Global Entrepreneur Week: how to be your own boss

Emma Finamore
01 Dec 2015

Just think of the coffee breaks...

Following an ONS report on the number of young people not in education, employment or training, Lee Biggins, founder and managing director of the UK’s largest job site, is urging young Brits to consider entrepreneurism as a viable career path.

During Global Entrepreneur Week celebrated this month, it was revealed that 2015 saw a record number of new businesses being created, and 2016 is set to be another record breaker for UK start-ups.

Biggins founded CV-Library at the age of 23 and has grown the business into the UK’s largest job board, with little financial support and no formal higher education or training.

Believing in the power and vision of young people, he urges them to consider starting their own business.

“As the younger generation shift away from traditional education and conventional career paths, it’s essential that they view entrepreneurism as real option,” he says.

“There’s no substitute for self-belief, drive and ambition in today’s job market; however young people who possess these qualities but don’t have formal qualifications, can still find success in business through entrepreneurship.

“The latest data from the ONS, coupled with the global celebration of entrepreneurism, make now the perfect time for young people to consider starting up themselves.”

Here are a few tips to get you started, if you plan on following Biggin’s advice.

Take risks

You’re young and probably not yet responsible for things like mortgages and childcare.

This is the one time in your life where are can take risks, so do it!

Take advantage of social media

If you’re under the age of 21 the chances are that you’re pretty good at using social media platforms.

Apply these skills to your business and utilise social media to promote your venture.

Not only will you build online relationships with customers and clients, but it’s a very cost-effective way of advertising.

Find a mentor

A mentor can give you advice and guidance on the types of things that only come with life experience.

They can help you understand the challenges you are facing and advice you on how to overcome them.

Use your social media skills to connect with people who could potentially fill this role.

Use available resources

If you are a student you probably have access to a library with a wealth of information on starting your own business.

If your school or university has an entrepreneurs society, or a Young Enterprise scheme, then join it.

Make the most of all information and resources that you can find.

Building up your knowledge with readily available information will make you better equipped at business.

Be prepared to fail

Not all business ideas turn into the next big thing. In order to succeed in business you must be prepared to fail.

You can learn from these mistakes and these experiences will build up your knowledge and understanding of how business works.

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