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How does one start their own company?
What steps should be taken
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10 answers
Updated
Gloria’s Answer
Hi Tracy, You have received a lot of great advice here. Be sure the business you choose to start is something you like doing and are pretty good at it. Then start with a business plan. Reach out to your local chamber of commerce and to local networking groups to talk with business owners to learn from them. Schedule time to have coffee with them and to pick their brains! You will be amazed how others in your community will want to help you get started. Good luck!
Updated
Martha’s Answer
Hi Tracy - starting your own business is an exciting prospect! There are many resources but I would point you first to the US Small Business Administration - see link below. In addition to the 10 steps, they also offer learning. You could also get access to retired executive volunteers to advise you as you develop your business plan. I have added links to two more lists with credible organizations.
The very first step I recommend is to get clear about what business you want to start and for what customers. Then thoroughly research the market to make sure there is demand that is not being met currently. If there is a similar product or service already in your market, think about a different market or how you could differentiate. Be careful about price (versus value) being your differentiator because you could lose that too easily. Don't rush through this phase because you could end up putting a lot of effort into something the market already has or doesn't want.
Good luck!
US Small Business Administration - https://www.sba.gov/business-guide/10-steps-start-your-business
Forbes - https://www.forbes.com/advisor/business/how-to-start-a-business/
Investopia - https://www.investopedia.com/how-to-start-a-business-7970202#toc-what-should-i-do-before-starting-a-business
The very first step I recommend is to get clear about what business you want to start and for what customers. Then thoroughly research the market to make sure there is demand that is not being met currently. If there is a similar product or service already in your market, think about a different market or how you could differentiate. Be careful about price (versus value) being your differentiator because you could lose that too easily. Don't rush through this phase because you could end up putting a lot of effort into something the market already has or doesn't want.
Good luck!
Martha recommends the following next steps:
Updated
Rebecca’s Answer
Thank you for your question. I am glad to hear that you would like to an entrepreneur. Have you thought about what industry you would like to start your business?
Below are my suggestions :
1. Think about what industry you have interest or strength to start your business
2. Do some analysis on the industry, e.g. the entry criteria, competition status, any alternative or substitute, etc.?
3. Attend industry related courses and management courses
4. Work in the industry some time to understand the operating model and establish people network
5. Start the business online first if possible.
Hope this helps! Good Luck!
May Almighty God bless you!
Below are my suggestions :
1. Think about what industry you have interest or strength to start your business
2. Do some analysis on the industry, e.g. the entry criteria, competition status, any alternative or substitute, etc.?
3. Attend industry related courses and management courses
4. Work in the industry some time to understand the operating model and establish people network
5. Start the business online first if possible.
Hope this helps! Good Luck!
May Almighty God bless you!
Updated
Grant’s Answer
Hi Tracy!
Starting your own company is an exciting venture, but it also involves a number of steps and considerations to ensure success. Here are the important steps:
1. Idea Generation & Validation:
Come up with a unique business idea. Once you have an idea, validate its viability. This may include doing market research, competitor analysis, and feasibility studies.
2. Business Plan:
Develop a business plan, outlining your business goals, target market, marketing and sales strategies, and financial forecasts. This will serve as a roadmap for your business and is crucial if you are seeking external funding.
3. Legal Structure:
Determine the legal structure of your business. This could be a sole proprietorship, partnership, limited liability company (LLC), or corporation. The structure you choose impacts your business taxes, your personal liability, and your ability to raise capital.
4. Register Your Business:
Register your business with your state's secretary of state office. The registration process may vary depending on the legal structure you have chosen. Also, make sure to check if you need to register your business at the county or city level.
5. Obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN):
Apply for an EIN from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). This is necessary for tax purposes and is typically required to open a business bank account.
6. Business Licenses and Permits:
Determine the necessary licenses and permits you need to operate your business. These vary by industry, state, and locality.
7. Open a Business Bank Account:
Separate your business finances from your personal finances. This will make it easier to manage your business's cash flow and to prepare for tax filing.
8. Set Up Your Accounting System:
Choose an accounting system that suits your business needs. This will help you keep track of your income, expenses, and financial goals.
9. Create a Strong Online Presence:
Develop a professional website and establish a presence on social media platforms relevant to your target audience. Online visibility is vital in today's digital world.
