Owner's Checklist for Starting a New Business

The attached file contains a checklist for all the steps you should take before you start a new business. It's a "to do" list for starting a new business in much the same way that a grocery list is a "to do" for grocery shopping.

It contains a general, high-level listing of the tasks you need to complete in starting your new business. So, for example, while it lists "prepare a business plan" as one of the tasks, it does not list every step you need to take to create a business plan.

File Description:
The file contains a one-page document in rich text format (RTF) that is suitable for use with most word processing programs used in the Windows environment.

Download:
Owner's checklist for starting a new business

Special Features:

Included are the following:

  • a listing of all the background steps you need to take, including establishing business goals, determining the best location for your business, and assessing your financial situation
  • a listing of all the business transactions you need to take, such as hiring a lawyer, establishing a line of credit, and getting business insurance
  • a listing of all the pre-opening steps you need to take, including reviewing building codes, obtaining business licenses, and joining professional organizations

More information:
Starting Your Business

Peer Comments

Forgot one important thing: Your site's design needs to relate and reach your target audience

I agree with everything this article said in ways of promoting your business and increasing clientele, but I feel the author forgot to mention one VERY important thing: Your site's design needs to relate and reach your target audience. That's because if your website design is just general instead of tailored to your specific demographic, you won't ever reach them and hence, you won't build up a client base.
If anyone's looking for design concept ideas, you can download a free e-book on the 5 best design concepts of 2011 at http://mindflashad.com/branding-concept-quiz/. After taking a short quiz you'll also get a free branding concept and even a free professional consultation if you want one.
CESPECK from Aptos, CA - Add to my Personal PeerSphere - 2 years ago

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Now for courage...

I have been doing photography for 15 yrs. I have done weddings, anniversaries and other occasions. Up until now my husband didn't support me. Now he is reconsidering. I purchased several thousand dollars worth of equipment in the last two years with the largest expenditures last year. I will be visiting this site often. I know it will take time and luck but I know my work is good as I have been paid and have returning customers, not a lot , just a few. I want to expand and I am aware this bussiness is pretty well saturated. I can take as much time as I need as my husband had a good job. I am so glad I found this site!! Thank you for helping others selflessly.

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where to start?

visit http://franchiseexpo.com to help you answer the questions you are concerned with when choosing your franchise opportunity. They will assist you on your way to a successful future in the franchising world!

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New business

Good, I like this checklist But one of the first steps in setting up your business is to register your name. But before doing so, you must decide if you're going to be a sole proprietorship, a partnership, a corporation, or a society. Each has important implications for liability, taxation, and succession planning.

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free internet marketing

I've opened a boudin business and I want to take advantage of the internet for marketing purposes. Any suggestions? I'm "very liberal and outside the box". Thanks Ron

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Ooops you forgot one thing - Maximizing Business Value

You could go and read about "14 Unalterable Laws of Business Value" at www.growthconcepts.org. Most business brokers know that a new start-up or established business sells every 3-5 years. Be prepared to capitalize on business value to build your equity.

David Whipple
DAVIDW from Provo, UT - Add to my Personal PeerSphere - 4 years ago

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Great Advice

Very useful information we have most of your list mastered. I am wondering if you have any helpful tips on securing an effective marketing campaign on a budget. I have a website www.southernsoilprocleaning.com your suggestions would be welcome.
Thank you
Cassandra from Alabama
CASSANDRA from Huntsville, AL - Add to my Personal PeerSphere - 4 years ago

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Good Stuff thanks for helping

Tim from Minnetonka, this is always welcome to remind and enforce your current plans, opening a new Restaurant this year putting to work 55-65 new employees

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