If you are getting ready to go into business for yourself, no doubt you are experiencing a rare sense of exhilaration. It is not every day that people are able to quit their day jobs and put a business idea into action. This takes no small amount of creativity, bravery, leadership, and most of all—funding. And while many new entrepreneurs move forward without a lot of advice from others, it can be very helpful to speak with others who are more experienced, who have been in the world of business and experienced ups and downs. From having a mentor to a confidante, reaching out to others and learning from their mistakes too can be invaluable.
A recent news article outlined some of the most important points for today’s entrepreneurs, and we are sharing a handful of them with you here:
- Make sure you have enough working capital. One of the biggest reasons new businesses fail is due to lack of capital. Obviously, many start on a shoestring budget, but if you don’t have suitable funds to get your company off the ground, you may be headed into serious, and continual, struggles.
- Offer your customer base something unique that is marketed well, and has a catchy name—whether that is a product or a storefront.
- Be ready to accept feedback and criticism. This can be difficult for even the most experienced business owners, but it can be the key to your success. It is imperative to know what customers think, what they do and don’t like, and what changes they think would be more effective.
- Have a strong online presence. Whether you are interested in surfing the net and being involved in social media or not personally, this is crucial in today’s business market—no matter what your business is. Your website should be well-designed, and someone in your company (usually a marketing director) should keep up with social media campaigns and more.
- Be a good money manager—and if you aren’t—hire one as soon as possible! While you aren’t expected to turn a profit right away, set serious financial goals, work with an accountant you can trust and learn from, and make every penny count in those beginning days.
- Consult with experts in your industry, and hire not only a skilled team, but any contractors who may be able to help you forge ahead with your brand and keep innovating. Make sure that you have a good working relationship with your business attorney, consulting with them regarding creating the foundation of your company, creating and signing contracts, entering negotiations, agreeing to partnerships, and more.
Call Shane Coons now at 949-333-0900 or email us at Shane.Coons@seclawoffices.com if you need legal advice as you start a new business. We are here to help!