
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