Success is in the Details - A Quick Guide to Starting a Small Business

Thinking about starting a business? Make planning for the success of your business a priority to avoid common mistakes small business owners historically make. What does planning for the success of your business mean? It means taking the time to research and plan every aspect of your business.

Who is your market? What type of business structure will best meet your needs, short- and long-term? Do you have enough start-up money or require funding? What equipment do you need to start your business? Are there any licenses or permits required to start your business? Are you prepared to perform all of the functions of your business or will you need to outsource services? The list of questions is endless.

Create a check list for the set up your business or use the one included here as a quick guide to plan your small business. Revise and expand it as needed. Develop a relationship with local, state and federal entities such as the State Comptroller's office and the Internal Revenue Service. It is your responsibility to know and follow all governing rules, regulations and tax laws pertaining to your business. These agencies can provide valuable information and resources to help your business succeed.

Seek local area professionals for guidance and services in areas such as taxes, bookkeeping, contracts, employment law, business development, marketing, and so on. Develop a core group of "go-to" advisors and resources to help you take care of the details of your small business and plan for success.

Easy to Use Checklist

Business Set-up

• Identify your market
• Identify and list your core products or services
• Contact local, state and federal agencies for regulations, tax and permit requirements
• Select a business location (address and contact information)
• Name your business, select a business structure and file appropriate forms
• Create a business plan
• Procure funding (if needed) for business start-up

Business Operations

• Open a business bank account
• Set up and furnish your business office
• Set up bookkeeping or outsource
• Set up processes and procedures
• Create business forms and invoices
• Establish vendor accounts for services, products and inventory
• Establish a business schedule and hours of operation
• Identify and list all functions required to run your business
• Hire staff or outsource functions as needed

Business Marketing

• Create a business identity
• Develop a marketing plan
• Create marketing materials such as business cards, brochures, etc.
• Market, advertise and promote your business

2007 Gabrielle Melisende. All rights reserved worldwide. Reprint rights: You may reprint this article as long as any links remain active, you do not edit the article in any way, give author credit and follow all of the publisher's terms of service.

Gabrielle Melisende, founder of Destination Graphix, is an award-winning graphic designer and newsletter editor, marketing specialist and published author. She works with entrepreneurs and small business owners to develop their business identity, marketing strategies and business communications.

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