The Stepping Stones of a Start Up

So you've decided to start your own business. Good for you! Many think about taking this bold step but not everyone is sure how to go about setting onesself up in business. While there is no blueprint for guaranteed success, there are a number of steps that you should take into consideration when planning to establish your own business venture.
 

First and foremost, if the decision is yours, establish a business that you will enjoy operating. Considering the amount of daily time devoted to operating a business, it really should be a labour of love.
 

Don't get going with out a written business plan. This document will help you take a realistic look at your idea and examine its viability. You will also need it to attract potential investors.
 

Unless money is of no concern, try and get your business off the ground while you are still employed. Having a steady source of income while your business is still in its infancy can help keep your family housed and fed until your business start showing a profit.
 

Take the necessary time to research your ideas. In order to make a name for yourself, you should have all the know-how and answers. Be sure that you know what you are getting into and are well versed in the industry that you plan to enter. Also, don't be afraid to seek advice from others. Bounce ideas off colleagues and friends. Get feedback, both positive and negative. It's better to hear thoughts and opinions before the business is a reality.
 

Be sure to use qualified legal and accounting professionals in your planning. A seemingly small mistake, financial or legal, can cost you dearly. You may also need this information when writing your business plan.
 

Make sure that your financing is arranged before you hang out your shingle. Opening your doors and hoping to find the funds afterwards can be a serious error.
 

Finally, even during the planning stages, start selling yourself. Get customers lined up and make professional contacts. If you sell yourself well, you'll be ready to start business on day one. 

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Common Mistakes of a Start Up

Most of us dream of becoming an overnight success. We have thought of the greatest business idea that will lead us to riches. It may happen. Then again, it may require good, old-fashioned hard work and dedication to make that first million. No doubt, though, that self employed entrepreneurs have that desire and drive to give it a try. By avoiding some common startup mistakes, the chances of success increase greatly.
 

It is vital to set yourself apart from others. You have to convince customers that your business is the right choice. What is your specialty that will entice business to come your way? Being the same as others in the trade won't cut it. Also, copying someone else's idea because they were successful at it won't bring you long term success.

You have to sell your service or product to the public. Don't expect a colourful flyer or flashy website to do the work. Similarly, your credentials are important for your credibility. But the bottom line is demonstrating what you can do with those credentials.
 

Did you start out with a business plan? Use this document to chart your business and don't be afraid to alter the plan as necessary. Many new businesses realize in the first few months that change is essential. Although you probably want to see your business in print, don't sink money into advertising until you've worked out the initial kinks and have settled on the long term version of your business.
 

Be sure to advertise your business where it counts. Get out and sell your service or product to the appropriate crowd. Also, don't let hecklers or criticism deter you. Setbacks happen. Don't let them overwhelm you. Marketing must be ongoing. Don't stop after a few tries. You want the public to identify you with your business. Continue the marketing and be persistent and convincing!  Motivate yourself and you'll succeed in motivating others. 

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Advertising Advice for Small Businesses

Undoubtedly, you will invest a good deal of time spreading the word about your new business. However, business requires a degree of volume. Therefore, advertising is a necessity. There are a variety of ways to advertise your new business, beyond merely speaking to people.
 

Even in this age of the Internet, many people still open the Yellow Pages when looking for a business. Of course, remember that the more visible your ad, the better your chance of being seen.
 

Newspaper ads are not just the realm of the major players. Your business will begin its path from a local market and local newspapers are the economical and effective way to attract a customer base. Don't forget to have an advertisement prepared professionally. An amateur look could harm your professional image.
 

A new business should avoid costly telemarketing. On the other hand, direct mail may serve you well as you can choose exactly which geographic audience you are seeking.
 

Do you have a supply of eye-catching business cards? Each card is a miniature advertisement. Give them out freely to whomever you meet. Also, you may want to enlarge your card and prepare a sign to stick to your car. Remember, it is hard to say that you can advertise too much.
 

Of course, budgets do factor into advertising. The size of your advertising budget will determine how much you can allow yourself.
 

Be sure to get around to trade shows. Networking at shows and conventions is a very effective way to make contacts and get known "in the business."
 

If you can afford it, local cable television advertising and radio spots may work for you. Similarly, sponsorship of local events in your community will earn you positive recognition.
 

Be creative and continually seek new and creative ways to advertise your business. It doesn't always require a large budget to market your business. Do what's best suited for your budget and be persistent.

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Looking for Startup Money?

Money makes the world go 'round. It also gets your startup business up and running. Many a new business venture has failed due to a lack of cash to get the operation off the ground and get through the initial difficult months until the business starts generating revenue. Unfortunately, there are no guarantees as to where you will find the necessary capital. Many entrepreneurs tend to follow a similar path in seeking funds.
 

