Table Of Contents
CHAPTER 1 - Laying the Groundwork for a Strong, Successful Business
- Write a Mission Statement
- Research is Essential to Your Success
- Take Notes
- It Takes Initiative and Passion
- Have a Willingness to Learn What You Don’t Know
- Involve Your Family in Your Business
- Building a Business Takes Time
CHAPTER 2 - Writing Your Business Story
- What is a Business Plan? Describe Your Business
- Describe the Market
- Describe Your Financial Plan
- Describe Your Business Management Plan
- What if You Want to Buy an Existing Business?
- What About Work From Home Ads?
CHAPTER 3 - Getting Your Personal Finances in Shape to Help Your Business
- Find the Money
- Know Your Personal Income
- A Closer Look at Budget Categories
- Plug Spending Leaks and Make Adjustments Where Necessary
- Track Your Expenses
- Credit
CHAPTER 4 - Finding the Money to Run a Business
- Using Your Own Money
- Using Other People’s Money
CHAPTER 5 - Finding the Right Advice: People and Businesses Who Can Help You
- Contact an Attorney
- Contact a Certified Public Accountant
- Contact a Financial Institution
- Register the Name of Your Business
- Contact City, County and State Agencies
- Contact the Department of Revenue
- Contact the Department of Health
- Contact the Department of Labor
- Find a Location for Your Business
- Advice from Friends, Family and Others
CHAPTER 6 - Understanding Your Business Finances
- Keep Business and Personal Finances Separate
- Managing a Business Checking Account
- Keep Track of Your Business Books
- Your Chart of Accounts
- When to See Your Accountant
- Preparing a Business Budget
- Cash Flow Statement
- Tips to Improve Cash Flow
- Internal Controls Protect Your Business
CHAPTER 7 - Office Organization: The Key to Having Everything You Need When You Need It
- Items for Your Business Box
- Items for Your Personal Box
- Phone and Internet Service
- Setting up Your Office
- Office Equipment List
- Office Supplies List
- Managing Your Time
CHAPTER 8 - Branding and Marketing: Creating the Right Image to Attract Customers
- Branding Your Business: Who Are You?
- Designing a Logo and Business Cards
- Marketing: Reaching Out to Potential Customers
- Networking
- Web Sites
- Social Media: Reach Your Customers Online
- Working with the Media
CHAPTER 9 - Resources: Where to Go When You Have Questions
- Small Business Development Center
- Business Advice and Resources
- Government Sites
- Credit/Finance
- Home-Based Businesses
- Social Media Resources
- Online Magazines
- Employee Issues
- Trade Show Information
- When You Run a Business, Ask for Help When You Need It