Running your own business for the first time comes with many pitfalls you’ll need to avoid. There’s a reason not everyone does it. No matter what kind of business you’re starting, there are a few things newcomers often get wrong, and we want to make sure you don’t fall into the same traps. Here are a few common mistakes made by first-time business owners; avoid these, and you’ll find a lot more success.

Common Mistakes Made By First-Time Business Owners:

Not Making a Business Plan

Writing out a business plan on paper might seem like a waste of time if you’re sure of your product or service. However, the research and figures that go into a business plan can save you a lot of time and money. Competitor analyses, cost statements, and mission statements will help you determine if your business can make it in the market. It’s easy to get excited about your business, but make sure you do your due diligence before sinking all your energy and money into it.

Not Getting the Word Out

Unless you have a background in this field of study, you may underestimate how crucial marketing is to success in business. You need to get the word out wherever you can if you want people to take your brand seriously. A marketing plan is just as important as a business plan, and you’ll want to know for sure who you’re targeting and why.

Not Asking for Help

You can’t be a one-person show forever, and no one is an expert on every part of owning and running a business. Almost every successful business owner has had someone else in their corner to help them out with the aspects of the company they’re less proficient in. Whether this is a business partner, a mentor, or a trusted friend, it always helps to have a fresh pair of eyes to look something over or give you advice.

Undervaluing Yourself

One of the saddest mistakes first-time business owners often make is to undervalue their products or services. Especially if your company enters a crowded market, you may think the best course of action is to undercut the competition. The truth is that this strategy will only hurt you. You may get sales with this approach, but they won’t bring in enough money to keep you afloat. Don’t undersell yourself—your product or service matters, and you should value your work accordingly.