The one-person business model is beginner-friendly because it requires no initial capital, only existing skills, interests, or expertise, and an internet connection. It is skill-agnostic, allowing anyone to start without financial barriers, and helps build high-value skills that can be applied to other business models later.
To start a one-person business, you need four key tools: a platform to generate traffic (like social media), a way to collect emails (e.g., Beehive), a payment and product hosting platform (e.g., Stan), and a tool to save ideas and content (e.g., Cortex).
A micro product is a consumable item like an e-book or template, while a micro service involves helping others through coaching, consulting, or freelancing. Micro products are DIY, whereas micro services are done with or for the customer.
Social media is accessible, free, and skill-based, making it ideal for beginners. It allows testing ideas and angles daily, building engagement, and eventually converting followers into customers without the need for paid ads.
An email list provides direct access to interested customers, allowing for remarketing and deeper engagement. It’s a platform to demonstrate expertise, deliver value, and promote products or services directly to an audience.
Beginners should promote their products consistently, even with a small audience, to build authority and overcome the fear of selling. Ignoring negative feedback and focusing on the value provided helps in gaining confidence and improving sales skills.
Cortex helps creators save and organize ideas, content, and marketing materials in one place. It streamlines the process of writing posts, newsletters, and product planning, making it easier to manage and scale a one-person business.
In the U.S., beginners can operate as self-employed without forming an LLC until they earn $10,000 to $50,000. The IRS is unlikely to audit small earnings, allowing new entrepreneurs to focus on making money first.
Micro products, like a $10 e-book, help validate a business idea by testing market demand with minimal investment. They also build trust with customers, who may later invest in higher-priced services or products.
Beginners should reflect on their skills, interests, and experiences, such as their favorite books, work background, or personal transformations. Studying what others in their niche are selling can also provide ideas for products or services.
––– Free Guides & Mini Courses –––
One-Person Business Foundations (free): https://theone-personbusiness.com)
Generate Infinite Creative Ideas (free): https://7daystogeniusideas.com)
13 Brand, Content, & Marketing Trainings (free): https://theone-personbusiness.com/#trainings)
––– Kortex –––
My writing and note-taking app: https://kortex.co)
Free second brain course (and community): https://community.kortex.co)
The Writer's Bootcamp (now with YouTube strategy) starts October 28th: https://bootcamp.kortex.co)
––– My Products –––
My book: http://theartoffocusbook.com)
One-Person Business Launchpad (50% Off Until Black Friday): https://thedankoe.com/get/opbl)
My Idea Museum (write faster): https://thedankoe.com/get/idea-museum)
2 Hour-Writer (foundational skill): https://2hourwriter.com)
––– More Content –––
The Koe Letter - the written version of this video: https://thedankoe.com/letters)
This podcast was originally a YouTube video: https://youtu.be/hRgG8omhOJ0)
––– Socials –––
Twitter: https://twitter.com/thedankoe) Instagram: https://instagram.com/thedankoe) YouTube: https://youtube.com/c/DanKoeTalks) LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/thedankoe)