Chapter 1
Starting from Scratch
IN THIS CHAPTER
Recognizing when the time is right
Understanding the different types of online businesses
Gathering your thoughts and getting started
It’s sometimes difficult to remember a time when we didn’t have instant online access to almost anything desired, from finding a phone number for a new business (no phone book necessary!) to ordering groceries from Amazon and having them delivered to your doorstep within hours (without ever leaving the comfort of your sofa!). The Internet has replaced or supplemented trips to the mall, library, bank, gym, auto dealership … the list is almost endless. You name it; there’s little you cannot find, access, or buy online. Behind each of these unique and convenient online retailers are entrepreneurs that started out just like you — with a good idea for an online business and the motivation to turn it into a reality.
Of course, it doesn’t hurt that everyone from consumers to investors now recognizes the legitimacy of online businesses. It was once considered risky to shop online. But an Internet-based business model has proven to be a worthwhile investment time and time again, with the same potential risks ...
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