What you need to start a small business

If your dream has been to start a small business, you may be overwhelmed about where to start. It can seem like there are so many obstacles and things to do, you may think that you simply cannot become a small business owners. The good news is that by taking the time to make the necessary steps, you can become a small business owner. If you are prepared to dedicate yourself and lot so time to the effort, you can realize your dream and make it a reality to run your own business. Here is what you need to know about what you need to start a small business-

• Commitment and passion-Many small business owners report that starting their own business was one of the hardest things that they ever did. You need to have a clear commitment and determination to make your business succeed. This can require an extensive time and perhaps money commitment on your part. You must be dedicated to seeing your dream come alive, no matter the obstacles that will be in front of you. You should also consider other commitments in your life, (such as marriage, children, other jobs etc), and make sure that you are willing to put in the effort and dedication that starting a new business will need.
• A business plan-One of the first things that you need to do is sit down and write a business plan. A well thought out and well written business plan, will be crucial to making your dream of owning a small business, a reality. Keep in mind that your business plan, will serve as a road map and a guide, for how you will develop, start and run your business. Most importantly, anyone who is considering investing in or financing your small business, will want to read your business plan. You will need to be able to show them clearly (and in writing), just how you will accomplish your business goals. If you are unsure as to how to write a business plan, there are many sites online that can guide you in the process.
• Financing-Few small business owners can come up with all of the money that they need, to open theirbusiness. It is important to understand that different small businesses, require different amounts of start up capital, and different amounts of working capital to keep running. You will need to have a clear determination of just how much money, you will need, for your small business. First and foremost business experts advise that you start with yourself. You willneed to look closely at your own financial picture, and determine how much money, you are able to invest in the business. This is also important because any potential investors, or lender will want to see how much you are willing to risk in your new business. Failing to put any of your own money into the business, is most likely not going to inspire confidence, from a potential investor or lender.
• Logistics-Once you have a business plan and the financing that you need, you will need to determine the logistics of your small business. Some small businesses require nothing more then a website, and an office space to work from. Other small businesses will require extensive factory space, shipping venues and equipment to make them run. You need to have a "shopping list" of everything that will be required to get your small business running. Then once you have this list you can begin to put together the structure, of your small business. Keep in mind that you will also need to determine if you will have to hire employees, at this point, or sometime down the road.