Starting your own business can be extremely exciting, but where do you start? While it might seem overwhelming at first, there are many simple steps you can take to start your own business. Here’s everything you need to know, from funding to customer service.
Create Your Business Plan
Before you start a business, you have to learn everything you can about the industry. Writing your business plan will give you the time to research the field and learn where your business will fit. This document should be quite lengthy and will include the structure of your company, your mission, and your financial plan. While you might be tempted to skip this step, this is an important foundation for your company. You’ll learn more about the industry, develop the details of your business, and have a document that you can show potential investors if they question your dedication or knowledge. Make this your first step so you’re starting your business with an amazingly detailed plan.
Register Your Business Legally
Once you’ve outlined the details of your business, you’ll have to start the legal process. You’ll need to register with the IRS and receive a federal tax ID. Then you’ll need to register with your state. This is when you’ll need to know what type of business you’re creating. This decision should not be made lightly, which is why you need to consider it long before it’s time to decide. Typically, your options are sole proprietorship, partnership, corporation, or limited liability company (LLC). The structure you choose determines your legal liability, taxes, and flexibility. If you’re not sure which structure will best suit your business, talk to a professional and see what he or she thinks. An accountant or fellow business owner can help you determine what’s right for your company.
Get the Funding
To start a business, you have to have funds. Your funding will determine what you can do from the start and can make all the difference when you’re choosing something like a storefront. Most small business owners don’t use their own money to start their companies. Many owners ask their friends or family members to invest in their business or take out a business loan from the bank. Other owners turn to angel investors or Texas hard money lenders to receive startup funds. These lenders can provide more personalized assistance than a bank and can result in an incredible relationship. However you decide to get your funds, make sure you have enough to do everything you’ve outlined in your business plan — purchasing a real estate, redecorating your store, or implementing a contact center.
Make a Plan for Customer Service
Before you open your business, you need to make a plan for customer service. Poor customer service can quickly force a new company out of business, so your plan must include how to provide the best customer service possible. Implement a salesforce contact center before your business even opens. A contact center is the best way for customers to receive help quickly and easily. You hire incredible agents from anywhere and these agents help provide the perfect solutions to your clients. Your callers can contact the center in several different ways, including text messaging and email, and they’ll love that they can get their questions answered however best suits them. By opening your contact center before problems arise, you show your clients that you value customer service and are committed to providing solutions. This can make a huge difference during a small business’s critical first year.
If follow these clear steps, you’ll have your own business up and running before you even realize. Now you just have to manage it!
