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What are the biggest mistakes when starting a business?

12/07/2023 | by Patrick Fischer, M.Sc., Founder & Data Scientist: FDS

1. Insufficient market research: Insufficient market research is one of the most common mistakes made when starting a business. It is important to know if there is a market demand for the product or service you want to offer before investing a lot of time and money in the startup.

2. Insufficient financial knowledge: Financial knowledge is crucial when starting a business. You need to know about financial planning, budgeting, taxes and accounting to run your business successfully.

3. Inadequate planning: Good planning is the key to success. It is important to create a business plan that includes your goals, strategies and finances.

4. Inadequate risk management: one of the most important tasks in starting a business is risk management. It is important to be aware of the potential risks associated with your business and take appropriate steps to minimize those risks.

5. Insufficient leadership skills: As a founder, you need to be able to lead, motivate and inspire a team. It is important that you have the right skills and experience to successfully run your business.

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Opportunity costs - Why founding a company and taking the step into self-employment is really (financially) worthwhile in the rarest of cases

12/06/2023 | by Patrick Fischer, M.Sc., Founder & Data Scientist: FDS

Starting your own business can be a very rewarding move, but rarely is it the most profitable move you can make as an entrepreneur. There are a few factors to consider when deciding whether an entrepreneur should start his or her own career or business.

One important factor is that one must weigh the costs and risks of starting one's own business against the costs and risks one would face in an employed position. These include the costs of starting a business, the costs of running the business and operating the business in general, as well as the risks one takes as an entrepreneur, such as the risks of market failure.

In addition, the opportunities one has as an entrepreneur are not necessarily better than those one has as an employee. If you want to succeed as an entrepreneur, you have to invest a lot of energy and time into starting and running your business, which means you have less time to do other things and you may get paid less than you would in a salaried position.

Ultimately, starting your own business is a decision that each entrepreneur must make for themselves. It is important to make the decision in light of the opportunity costs and potential rewards and risks. When deciding to start a business, it is important to have the opportunity to run your business successfully and to realize that you may have to invest more money and time than you expect.

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What advice should founders consider

11/29/2023 | by Patrick Fischer, M.Sc., Founder & Data Scientist: FDS

1. Develop a solid business plan. A business plan is an important foundation for your success because it contains a clear strategy for your business. It should include your goals, your products or services, and your funding strategy.

2. Be prepared to take risks. As a founder, you must realize that there are risks, but you must be willing to take those risks to move your business forward.

3. Follow simple rules. Founders should follow some basic rules, such as maintaining a good budget and a solid cash balance, maintaining a good credit score, striving for good brand awareness, and regularly reviewing their progress.

4. Be willing to evolve. Successful founders are constantly learning and adapting their businesses to changing market conditions. They must take time to acquire new knowledge and continue to develop to make their business successful.

5. Be prepared to make decisions. Founders need to make decisions quickly because of the speed of the market sometimes. They need to be able to react to changes and make quick decisions to move their business forward.

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Unsolicited application as a freelancer by e-mail - Prohibited or permitted in Germany?

11/22/2023 | by Patrick Fischer, M.Sc., Founder & Data Scientist: FDS

In Germany, the question arises as to whether it is permitted to send unsolicited applications as a freelancer by email. While freelancers offer their services independently, there are still legal and data protection-related aspects to consider. This article sheds light on the situation.

In a changing world of work, more and more people are turning to self-employment as freelancers. Acquiring work themselves is often essential, and speculative applications are a common method of reaching potential customers or clients. But what happens when these applications are sent by email?

Legal basis for unsolicited applications as a freelancer

The good news is that unsolicited applications as a freelancer by email are generally permitted in Germany. Freelancers are self-employed and are not bound by the same labour law regulations as employees. This means that they are largely free to offer their services and contact potential clients.

However, it is important to bear certain legal aspects in mind:

1. Data protection: The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) is also relevant for freelancers. When contacting us by email, the data protection regulations must be observed. This means that personal data (e.g. the recipient's contact details) may only be used for the stated purpose (the application) and the recipient's consent to the processing of their data may be required.

2.Opt-out and objection: Every unsolicited application by email should include an option to simply unsubscribe (opt-out). The recipient must be able to refuse to continue receiving messages. It is important to respect these wishes in order to avoid legal problems.

3. Imprint: The email should include a full legal notice that complies with legal requirements. This includes details such as the sender's name and address as well as a contact option.

Conclusion

Initiative applications as a freelancer by email are generally permitted in Germany as long as the legal provisions and data protection regulations are observed. Self-employment offers freelancers the opportunity to proactively search for new assignments and offer their services. Nevertheless, it is advisable to find out about the current laws and regulations and seek legal advice if necessary in order to minimise potential risks.

Freelancers should take care to appear serious and professional, as first impressions are often crucial. A well-thought-out unsolicited application can pave the way to new business opportunities and make self-employment a success.

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Pitching to investors: How do you convince potential investors?

11/21/2023 | by Patrick Fischer, M.Sc., Founder & Data Scientist: FDS

Finding investors for your start-up or business project can be one of the most challenging and exciting phases of your business journey. A convincing pitch to potential backers can mean the difference between success and failure. In this article, you will learn how to effectively approach investors and convince them of your project.

1. Knowledge of the audience:

Before you prepare your pitch, it is crucial to understand your audience. Research your potential investors thoroughly to find out what kind of companies or projects they have invested in the past. This will help you tailor your pitch to their interests and needs.

2. Tell a compelling story:

Investors are not only interested in facts and figures, but also in the story behind your company. Tell a clear and compelling story that illustrates your problem, solution and market potential. Use storytelling to create an emotional connection.

3. Clarify the problem and solution:

Start by explaining what problem your product or service solves and why this problem is important. Then present your solution and emphasise how unique and effective it is. Investors need to understand why your company fills a gap in the market.

4. Demonstrate market potential:

Investors want to know that your company is operating in a growing market. Present market research and data to back up the market potential. Show how big the target market is and how you will tap into it.

5. Emphasise your competitive advantage:

Explain why your company will be successful against the competition. Emphasise your unique selling points, patents, technologies or your team. Show why investors should invest in your company and not in the competition.

6. Clear financial forecasts:

Investors want to see financial forecasts that are based on realistic assumptions. Present sales forecasts, cost structures, break-even points and expected ROI (return on investment). Be transparent and conservative in your estimates.

7. Emphasise team and experience:

Investors not only invest in ideas, but also in teams. Introduce your founding team and emphasise their relevant experience and qualifications. Show that your team is capable of leading the company to success.

8. Ask questions and get feedback:

At the end of your pitch, you should be ready to answer questions from investors. Show your interest in their perspective and feedback. Be prepared to respond to critical questions and be honest about risks and challenges.

9. Clear call to action:

End your pitch with a clear call to action. Ask investors to take the next step, whether it's another meeting, reviewing documents or signing a contract.

10. Practise, practise, practise:

A convincing pitch requires practice. Practise in front of friends, mentors or other founders to boost your confidence and presentation skills.

A successful pitch to investors requires preparation, persuasion and the ability to clearly communicate your story and value. By following these steps and presenting your business authentically and convincingly, you will increase your chances of securing the necessary investment and moving your business project forward.

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