04/ 01/ 2002
There comes a time when you need to begin assembling the pieces involved in starting your small business. To do this, you should prepare a comprehensive checklist that includes everything that you may need to accomplish to get your business up and running. To conclude last week's Workshop, Jeffrey Moses provides the final points of a such a list. Please note that this list is not intended to indicate priorities or any particular order in which things should be done.
1. Select and purchase all electronic equipment that will be used:
- Computers/printers/modems/scanners/software/Internet provider(s)
- Telephone systems (fixed and mobile)
- Fax machines
- Photocopy machines
- Voice mail
- Pagers
- Office chairs and desks
- Shelves and file cabinets
- Storage compartments
- Lighting
- Carpets and area rugs
- Pictures and other decorations
- Cubicle dividers, if required
- Lunch/snack area equipment
4. Design and create signs and posters advertising your business.
5. Establish means to destroy unused confidential information (shredding, document removal, etc.)
6. Security system.
7. Data storage outside office.
8. Night lighting for buildings and on grounds.
If your business will be home based, the following items should be added to your list:
1. Make sure that all zoning regulations have been satisfied.
2. Design home office for efficiency and professionalism.
3. Check electrical capacity to meet requirements for your equipment.
4. Install any additional telephone lines required for business calls, faxes or Internet.
5. Consult with insurance agent about appropriate business insurance.
6. Consult with tax adviser regarding tax deductions for home use.
7. Make all necessary upgrades to the interior and exterior of your home to maintain professional appearance.
The prospect of going into business can be scary and somewhat overwhelming. As you check items off your list, however, you can see that things are falling into place and rest assured that nothing of major importance is being overlooked.
