Writing A Business Plan:
How To Start A Small Business
The Real Secret To Success

Over 80% of all people want to do it. Few, however, know how to start a small business. It is both easier, and harder, than you would have guessed, and far more rewarding than you could have imagined.

"Nothing Happens Until Something Happens"

That "something", in terms of starting a small business, is The Idea. The Goal. The Reason.
Why are you going into business? "Making money" isn't a good enough reason. In truth, most people make more money working for others, especially if they have sales or technical skills.

Far more important than money are other motivators, such as

• More time with your family
• More control over what you do and how you do it
• The ability to offer your clients something they can't get anywhere else
• The ability to use your creative and financial talents

These are not necessarily reasons you tell the banker. They are reasons for You. Know why you are doing it, and the goal becomes much clearer.

Few of us will find the new non-fossil fuel. But many of us can make a better community, both for ourselves and for our neighbors. And that's how to start a small business.

First, tie down what it is that you want from your new business. Then set out a plan to make it happen.

Preliminary Questions

When looking at how to start a small business, consider some of the preliminary questions, such as:

• What kind of business do you want? What industry? 
• What talents do you bring to the company? What skills will you need to find via a partner or employee or contractor?
• How big do you want the business to be? Are you looking for the flexibility of a sole proprietorship, or does this business have a much larger potential customer base?
• Where do you want the business to be in five years? Will you be content with a small, dedicated client base, or do you want to grow it over time to encompass more products/services?
• How much time can you realistically devote to the business? Can you put in 60 to 80 hours a week to get it going, or is your time more restricted?
• How will the business begin? As a home based business, or in an office or in a retail location, or even a manufacturing facility?

There are no "perfect businesses." There is only the business that is right for you. Take some time to make sure you have chosen the right one. You will be devoting more time and energy to this business than you can possibly imagine, so make sure you are comfortable in how to start a small business.

Creating a Successful Business Plan

Not all business plans are intended to raise funding. Some are less structured, and are intended only to help the owner clarify her own goals. Let's look at the less-structured type right now.

First, look at the funding. How much money will it take to start up? Getting funding for a startup business isn't easy, so take a good look at the financial end.

Draw out a timeline for starting the business. What needs to be done before the business is open? What is the time frame for completing these tasks?  

What formalities are needed? How about a business license? Incorporation? Resale certificate?

Take a good look at your client base. This is your bread and butter. No clients, no business.  

Your 5 Year Plan for How to Start a Small Business

Five years is a long time in most businesses. Even large companies have a hard time projecting that far into the future with any accuracy. Rather, look upon it as your five year milestones. What revenue level do you plan on reaching at any given quarter? What new products will be in the pipeline? How will the business grow over time? At what points will you need to look for outside business funding?

Expect to change it many times before the five years is over. That's fine. In fact, that's good. Having the ability to bend with the economy is a strong asset for any entrepreneur.
Getting a handle on how to start a small business is a genuine challenge. Read through this website, and many others, before making your final choice. Come back often for more information.

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