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Why You Shouldn't Wait Until After the Holidays to Start a Business
Published on December 16, 2021. Updated on November 20, 2023.
Around 543,000 new businesses are started each month. If becoming an entrepreneur and making your career dream a reality is part of your New Year's resolutions, why wait? There is no time like the present to start the process of launching a small business. Plus, there are many great benefits to starting a business during the holiday season, which are featured in this article.
For those who are ready to start a business, it can be overwhelming trying to figure out what steps you need to take first. Running your own business has a major impact on your life, but before you learn how to run one, you need to learn how to start a business.
This guide will discuss why you shouldn't wait until after the holiday season to start a business and what you need to do to get started.
Make the Most of Your Time Off
If you're employed full-time, you'll likely have some time off for the holidays. After spending some well-needed quality time with family and friends, why not use the rest of your time doing something productive? Get a jump start on your business while you have the free time to do so.
During your time off for the holidays, you can focus on establishing the basic foundation for your business while you have minimal distractions. Sure, you might have to give up some of your personal time but it will give your business a great headstart for upcoming year.
Fight Against Procrastination
If you put it off, you'll likely come up with more reasons not to start your business. The longer you delay a task, the likelihood increases that you'll continue to find a reason not to do it. Something else might get in the way as well.
If you feel motivated, capitalize on that momentum. Putting off your dreams of starting your own business will only delay your success or might even hinder you from starting at all.
Give Yourself the Gift of Entrepreneurship This Year
Starting your business is the best gift you can give yourself. While you might be focused on getting gifts for others, don't forget about yourself.
Becoming an entrepreneur and launching your own business is one of the greatest gifts you can give yourself. It’s also the gift that keeps on giving (by generating revenue) making it a much wiser investment than purchasing material goods.
Smooth Out Bumps Before the Start of the Year
It's rare for small businesses to have immediate success right when they get started. It will take time to ensure that all your processes run smoothly and efficiently.
However, if you start a web design business before the year ends, you can use that time to iron out any wrinkles. That helps ensure your business can be fully operational by the time January 1st hits.
Get Ahead of the Rush for Paperwork
Part of opening a small business is filling out a variety of paperwork with state and local government agencies. Some of the paperwork can include:
It's best practice to file these documents well before the end of the new year. Not only will you get that to-do checked off your list, but you'll avoid running into holiday office closures. You'll also get ahead of the rush when other people try to file other documents before December 31st.
Tap into a Large Pool of Workers
The end of the year is a great time for hiring new employees. While some job seekers use the time at the end of the year to take a break from job hunting, those who are ready to work are still looking for employment. You'll access high-quality talent and dedicated employees.
Candidates are also more accessible during the holidays. They have a bit more free time, so they'll be responsive to your inquiries.
Your 401(k) is at its Highest Value
To start a new business, you might need funding. Many small business owners tap into their 401(k)s to finance their new ventures. Fortunately, at the end of the year, 401(k)s are around their highest yearly value.
If you're planning on using your retirement fund as seed money for your new business before the holiday season might be the best time to access it. It's a good idea to start looking into that before the first of the year.
The type of business you start will determine how much funding you need. Some companies require thousands or even hundreds of thousands of dollars to start, like a restaurant. Other businesses cost considerably less.
For example, starting a web design business with SiteSwan is cost-effective. Our plans start at just $149 per month.
How to Start a Small Business
Now that we've convinced you that you shouldn't wait to start your small business, let's go over some of the steps you need to take to get the process started. Being prepared is half the battle when it comes to becoming an entrepreneur.
Step 1: Hone in on Your Business Idea
If you've been thinking about starting a business, you've likely come up with your business idea already. As you narrow your focus, do some market research. Look at who your competition and target audience are.
If you haven't decided on a business concept yet, explore starting a web design business. In addition to being ever-growing marketing, some of the benefits of starting a web design include:
Step 2: Select a Name for Your Business
Every business needs a name. It could simply be your name or something more specific to the products or services you offer.
Whatever you choose, do it wisely. Your business's name will show up in everything you do. You don't want an irrelevant or confusing business name.