10. Start Selling or Marketing Your Products/Services:
Launch your products or services. This could be through direct sales, online sales, or partnering with other businesses. Also, implement your marketing strategy to attract and retain customers.
Remember, starting a business involves continuous learning and adaptation. Stay open to new ideas, learn from your mistakes, and persevere through challenges. Good luck, I hope this helps!
Starting your own company is an exciting venture, but it also involves a number of steps and considerations to ensure success. Here are the important steps:
1. Idea Generation & Validation:
Come up with a unique business idea. Once you have an idea, validate its viability. This may include doing market research, competitor analysis, and feasibility studies.
2. Business Plan:
Develop a business plan, outlining your business goals, target market, marketing and sales strategies, and financial forecasts. This will serve as a roadmap for your business and is crucial if you are seeking external funding.
3. Legal Structure:
Determine the legal structure of your business. This could be a sole proprietorship, partnership, limited liability company (LLC), or corporation. The structure you choose impacts your business taxes, your personal liability, and your ability to raise capital.
4. Register Your Business:
Register your business with your state's secretary of state office. The registration process may vary depending on the legal structure you have chosen. Also, make sure to check if you need to register your business at the county or city level.
5. Obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN):
Apply for an EIN from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). This is necessary for tax purposes and is typically required to open a business bank account.
6. Business Licenses and Permits:
Determine the necessary licenses and permits you need to operate your business. These vary by industry, state, and locality.
7. Open a Business Bank Account:
Separate your business finances from your personal finances. This will make it easier to manage your business's cash flow and to prepare for tax filing.
8. Set Up Your Accounting System:
Choose an accounting system that suits your business needs. This will help you keep track of your income, expenses, and financial goals.
9. Create a Strong Online Presence:
Develop a professional website and establish a presence on social media platforms relevant to your target audience. Online visibility is vital in today's digital world.
10. Start Selling or Marketing Your Products/Services:
Launch your products or services. This could be through direct sales, online sales, or partnering with other businesses. Also, implement your marketing strategy to attract and retain customers.
Remember, starting a business involves continuous learning and adaptation. Stay open to new ideas, learn from your mistakes, and persevere through challenges. Good luck, I hope this helps!
Updated
Ami’s Answer
When launching a new venture, it's crucial to map out a few potential strategies and craft a comprehensive growth plan. This plan should encompass elements like funding, marketing, and operational income, serving as your roadmap to business success. In addition to this, it's important to identify the business structure that aligns with your plan, such as an LLC, DBA, Non-Profit, and so on. Once you've decided, make sure to complete the necessary paperwork, such as filing for the right licenses and registering your business entity.
Updated
Paige’s Answer
It's definitely important to have a general understanding of business fundamentals. I've seen lots of small businesses where the owner/founder is great at whatever the "thing" is that they're selling but not the best business person and ultimately fail. There are a lot of resources and organizations that help small business owners so it's worth digging around to see what sort of courses you can find specifically for entrepreneurs!
Updated
Grace’s Answer
For my Freelance writer position, I simply called the company and inquired as to whether they needed a writer. They said yes, and to send them a writing sample. I wrote about the city I lived in, with it's many activities and quaintness. They loved it. No Bachelor Degree needed!
Many jobs today require a degree or advanced knowledge of AI and other technology. You need to research various things and get them under your belt.
Social media and apps
Networking , cold calling.
Many jobs today require a degree or advanced knowledge of AI and other technology. You need to research various things and get them under your belt.
Grace recommends the following next steps:
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity.
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James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Tracy,
Embarking on Your Entrepreneurial Journey: An Actionable Guide
Embarking on the journey of establishing your own enterprise can be a thrilling and fulfilling adventure, but it necessitates meticulous strategizing and implementation. Here's an actionable guide to help you navigate the process of setting up your own business:
1. Formulate a Business Concept: The inception of your entrepreneurial journey begins with devising a feasible business concept. Your idea should address a problem or cater to a market need. Validate your concept by conducting market research to ensure there's a demand for your offering.
2. Draft a Business Blueprint: A comprehensive business blueprint is crucial for your enterprise's success. This plan should encapsulate your business objectives, target audience, competitive analysis, promotional strategy, financial forecasts, and operational layout.
