Congratulations! You’re ready to start your own baby handprint craft business. You have decided you want a hands-on training experience or a Learn In Your Own Home training program to jumpstart your business. Just how do you find the right company and the right fit for you to train with? Based on our 35 plus years of having our own business here are some pointers to help you choose the right fit. Ask yourself these questions.1. What kind of experience do the trainers have?
2. How long have they been in business and how long have they been training for? Do they have testimonials from past clients?
3. Are they experts in their field? Do they have a complete knowledge and understanding of this business and the materials/equipment used for this particular business? You want them have full knowledge and more. You might want them to be certified teachers in their field of expertise.
4. How many people do they train at one time? Is this one-on-one training or are you being trained with a large group? Will your hands-on training be personalized and geared toward your needs? Is their training schedule flexible so that it fits your time frame or theirs?
5. If this is a Learn in your home training program do they take you step-by-step and leave nothing unanswered? Will they share all their trade secrets with you, or are you getting an “abridged” quick version? You want them to be able to “jumpstart” your business and your learning curve, plus share all their knowledge.
6. Do they have complete materials and equipment supply list and a national suppliers list where you can purchase them? Will they help you with this and advise you on purchasing your materials?
7. Do they offer a business plan, tips on customer service, a marketing plan and technical support? Is their technical support personalized or when you contact them are you talking to a different person each time? How complete are their business and marketing plans? Are they based on tried and true experience and it is a proven path to success? Do they show you the same steps they use in their business everyday?
8. Do they offer step-by-step instructional methods that are backed up with resource materials such as a professionally made DVD or video and comprehensive manual for you to use as a resource whenever needed. Are these resource materials easy to follow and read with clear and concise instructions so that your learning process will be easy and fun to do?
9. Are they members of the Better Business Bureau, business and professional groups? Will they be here for you when you need them to be?
Once you ask yourself these questions, call and personally talk to the people behind the company. Have them answer all your questions. Remember always, there are no “silly" questions. Every question you have about starting your new business venture is important. An experienced businessor crafts person will know this and will be able to answer all your questions as well as want to put you at ease.
Follow your gut response and your instinct. Do you feel comfortable talking with them? Do you get a “good read” from them? Do you trust them and trust they truly will be here for you when you need them to be? Are they easy to talk to? Do you feel like they know their craft and know it better than their competitor? You want them to.
The bottom line in finding the right team to work with and getting that perfect fit for you is to trust your instincts and do your homework. Now, you will be better prepared and will know you have the right team to help you attain your goal of learning your craft well and having a successful baby hand print craft business. This is the relationship you want with your team. One that is built on trust, knowledge, and experience. These elements make for a perfect fit and winning combination.
