DAVE RAMSEY

Dave Ramsey says: Keys to making small business a success are simple

May 3, 2022, 11:30 AM

(Pexels Photo)...

(Pexels Photo)

(Pexels Photo)

Dear Dave,

Do you have any advice on how to start a car wash and detailing business? What things should I consider first, and what do I keep in mind over the long run?

– Andrew

Dear Andrew,

I’m excited for you, man! And I love your ambitious spirit. Working for yourself is one of the toughest and most rewarding things anyone can do. It’ll take a lot of blood, sweat and tears to be successful, and you’ll experience some of the highest highs and lowest lows in the process.

But, if you don’t absolutely love cars and everything that goes into keeping them clean and looking great, I’d advise looking into another line of work.

In other words, if you’re thinking about this kind of business just because it’s plausible or a way to make money, chances are you’re not going to be happy or stick with it very long. In that case, it’s really more of a side job than a business.

Is this something you’d want to be doing every day five years from now? Think about possibly having a team to lead and work with, too, at some point. Then, lay out a smart business plan, and write up everything from your marketing strategies to the cost of start-up equipment and supplies, to what your projected revenues are, and the per unit charges for all your services and widgets.

Work this up like you had to prepare a report for a college class, and that’s what a business plan looks like.

You’ll always do a better job, and have more fun, when you’re part of something you love. And when it comes to running the business, stay away from debt, pay cash and don’t be afraid to grow slowly.

Be patient, be smart and give people a quality, reasonably-priced product and friendly, professional service. If you do all these things, there’s a good chance you’ll be successful.

Best of luck, Andrew!

– Dave

Comments

Comment guidelines: No name-calling, personal attacks, profanity, or insults. Please keep the conversation civil and help us moderate comments by reporting abuse.
comments powered by Disqus

ENDORSEMENTS

Dave Ramsey

(Pexels File Photo)...

Dave Ramsey

Dave Ramsey says: Should you hang around for benefits?

Dave Ramsey responds to a letter from a fan who is currently in the military but isn't sure to leave and try new things or stay due to the benefits.

2 days ago

consumer debt financial dispute Arizona money tips...

Dave Ramsey

Dave Ramsey says: Imitate successful behaviors and navigating financial disputes

This latest column from Dave Ramsey dives into two big financial issues two readers are facing: consumer debt and a marital financial dispute.

7 days ago

Living on a budget: Lessons for 13- and 14-year-olds...

Dave Ramsey

Dave Ramsey says: Can they handle it?

Want to teach your kids about living on a budget? It's a good way to set them up for a successful financial future, according to Dave Ramsey.

14 days ago

Financial wellness journey Dave Ramsey...

Dave Ramsey

Dave Ramsey says: Can you spend for fun when beginning your financial wellness journey?

Can you spend for fun when beginning your financial wellness journey? Dave Ramsey answers in this week's column.

21 days ago

honeymoon married job loss financial advice...

Dave Ramsey

Dave Ramsey says: Should you go on a honeymoon right after you lose your job?

So you're about to get married. You have your honeymoon planned. But right before all the fun begins, you lose your job. What should you do next?

28 days ago

financial irresponsibility mom bad with money...

Dave Ramsey

Dave Ramsey says: What do you do when mom won’t behave with money?

Dave Ramsey advises a husband who is concerned about his mother-in-law's perceived financial irresponsibility and wonders what to do.

1 month ago

Sponsored Articles

...

DISC Desert Institute for Spine Care

The best methods to make your back pain disappear for good

Are you struggling with back pain that will not go away?

...

Bright Wealth Management

Here’s how to save money on retirement planning

PHOENIX -- With inflation still going on, people planning on retiring still face many issues on when they can retire and how much money they need to achieve it.

...

Day & Night Air Conditioning, Heating and Plumbing

It wouldn’t hurt to get your AC checked after Arizona’s excruciating heat wave

A well-maintained air conditioning unit is vital to living a comfortable life inside, away from triple-digit heat in Arizona.

Dave Ramsey says: Keys to making small business a success are simple