So, you’re wanting to start your own business.
It can be exciting and terrifying at the same time…
Today, I want to share some practical tips to make the journey into running your business as smooth as possible.
Actually, I’m not sure smooth is the right word.
I might just share one bit of advice early on.
Expect ups and downs, times when you want to walk away from it all and times when you’re wondering why you didn’t do this sooner. These are all normal parts of running your own business.
So, let’s get to the good stuff.
7 Top Tips for Small Business Startups
1. Have a business plan!
I know, it sounds pretty straight forward doesn’t it, although you would be surprised at how many small business startups don’t have a business plan. Mistake number 1!
There are lots of business plan templates out there and I recommend investing the time to create a business plan, especially for the financial side of things. You need to know that your business is viable and know exactly what it’s going to take to get your idea off the ground and financial. You also want to make sure your business plan is a WORKING document. It should be a document you pull out all the time to track how you’re going and update as needed.
Business Plan Template – https://business.gov.au/planning/business-plans/develop-your-business-plan
2.Ensure you have the correct registrations and licences in place.
You’ll need to register your business name https://asic.gov.au/for-business/registering-a-business-name/steps-to-register-your-business-name/
Register your domain name.
Ensure you have Insurance and any relevant licences.
3.Be CLEAR on the problem you are solving
Every business solves a problem. You need to know what that problem is and clearly articulate how your product/service solves this problem.
4. Know your IDEAL customers
Before you build your website and get your pretty logo, you want to KNOW YOUR CUSTOMERS. Your BRAND needs to appeal to your customers so it’s important to know who your customers are going to be so you can make sure your BRAND matches.
5. Establish a BRAND
You might think branding is just for the big companies, but building a brand is all about helping people to identify with your business. How do you want people to FEEL when interacting with your business? What do you want people to THINK when they hear your business name?
Create a brand kit on your business style, voice, colours, font and FEEL. It’s great if you can get your Logo’s, Business Cards, Email Signatures and Flyers all looking like they came from the same business.
