Business Resources
“To begin, if you started on this tab… hello… I’m Shelly… I want to help others… help themselves! I want to empower you! Being self-employed is great, but it takes time amongst other things.
Therefore, I’ve listed business resources for you. I have a plethora of information via my affiliate links, the bold words throughout, and within most images (please use them and thank you). Additionally, websites that are not affilates are here to assist you on your journey.
Moreover, everyone has different paths and factors to consider/research… such as demographics or funding to name a few… so take your time… be proactive. If you’re not familiar with technology. I have a list of courses in the education tab.
You can take beginner computer courses and etc. I’m a forever learner… take advantage of these because some classes are free or cost effective. If you have a general question, contact me.
To add, here’s a link for work from home opportunities that could possibly supplement your income. Also, jobs are listed here. We All Can Land On The Path To Greatness.” SL
Want to Start A Business?
Use of this agency’s logo and website’s link does not imply an endorsement, preferential treatment, or suggest a relationship that does not exist. There is a host of information via SBA.
First: Market Analysis
Second: Write Business Plan
Next: Fund Your Business
Then: Launch Your Business
After choosing your business structure you may decide to incorporate.
Incorporate
Businesses that have or expect to have employees should incorporate before hiring.
If you run your business as a sole proprietorship, you as an individual are liable and your personal assets are at risk.
However, if you’re incorporated, a corporation or LLC is the employer and takes on this liability risk.
I used a company called IncFile a few years ago, and it was beneficial because of the convenience. My sons used them, as well as my clients. You can form a nonprofit or LLC here.
Additionally, you may need a registered agent. If you used the link above to form your LLC then you had the option to add this service. If not, you can add it now. Every state requires a corporation or an LLC to have one. This address will be used by the state for any official legal and tax correspondence.
Also, you can trademark your brand via IncFile too… start here.
What’s included with the package?
- Legal counsel from an experienced trademark attorney
- A thorough search of existing trademarks
- The preparation and filing of a trademark application
Surety Bonds
TEMPORARILY UNAVAILABE!!! Surety Bonds Direct is a national bonding agency committed to saving you money. I’m an authorized agent so contact me for a quote. Depending on your profession and state… you may need a bond. Quotes are $80-$300.
Virtual Office
If you’re a home based business, consider investing in a live receptionist to accept your calls and so much more! They accept your packages and mail too. I love this platform. I have a 1-800 and fax included too. Check out the details.
EIN
Get your EIN. Federal Tax Identification Number. This is an affiliate link. Open a business checking account too.
Business Credit
When you apply for a DUNs Number with D&B, the Data Universal Numbering System issues a nine-digit number that is unique to your company.
This DUNs number is used to create your business credit file, similar to how your social security number is used to identify your personal credit reports. Once on the site, scroll to the free option if you don’t want to pay for expedited service.
We offer credit building/restructuring services now. Moreover, business credit, funding and resource information is available too, check out our website. I mention Your Financial Path here as well.
Professional Email, Business Number, and Domain
I use Google for my professional emails and domains. Also, I used Google Voice to obtain my business phone number, and I still utilize them for another endeavor’s number. I find value in a host of Google’s business tools.
Phone.com is another option to consider.
I personally used Fax.Plus for my home office.
However, MyFax, could be great for small businesses as well.
Want to hire someone to create your logo, website, blog, work as your sales/customer service team, a virtual assistant to complete most business related tasks? If not proceed to designing your blog.
design a blog
Start with an amazing free logo!!! You can make it free via Canva. I pay for the $12.95 for the Pro, however, you can earn points to access amazing stock photos and etc by sharing their referral link.
I have used Design Evo before and like there features. You can make it free there too.
I use 123RF for stock photos if I can’t find free ones that appealed to me on Canva. I used this product for most of the images on my Your Financial Path blog and eBook. It’s best to use stock photos than taking inauthorized images from websites and etc.
create a website
It has never been easier to create blogs on WordPress. First, pick a domain name, then select a host. I love DreamHost!
Second, install WordPress (it should be user-friendly guidelines via your host if not chat is available for support).
Elementor is one of my favorite WordPress Builders!!!!
BlueHost is another host used by many bloggers.
GoDaddy is a well known option.
I selected a few companies, take time to research which one works for you. HostGator is another popular choice.
I would like to try WPEngine one day. Lastly, customize your blog and create content!
You can build a website on WordPress, however, I am a stickler for keeping your options open. I created my first website via Wix.
Also, you can try Weebly. I used them before. Click on the link for more info.
BigCommerece is another option.
Stackpath is a CDN platform used to improve your website/blog’s speed and security. No credit card required. 30 Day Free Trial. 24/7 Monitoring & Support. I use it, and it’s very effective.
Vimeo is an ad-free open video platform, providing HD video viewing services.
Accept payments
Get a free mobile card reader or inquire about prices for the point of sale system.
Also, you may consider Cash App, a mobile payment service developed by Square, Inc., to transfer or receive money.
Marketing Tools
Vistaprint has everything you need. I strongly recommend them because they are user friendly. Keep in mind some links are via the image, so click if interested in these products.
Screencastomatic is EXCITING! If you’re interested in creating tutorials this platform is amazing. Use the image with the laptop to sign up. Also, if you want to promote this incredible product to other business owners use the Awin image.
Zazzle has a variety of options too, click on this link to sign up.
Create an eBook easily. No design or technical skills… no worries.
Initially, I published my Designrr creation via Issuu. To add, Amazon and other self publishing options may work for you. However, I enjoy showcasing all of my merch in one place with Spring.
Marketing Boost is a tool that allows business owners to offer their prospects, leads, and customers free incentives, such as vacations and savings as an added value to their clientele base.
Giveaways are a great way to market your brand. I have used and like Gleam.
Get registered with Yelp.
Later is an AWESOME tool for scheduling your social media posts! I LOVE it.
Accounting
QuickBooks is an accounting software package developed and marketed by Intuit.
QuickBooks products are geared mainly toward small and medium-sized businesses and offer on-premises accounting applications as well as cloud-based versions that accept business payments, manage and pay bills, and payroll functions.
Gusto is a company that provides a cloud-based payroll, benefits, and human resource management software for businesses based in the United States. Sign up here for details.
Office Supplies
I love Amazon for personal and my business use. Not to mention you can establish a buisness credit account to build credit. Click here to create your free Amazon Business account. However, to apply for an American Express business credit card you have to upgrade to Amazon Business Prime.
Get all of your supplies for your home office online! Try Office Depot/ OfficeMax.
Also, Staples is another option.
Investments
You may consider Robinhood. They provide free stock options, so once you sign up… refer your friends, family, clients, or business associates and you’ll get stock!
Lastly, Stash. This is another great product… click for $20 of free stock!
I Love all of the information you have provided me Shelly
Thank You for your Expertise
Janis Toran Taylor
Thanks so much!