Are you thinking about starting your own business? Are you wondering how to get started? You might be feeling overwhelmed by the whole decision. Well, here are some of the things you need to consider when you are thinking about setting up a business in the UK.
1. What’s Your Company’s Name?
You need to choose a name for your company and decide what you want to achieve with that name. It could describe what the business does, what you stand for, be abstract or who you are. Of course, you need to confirm that your potential business name is not already in use. If you are planning to open a limited company, you need to confirm there isn’t a lot of competition for your name online.
2. What’s The Company Structure?
When starting a new business, you need to decide on the structure. Do you want to open a sole proprietorship, partnership or limited company? The structure you choose for your company will determine many things such as the type of paperwork you need to fill in, the types of taxes, the type of profits and the procedure to follow when you make a loss.
3. Do You Have A Business Plan? Have You Done Research?
Before starting out, you need to make the most sensible decisions about the viability of your business. You need to have an idea of how to grow your new business venture. Start by researching your target market and make sure there is enough demand for the product/service you are planning to offer.
Start by checking what your competitors are doing. Additionally, you need to have an idea of the type of demand in the area. Is your idea actually bright and unique? It’s not about creating some doubts or bringing negativity but you need to have realistic expectations for your success, growth and risks before you commence the business.
4. Skills, Gaps, Experience And Training
Yes, you may have a unique business idea. However, you need to be realistic about your skills and training as well as what you need to guarantee that your business succeeds. For instance, do you have digital skills that can create an exceptional online presence? Do you have the right management skills to help recruit the right people for your staff? You may not have a complete idea of what you need. Eventually, there will be numerous unexpected things that will keep popping up when running your business. However, you need to boost your professional skills effortlessly.
5. Space And Equipment
Whether you are investing in your own business premises or looking for somewhere quiet to work from home, you need to have the right space to help you focus on your business. Regardless of the size of your business, you need to buy some basic equipment such as computers, company phones and much more if you want to pull it off. Don’t forget to account for these expenses in the start-up costs.
6. Finance And Accounting
If you are planning to separate your business and personal finances, the best way to do it is by creating a bank account especially for business use. Additionally, you need to have a plan for dealing with your finances. Yes, you can handle your own finances, handle your tax returns and any relevant company accounts. Additionally, you can also invest in an accountant, a professionally trained one, to guarantee that your accounts are legal. It’s a great way to save money and get necessary tax breaks.
7. Marketing
Yes, your business idea may be unique but if your customers don’t know if you exist, you will not be profitable. How are you planning to reach your target market?
How will you spread the word and create a buzz about what you do? You need to have a plan for promoting your product or service. This may include networking, PR, personal selling, social media and email marketing. Don’t forget to include the various materials you need such as posters, roller banners and business cards.
8. Licensing And Legality
Find out from the local authorities if you need any special licenses to sell in the area. For instance, if you are selling food or alcohol, you need to have the right licenses. Additionally, if your business is using a special software package, it needs to be licensed and have the right type of insurance.
9. Online Presence
Setting up a website is a great way to boost your online presence. You should also set up social media accounts and find a way to reach your target market effortlessly.
10. Support
Starting a new business is a lot of work. You need to connect with the right people who will help you as an entrepreneur and businessperson. Try connecting with the local business groups and the local networking events. That way, you can create your own database of professional contacts that you can reach out to when you need help or support.
Additionally, you can get a mentor, especially someone who has been there before and actually done what you are planning to do. You will get someone to share ideas with and bounce off new ideas. Don’t shy off from reaching people in the same niche to help you build your business.
