Okay, so you think you have this great idea for a new small business venture. Now what? Well, think of it as your new baby. You need to protect it, nurture it, and then watch it grow.
If your idea is unique, the first thing you need to do is protect it from being stolen. Make sure that anyone that you share your new idea with first signs a standard non-disclosure. If you don’t want to invest in a lawyer early on, you can find a standard form on the Internet at sites like .
Like any new baby, you want to put your new idea in the hands of a professional that you can trust to help it grow. You will need to find someone to help you with small business branding. This includes creating a company name, logo, letterhead, business cards, and a web site. Make sure that you file the proper paperwork with your county. This usually means a DBA form (doing business as) which can be done at a site such as . This form will be necessary if you plan to open a bank account under the name of your new business. You will also need someone to point you in the right direction when it comes to advertising and search engine optimization. Look on the Internet for a good graphic designer, and don’t be afraid to check out their references. You don’t want to trust your new baby to just any one.
Your logo is a key element. It will be your calling card that will appear on all your printed materials, so choose it wisely. A good graphic designer can help you find the right look and feel for your new business, but keep your original idea at the forefront. Remember, this is your baby. Put all your enthusiasm into this new venture, and you’ll be able to feel proud as you watch all your hard work pay off. Good luck.