Starting a Business

I would suggest that you need to stick to your core business and not get side tracked into other ventures, this is easily done and you waste time and money often getting little reward.

Also do not do favours for friends at special prices, these will normally turn around and cost you more in the long run. You are trying to run a business so charge everyone your standard rate.

Be realistic on your profits and time scales, most people over estimate

Good luck

Dave

We will wait with excited anticipation!

Well now I feel you've but far too much pressure on me

While I've got an Admin's attention whereabouts would I find a way to change my little icon away from the Question Mark - I'm pretty jealous of your "man sitting in a chair"

There you go, very nice

Sure the what has already been mentioned is a extensive list and that we'll be repeting quite a few of them. Hours you'll be working, advertising, customer demographic(targeting), company set up(ltd, sole trader, etc), finance (cashflow is important when your up and running), insurance & licences depending on what the nature of the business is. Just a few things to think about.

I did promise when I reached the magical ten, I'd provide a few links for everyone on the topic of sole traders and limited companies. It's a question I have to face pretty much everyday - and people need to consider it, because often they'll jump feet-first down the route of incorporation and not realsie their obligations.

We've got a handy microsite on sole trader vs limited company. I also produced this SlideShare which shows the adavntages and disadvantages of incorporation. Finally, if you decide that it is the route for you - here's a series of videos to help guide you through the company registration process.

(Three resources in once. Hope they're helpful to anyone...starting a business is an important decision, so it's vital you get it right)!

Post-formation/starting considerations...things like insurance?

(Helpful topic this is I think, just thought I'd bump it!)

Don't get lost in the sea of things relating to your business. Its easy to spread oneself a little thin especially when it comes to starting a business. Don't lose sight of the main goal(s). Try and call in favours, establish mutual partnership.

Good luck.

You should be clear and strong in these steps to take a good start up:
1)Mission

2)Vision

3)Values

4)Strategy

5)Policy

If you are strong in these 5 points then you may run your business successfully by acting upon them.