Starting Your Business

Free Custom Tailored Packet - The Arizona Business Connection provides you with this packet for the type of business and geographic area in which you operate. Each packet contains such items as financing, licensing information, government requirements, referrals to regulatory local state and federal agencies as well as professional associations in your field. You can also get resources for formulating business plans, importing and exporting along with designing marketing strategies. Contact them for more information at 1-800-542-5684. The Arizona Business Connection is a division of the Arizona Department of Commerce. www.azcommerce.com

Provided by: Theresa A. Martinez
President
ASAP Solutions

Things to Consider - I was once asked what is the most important thing to consider when starting a business from home? Looking back I would have to say to set in place an accounting program and to be organized in how I wanted my business to grow. These are things to consider before you start getting busy.

If you set up an accounting program while you are starting out and slow, this will save you a lot of time later when you might have to "back enter" all your invoices and expenses.

Another thing to do before you get busy is to start thinking through what you want to do from home. There is always time to explore new options as you go. But if you get a basic plan, make some pricing sheets and marketing materials such as business cards and flyers, you won't get caught off guard. This way when your one client says "I recommended you to XXXX, what should I tell them your pricing is and can you send them some information on your services" you will know just what to say and have information already ready to send out!

Provided by: Michelle T. Beaulieu
Executive Assistant
ASAP Solutions

Building a Virtual Working Relationship - When you are working with a new client, they might be skeptical of a virtual working relationship, when presented with this situation something you might try is to go to their office the first few times you work with them (if it is local to you). By doing this it will show your client you are flexible and dependable. As you work together a few times you can point out the things you do for them at their office could be accomplished virtual. After a few office visits you will have earned their trust and they will be more apt to go for the virtual working relationship, but always keep they option that you can go to their office if need be open, this will offer your client a sense of comfort.

Provided by: Michelle T. Beaulieu
Executive Assistant
ASAP Solutions

Client File/Marketing File - Start a client or marketing file for your contacts. A client file will allow you to have a place to store information about your client such as office address, their birthday, their tax id numbers (if you need them), rates you have agreed upon, etc. This will save you a lot of time than trying to sort through emails looking for something they once told you. A marketing file will allow you to go back periodically and follow up with any contacts that were potential.

Provided by: Michelle T. Beaulieu
Executive Assistant
ASAP Solutions

Take My Daughter to Work Day...Every Day! - I was one of those women who enjoyed her career. When I became pregnant I had every intention of taking my 3 month leave of absence and heading back to work, after all my family relied heavily on my income. That was, of course, until the doctor handed me that 7 pound "angel!" I knew something had changed. I spent those 3 months crying, praying and brainstorming. "Do I work or stay home? Work or stay home?" and then I heard a still small voice say, "Why not both?"

In 1987 home-based businesses were not as popular nor as prevalent as they are today. But, taking what I learned in my formal education, on the job and my own personal passions, I started a business in my home. And I've been here ever since! My daughter is now 14, my son, 12. And I guess you could say I've had the best of both worlds. Not that it's always easy. It takes a lot of work to get a business up and running. Planning, goal setting, marketing, networking, bookkeeping... It's not for everyone, but it can be done. Here are few things to think about if you're considering starting your own business at home:

1. Are you cut out for this? Self-motivated and not a procrastinator. No one will be looking over your shoulder, giving you deadlines or keeping you on track. You have to do it!

2. Are you dependent on your income? Although many businesses can be started on a shoe-string, the old adage is still true..."It takes money to make money." Maybe not a whole lot, but you have to be willing and able to invest back into your business.

3. What are you passionate about? Passion for what you are doing is what will keep you going when the going gets tough. Do children excite you? Then consider a business related to children...party planning or party supplies, children's books. Do finances and numbers drive you? How about a business doing bookkeeping or taxes. Are you moved by the needs of the elderly? Consider a home visitation business, errand running or memoir writing. Do you love to cook, shop or laugh? Think outside the box and you'll be amazed at what's available and what you can come up with.

4. Are you ready to work harder than you ever imagined and enjoy rewards beyond your wildest dreams? Business ownership is a great adventure. The people you meet, skills you develop, financial benefits, and above all...flexibility and time to be with you family.

Provided by: Janet Drez
Owner
A Perfect Solution