So, you want to start your own business?

At A Figure of Speech, Inc., we talk to a number of people who are just getting started.  This is what we tell them:

Starting your own business is no easy task (especially in today's economy), but with the right planning and total perseverance, it can be done (and can be a lot of fun)!

There are a couple of initial steps that we suggest to get you started:

Determine what your business structure will be (corporation, LLC, sole proprietorship, etc.).  If you need help determining what would be the best structure for you, do some research on the Internet (there are a lot of great articles and resources out there).  

If you decide to become a corporation or LLC, you can either complete the necessary paperwork on your own, or have a lawyer or accountant do it for you (costs run between $350-$500, depending on the scope of work).  If you want to do it on your own, send us an email and we'll provide you with further information on how to get started, what paperwork to complete, and what to expect.

Talk to marketing experts (like us) to discuss business names, determine how to position your business, and begin initial identity and image development (logos, business cards, letterhead, a Web site, etc.)

The biggest advice we give to those who want to start a business is to make sure they do their due diligence (write a business plan, determine how you will get clients, understand and plan for the necessary capital expenditures, acquire needed resources, etc.).  If you feel like you have 'all of your ducks lined up in a row' and are ready to take your idea to the next level, let us know and we'll do everything we can to help (remember, we were there once too)!

Develop your business identity.  This is a very important step and typically occurs at the beginning of the new business process.  A Figure of Speech, Inc. can help you with the basics... logo design, printing of identity elements (business cards, letterhead, envelopes, etc.) and establishing an online identity. 

If you are looking for business cards, check out our affiliate site, Card Savvy!

Good Luck!