OK, you’ve got a great business idea, found the financial backing and sourced the perfect premises to start-up your company. So, time to throw-open the doors for trading right? Firstly check out the points and sites below to make sure you have all bases covered, and considered as many aspects of being your own boss as possible.

 Identifying the skills you will need to run your business

If you are starting up on your own, more than likely you will initially have to run every aspect of your business. From dealing with customers, clients and suppliers to preparing your accounts. Different sectors require different attributes, however there are some core skills that are essential across all businesses. The positive news about identifying these core skills is that with dedication and nuturing this skill-set can be learnt. Some of the skills you need to develop for running a small business are:

Time Management   

Communication    

Financial Accounts Management

Naming your business

Naming your business can be one of the most fun phases before starting-up. However there are several legal and marketing issues that should be considered before finally settling on your trading name. See the websites below for information and advice on the importance of What’s in a name?!:

Business Link

Entrepreneur.com

Start-ups and naming your business

Patents

If your business involves you inventing something you believe to be unique, you may need to consider applying for a patent in order to protect your right to use it. A patent will give you the right to prevent others from manufacturing, importing, using or selling your invention without your permission for a set period of time in the country or countries in which you hold that patent. The sites below will provide free patent searching, free patent PDF downloading, competitive intelligence alerts along with much more.  They are good resources for patent searching, research and development, and market research.

Business Link

Free Patents Online

Sumo Brain

Running a home-based business

Working from home is often the best business location for people with disabilities. It allows greater flexibility in time management and offers the possibility to manage your health and work with your impairment. However there are still some things to consider before going into business in your lounge room.

Business Link

Now Lets Get Started

Start-ups