Which Season is Best to Start a Business?

When the sun is shining, your company will be, too.  Start a business in summer as opposed to winter and you’ll be reaping the benefits.  And we’ll tell you why.

It’s summer.  The sun is shining, the weather is hot and the hustle and bustle around the office has slowed considerably.  Now is the perfect time to start a new business.  Take advantage of all the entrepreneurial opportunity that summer has to offer.  Unshelve all the business ideas that you were too busy to pursue earlier in the year and get to work.  Here are a few reasons why summer is great for entrepreneurs.

The Summer Mentality

Embrace summer’s relaxed spirit.  Letting go of your stress creates an optimistic outlook and positive mood that will help you tackle a new startup business.  

Networking Opportunities Everywhere

Summer is the ideal time for networking because most people are more accessible during the summer months.  They are out and about enjoying the sun instead of locked away behind office doors.  Create networking opportunities this summer by attending conferences, hosting a barbecue or putting on an office happy hour. 

The Outdoor Office 

Finding a stimulating place where you can work uninterrupted can be a difficult challenge.  All winter long you are trapped indoors, but during the summer you have the option to get creative and work from the park, the pool or the sidewalk café.  Set up your office in places where you find inspiration for your business.  The best part about working outside… it’s free!  

Time is on Your Side

 No question, starting a business takes a lot of time. Why not start yours in the summer when there are more hours of daylight and more time to get things done?  In addition, business calendars are lighter in the summer than any other time of the year.  Take advantage of the free time in your calendar and in others’.  You will not have as much competition vying for business professionals’ time and attention.  The extra guidance in the early stages of a business can make all the difference. 

The summer months create the ultimate environment for new businesses.  Now is the time to get your ideas off the ground.  But don’t forget to work hard and play hard.  While you submerge yourself in your new venture, be sure to take time to dive into the pool!

Written by Laura Goede.

@LauraGThinkBIG

Top 5 Things to do in Kansas City...with Coworkers

The season for outdoor grilling, sprinklers, and popsicles is here.  Get outside with the people who you’re inside with the most...your coworkers!

Who says you shouldn’t spend time with coworkers outside of the office?  Treat your employees, partners and fellow entrepreneurs this summer with one of the top 5 things to do in Kansas City this summer!

1.       Royals Baseball Game

There’s nothing like getting a group of people together to tailgate, bake in the sun, and cheer on the home baseball team.  Why not treat some of your coworkers to a Royal's baseball game this summer?  With numerous home games at the K filling up the Royal’s schedule, it’s easy to find an ideal Thursday or Friday night to indulge in Sheboygans,  Boulevard Wheat, and peanuts.  Who knows?  Maybe the web developer can sing “Take Me Out to the Ballgame” better than any other person you’ve ever heard.  I bet our web developer can.

2.      Schlitterbahn

If the thought of your coworkers in swimsuit doesn’t make you cringe (of course it doesn’t!) then consider taking the group out to Schlitterbahn Waterpark.  Located in Kansas City, Kansas (which is becoming a hotspot), Schlitterbahn is the ideal waterpark to take your family...but why not take your coworkers?  There is a swim-up bar, mud slide, lazy river and gigantic wave pool.  If you feel like your employees need a day off, take them out for a day of sun and surf—Kansas City style.

3.      Boulevard Brewery Tour

If you need a break from the great outdoors, the Boulevard Brewery Tour will cool you off—in more ways than one.  Tours are free to the public with a reservation.  Reserve a group tour today with your coworkers and try out some of Boulevard’s best and more unique beers.  A great way to bond with the officemates...cheers!

4.       Starlight Theatre or Theatre in the Park

Want to treat your coworkers to something really special?  Buy them tickets to one of the shows being featured at the Starlight Theatre or at Theatre in the Park.  Tickets can be found at kcstarlight.com or theatreinthepark.com. 

5.      Loose Park

If you want to treat your coworkers (but you’re on a budget), why not take them to a park?  Loose Park is one of the top attractions that Kansas City has to offer.  With gardens and fountains, Loose Park is a great place to encourage your coworkers to unwind and bond through activities or a barbeque. 

BONUS!  We can't leave out First Fridays, one of Think Big's favorite summer activities!  Join Think Big Partners every first Friday of the month for a drink and to chat about what we've been up to.  The Kansas City Crossroads District will be open this Friday for First Fridays.  Bring your coworkers!

Let's get this summer started!  Treat your employees, fellow entrepreneurs, and coworkers before the chilly September breeze rolls into Kansas City!

Written by Allison Way

@AllisonThinkBig