As you're getting started, keep your business name focused and simple. It should be short, sweet, and to the point. It should also align with your vision and mission statement.
Step 3: Figure Out Your Business Plan
Writing a thorough business plan will help you formulate all of your ideas. It'll also streamline the creation of your business since you plan out actions methodically.
Some business owners don't even look at their business plan once it's launched. However, there's a lot of value in researching and thinking about your business. You might reveal additional insights that you wouldn't have discovered if you didn't attempt to write a business plan.
Step 4: Organize Your Finances
The goal of your business is to make money. Before you launch your business, you'll need to know how much funding you need and how to manage it. Insufficient capital and cash flow are some of the main reasons why businesses fail, so figure that out quickly.
Some businesses, such as a web design agency, can launch and be maintained at a low expense. While other types of businesses need money for physical space, equipment, or inventory, which could cost hundreds or even thousands of dollars. You need to capture a clear view of how much money you need to start your business before you begin.
Depending on the business you decide to start, a lot of money you spend may be put towards inventory and product costs. You'll likely need more startup funding than you can contribute out of your pocket.
Bookkeeping also needs to be one of your primary focuses. You need to keep accurate records of your expenses and income. This way you can track your cash flow.
Step 5: Determine Your Business Structure
There are a variety of incorporation structures for small businesses. What structure you go with will influence different parts of your business. They're designed to help you balance financial and legal protections.
The two common types of business structures are incorporation and sole proprietorship. A limited liability company is a good option if your company has more than one owner. It also ensures that you're not personally liable for your business.
A sole proprietorship is great if you're the only person running the business. It also doesn't take a lot of effort to maintain. However, you'll be personally liable for any financial risks that the business takes.
When determining which structure is right for you, think about the following:
This is an important decision and one that you shouldn't take lightly.
Step 6: Research Government Regulations and Licenses
You'll want to research what government regulations and licenses you'll need to operate. As we mentioned earlier, you'll want to get a jump start on this paperwork before the end of the year. Additionally, you don't want to encounter any legal problems because you failed to file the right paperwork.
Step 7: Figure Out What Tools You Need
Don't underestimate the value of reliable software. The right set of tools will help you get your business up and running in no time.
SiteSwan is a great option to get your business off the ground. Our software has everything you need to start your web design business.
Start with our responsive website builder to establish your online presence. It's one of the fastest ways to create a website. Your site will be ready to go in a matter of minutes.
Your website will also look professional and beautiful. We have countless pre-designed
Themes that are industry-specific. The easy-to-use editor enables you to drop in images, text, and more without having to figure out coding.
You'll also be able to generate leads directly from your SiteSwan dashboard. Look for businesses local to your area that don't have a website. You can also explore websites that don't have a mobile version as well.
You can also use our software to build websites for your clients. They'll be amazed by the professional-looking websites you're able to create, all right within the SiteSwan dashboard.
Step 8: Plan How Many Team Members You Need
While many businesses of this style can be run by one person, you might want to expand your team as you become more successful, such as adding a sales rep to help you gain more clients. You might also want to offload some tedious tasks that take away from you serving your clients.
When determining how many people to hire, don't forget to account for the cost of hiring help. You'll also have to consider how much time it'll take you to find reliable help. As we mentioned before, hiring during this time of year is a great way to find qualified individuals.
Step 9: Launch Your Business
At this point, you have everything ready to start your small web design business. All the preparation you've done has prepared you for a successful launch. Now, you can focus on bringing in clients and increasing your revenue.
Shout it from the rooftops and promote your new business any way you can. Start developing your marketing efforts by getting on social media, attending networking programs, and making those sales calls. You can also offer first-time customer discounts to attract new business.
Don't Wait to Start a Business
If you want to start a business, don't wait until after the holiday season. Get ahead of the rush and start generating revenue before the end of the year.
If you are ready to launch your website design business with SiteSwan, why not get started today? Sign up is quick and easy and only takes minutes. Once your account is created, you will gain access to our site building platform, resources, and support team who will help you kickstart your business. Set yourself up for success in 2024 by taking the first step today.
