Starting a new business is a thrilling prospect. Especially if an entrepreneur has never been their own boss before, the freedom and control that come with starting a new company can be incentives for someone with a good idea for a business to pursue their dreams.
The business formation process affects how someone runs the company in the future and may set them up for success or constant struggles. Entrepreneurs often benefit from having a very structured approach to the business formation process. To start, the three steps below are among the most important steps for those seeking to start a new business.
Research the industry to develop a plan
Most new businesses start with a business concept. Someone recognizes and unfilled niche in the local economy or comes up with a way to improve on the products or services offered by existing companies. That concept could translate into a working business model. An aspiring entrepreneur needs to look into the industry in which they want to operate. Doing so can give them an idea about operational costs, the potential for growth and the risks inherent in that industry. They typically need to integrate that information into the business plan that they develop.
Explore regulations and risks
After having a general idea about the economics of a business idea, it is then important to look at the practicalities of running a specific type of company. Many industries are subject to unique regulations.
Business owners or their employees may require state licensing. They may need to carry special insurance. Those requirements can increase operating costs, which makes it important for entrepreneurs to understand what regulations they must conform to and what standards they must meet to operate successfully in a particular industry.
Risks range from the possibility of workers getting hurt or harassing each other to the potential for products to prove defective and injure a customer. Contracts, insurance and careful planning can help address many of those risks.
Choose the right business structure
There are many different types of companies that an entrepreneur could start. Many people begin their entrepreneurial endeavors with sole proprietorships. People often view these as the simplest or most efficient option. However, the business type someone chooses should factor in long-term plans, not just current expediency. A corporation or limited liability company (LLC) might be a better option if someone hopes to grow the organization to a substantial size or worries about incurring personal liability. Tax considerations and the need for startup capital can also influence what type of business someone chooses to start.
It can be very difficult for an aspiring business owner who feels excited about a concept to wade through the minutiae involved in starting an organization. Obtaining appropriate support and guidance during the business formation process can help someone achieve their goals while minimizing their risk.