3. Decide on a Business Framework: Choose the legal framework for your enterprise, be it a sole proprietorship, partnership, limited liability company (LLC), or corporation. Each framework carries its own implications for taxation, liability, and operations.
4. Register Your Enterprise: Register your business moniker and secure any obligatory permits or licenses to operate lawfully in your area of operation. You might also need to register for taxes at various levels.
5. Organize Your Finances: Initiate a business bank account to segregate your personal and business finances. Procure funding for your enterprise through savings, loans, investors, or grants.
6. Assemble Your Squad: Surround yourself with a competent team that supplements your abilities and aligns with your vision. Recruit employees or contractors as required to facilitate your business growth.
7. Craft Your Brand: Build a robust brand persona that connects with your target audience. This involves creating a logo, website, promotional materials, and a social media footprint.
8. Promote Your Enterprise: Formulate a promotional strategy to showcase your offerings to prospective customers. Leverage digital marketing techniques like social media marketing, search engine optimization (SEO), and email marketing.
9. Inaugurate Your Enterprise: Once you've laid the groundwork, formally introduce your enterprise to the public. Organize a launch event or promotional activity to create excitement and draw in customers.
10. Evaluate and Adjust: Regularly assess your enterprise's performance and be ready to adjust to evolving market trends. Remain flexible and receptive to feedback from customers and stakeholders.
By diligently following these steps and staying true to your vision, you can enhance your chances of successfully establishing your own enterprise.
Top 3 Credible References Used:
Harvard Business Review: A highly esteemed publication offering insights and best practices on various facets of entrepreneurship and business management.
Small Business Administration (SBA): A government body providing resources and guidance for small enterprises looking to initiate and expand their businesses.
Entrepreneur: A go-to magazine for budding entrepreneurs, featuring articles, tips, and success stories from accomplished business owners across diverse sectors.
May God Bless You!
J
Embarking on Your Entrepreneurial Journey: An Actionable Guide
Embarking on the journey of establishing your own enterprise can be a thrilling and fulfilling adventure, but it necessitates meticulous strategizing and implementation. Here's an actionable guide to help you navigate the process of setting up your own business:
1. Formulate a Business Concept: The inception of your entrepreneurial journey begins with devising a feasible business concept. Your idea should address a problem or cater to a market need. Validate your concept by conducting market research to ensure there's a demand for your offering.
2. Draft a Business Blueprint: A comprehensive business blueprint is crucial for your enterprise's success. This plan should encapsulate your business objectives, target audience, competitive analysis, promotional strategy, financial forecasts, and operational layout.
3. Decide on a Business Framework: Choose the legal framework for your enterprise, be it a sole proprietorship, partnership, limited liability company (LLC), or corporation. Each framework carries its own implications for taxation, liability, and operations.
4. Register Your Enterprise: Register your business moniker and secure any obligatory permits or licenses to operate lawfully in your area of operation. You might also need to register for taxes at various levels.
5. Organize Your Finances: Initiate a business bank account to segregate your personal and business finances. Procure funding for your enterprise through savings, loans, investors, or grants.
6. Assemble Your Squad: Surround yourself with a competent team that supplements your abilities and aligns with your vision. Recruit employees or contractors as required to facilitate your business growth.
7. Craft Your Brand: Build a robust brand persona that connects with your target audience. This involves creating a logo, website, promotional materials, and a social media footprint.
8. Promote Your Enterprise: Formulate a promotional strategy to showcase your offerings to prospective customers. Leverage digital marketing techniques like social media marketing, search engine optimization (SEO), and email marketing.
9. Inaugurate Your Enterprise: Once you've laid the groundwork, formally introduce your enterprise to the public. Organize a launch event or promotional activity to create excitement and draw in customers.
10. Evaluate and Adjust: Regularly assess your enterprise's performance and be ready to adjust to evolving market trends. Remain flexible and receptive to feedback from customers and stakeholders.
By diligently following these steps and staying true to your vision, you can enhance your chances of successfully establishing your own enterprise.
Top 3 Credible References Used:
Harvard Business Review: A highly esteemed publication offering insights and best practices on various facets of entrepreneurship and business management.
Small Business Administration (SBA): A government body providing resources and guidance for small enterprises looking to initiate and expand their businesses.
