If you have done any research, you will know that online self employment is not the bed of roses that expert marketers make it out to be. Being aware of some of the problems that you could encounter minimises them and allows you to prepare for troubles ahead. 

Some common problems faced for online self employment are: 

1. Sudden responsibility

It comes as a shock when you realise that you are responsible for all aspects of your business. Online self employment can be an intimidating and daunting business because of this.
 
Not so long ago, I read a manifesto that showed all of the components of an online business. There were approximately 30 components and tasks that the online business owner needed to do in order to develop a successful online business.

One of the attractions of having an online business is that you work the hours you want when you want. So, you don't want to be working all hours of the day in order to develop your business. Overcome the problem of sudden responsibility by outsourcing as much of the work. Outsource in areas that you don't specialise in and as you can afford to. Hire on a freelance basis so that you have the flexibility to use the chosen service as need be. 

2. Finding the financial resources 

Most businesses or great business ideas don't fly because of the problem of finance. Online self employment is like any other business and does require a financial investment.  

As the self employed business owner, you must find the finances for contingency expenses. Primarily because when you are starting out, you don't really know for sure how much your business is going to cost. However, if you plan well this problem should also be eliminated. See my report, Planning Your Successful E-Business for more information there. If you do your research well, you will have a good understanding of what your overheads will be from the beginning. 

3. Watch for slumps 

Are you motivated enough to own an online self employment business? Once your business is set up, there will be times when you will slump. This can be due to a lack of projects or a lack of motivation on any given day.  

Always have at least one project in the wings so that when a slump hits, you can pick away at tasks relating to a project that is already underway or ready to start. Make sure that it is a project that is not on a strict deadline. Extra projects keep you progressing your business even if they are not imperative to the day to day running of your business. 

4. Online self-employment requires dynamic action not procrastination 

If you aren't prepared to take action then your business will fail. Harsh but true. When you recognise distinct trends in your chosen market you need to act on those trends otherwise they will slide by you and get picked up by someone else - someone that was prepared to act.  

Online self employment is a fast paced and ever changing business which requires vigilant monitoring of the environment, competitors and the market. But, you must be prepared to respond to any changes you see. 

An online self employment business can definitely become an addiction or quickly viewed as an unwelcome burden. But if you plan and evaluate potential problems early, then you have a much better chance at success.