Decision for independence
An estimated 40,000 people in Switzerland decide to take the arduous path of self-employment every year. Many fail within the first five years. But those who still exist after five years have a good chance of being economically successful in the long term. Self-employment offers many advantages (having your own boss, realizing a lifelong dream, etc.). But also disadvantages that should not be underestimated (long working hours, high risk of ceasing to exist as a company after just a few years, etc.). It is important to carefully weigh the advantages and disadvantages before making a decision.
Finding an idea – the foundation
At the beginning of a successful start-up there is a good idea. A company’s long-term prospects of success are only good if this provides a solid foundation. But how do you find such an idea?
There are several different approaches to this:
- Copy and expand existing ideas
- Adapt business ideas from other countries or regions
- Be innovative yourself and create something completely new.
Each of these approaches has its advantages and disadvantages. In most cases, it is actually much more time-consuming to develop your own idea than to take over something that already exists and develop it further. However, it should be noted here that it is often more difficult to penetrate an existing market and gain a foothold, because then it is important to convince the target group that your product is better than that of the competition.
If you adapt business ideas from another country, there is a risk that they will not find approval in your own country, as cultural influences also play a role in the business world. Ultimately, every type of start-up carries a certain risk.
Determine the type of formation – start-up or takeover?
Most people immediately think of a start-up when they hear the word “start-up”. In some cases, there is also the option of taking over an existing company.
In the event of a company takeover, the company or the brand is already established on the market and has already claimed a certain market share for itself. In addition, in many cases there is expensive financing, which is made more difficult by the fact that initially no sales are achieved. This is easier with a takeover. In the best case scenario, you take over a “well-oiled machine” including well-rehearsed employees who work economically from the start for little capital employed.
However, it can also have disadvantages, as you may also take on legacy issues – for example, outdated machines, conflicts within the workforce or established processes that you consider to be of little use. If you want to build a company according to your personal ideas, it is best to start a new one.
Which legal form and which location are the right ones?
An entrepreneur who is just starting out has to consider two things. On the one hand, which legal form is suitable for his company and which company location he chooses. Basically, it can be said that there is no right or wrong legal form. However, it is worthwhile to get comprehensive information and advice. Every start-up must be viewed individually and usually requires a legal form that is adapted to the needs.
