So you have come up with a great idea for a startup business – or – due to COVID19 you have brainstormed a way to save your small business. Wonderful! Do you have a clue how you will proceed?
Everybody has great ideas, but to execute that great idea into a cohesive business that will not only survive but also will thrive, you need to create a small business plan.
What kind of startup you are doesn’t really matter – solo law practice attorney, landscaping or home improvement small business, real estate investment start up, opera singer turned voice coach, home decor or party goods e-commerce business …………. we are all playing to a different tune and a new normal these days, with intense competition as many many businesses go online thanks to the pandemic.
So, back to your great idea. How are you going to make it work? How are you going to get it off the ground?
Do your due diligence and research as many of the moving parts as possible. And believe me, there are MANY moving parts! When you come down to it, you’ll need to hire a good business consultant who will be able to not only educate you and guide you, but also take away the overwhelming factors and make the entire process manageable.
Your startup small business plan should be as comprehensive as possible and include all the facets that will get your business off the ground, including:
- Choosing the right name for your business registration, your domain name for your website, your social media handles – for the maximum in cohesive across the board branding
- Any trademarks you will want for your company
- Logo creation – it’s the first thing people see – and the last thing they’ll remember if it does not inspire them
- Business cards, printed media
- If retail – expert SEO, marketing and social media strategies, sourcing the right online venue for your start up
- If real estate investing – a team of professionals on your side – accountant, attorney, real estate agent you are comfortable working with
- If service oriented – expert SEO, marketing and social media strategies, and a customized “get the phone to ring” strategy
- A plan for the evolution of your small business startup – 6 months, 9 months, 1 year, 5 years down the road
- A realistic budget that will need to be flexible to support your small business startup evolution and unexpected speed bumps that come your way