Are You Ready to Start Your Business?
Business Planning
One of the first things you'll need to consider is firming up the type of business you want to start and create a business plan for your new venture. Your plan is a key document that shows your path to profitability. You may also need this document to secure financing and to open a new bank account.
Start-up Ideas
You can get ideas and templates for your plan in the how to start a business section that provides ideas and opportunities available for new entrepreneurs. Included are step-by-step guides on starting up, developing your skills and building a business during a recession.
Utilities Guide
Additionally there are many business utilities you may require such as electricity, gas, broadband, telephone and office space.
Business Financing Guides
Most new businesses need some form of finance with some finding it difficult to get loans from banks. However, there are other alternative financing options available covered in our guides in the small business finance section.
Bank Accounts
All the banks offer various periods of free banking so ensure you get the right bank account by reading our small business banking guides.
Insuring Your Premises, Staff and Decisions
If you have customers visiting you, provide professional advice or employ staff then ensure you have the correct level of liability insurance to mitigate against potential claims. Business insurance is actually excellent value for money so ensure you shop around.
Marketing Ideas to Get More Customers
Finding new prospects and driving more sales from existing customers is difficult. Our marketing and sales guides provide ideas for advertising, promotions, targeting the right customer groups, branding, leadership, and negotiation skills.
