10 Step Guide to Starting a Business

Starting your own business is a great thing but it’s definitely not as easy as some make it out to be. Here is my 10 step guide to starting a business.

1. Research

Conduct comprehensive research for your idea. Gather information about your product/service, target market, competitors, etc. and analyze the data for your business model.  Use research as a weapon against your competitors to have an advantage.

2. Make A Plan

Your plan acts as a foundation for your business. Prepare your business plan carefully. Set short and long term goals for your business. Make your plan in the way that you can pitch it and impress investors (if you ever need to in the future.)

3. Get Funding

Every business needs funds. Don’t compromise on your business plan because of a lack of funding. Attract investors by presenting your business model to them efficiently. There are many traditional and modern ways to arrange seed money including sites like Kick Starter.

4. Choose Location And Structure

Choosing the best location for your business is a crucial decision. It’s also important to find the right market for your product. 

5. Choose Business Name

Most people take it very lightly, but choosing the right name for a business is really important. There isn’t any text-book guide for choosing a name, but there are many factors that should be considered before finalizing it. Is it unique? Does the name match your business’s mission and values?

6. Register Your Business

Making your business legal is just as important as launching it. Registering your business is important to protect your brand. Check out all the legal requirements for starting a business and consult a lawyer for business advice.

7. Choose The Financial and Accounting System.

Getting a tax ID, setting up an accounting system, and the procedures to handle the cash flow is vital for business. You can learn it yourself by taking a course, or you can hire an accountant for this.

8. Apply For License/Permits

Licenses and permits are issued by authorities to maintain a standard quality. Acquiring a license helps you avoid any legal issues and help you establish your image as a law-abiding business.

9. Hire The Best Team

Your team should be right for the job. You should hire people who can understand the business values and have a good corporate sense.

10. Advertising

Your business is nothing if the market doesn’t know about it. Market your product and business efficiently to establish a name for your business. Are you an aspiring entrepreneur? Check out my new book: Strictly Business: How to Crush it as a Young Entrepreneur.