The most popular place to look is your own pocketbook. Often, people will mortgage their homes or sell property and possessions. Certainly, there is risk involved but business involves risk and personal commitment to the venture is crucial. Of course, "personal" funds may also extend to family and close friends. Most likely, they will be far more supportive than commercial lenders and their terms are likely to be far more favourable.
 

Next in line is your neighbourhood bank. Assuming that you have a creditworthy relationship, this may be the ideal place to secure a startup loan. Also, a line of credit is most important for your business. You may not need these funds initially but they may come in handy down the line.
 

Do your research well. There are numerous loans and grants available for new small businesses from government agencies and business associations. Your local banker or your accountant may be able to help direct you to sources of funds. Similarly, professional organizations may have helpful information.
 

Investors may be the right answer for you. Although many investors prefer to become involved with established businesses, the right idea at the right time may attract investment funds to you. Your business plan should be designed with investors in mind. Be prepared to change the business plan as necessary in order to interest a potential investor.
 

Finally, don't limit yourself to one source of funds. It may be possible for you to finance your startup form several sources. Decide what is best for your needs and don't be afraid to seek advice from professional advisors. 

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Living Week by Week: Rough Economic Times for Canadians

The results of a new poll released this week by the Canadian Payroll Association revealed some surprising statistics and facts about the average Canadian household. A one week delay in receiving a paycheque would render nearly 60 percent of Canadians unable to pay their regular bills. Moreover, the same majority group has little or no ability to set aside money for retirement funds.

These surprising results have shed new light on the financial condition of many Canadian homes during these rough economic times. Despite common financial advice that people should have an emergency cash reserve for three months of expenses, the majority of households surveyed admitted that they are happy if they can make it to the next paycheque, let alone save for retirement or emergencies.

The younger workforce is in greater distress. 45 percent of workers aged 18 to 34 are feeling the crunch and feel that they are having trouble making ends meet. A delay in being paid would spell disaster. 72 percent of single parents responded in a similar fashion.

Regardless of age, the survey revealed that half of all Canadian workers are unable to save more than five percent of their net income for retirement. Financial planners recommend that ten percent is an advisable amount. However, the recent fluctuations in the stock markets have made saving for retirement far more challenging. Nearly one third of Canadians are trying to save more money but they can't. 42 percent admit that they aren't trying at all to save more.

Despite the variety and wide array of financial products being offered to Canadians by financial institutions nationwide, many Canadians seem pleased if they can pay their bills after payday.

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Canadian Recovery Indicators

Recent economic records this summer seem to indicate brighter days on the Canadian horizon. Earlier, analysts had predicted a $100 million surplus in July. The reality, though, was quite different. Rather than a surplus, Canada experienced a near record deficit in July 2009 of $1.43 billion. This was surpassed only by the May 2009 deficit of $1.45 billion. Despite these figures, economic analysts seem buoyed by the surge in imports. The sharp rise in imports and exports seem to indicate that recovery from the global financial crisis is on the horizon.

Import figures for July reflected an overall 8.3 percent increase from the previous month. This positive figure included a 10.9 percent increase in machinery and equipment imports, an impressive 18.7 percent rise in automotive products, and a similarly encouraging 18.6 percent rise in energy products.

Exports rose by 3.3 percent in July, primarily due to increased shipments of equipment, machinery, and automotive products. 73 percent of all Canadian exports in July were to the United States but, due to the sluggish American economy, this figure was down a whopping 35.2 percent from July 2008.

In order to stimulate the economy, the Bank of Canada has promised to leave interest rates at their current record low. The recent trade figures have not caused the Bank to change its current position. Responding to the Bank's announcement regarding interest rates, the Canadian dollar rose to 92.46 U.S. cents from 92.10 U.S. cents.

Analysts insist that the increasing deficit is not a prime cause of long term concern. The true indicator is the rapid acceleration in trade volumes. The rises in imports and exports indicate increased commercial activity and the true beginnings of economic recovery.

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Joint Canada/B.C. Jobs Program

British Columbia has been seriously affected by the global recession. As a province with many communities heavily reliant on resource-based industries such as mining, agriculture and fishing and manufacturing, the job market is in a severe crisis. Responding to the needs of these western communities, the federal and provincial governments have banded together to create immediate jobs and help workers impacted by the recession.

A $14 million investment has been made recently through the Community Adjustment Fund and the Job Opportunities Program. 45 new projects will be funded, creating more than 470 jobs for laid-off resource workers. The projects are endorsed and supported by local communities. The programs are not stop-gap measures but will hopefully create foundations for long-lasting prosperity.

