Mike Dunbar and his wife, Sue, offer eight realistic steps on how to go from daydreaming about going pro to actually doing it. First, prepare yourself by having the right attitude, then prepare your family to see if they share your dream. Your workspace comes next – you need a showroom and office, as well as workshop. You must appear, and sound, like a professional. Develop an identity, which will involve learning to sell and market yourself. Work the media. You’ll have to get out of the shop to meet people and circulate; it’s good public relations. And last, clinch the sale – practice talking about why your product is different and the best out there.

From Fine Woodworking #146

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