Here is a brief Business Startup Checklist for the new E-entrepreneur. This is not a complete checklist but something to get you started when you start your business. Phase I-Preliminary
get motivated
assess your strengths and weaknesses
list personal goals
decide what type of e-business to start
decide on offering a service or product
decide on a name for you new internet business
do research on your potential market and customers
assess your financial resources
prepare a business plan
Phase II- Business Operations
set up a home office
set up internet access and a separate business phone line
a business structure; sole proprietorship, partnership,
LLC, corporation
apply for an Federal Employer Tax ID number
select a lawyer and CPA (Certified Public Accountant)
decide on funding if needed
open a business checking account
open a PO Box for business mail
contact product vendors and setup accounts
purchase good reliable accounting software
Phase III- Business Startup Website
decide on website hosting company
register website name
research ways to accept payments via your website
build website
create marketing plan for e-business
market website ClickThru Network
create a separate customer service email box for replys
submit website to search engines
have someone review website for search engine optimization
make sure website content is original and not copied
ensure content on website is up to date
ensure you have full access to add and delete content on
website
Phase IV- Doing Business on the Internet
create a relationship with you vendors
create a relationship with your customers
respond to customers inquiries within 48 hours
set a time to manage your business without distractions
be professional in your correspondence
answer business calls in a quiet place without background
noise
include in all correspondence
your name
your title
business name
phone number
email address in your responses
list business hours on website
pay accounts on time every time
keep up-to-date on customers orders
keep accurate sales records
know your responsibilities pertaining to tax reporting
keep copies of all agreements, and accounts established
make sure website is secure to safe guard personal
information
The new business startup checklists provides the basics of what is needed to start an eBusiness. This list is not intended to be the end of all checklist but an addition to your journey to becoming a new e-business entrepreneur.
Failures don't plan to fail; they fail to plan. -Harvey Mackay
