12 Steps to start a business the right way

If you are thinking about starting a business, follow these 12 steps to make your business a success

Starting a business can be daunting, but with the right guidance and strategy, it’s possible to turn your dream into a reality. Here’s our 12 step guide to help you launch and grow a thriving business.

Step 1: Identify Your Business Idea 

List your passions, skills, and interests, and consider current market trends and gaps that your product or service could fill. Find a unique and viable business concept that aligns with your strengths and fulfils an unmet need in the market. 

Step 2: Conduct Market Research 

Conduct thorough market research using both primary and secondary research methods. Analyse your findings to refine your business idea, validate demand, and uncover potential opportunities or challenges. 

Step 3: Create a Business Plan 

A comprehensive business plan is vital for the success of your venture. Break it down into sections, including executive summary, company description, market analysis, organisational structure, product or service line, marketing and sales strategies, and financial projections. Creating a business plan before you start a business helps you focus on what is important and identify issues in advance. Check out our blog on business planning reality for small businesses.

Step 4: Choose Your Business Structure 

Consider factors such as liability, taxation, and management requirements when evaluating options like sole proprietorship, partnership or private company. Download our guide to choosing the best business structure

Step 5: Register Your Business 

Before you start a  business you will need to register your business with the appropriate government agencies, and obtain any necessary licenses, permits, or certifications. Research and comply with local, state, and federal regulations specific to your industry and location. 

Step 6: Secure Funding 

Evaluate your financial needs, and explore funding options like personal savings, loans, grants, crowdfunding, or angel investors. Present a compelling pitch and a detailed financial plan to potential investors.

Follow these 12 steps before you start your business. Get professional advice early to avoid the common start-up pitfalls.

Step 7: Set Up Your Workspace 

Ensure that your environment is organised, functional, and equipped with the necessary tools, resources, and technology to support your operations. 

Step 8: Develop Your Brand 

Invest time in crafting a memorable brand name, logo, and tagline. Consistently communicate your brand values and messaging across all marketing channels. 

Step 9: Launch Your Marketing Campaign 

Develop a comprehensive marketing strategy tailored to your target audience and business goals. Utilise a combination of online and offline marketing tactics and monitor the performance of your campaigns. 

Step 10: Build a Strong Team 

Recruit individuals who share your vision and work ethic, and invest in team development through training, mentorship, and creating a positive work environment. 

Step 11: Establish Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) 

Identify specific, measurable, and attainable goals that align with your business objectives, and regularly review your KPIs to assess performance and make informed decisions. 

Step 12: Continuously Improve and Adapt 

Stay informed about industry trends and emerging technologies, seek feedback, and remain agile in the face of challenges to ensure long-term success. 

As you can see, there is a lot involved in setting up a new business. When you start a business,  doing it correctly the first time is much simpler than fixing up mistakes (incorrect business structures is a common problem!) So start off on the right foot and get some professional advice from the beginning. Contact us for help launching your dream business or developing your business strategy.

You can also access our Client Advisory Board Service and reap the benefits of having your very own advisory board. Whether it’s help with planning & goal setting, problem solving or some other task, having an independent board of advisers is an essential part of running a successful venture. To learn more about this exciting service, contact us.