Things to Consider Before Opening Your Business

By Kathy Sanders

Through our years of experience we formed an outline of twenty-two steps that should be accomplished while opening your business. These steps allow you to be prepared and organized, consequently saving time and money.

Here are a few of those steps:

• Create a business plan.

• What is your plan for a business checking account? • Have you picked the right location?

• Are you a corporate entity?

• Do you have the correct permits?

• Do you have a marketing strategy in place?

• Have you chosen a business name and logo?

• Will you be hiring someone as a receptionist?

• And much more, for instance sales tax, equipment and furniture, utilities, insurance, advertising, orientation, rules and regs, policy and proce-

dure, personnel handbook. We’re going to take a closer look.

Creating a Business Plan

A business plan is a critical, structural element for your business. It is essential if you are planning to secure a business loan. They range from basic to detailed, and they will give you a projected feel for the journey you are about to embark on. Doing this yourself (available as free business plan templates online) will give you the knowledge, empowering you to work the plan!

Most consulting firm’s give you an outline/template to follow aiding you in the process of filling out a business plan. Begin this initial phase as soon as possible!

Business Checking

You will need credentials to open a business checking account. In most states banking institutions will require.

• A signed lease from your business location.

• EIN number from the IRS, do this online.

• Create an LLC/Corp and a letter of existence with your Secretary of State.

• Phone number associated with the business

Be sure to check with your financial institution to see what they expect. Keep good records on all expenditures before and after you get the business checking account open.

Business Name and Logo

There are many resources available. Some are affordable and will quickly respond to your request. There are also just as many to avoid. Be careful, thoughtful, and cautious. Custommade brands can get a little pricey, but pre-made templates can be purchased from $20.00 and up. Consultants can do this for you.

There are many things to consider when designing your logo/brand. You should consider getting your brand in several different digital formats (PNG. JPG etc). The background should be clear for a professional look. Consider not using your pets name or anything personal. Your business name speak to everyone.

Do online searches to research and locate all grooming shops in your location.

Once you have potential locations call or go to planning and zoning agency and ask if a pet grooming business may be located at the proposed addresses. If they say no, make sure they are not categorizing you as a veterinarian. If you are not going to have overnight clients, you can speak to that point and get consideration as cosmetologist, not a veterinarian.

Call the appropriate county office to inquire about a county license. Some counties do not require a license. If you have a mobile unit, in most states, you must get a license for each county you groom in.

You also have to investigate city licensing if inside the city limits. Call town hall. You must have an address in mind when you inquire about a license for a store front or mobile unit.

Contact your agricultural department for other requirements to operate a grooming business. It varies from state to state. There is much to say about this subject. It will be a decision based on the opinion of your CPA and the level of liability you wish to assume. There are benefits to being an S corp, but also advantages to being an LLC. Whether hiring a consultant or not, you should discuss this with your CPA/Accountant.

Do you have a marketing strategy in place?

Facebook page, website, landing page social media…what to do? Marketing 101 or hire someone… Huge topic. What works best for each individual location and salon? Don’t be tempted to spend a lot of money on this initially. There are so many free opportunities out there.

There are groomer programs you can purchase or sign up with that offer much of what you need for marketing, payroll, keeping track of shot records, dog profiles and so much more. It is absolutely cost effective saving you time and money. Through Dreaming Consulting will provide much detail on each subject. Volumes more than you see here. This should give you a jump Copyright © 2013 Find A Groomer Inc. All rights reserved start. Subscribe www.egroomer.com

We care about your future and have a structured plan available that can provide a path to success and prosperity in pet care! Yes, you can do this!

Why re-invent the wheel and make costly mistakes when hiring a consultant can pay for itself. A consultant that has the experience to guide you through the process.

A consultant can also give you moral support and may be hired to come to your location during opening week.

We have 40+ years of field experience and ownership of grooming shops/ salons, schools, allowing us to provide helpful, professional assistance and guidance for clients/entrepreneurs, providing a swift path forward to fulfilling your dreams and independence. ◄

WE PROMISE TO EXCEED OUR CUSTOMER’S EXPECTATIONS IN QUALITY

www.showseasongrooming.com 678-382-0218 sandy@showseasongrooming.com