The most successful way to learn about the business within a particular field is by being an apprentice or an intern. An unpaid internship is probably the last thing you’re thinking about. However, in my work with Sexual Health Alliance, all of the people that I now pay started off as a volunteer.

Being an apprentice in other industries and even in other countries is not only a no brainer, it’s often required. When you sign on to this role, you’re learning the way of business and how it all works. It’s much better to be inside a business doing this, versus watching from the outside. A result of this role hopefully will be that people get to know you and like you. And then, those same people will help you start up, help you launch and give you support to do your thing when you’re ready.

If you’re going to start your own business, it’s also a good idea to take a class. I have taken so many courses, classes and webinars and each of them has given me nuggets along the way. Never stop learning. So go be an apprentice if you’re starting out in this field. Remember, the goal is to get you in the door. You don’t have to be certain that this particular company or field is what you want to do forever, but it’s a step to learn and see. And step by step, you will get to where you want to be.