Around 543,000 new businesses are started each month. If becoming an entrepreneur and making your career dream a reality is part of your New Year's resolutions, why wait? There is no time like the present to start the process of launching a small business. Plus, there are many great benefits to starting a business during the holiday season, which are featured in this article.
For those who are ready to start a business, it can be overwhelming trying to figure out what steps you need to take first. Running your own business has a major impact on your life, but before you learn how to run one, you need to learn how to start a business.
This guide will discuss why you shouldn't wait until after the holiday season to start a business and what you need to do to get started.
Make the Most of Your Time Off
If you're employed full-time, you'll likely have some time off for the holidays. After spending some well-needed quality time with family and friends, why not use the rest of your time doing something productive? Get a jump start on your business while you have the free time to do so.
During your time off for the holidays, you can focus on establishing the basic foundation for your business while you have minimal distractions. Sure, you might have to give up some of your personal time but it will give your business a great headstart for upcoming year.
Fight Against Procrastination
If you put it off, you'll likely come up with more reasons not to start your business. The longer you delay a task, the likelihood increases that you'll continue to find a reason not to do it. Something else might get in the way as well.
If you feel motivated, capitalize on that momentum. Putting off your dreams of starting your own business will only delay your success or might even hinder you from starting at all.
Give Yourself the Gift of Entrepreneurship This Year
Starting your business is the best gift you can give yourself. While you might be focused on getting gifts for others, don't forget about yourself.
Becoming an entrepreneur and launching your own business is one of the greatest gifts you can give yourself. It’s also the gift that keeps on giving (by generating revenue) making it a much wiser investment than purchasing material goods.
Smooth Out Bumps Before the Start of the Year
It's rare for small businesses to have immediate success right when they get started. It will take time to ensure that all your processes run smoothly and efficiently.
However, if you start a web design business before the year ends, you can use that time to iron out any wrinkles. That helps ensure your business can be fully operational by the time January 1st hits.
Get Ahead of the Rush for Paperwork
Part of opening a small business is filling out a variety of paperwork with state and local government agencies. Some of the paperwork can include:
- Permits
- Tax IDs
- Business licenses
It's best practice to file these documents well before the end of the new year. Not only will you get that to-do checked off your list, but you'll avoid running into holiday office closures. You'll also get ahead of the rush when other people try to file other documents before December 31st.
Tap into a Large Pool of Workers
The end of the year is a great time for hiring new employees. While some job seekers use the time at the end of the year to take a break from job hunting, those who are ready to work are still looking for employment. You'll access high-quality talent and dedicated employees.
Candidates are also more accessible during the holidays. They have a bit more free time, so they'll be responsive to your inquiries.
Your 401(k) is at its Highest Value
To start a new business, you might need funding. Many small business owners tap into their 401(k)s to finance their new ventures. Fortunately, at the end of the year, 401(k)s are around their highest yearly value.
If you're planning on using your retirement fund as seed money for your new business before the holiday season might be the best time to access it. It's a good idea to start looking into that before the first of the year.
The type of business you start will determine how much funding you need. Some companies require thousands or even hundreds of thousands of dollars to start, like a restaurant. Other businesses cost considerably less.
For example, starting a web design business with SiteSwan is cost-effective. Our plans start at just $149 per month.
How to Start a Small Business
Now that we've convinced you that you shouldn't wait to start your small business, let's go over some of the steps you need to take to get the process started. Being prepared is half the battle when it comes to becoming an entrepreneur.
Step 1: Hone in on Your Business Idea
If you've been thinking about starting a business, you've likely come up with your business idea already. As you narrow your focus, do some market research. Look at who your competition and target audience are.
If you haven't decided on a business concept yet, explore starting a web design business. In addition to being ever-growing marketing, some of the benefits of starting a web design include:
- Low start-up cost
- Ability to work from home
- Evergreen market
- Huge earning potential
Step 2: Select a Name for Your Business
Every business needs a name. It could simply be your name or something more specific to the products or services you offer.
Whatever you choose, do it wisely. Your business's name will show up in everything you do. You don't want an irrelevant or confusing business name.
