Jonathan Burdon Discusses Keys to Being a Successful Young Entrepreneur

Today at the age of 23, Jonathan Burdon finds himself in a unique position, he is already the owner/CEO of a network of successful online businesses. Although it is completely speculative, because Burdon is protective of his financials, it would be fair to assume that his net-worth ranks among the top in the category of young entrepreneurs. Considering Burdon's success and fast growing business network we decided to ask him directly what he considers his personal keys to success. We appreciate Mr. Burdon's response and hope the ten points mentioned by him below can help aspire future generations of young entrepreneurs.


Jonathan Burdon's 5 Keys to Being a Successful Entrepreneur:

1. Dream & Research:

One of the most important things a young entrepreneur should do is dream big! I literally find myself day-dreaming about potential business ventures and my mind is always full ideas that I think can be the "next big thing". After you dream up an idea, you MUST research your idea and decide if the idea is something you wish to peruse further. One of the biggest problems with young entrepreneurs is they develop an idea and jump right into the development stage without even researching. There are a lot of things that you should ask yourself about your idea and you should answer each of the questions by completing a thorough investigation. Here are a few examples of questions I always ask myself before perusing a business dream:

It's important to be real with yourself when researching. Is this something that you can profit on and is worth your time? Remember, time is money.


2. Never Be Discouraged:

My first successful business was developed my sophomore year in college. I know there are many challenges that face young entrepreneurs, one of the biggest being the lack of money to start a business. When I started AlreadyHosting.com during my sophomore year, I didn't have a lot of extra cash and literally was working three jobs on campus. I was not discouraged by the fact that I didn't have cash but instead asked myself, "how can I adapt?" and found that I could create a website and begin marketing it for under $200. So I saved up (yes, I literally had to save), and used the money to create a business after I completed my research of affiliate marketing. The great thing about the internet is that almost anyone can create a business even on a shoe string budget....


3. Create a Circle of Trust:

No matter what your business or product is, it's important that you surround yourself with a group of people you trust and do not be afraid to bounce ideas off of them. Let's be real, there are a lot of people out there that want your money and will tell you whatever necessary to get it from you. Be CAREFUL, ask yourself is this too good to be true? No one can promise millions of dollars for doing nothing... It takes work, and lots of it to develop a successful business.

4. Stand Strong:

Every business requires negotiations to a certain degree, some more than others. As a young entrepreneur you will run into older individuals who think they can bully you into a raw deal. In business you have to come into every negotiation with the attitude that you are a successful business person and no matter what the other party says to you, you will stand strong and hold to your guns.

5. You Can't Please Everyone – But Try....

Ok.. Let's be real, there is absolutely no way to please every customer/client; however, your job is to try. The best form of advertisement has always been and always will be, word-of-mouth. Unhappy customers/clients talk a lot more than the happy ones so it is VERY important that you do everything in your power to keep your customers happy

Acknowledge that you are hearing your customers concern and find a way to address those concerns. In EVERY aspect of life, communication is key... Those who are successful can communicate affectively!