Starting a new business is a major undertaking that requires time, research and careful planning. If you are considering opening a business in Calgary, you will have to accomplish a number of preliminary steps. If you are looking to move to Calgary, search for more information on Calgary Moving Services online.
Here is a step-by-step guide to help you begin the start-up process:
Research Your Market in Calgary
One of the most critical steps in starting a business is researching the market in which you will find your customers. Being right next door to a similar business will make it difficult to distinguish your unique brand and will create intense competition. Try to niche a demographic that needs your products or services in an area that is not currently well served. This measure will ensure that your customers are ready and willing to help you make a profit.
Schedule A Meeting With An Accountant
A good accountant can advise on the best legal designation for your business, as well as answer questions that arise throughout the year. An accountant can also provide information on funding and tax matters that have an impact on your bottom line. The accountant can help you develop a business plan that can be an important tool in helping you to organize your business structure and acquire financing.
Find A Good Business Location
The right location can make your business easy to find and convenient to visit. Carefully consider the amount of foot traffic in a business location, other businesses in the area and pricing on leases. If you plan on having a home business, your choice of residence can be critical to the business’s success. You can save time exploring new homes in Calgary by using an online home listing site. These sites allow you to find suitable options from the comfort of your own home, saving time for more important tasks. In addition, if you are looking for customized searches to help you narrow the task of finding the right office for you by searching for example SW Calgary real estate on the MLS Calgary listings.
Apply For Required Permits and Licenses
Look into the necessary business name registrations and permits required for your particular business. Certain types of businesses require a license in Alberta, and you should apply to the appropriate agency as soon as possible to avoid a violation.
Develop A Marketing Plan
Research will help you determine the best way to reach your customer’s, whether it is in print publications, radio, TV ads or Internet searches. You will have to set up a website, design a site that is appropriate for your needs and ensure that the site has the correct search terms to make it easy to find. You can find a number of website designers in the Calgary area to help you with this task.
Set Up Your Record-Keeping
An important part of success in business is keeping good records on inventory, sales, payments, payroll and taxes. A number of user-friendly bookkeeping software systems are available to help you do this easily and accurately. You should also set up a file system to keep paperwork, forms and other important information on hand.
Purchase Office Fixtures
Finally, you will have to furnish your business to best serve your customer’s needs. Desks, chairs, cabinets and shelving to display products will all depend on your particular business needs.
Success in business depends on careful management of details on an ongoing basis, as well as a periodic review of costs and pricing. Your Calgary business will be successful if you follow these recommended procedures.
Robert McAllister has experience as a business advisor and has a good understanding of how to start out on the right path. He likes to share his insights online and is a regular writer for a number of relevant websites.
