Courage despite setbacks: why businesses fail and how to deal with it
Fear of failure is one of the biggest barriers to starting a business. In Germany, people who give up a business idea and stop trading are often dismissed as losers. In other countries, particularly the US, failure is considered part of the entrepreneurial learning process. Those supposed losers often start again, stronger and with a business model better suited to the future.
Here are four of the main reasons businesses fail, along with initial tips on how to avoid them.
Lack of demand:
A good idea alone is not a profitable business model. A business can only be financially viable if people want what it offers. Obvious as that sounds, lack of demand is often the number one reason for failure. Good preparation, realistic market research and perhaps a survey before launch can help you estimate actual demand.
Failure to assess financial viability:
Alongside obvious business costs such as rent, materials and storage, a company must also cover its owner’s living costs. From food to health insurance, expenses are not always obvious. Plan an adequate financial buffer, especially for the startup phase. Sound financial and cash-flow planning is essential for viability. If you have a business plan with financial projections, feel free to contact us. Our startup advice team can help you identify possible pitfalls and make adjustments.
Ineffective marketing:
Potential customers need to notice products or services before they can buy them. For efficient, successful marketing, you need to know your target groups well. You can then choose the media and measures most likely to reach people interested in your product. If you need support, we recommend the WiReGo advice network. You can also apply for an advice grant to obtain qualified advice.
Entrepreneurial skill gaps:
Even with a good business model and an understanding of finances and customer benefits, a startup is likely to fail if its founders cannot turn ideas and potential into practice. It is extremely important to know your strengths and weaknesses, motivate yourself after setbacks, communicate convincingly, stay organized and maintain good contacts and networks. Investing in your own skills and their development is therefore essential to succeeding in the market.
To help your startup succeed here in the Goslar district, we also offer an extensive free program of events.
