Tips For Running a Startup For Beginners

Sophia Belnap

Running a startup business is exciting and, at times, stressful. You'll stretch your knowledge and skills to the limit and will make many decisions by trial and error. Since you are ultimately responsible for the success or failure of the business, running the day-day operations requires a strong set of entrepreneurial skills. You'll need to be flexible and creative, and prepared. Here are six essential tips to help you run your startup business.

Stay Focused

If you’ve created a detailed business plan, don’t just file it away. Use it. The research you conducted before opening will direct you to the right marketing and where you can find financing. It will also reinforce why you got into the business. Often your passion can get lost in the day-to-day business dealings. It’s good to review your motivation. 

Obtain Adequate Financing

The number one reason that a business fails is a lack of funds. It takes money to start and operate a business. When you first start, you should have identified your financial needs within your detailed business plan. Make sure before you open that you have enough money for initial costs and then for 6 months of operating capital. It takes time to make a profit, and you need to ride out the time until your business becomes profitable. When you seek a source of capital for your business, consider personal savings, family, friends, and small business loans. It’s best to leave the credit cards for an emergency.

Market Continuously

Marketing your business is an ongoing task. Everything you do should tie back to marketing. When you sell your product or service, capture the customer’s email and build an email list for future marketing campaigns. Consider incorporating a blog into your website. A blog allows you to interact with consumers. The interaction helps drive more people to your website, which means more sales. Often engage with your customers and potential buyers on a variety of social media sights. Do everything you can to keep your product at the forefront of your customer's minds.

Ask For Help

Running a start-up can be fun but also exhausting. In the beginning, you’ll be performing most tasks. You will be in control, but you may not have the skill-set for all the tasks required to run a successful business. This is where you need to consider hiring outside experts from time to time. Maybe you need a website designer, legal assistance, or someone to consult on a new product line. The Small Business Association (SBA) is an organization that provides a lot of information for startups. They even have a program that matches entrepreneurs with retired business owners to provide mentorship.

Get Organized

Keep accurate records of all purchases and sales. In the beginning, you can use a spreadsheet if you're skilled, but once you grow, things can get complicated. You'll need to track sales to determine product pricing and profits. The IRS has business reporting requirements and a variety of forms, depending on your business.  All expenses and income need to be tracked to complete your tax forms accurately. It’s best to purchase accounting software, especially if you have inventory or employees. If you don’t feel comfortable, hire a bookkeeper.

Provide Excellent Customer Service

Always provide excellent customer service. Your reputation matters, and a poor reputation can bring down a business very quickly. If you run an online business, consider a survey service. Potential customers love to see what your other customers have said about your products or service. Even if you don’t have a survey service,  customers who felt they were treated poorly, or have unresolved issues, will find a way to have their voice heard.

Conclusion 

Right now is a great time to be running a business. The internet has provided an avenue for many new niche products and services. The people who need your product can be from all over the globe. To be successful, you’ll need energy, passion, and a willingness to make changes. You’ll need to communicate with customers frequently. You’ll have the best chance of success if you get the basics covered. Follow the six tips above, and you'll be on your way to success.