- Research – Find out all you need to know about the type of business you’re getting into. Get necessary training, research online, ask around to make sure you are as well informed as possible about all sectors of the business.
- Know Your Market – Consumers are an essential part of any successful business. Make sure you know your target market well. Find out how your product or services can best meet their needs.
- Business Plan – If you are seeking investors in your business, a business plan will be required.
- Make it Legit – contact Small Business Administration (sba.gov) to find out how to get a business license. Get incorporated starting at $139, plus state fees at Legalzoom.com
- Register the name of your business (“Doing Business As” – D.B.A.) with the state government.
- Finance Your Business – Find government backed loans, venture capital and research grants to get started.
- Get a Tax ID Number – Find out which tax identification number you’ll need to obtain from the IRS and your state revenue agency.
- Register for state and local taxes – Register with your state to obtain a tax identification number, workers’ compensation, unemployment and disability insurance.
- Get Business Licenses and Permits – Get a list of federal, state and local licenses and permits required for your business.
- Get Help – contact International Virtual Assistants Association (ivaa.org) for administrative assistance. For $20, get 250 business cards at Vistaprint.com. Register your website at Godaddy.com. You can hire CuteVamp.com to get website in within 24 hours in just $100.
