The Dos and Don’ts of Hobby Businesses in Kenya
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Hobby businesses are ventures started based on personal interests, passions, or hobbies.
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Some people do them as side hustles, pursuing them alongside a full-time job.
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The intention is always to turn a hobby into a source of income.
Examples of Hobby Businesses
- Handmade Crafts: These include handmade crafts such as jewellery, akala shoes, pottery, candles, or knitted items. They can turn this hobby into a business by selling their creations online through platforms or at crafts markets such as Maasai Market along Kijabe Street in Nairobi.
- Photography: Offer services at events such as weddings, birthdays, group picnics, and open a photo studio. One can also sell their unique photographs as prints or license them commercially.
- Baking and Cake Decorating: Bake custom cakes or sell your products as a distributor to local shops, through social media, or by setting up an online store.
- Personal Training or Fitness Coaching: Turn your passion for health and wellness into a hobby business by offering personal training or fitness coaching services. Create one-on-one sessions and group classes, or offer online coaching programs on YouTube or your personal website.
- Writing or Blogging: Become a freelance writer or start a blog. Write articles, blog posts, or content for websites and earn income through advertising or sponsored content.
These are some examples of hobby businesses, but the possibilities are endless. Starting a hobby business allows individuals to pursue their passions, share their skills with others, and potentially generate income from something they love to do.
Some of you may already be into hobbies that can be turned into a source of income without needing “technical training.”
But if you plan to harness your hobby, there are a few things to consider. First, it’s critical to understand the distinction between doing something for fun and doing it for profit. Assume you make pottery as a hobby; you could spend hours designing and crafting pottery. However, once you turn your hobby into a business, you must devote hours to marketing, management, selling, hiring employees, and managing the finances.
The Dos When Starting A Hobby Business
Do conduct research: Talk to people who have started similar businesses and ask them the correct questions to learn how to price your items, manage your time, and discover everything you don’t know.
Do follow your passion: Choose a hobby you are genuinely passionate about. Running a hobby business requires dedication and enthusiasm, so enjoying what you do is essential.
Do set clear goals: Define your goals and objectives for your business. Whether it’s to generate additional income, share your passion with others, or turn it into a full-time venture, having clear goals will help guide your decisions and actions.
Do have a business plan: Develop a business plan that outlines your vision, target market, products or services, marketing strategies, and financial projections. A well-thought-out plan will provide a roadmap for your business and increase your chances of success.
Do create quality products or services: Ensure that the products or services you offer build a positive reputation and attract loyal customers.
Do prioritise customer satisfaction: Happy customers are more likely to recommend your hobby business to others and become repeat customers.
Do continuously learn and improve: Stay updated with industry trends, attend workshops or courses, and seek personal and professional growth opportunities.
Do choose an appropriate business location: You can start small by selling at local markets, streets, events, and shows. If you have the finances, you can set up an e-commerce website or platforms such as Jiji, Jumia, Kilimall, Facebook Market Place, Instagram, and X.
Do embrace technology: Use social media and apps that can help with payments, marketing, bookkeeping, and other aspects of business.
Do network with like-minded individuals: Connect with other people doing business through social media. Also, get as much customer feedback as you can.
The Don’ts When Starting A Hobby Business
Don’t ignore legal and regulatory requirements: Obtain all the necessary licenses, permits, and insurance.
Don’t mix personal and business finances: Keeping your personal and business finances separate is crucial. Open a different bank account for your business and accurately track all income and expenses.
Don’t underestimate the importance of branding: Have a unique and creative logo that can make your business stand out among its competitors.
Don’t overlook marketing and promotion: Even if it is a small business, marketing and promotion are crucial for attracting customers. Use social media, online platforms, and other marketing channels to reach your target audience effectively.
Don’t neglect customer service: Providing excellent customer service is vital for the success of any business. Respond promptly to customer inquiries, address issues or complaints, and strive to exceed customer expectations.
Don’t overextend yourself: Setting realistic goals and managing your time and resources effectively is essential. Avoid taking on too many projects or expanding too quickly, as it can lead to burnout or financial strain.
Don’t forget to track and analyse your business performance: Regularly monitor your business to identify areas for improvement.
Don’t neglect self-care: Running a hobby business can be demanding, so prioritising self-care is essential. Take breaks, maintain a healthy work-life balance, and seek support from friends, family, or fellow entrepreneurs.