Entrepreneur: A go-to magazine for budding entrepreneurs, featuring articles, tips, and success stories from accomplished business owners across diverse sectors.
May God Bless You!
J
Updated
Andres’s Answer
Starting a new business can be an exciting but challenging endeavor. Here are some steps to consider:
1. The Idea: The first step in starting a business is having an idea. This idea should be something you're passionate about and something you believe can solve a problem or fulfill a need in the market.
2. Market Research: Once you have your idea, conduct market research. Understand your potential customers, competitors, and the overall market situation. This will help you refine your idea and create a business model that fits the market.
3. The Execution: The next step is to create a business plan. This should outline your business goals, target audience, marketing and sales strategies, financial projections, and more. It will serve as a roadmap for your business.
4. Starting Small: It's important to start small and scale up as your business grows. This allows you to test your ideas, learn from your mistakes, and make improvements along the way.
5. Believing in Yourself: Confidence is key when starting a business. You will face challenges and there will be times when things don't go as planned. But believing in yourself and your idea can keep you motivated and help you overcome these challenges.
6. Understanding the Risks: It's a fact that most new businesses fail. But this should not discourage you. Instead, understand the risks, prepare for them, and use them as motivation to work harder and smarter.
7. Legal and Financial Setup: Register your business, open a business bank account, and get any necessary licenses and permits. Also, consider getting insurance to protect your business from potential risks.
8. Build Your Team: If you need employees, hire people who share your vision and can contribute to your business. If you're starting alone, consider finding a mentor or joining a network of entrepreneurs for support.
9. Launch and Market Your Business: Once everything is set up, launch your business. Use your marketing and sales strategies to attract customers. Always be open to feedback and ready to make changes as necessary.
10. Continuous Learning and Improvement: Running a business is a continuous learning process. Always be open to new ideas, keep up with industry trends, and look for ways to improve your business.
Remember, starting a business requires hard work, dedication, and persistence. But with a clear plan and a strong belief in yourself, you can increase your chances of success.
1. The Idea: The first step in starting a business is having an idea. This idea should be something you're passionate about and something you believe can solve a problem or fulfill a need in the market.
2. Market Research: Once you have your idea, conduct market research. Understand your potential customers, competitors, and the overall market situation. This will help you refine your idea and create a business model that fits the market.
3. The Execution: The next step is to create a business plan. This should outline your business goals, target audience, marketing and sales strategies, financial projections, and more. It will serve as a roadmap for your business.
4. Starting Small: It's important to start small and scale up as your business grows. This allows you to test your ideas, learn from your mistakes, and make improvements along the way.
5. Believing in Yourself: Confidence is key when starting a business. You will face challenges and there will be times when things don't go as planned. But believing in yourself and your idea can keep you motivated and help you overcome these challenges.
6. Understanding the Risks: It's a fact that most new businesses fail. But this should not discourage you. Instead, understand the risks, prepare for them, and use them as motivation to work harder and smarter.
7. Legal and Financial Setup: Register your business, open a business bank account, and get any necessary licenses and permits. Also, consider getting insurance to protect your business from potential risks.
8. Build Your Team: If you need employees, hire people who share your vision and can contribute to your business. If you're starting alone, consider finding a mentor or joining a network of entrepreneurs for support.
9. Launch and Market Your Business: Once everything is set up, launch your business. Use your marketing and sales strategies to attract customers. Always be open to feedback and ready to make changes as necessary.
10. Continuous Learning and Improvement: Running a business is a continuous learning process. Always be open to new ideas, keep up with industry trends, and look for ways to improve your business.
Remember, starting a business requires hard work, dedication, and persistence. But with a clear plan and a strong belief in yourself, you can increase your chances of success.
Updated
Michaela’s Answer
Starting your own company can be an exciting and rewarding journey. Here are some steps to help you get started:
1. **Develop a Business Idea**: Identify a business idea that aligns with your interests, skills, and market demand. Consider conducting market research to assess the viability of your idea and identify potential customers, competitors, and market trends.
2. **Create a Business Plan**: Outline your business concept, objectives, target market, competitive analysis, marketing strategy, financial projections, and operational plan in a comprehensive business plan. A well-written business plan will serve as a roadmap for your company's growth and success.
