Tell Everyone

Let everyone know you are in business, what services or products you offer, and ask them if they know anyone that might be a good fit as a client. It doesn’t stop with friends and family.  Tell your dentist, your mechanic, the woman who bags your groceries.  Get comfortable talking about what you do.

Early on you may not have a budget for marketing so word of mouth, your website, and social media may be your first resources for getting clients

Have a Plan

You don’t have to create a 30-page formal business plan, but writing down your goals, services, mission, and ideas are helpful.  I constantly write notes for myself, updating my plans.  I’m not sure someone else could even interpret what these notes mean but it gives me something to go back to.  It’s really easy to get caught up in the deadlines and getting the work done, so having a plan in the background for what you what to accomplish can help keep you on track.

Pay attention to the Numbers

Early in my business, numbers overwhelmed me.  Now numbers make me feel like I’m in control.  Even if your numbers don’t look good, and they may not in the beginning, be aware of what they are.  Keep notes of what you are spending and what you are bringing in.  Even if you are simply jotting it in a notebook, that is better than not doing it at all.  I review my numbers twice a month.

Find the right Tools

I always rave about Evernote but there are so many options out there in software that can help you.  There is project management software like Basecamp, invoicing software such as Invoice2Go, Calendly to manage your appointments… the list goes on.  Think about where you are spending too much time on something that can be automated and do a bit of quick research. Often spending money for a tool or software program is worth the time it saves.

Establish yourself Legally

What this means for each business is different.  For some, you’ll want to create an LLC or an S-corp.  For other businesses starting as a sole proprietor is fine.  I was a sole proprietor for years until I figured out what was best for my business.

Beyond incorporation, there are taxes and licensing to think about.  If you need a license depends on where you live.  Some states require it, some cities and even some counties. Most information can be found online for what is needed and how to obtain it.

For the first two years of my business, my husband took care of filing my tax returns.  After many hours of complicated rules and deductions in year two, he said he was done. Since then I have worked with an accountant, and have never looked back.  The cost of my accountant is far outweighed by what he saves me by knowing the laws and what to look for. Whether you do your taxes yourself or hire a professional, always set aside money each month in a tax account.  I have made the mistake of not doing so and was left scrambling at tax time.

Setup a Website and Social Media

Since I live and breathe websites, you know this was coming. I strongly believe in this day and age you must have a website.  There is no excuse not to.  You can put up a simple DIY site to start using WordPress.com, and later convert it into a professional website.  Something neat with your information well presented is a good start.

I recently attended a marketing event and the presenter kept reminding us that if you don’t create your personal brand, someone else will.  If you are not on social media as a business, this says something about your business.  You must create a profile on at least 2-3 of the most popular next works and add content. How much social content marketing is different for each of us, but having at least some presence is no longer optional.

Have questions, or want advice on your web presence? Reach out to schedule a complimentary consultation.