The FUNdamentals of Starting a Small Business
Shawn Freeman
MSP & Technology Coach | I help Business Leaders create exponential value at the intersection of business, technology, and people.
Having a business can be FUN, especially when you have an awesome team doing amazing work with amazing clients. But as I know, it's not a smoothly paves road without problems to get there.
With all the news about layoffs in the last months, I feel there will be a new surge of small business owners who had an idea, and now find themselves with time to work on it.
I started my own business from scratch and got it to the point where it was acquired. It was no easy feat, and I often talk to and mentor people starting where I was over 10 years ago - and a lot of them just don't what things they are missing. There are a few fundamentals that I figured might be worth sharing.?
If you're thinking about starting a business, you're not alone. In fact, according to the Small Business Administration, over half of all new businesses are started by people who have never owned a business before.
Starting a business can be a daunting task, but it doesn't have to be. With the right planning and execution, anyone can start a successful business.
In this ultimate guide to starting a business, we'll cover everything you need to know to get your business up and running, from why you should start a business in the first place to what you need to do to make your business successful. We'll also explore the benefits of starting a business, both financial and non-financial.
So if you're ready to take the plunge into entrepreneurship, read on for everything you need to know about how to start a business.
How to start a business:
There are many reasons why you should start a business. Perhaps you want to be your own boss, or you have a great business idea that you think could be successful. Whatever your reasons, starting a business can be a rewarding experience.
There are a few things to keep in mind before starting a business, though. First, make sure you have a solid business plan and all the necessary financial backing in place. It's also important to research the industry you're entering and make sure there is a market for your product or service. Finally, it's crucial to have a strong support network in place, including family, friends, and mentors.
It's really important to find a product or service that you can easily sell and know people who need it. This is called product-market-fit.
Starting a business is not an easy task, but it is one that can be incredibly rewarding both personally and financially. With the right planning and execution, your business can be successful.
What you need to start a business.
In order to start a successful business, there are certain things you will need. First and foremost, you need a great idea for your product or service. You will also need to create a detailed business plan that outlines your goals and how you intend to achieve them. Additionally, it is important to have the financial backing in place to fund your venture. Either capital for startup, or a savings so you can cover your own bills until you can pay youserlf. Finally, having strong mentors and supporters will help ensure your success.
How to make your business successful.
The key to a successful business is finding a need and filling it. This can be done by offering a product or service that is not currently being offered, or by offering a new twist on an existing product or service. It is also important to make sure that your product or service is of high quality, as this will help to ensure repeat customers.
How to market your business.
This is one area that many people don't think of, it's up to you to find customers and you wear every hat at the beginning.
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There are many ways to market your business, and the best way will vary depending on the products or services you are selling. Traditional methods such as advertising in newspapers, Yellow Pages, or online directories can be effective but may be costly. Social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn offer free ways to reach potential customers and create a buzz about your business. Word-of-mouth marketing can also be very effective, so be sure to tell your friends and family about your new venture!
Referrals have been my number one source of clients - and a lot of people hesitate to ask for them.
How to manage your finances.
Proper financial management is essential for any business, large or small. Get Xero or Quickbooks Online ASAP. Creating a budget and sticking to it is a good way to keep track of your expenses and ensure that you are not spending more than you are bringing in. It is also important to set aside money for taxes, as failure to do so can lead to hefty fines from the government. Finally, always keep accurate records of all income and expenses, as this will come in handy come tax time!?
This is one area you would be wise to hire an expert accountant.
The benefits of starting a business.
Starting a business can bring a number of financial benefits, including the potential to generate income, create jobs, and stimulate economic growth. Income from a successful business can be used to reinvest in the business, pay taxes, and support yourself and your family. A successful business can also create jobs for other people and help to grow the economy.
The personal benefits of starting a business.
In addition to the financial benefits, starting a business can also have personal benefits. These can include the satisfaction of building something from scratch, the opportunity to be your own boss, and the chance to make a positive impact on your community, as I did and continue to do with Trellis.
The social benefits of starting a business.
Businesses can also have social benefits, such as improving access to goods and services, providing opportunities for training and development, and supporting local charities or causes.
Conclusion
There's no shortage of reasons to start a business. Maybe you want to be your own boss, or maybe you're passionate about solving a particular problem. Whatever your motivation, starting a business can be a great way to achieve your goals.
Of course, starting a business is not without its challenges. You'll need to have a solid plan in place and be prepared to work hard to make your vision a reality. But with the right mindset and approach, starting a business can be an incredibly rewarding experience.
Just remember, you're absolutely accountable for everything so make sure you ask questions and learn fast.
So what are you waiting for? Get started today on your journey to becoming a successful entrepreneur!
If you have any questions just comment below, I'll be replying.