As you're getting started, keep your business name focused and simple. It should be short, sweet, and to the point. It should also align with your vision and mission statement.
Step 3: Figure Out Your Business Plan
Writing a thorough business plan will help you formulate all of your ideas. It'll also streamline the creation of your business since you plan out actions methodically.
Some business owners don't even look at their business plan once it's launched. However, there's a lot of value in researching and thinking about your business. You might reveal additional insights that you wouldn't have discovered if you didn't attempt to write a business plan.
Step 4: Organize Your Finances
The goal of your business is to make money. Before you launch your business, you'll need to know how much funding you need and how to manage it. Insufficient capital and cash flow are some of the main reasons why businesses fail, so figure that out quickly.
Some businesses, such as a web design agency, can launch and be maintained at a low expense. While other types of businesses need money for physical space, equipment, or inventory, which could cost hundreds or even thousands of dollars. You need to capture a clear view of how much money you need to start your business before you begin.
Depending on the business you decide to start, a lot of money you spend may be put towards inventory and product costs. You'll likely need more startup funding than you can contribute out of your pocket.
Bookkeeping also needs to be one of your primary focuses. You need to keep accurate records of your expenses and income. This way you can track your cash flow.
Step 5: Determine Your Business Structure
There are a variety of incorporation structures for small businesses. What structure you go with will influence different parts of your business. They're designed to help you balance financial and legal protections.
The two common types of business structures are incorporation and sole proprietorship. A limited liability company is a good option if your company has more than one owner. It also ensures that you're not personally liable for your business.
A sole proprietorship is great if you're the only person running the business. It also doesn't take a lot of effort to maintain. However, you'll be personally liable for any financial risks that the business takes.
When determining which structure is right for you, think about the following:
- How many people are running the company?
- What kind of business is it?
- Where is the business located?
This is an important decision and one that you shouldn't take lightly.
Step 6: Research Government Regulations and Licenses
You'll want to research what government regulations and licenses you'll need to operate. As we mentioned earlier, you'll want to get a jump start on this paperwork before the end of the year. Additionally, you don't want to encounter any legal problems because you failed to file the right paperwork.
Step 7: Figure Out What Tools You Need
Don't underestimate the value of reliable software. The right set of tools will help you get your business up and running in no time.
SiteSwan is a great option to get your business off the ground. Our software has everything you need to start your web design business.
Start with our responsive website builder to establish your online presence. It's one of the fastest ways to create a website. Your site will be ready to go in a matter of minutes.
Your website will also look professional and beautiful. We have countless pre-designed
Themes that are industry-specific. The easy-to-use editor enables you to drop in images, text, and more without having to figure out coding.
You'll also be able to generate leads directly from your SiteSwan dashboard. Look for businesses local to your area that don't have a website. You can also explore websites that don't have a mobile version as well.
You can also use our software to build websites for your clients. They'll be amazed by the professional-looking websites you're able to create, all right within the SiteSwan dashboard.
Step 8: Plan How Many Team Members You Need
While many businesses of this style can be run by one person, you might want to expand your team as you become more successful, such as adding a sales rep to help you gain more clients. You might also want to offload some tedious tasks that take away from you serving your clients.
When determining how many people to hire, don't forget to account for the cost of hiring help. You'll also have to consider how much time it'll take you to find reliable help. As we mentioned before, hiring during this time of year is a great way to find qualified individuals.
Step 9: Launch Your Business
At this point, you have everything ready to start your small web design business. All the preparation you've done has prepared you for a successful launch. Now, you can focus on bringing in clients and increasing your revenue.
Shout it from the rooftops and promote your new business any way you can. Start developing your marketing efforts by getting on social media, attending networking programs, and making those sales calls. You can also offer first-time customer discounts to attract new business.
Don't Wait to Start a Business
If you want to start a business, don't wait until after the holiday season. Get ahead of the rush and start generating revenue before the end of the year.
If you are ready to launch your website design business with SiteSwan, why not get started today? Sign up is quick and easy and only takes minutes. Once your account is created, you will gain access to our site building platform, resources, and support team who will help you kickstart your business. Set yourself up for success in 2024 by taking the first step today.