Have you decided to take the plunge and become an entrepreneur with a startup business? Before you quit your day job, there are just a few things you need to plan out and put into place first. It’s worth taking a little time to do this, so you’re able to cope with those typical speed bumps that a startup is likely to face along the way. Of course, one of the most important things to prepare for your startup is your tech. Here’s how to get yourself up and running with your startup.
What’s In A Name?
Before you commit to a company name, think about how it would read in a web browser! You want a name that is simple, memorable and easy to read if it contains multiple words because there are no spaces. You may want to stick to words that are phonetically easy to spell out. Just imagine if a client phones you and they ask you what your website address is. You don’t want anything too detailed or complex.
Make sure you apply your new company name and your website address to your digital business cards and email signature. No website yet? When you order hosting, you may be charged for several things. They include:
- Registering a new domain (your website address)
- Hosting your website
- SSL and other security that you need to ensure your website has a https address and will rank better with search engines.
- Providing the support you might need online or by telephone.
- As for building your website, you might need to hire someone to put something unique and bespoke together for you. Alternatively, use an easy to manage WordPress template to get you started.
Is It All Online?
Chances are most of your clients will want to check you out online before they commit to a contract with you. Make sure you have a neat and tidy FaceBook account that has nothing visible to others that would appear less than professional. You should also consider building a LinkedIn profile to include your employment history and clients you’ve worked for. Consider it a portfolio of what you can do.
When it comes to your website, the pages should be easy to navigate and provide the information a potential client might need. Ask yourself all the questions they might ask, and make sure the answers are right there. Add a basic ordering system if you think this could help win more business. When you operate Business to Business, you must have telephone and full address contact details. You may also need to register your company officially or at least clarify you are registered for taxes as a freelancer or contractor.
How To Manage It All
You should have a recent model of laptop computer that will continue to be supported by your operating system for the foreseeable future. Make sure it is fully virus protected and secured. Invest in cloud backup systems just incase you fall foul of hackers or ransomware. Try not to keep personal information on here – use it strictly for business and your accountant may thank you! You’ll also need a smartphone that can allow you to conduct most of your business on the move. There are dozens of great apps to help you with everything from communication to invoicing. Make sure everything is installed that you need.
Funding It All
If you haven’t got enough stashed away to buy the tech you need, you may need to put off quitting your day job. If you are faced with a great opportunity but not the cashflow to pull it off, you still have several options. You can speak to your friends or family or raise funds online. As an unknown, you might not get far enough in a short space of time. It’s possible to borrow the money in a hurry from a lender. Getting fast loans simply requires just a few details when you apply online. This might be a better alternative to maxing out your credit cards.
When you work for business clients, you may have to wait more than sixty days to be paid once your job is completed. This isn’t fair on you, so stipulate your own payment terms in the job contract. If your client refuses to agree to them, there is little you can do. Turning down the job may not be an option. And if they pay even later, are you financially equipped to challenge them? Be prepared for a few months with no income at first, regardless of the number of jobs you can turn around. Good luck with your new venture.
