First Steps in Starting a Business
Again I'm drawing from a LinkedIn question that asked "what are the first steps in starting a computer consulting and repair company." But my advice would be the same for any time of company.
First, I always recommend the "Worlds Shortest Business Plan" exercise. The key to doing it is to actually write down your answers. Just thinking about them doesn't create the focus that's needed to make the exercise helpful.
In addition to that, topics to consider are:
Hiring some helpful professionals. I personally think a good accountant should come before even a good business attorney.
Pick a name. For a service business where you're selling your own expertise, this might not matter as much as in other businesses, but it's a best to check out whether the name you've been dreaming of is available sooner rather than later.
Choose a format. You do get to change later, but decide if you want to be a sole proprietor, corporation, LLC.
Check out licensing requirements. This is often best done with the help of a local chamber of commerce as usually there are city or county licenses that state-wide or national sources wont know about. California has a pretty slick website that will tell you what licenses you need if you answer a few questions.
Figure out a budget, and when you think you'll start to make money. Add up the outflow, before there's an inflow, and make sure you have enough money to cover that.
Check out free resources online. Several are listed on my blogroll.
That should keep anyone business for a while.
