Question: Can I start an online business with no experience?
Answer: Absolutely! Starting a small online business is more accessible than ever.
With user-friendly tools and affordable resources, even beginners can start a small business from their home. Imagine creating something uniquely yours while enjoying the flexibility of working from home.
Let’s learn how to get started.
Why Start a Small Online Business?
(A Quick Reality Check)
Before we jump into the details, let’s talk numbers.
The eCommerce market is booming — global online sales are expected to hit $8.1 trillion by 2026 (Statista).
Even better, starting an online business requires less upfront investment compared to a brick-and-mortar store. With as little as $100 or 10000 Taka, you can launch a website, promote your products, and start earning money.
Like Gary Vaynerchuk said: “The internet is a miracle. Anyone with passion and grit can turn it into an income stream.”
Let’s learn that miracle!
Step 1: Find Your Niche
(What Will You Sell?)
Your niche is the foundation of your online business. It’s like finding your “superpower”— something you’re passionate about, knowledgeable in, and that others need.
Ask yourself these questions:
- What am I good at? (Skills, hobbies, or expertise)
- What problems can I solve?
- What are people willing to pay for?
Nabila, a high school student, loved baking and started selling cookie decorating kits online. Within six months, she was making $500/month from her small online business.
PRO TIP: Use emotional language in your business to connect with your audience. Instead of saying, “We sell cookie kits,” say, “Bring joy to your kitchen with our easy-to-make cookie decorating kits — fun for the whole family!”
Step 2: Validate Your Idea
(Will It Work?)
Before investing time or money, test your business idea.
Here’s how:
- Research Demand: Use tools like Google Trends or Ubersuggest to check how many people are searching for your product.
- Spy on Competitors: Visit competitors’ websites. What’s working for them? What can you do better?
- Ask for Feedback: Post in Facebook groups, run surveys, or simply ask friends and family if they’d buy your product.
Businesses that validate their ideas are 50% more likely to succeed than those that don’t.
Step 3: Create a Business Plan
(Even a Simple One)
Don’t let the term “business plan” scare you. For small online businesses, a one-page plan works just fine.
Include:
- Your Business Idea: What you’re selling and to whom.
- Marketing Strategy: How you’ll reach customers (social media, ads, etc.).
- Budget: How much you’ll spend (start with as little as $50–$100).
PRO TIP: Break your plan into weekly goals. For example:
- Week 1: Build a website.
- Week 2: Post on Instagram.
- Week 3: Run a small ad campaign.
Step 4: Set Up Your Online Store
(The Fun Part)
Your website is your digital storefront. Luckily, you don’t need to be a tech wizard to create one.
Follow these steps:
- Choose a Platform: Use beginner-friendly platforms like Shopify, Wix, or WordPress.
- Get a Domain Name: Keep it simple, memorable, and relevant to your niche. Example: “www.CraftyCandles.com”
- Design Your Site: Use pre-designed templates and add your personal touch.
PRO TIP: Hire a freelancer or an agency for as little as $50 to set up your site and everything.
Step 5: Market Your Business
(Get Your First Customers)
Marketing is the lifeblood of your online business.
Here’s how to get noticed:
1. Social Media Marketing: Post engaging content on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, or TikTok. Share behind-the-scenes looks, customer stories, and product tips.
2. Content Marketing: Start a blog on your website. Write about topics your customers care about. Example: If you’re selling fitness gear, blog about “5 Home Workouts to Stay Fit.”
3. Run Ads: Start with low-cost Facebook or Google Ads. A $5/day ad can bring in your first few customers.
Businesses that use social media grow 78% faster than those that don’t (Social Media Examiner).
Step 6: Focus on Customer Experience
(Build Trust)
Happy customers = free marketing.
Treat every customer like gold:
- Respond to messages quickly.
- Offer hassle-free returns.
- Surprise customers with small bonuses (a thank-you note or freebie).
Amazon grew its empire by focusing on customer satisfaction. Today, 89% of shoppers say they’re more likely to buy again if they have a great experience.
Step 7: Keep Learning and Growing
Running an online business is a continuous journey.
Stay curious:
- Follow industry/niche blogs.
- Watch YouTube tutorials and take a couple of professional courses on business skills
- Join online communities for entrepreneurs.
20% of small businesses fail in their first year, but those that invest in learning increase their chances of survival by 50% (U.S. Small Business Administration).
Starting a small online business might feel risky, but every big success story started somewhere. Imagine looking back a year from now, knowing you built something meaningful from scratch.
That’s the power of taking the first step today.
As author Chris Guillebeau puts it: “You don’t have to live your life the way other people expect. Build something you love.”
Now, it’s your turn. Take the risk, and who knows?
This could be the beginning of something extraordinary.