3. **Choose a Business Structure**: Decide on the legal structure for your business, such as sole proprietorship, partnership, limited liability company (LLC), or corporation. Consider factors such as liability protection, tax implications, and administrative requirements when choosing the right structure for your company.
4. **Register Your Business**: Register your business name and obtain any necessary licenses or permits required to operate legally in your jurisdiction. Depending on your location and industry, you may need to register with state or local government agencies and obtain business licenses or permits.
5. **Set Up Your Finances**: Open a business bank account to separate your personal and business finances. Create a system for tracking income and expenses, and consider hiring an accountant or using accounting software to manage your finances effectively.
6. **Secure Funding**: Determine how much funding you'll need to start and grow your business. Explore different sources of funding, such as personal savings, loans, investors, crowdfunding, or grants. Prepare a detailed financial plan and consider seeking financing from banks, venture capitalists, angel investors, or government programs.
7. **Build Your Team**: Assemble a team of talented individuals who can help you bring your business idea to life. Consider hiring employees, contractors, advisors, or partners with complementary skills and expertise to support your company's growth and success.
8. **Develop Your Product or Service**: Develop your product or service offering, focusing on quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction. Test your product or service with target customers to gather feedback and make improvements before launching to the broader market.
9. **Create a Marketing Strategy**: Develop a marketing plan to promote your products or services and attract customers. Define your target audience, messaging, branding, and channels (e.g., digital marketing, social media, advertising) to reach potential customers and generate sales.
10. **Launch Your Business**: Launch your business and start serving customers. Consider hosting a launch event, announcing your opening on social media, and reaching out to your network to spread the word about your new venture.
11. **Manage and Grow Your Business**: Monitor your business performance, track key metrics, and make adjustments as needed to stay competitive and profitable. Continuously innovate, expand your product or service offerings, and explore opportunities for growth and expansion as your business evolves.
Starting your own company requires careful planning, hard work, and perseverance, but with the right strategy and dedication, you can build a successful and sustainable business.
1. **Develop a Business Idea**: Identify a business idea that aligns with your interests, skills, and market demand. Consider conducting market research to assess the viability of your idea and identify potential customers, competitors, and market trends.
2. **Create a Business Plan**: Outline your business concept, objectives, target market, competitive analysis, marketing strategy, financial projections, and operational plan in a comprehensive business plan. A well-written business plan will serve as a roadmap for your company's growth and success.
3. **Choose a Business Structure**: Decide on the legal structure for your business, such as sole proprietorship, partnership, limited liability company (LLC), or corporation. Consider factors such as liability protection, tax implications, and administrative requirements when choosing the right structure for your company.
4. **Register Your Business**: Register your business name and obtain any necessary licenses or permits required to operate legally in your jurisdiction. Depending on your location and industry, you may need to register with state or local government agencies and obtain business licenses or permits.
5. **Set Up Your Finances**: Open a business bank account to separate your personal and business finances. Create a system for tracking income and expenses, and consider hiring an accountant or using accounting software to manage your finances effectively.
6. **Secure Funding**: Determine how much funding you'll need to start and grow your business. Explore different sources of funding, such as personal savings, loans, investors, crowdfunding, or grants. Prepare a detailed financial plan and consider seeking financing from banks, venture capitalists, angel investors, or government programs.
7. **Build Your Team**: Assemble a team of talented individuals who can help you bring your business idea to life. Consider hiring employees, contractors, advisors, or partners with complementary skills and expertise to support your company's growth and success.
8. **Develop Your Product or Service**: Develop your product or service offering, focusing on quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction. Test your product or service with target customers to gather feedback and make improvements before launching to the broader market.
9. **Create a Marketing Strategy**: Develop a marketing plan to promote your products or services and attract customers. Define your target audience, messaging, branding, and channels (e.g., digital marketing, social media, advertising) to reach potential customers and generate sales.
10. **Launch Your Business**: Launch your business and start serving customers. Consider hosting a launch event, announcing your opening on social media, and reaching out to your network to spread the word about your new venture.
11. **Manage and Grow Your Business**: Monitor your business performance, track key metrics, and make adjustments as needed to stay competitive and profitable. Continuously innovate, expand your product or service offerings, and explore opportunities for growth and expansion as your business evolves.
Starting your own company requires careful planning, hard work, and perseverance, but with the right strategy and dedication, you can build a successful and sustainable business.