Small Business Tips
You need professional help!
"I've had people tell me that before, but I don't think they were referring to my business!"
Let's face it. You can only do so much. If you are a one man (woman) band or are only in the planning stages of starting a business, you need professional help. And here are some ways to get that help free, or VERY inexpensively...
On to Small Business Tips. . .
Accept the fact that you can't do it all, and get on with it.
Can't afford to hire a bookkeeper, web designer or an accountant? I've said the same thing myself.
I am a graphic and web site designer, I've been a bookkeeper, owned my own drapery workroom designing and manufacturing window treatments, and owned a few different businesses. And if I've learned one thing, it's the fact that you can only do so much, and do it well.
What do you really WANT to do?
Think about it for a few minutes. What is it you WANT to do? For example: When I was designing and manufacturing custom window treatments, I did it because I really enjoyed it and that's what I wanted to do. I DID NOT want to spend my precious time going to the customer's home and help them make decorating decisions.
So it only made sense to let the designers and decorators do that, so I could spend my time doing the part of the business I enjoyed. See what I'm getting at? Hey, if you like bookkeeping, or are a cracker at web design, have at it! Just be realistic about what you can and want to do, and where your time is best spent.
If you are on limited funds, and/or just starting out, there are some avenues you can explore (some of them offer free information, and lots of it).
- Your local college - Often times they will hold classes sponsored by the SBA. There may be a small fee for these.
- Contact your nearest SBA (Small Business Administration) office - by phone or online. Spend some time there. There you will find information on the different forms of business, grants and funding info, tax info, it's unending.They should also be able to give you some ideas into local contacts that may help you too, as well as any local seminars coming up.
- Contact SCORE (Service Corp. of Retired Executives) - again by phone or online. If you can find a SCORE person to help, you will be way ahead of the game.
- Call your Mom (Just kidding! How long has it been since you called your Mom anyway?)
Hey! It's all about saving time and money!