Starting a Business - Tips to begin

So you decided to start a business! Here are several steps to take to get started on the right foot:

1. Write a Business Plan You can find several websites that offer a template, sometimes the local county website may offer a template to assist new start up businesses.  
2. Raise your Capital. Whether using your own money, getting a loan or you have business partners who are investing, you must have a financial plan on how the money will be spent. You will also need a business checking account, business credit card for expenses and it's a good idea to get an EIN-Tax ID number. You can find tax information on their website at www.irs.gov. 
3. Name your Business. Give it a name that coincides with what your business is about. 
4. Make it Legal.
   
   • Check on local, State and Federal licensing, permits and business tax receipt requirements. It's important to follow the guidelines. 
5. Set Your Pricing. Avoid contradicting pricing. Don't price it one way on your website and then another way on Craigslist. You have to have consistency to gain public trust. 
6. Investigate Your Insurance Options. Purchasing business insurance protects your business against liability, theft and fire losses. Research the type of insurance and the amount of coverage in detail. 
7. Set Up Your Office. Whether you are a mobile business or you have a physical location, you must have an "office" where all of your business documents, phones, computers and fax/copier will be located. You will still require a business office to send emails, make copies of important documents for filing your licensing and receiving phone calls. Also, having a file cabinet to store all of your tax documents, receipts, expense reports, and any other necessary documents. 
8. Get Stationery and Business Cards. I love using VistaPrint! I use Vistaprint.com for all my business needs. They are low cost and provide fast delivery. I speak from personal experience! 
9. Get a Second Phone Line. Having a separate phone line will be beneficial, particularly when you have a physical location. You may decide a separate phone line may also be necessary even if you have a mobile business. It's based on personal preference but for a physical location, you will definitely need phone lines and internet to run your daily operations. 
10. Addresses: If you do run a mobile business, you may also consider getting a P.O. Box for regular correspondence. Just remember, Fed Ex, UPS and couriers must deliver to a physical address.