However, this is but one phase of a much larger program. The Job Opportunities Program was first announced in May 2008 with an initial investment of $25 million. In July 2009, the federal government and the B.C. provincial government, both committed to maintaining financial stability and keeping Canadians working during this recession, each committed an additional $30 million to the program. The Community Adjustment Fund, part of Canada's Economic Action Plan, is a two year, $1 billion nationwide program to support job creating projects and maintain employment in rural communities. Nearly one third of the program's funds, $306 million, are being directed to the four westernmost provinces of Canada. The impact of the recession has been felt much more in the west than other provinces across the nation.

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How Canada Prepared for the Crunch

Looking back just a little, the current recession took hold in 2007 when the inflated U.S. real estate bubble exploded. The speed with which the downfall snowballed surprised many but did provide enough time for legislators to take early action. The Canadian government, under Prime Minister Stephen Harper, was one of the first to prepare for the coming financial challenges.

The first step was introducing legislation in 2007 for permanent tax reductions for Canadian homes and businesses. As the recession hit the U.S. in early 2008, these new tax cuts took effect, helping sustain consumer spending and pumping billions of dollars into the Canadian economy. The lower GST is a blessing for individuals who have more of their hard earned dollars to spend. Canadian businesses now benefit from the lowest corporate tax rate among G7 industrialized countries, providing cash for continued corporate growth and creating new jobs.

During the country's strong economic years in 2005-2006, the government wisely reduced the national debt by $37 billion. By entering this recession period with a low debt burden, the government has had flexibility to run a short term deficit and provide funds for job creating investments and other economic stimulus programs.

Another preventive measure undertaken by the Harper government was regulating the mortgage market. The maximum term was reduced to 35 years and a minimum 5 percent down payment is required for government-backed mortgages.

Finally, responding to a cautious banking sector, the government has enacted programs to provide access to financing for consumers, households, and businesses. The government has not replaced private lending but, rather, is working in a cooperative effort with financial institutions to encourage lending and provide a network of guarantees.
 
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Credit Now Available From The Federal Government

A person needs oxygen to survive. A business needs credit. Even in the most difficult of times, the flow of oxygen remains uninterrupted. Not so, however, with credit.

Many a business has seen its line of credit be reduced or cancelled over the course of the last year. Financial institutions, seeking to reduce risks on unsecured or unstable credit lines, have made obtaining funds ever more difficult. This move has dealt a crippling or death blow to many small businesses in Canada.
Under Canada's recent Economic Action Plan, designed to stimulate and strengthen the Canadian economy, the Federal government is sponsoring a program that will work with financial institutions in the private sector. The Business Credit Availability Program (BCAP) will provide loans and other forms of credit support to creditworthy businesses. At least $5 billion has been allocated in loans and other forms of credit support for business enterprises with viable business models but, for various reasons, have limited or no accessibility to financing.

The BCAP is a joint venture between two financial Crown corporations and private Canadian financial institutions. The steering committee is comprised of senior representatives of all sponsoring parties whose experience and commitment have establishes a program with initial promising results. Similar to credit issues, discussions are also being conducted to examine ways of providing accounts receivable insurance.

Business owners and entrepreneurs seeking assistance through this program to support their established operations and preserve jobs should contact their financial institutions to discuss their needs and eligibility. Your financial representative can advise you which program is best suited for your particular situation.
 
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Is Canadian Employment on the Rise?

Statistics are like a cat. Rub its fur one way and it purrs; rub the other way and the results are somewhat less positive.

So it is with employment figures released by Statistics Canada for the month of August 2009. Stephen Harper's Conservative government is giving a positive spin to the 27,100 net jobs gain for the month. The announcement triggered an eight-tenth of a cent rise in the Canadian dollar, although higher crude oil prices may also have influenced the dollar's rise. Some leading economists have announced that this is an indication of the end of the recession. All this sounds rather encouraging.

Critics, though, are quick to note that many Canadians are not feeling quite as positive. Most of the new jobs were part-time only. The number of unemployed rose in August by 21,900, bringing the total number of unemployed Canadians to 486,000 since the global financial crunch of October 2008. The decline in the manufacturing sector has continued, although construction has begun to stabilize. Most of the new part-time jobs were in the lower paying service sector. Higher paying, high productivity work fell by 17,300 positions. Full-time work continues to be in a decline.

Certainly, there is cause to be optimistic. As one economist stated, half a job is better than no job. Economic indicators seem to point in a positive direction. But, one month of net growth may be far too early to establish a positive trend. Canada may well be on its way to economic recovery. Nearly half a million unemployed Canadians certainly hope so.

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