How did you prepare to open a business?

[Kris Davidson]

As I prepare to open my own business, I've been trying to consume as much information and advice as humanly possible. I have been reading some informational books, networking, utilizing online resources and preparing a business plan and timeline — all the basics.

I would imagine that quite a few of you may have some really helpful local resources or advice to give about starting a business. Could anyone recommend a class — whether it be free or through Ivy Tech, IUPUI, University of Ind. — that focuses on small business? Are there groups, non-profits, organizations, clubs that you might recommend for a (female) first-time entrepreneur?

Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

[Kris Davidson]

Gail, thank you so much for your insights. I am currently reading a book called, "The Boss of You: Everything a Woman Needs to Know to Start, Run, and Maintain Her Own Business by Lauren Bacon and Emira Mears.

"The trick is to make sure the outside (from your relationships with clients to your marketing) reflects the inside (your vision for the company) and the key to that is to get clear on what exactly your business personality is."

It sounds like you have a lot of experience behind your new business. I'd love to receive your newsletter once it is up and running. Thanks and good luck to you and 2womenentrepreneurs.com, Gail.

[Michael R.]

Hey, Kris, are you familiar with SCORE--Senior Core of Retired Executives? I have not personally sought out their help, but it's supposed to be an excellent resource. They have an Indianapolis Chapter @ Keystone at the Crossing. Here are the websites:

http://www.score.org/index.html

http://www.indyscore.org/

[Kris Davidson]

Wow, this is an absolute jackpot. I really appreciate the information, Michael. I will definitely check them out, thank you very much for passing this along.

[Kristle Morris]

Hi Kris, I'm Kristle W/ Renew Wellness. Business Ownership Initiative of Indiana, is located 4755 Kingsway Dr., Suit 314 Indianapolis, in 460205 right off Keystone they will help you from start to finish I'm talking everythng they are awesome. I have been working with them for over a year now and I started my renew wellness spa business March 09 without them I probaly would have started out all wrong, aka BOI has helped me with my business plan, how to market, how to form my business, taxes, record keeping and much much more. I think everyone that is starting a business AND in business should look into BOI.
Sharetha Marshall is my business couch she's great!!
I also learned about score through BOI.
Here thier website:
www.businessownership.org
Phone [phone] x107

[Michael R.]

I hope it serves you well:) Let me know how your experience with SCORE is if you do have some meetings, etc. with them. I'm curious because SCORE was recommended to me a long time ago but I never sought out their help as I already mentioned.

[Kristle Morris]

Hello, Business Ownership Initiative of Indiana, is located 4755 Kingsway Dr., Suit 314 Indianapolis, in 460205 right off Keystone they will help you from start to finish I'm talking everythng they are awesome. I have been working with them for over a year now and I started my renew wellness spa business March 09 without them I probaly would have started out all wrong, aka BOI has helped me with my business plan, how to market, how to form my business, taxes, record keeping and much much more. I think everyone that is starting a business AND in business should look into BOI.
Sharetha Marshall is my business couch she's great!!
I also learned about score through BOI.
Here's thier website:
www.businessownership.org
Phone [phone] x107

[Kris Davidson]

Kristie, thanks for sending a positive referral about BOI. The 8-week business class sounds like something I could really benefit from. Go ahead and plug your wellness spa while you're at it! What's it called? Where is it located.

Many thanks!
Kris

[Arik Flanders]

Research, research, research and expect the unexpected. Always be conservative in your budgeting as things will arise that you most definitely did not expect.

Best of luck,

Arik

[Kris Davidson]

Thanks, Arik. In the words of Adam Sandler, "I'm a big fan of money. I like it, I use it, I have a little. I keep it in a jar on top of my refrigerator. I'd like to put more in that jar."

That's the plan, at least.

[Michael R.]

Scuba Steve approves this message:)

[Dave Gibbs]

Kris,

Gail, Michael and Arik all have some good advice for you.

You also want to discuss with a good CPA and attorney about your goals.

Also, look into tax benefits for woman owned business! And, you will want to know your market very well and be aware of how you can keep your business growing. This is vital intel.

[Kris Davidson]

Luckily, my husband is a financial consultant, so I have that going for me. I definitely need to research tax benefits, though. It seems to be a stop lots of people skip over the first time around.

Thanks Dave.