Jamal Lloyd Johnson | 5 Things to Think About Before You Start a Business

 Jamal Lloyd Johnson | Before starting a business extensive research is required. You just can't start an establishment without proper plans in place. Perhaps you've ideas for a perfect startup offering really unique products or services. On the other hand, you may have popped into businesses for sale websites and thought of purchasing a unique company you believe will change your fortunes one way or the other.

 

Whatever it is, you probably should think about the following things before you invest in one.

How is the cash flow?
Capital is key, including the cash flow you need to run a business successfully. If you haven't really thought about how you will be spending your money and on what, chances of facing serious problems in coming days is real. You need to know how much you already have vis-à-vis the needs of your new business. Start lean and save enough funds to run your business.

Avoid expensive fixed investments
An office requires chairs, desks, appliances among other items depending on the business. For entrepreneurs just kicking it off the temptation to invest top dollar on expensive fixed assets can be overwhelming.

However, think about a lean company with just the minimum items to help kick-start it. Save the rest of the money for a rainy day or boost your capital rather than use it all on non-essentials at the beginning of your company.

Remember to save for a rainy day
2020 has taught entrepreneurs, companies and established brands that saving for possible tough times is very important. Businesses started with a lot of hope for the New Year only to be confronted by a pandemic that brought the entire world's economy to its knees.

While most companies and startups simply closed shop, declared bankruptcy or transitioned into other areas, those that had prepared well simply adjusted and kept their services running at a minimum and still did quite well. It all comes to saving for emergencies, both for the business and personal life. Cushioning yourself well will pay off once you start your business.

Bookkeeping headache
Jamal Lloyd Johnson | You must sort out bookkeeping and accounting matters before you begin. Can you afford an accountant or professional bookkeeper? If you're working on a budget you might want to find other ways of ensuring financial documents and fiscal administration are done well without having to employ a financial expert.

For instance, you could stick with accounting software to manage your financials, especially to help you compile documents by the time you're required to file your taxes.

Mind expenses
Too many expenses can ruin a budding startup. To boost revenue and allow the business to thrive, cut unnecessary expenses such as expensive lunches from top hotels or luxurious high-end office décor you can run the business without.