Starting an online business is very similar to starting a brick and mortar business. The first step in the process is creating a business plan. Creating a business plan allows you to implement a road map of sorts and ensures that are fully prepared to launch your business on opening day.
Your company business plans should include your vision statement for the company and should set forth the basic concept for the business. It should include a detailed list of your short term and long term goals for your business. Where do you want the business to be in two years, five years, ten years? What short terms goals will you have to reach in order to achieve your long term goals? How will you finance your business? The company business plan should contain contingency plans in the event that market conditions shift or other changes occur which impact your business.
Where will you get the money for starting a business? Many people borrow the start up money from friends, families, or the bank. Others save the money. While still others borrower against their retirement or pensions. In obtaining the money to start the a business, you must consider initial start up costs as well as operating expenses for at least 3 to 6 months, if not longer.
Start-up Costs include the following:
Operating Costs include:
Make a Business Checklist
You should use a checklist for starting a business. The checklist will enable you to stay
organized and will ensure that you have completed all legal step necessary for
starting an online business. The
checklist for starting an online business should include the following steps:
Getting Legal Help
Before you start an online business, you should consult with an e-commerce attorney. An experienced e-commerce attorney will advise you as to all the legal steps you must complete to begin an online business and will assist you in completing those steps. If you will be doing business internationally, you may also need to consult with an attorney who specializes in international business law.