12 Steps to Open Your First Small Business - Start With the Right Idea

So let's be real, the idea of starting your own business can feel really overwhelming. Both the daunting task of the logistics and the social fear of putting yourself out there prevents so many people from getting started. The secret is, with a defined plan and clear steps you will minimize your anxiety and focus on building.

Step 1: Clarify Your Small Business Idea

Every great business starts with a clear idea. But that doesn’t mean it needs to be perfect on day one. Be clear but be flexible, you're going to learn along the way.

Ask Yourself:

• What problem do I solve?

  • A product or service that doesn't solve a problem, doesn't have a purpose! How well could you sell something that people don't need?

• Who will benefit from my solution?

• What do I love doing that people would pay for?

💡 Pro Tip: Don't overthink it. Many successful entrepreneurs started with something small and refined their offer as they learned more.

Step 2: Research the Market

Once you have a business idea, it’s time to validate it. You need to know if there’s a demand, who your competition is, and how you can stand out.

Do Market Research:

• Search online forums, Facebook groups, and Reddit to see what people are asking for. Even a simple google search!

• Look at your competitors’ social media and websites.

• Conduct surveys or interviews with potential customers.

This step helps you avoid building something no one wants—one of the top reasons businesses fail.

Step 3: Write a Simple Business Plan

A vast majority of businesses who fail in the first five years missed this step. Writing the "how" to your "what" is key in executing your vision.

A business plan is just a roadmap to keep you focused and clear. It should answer:

• What are you selling?

• Who are you selling it to?

• How will you make money?

• What are your startup costs?

If you first one isn't perfect - that's okay! This should be done every year and each time you sit down and review it, you'll learn from it and improve.

Step 4: Choose a Business Name and Legal Structure

Naming Your Business

Pick a name that’s simple, memorable, and reflects your brand. Make sure:

• The domain name is available.

• Social media handles are free.

• It’s not trademarked.

Choosing a Legal Structure

Here are your main options:

• Sole Proprietorship – easiest, but no legal separation from you.

• LLC (Limited Liability Company) – protects your personal assets and is ideal for most small businesses.

• Corporation – better for companies planning to raise money or scale quickly.

💼 Consult a small business attorney or legal service like LegalZoom to choose the best fit.

Step 5: Handle the Legal Stuff

This part might feel intimidating, but it’s crucial to set your business up for success.

Here’s what you need:

• Register your business with your state.

• Apply for an EIN (Employer Identification Number) through the IRS website (free).

• Get necessary licenses or permits (check your state and local regulations).

• Open a business bank account to keep your finances clean.

Having your paperwork in order protects you legally and helps build credibility.

Step 6: Set Up Your Finances

Financial clarity is power. Even if your business is small, treat it like it’s legit from day one.

Key Steps:

• Open a separate business bank account

• Use accounting tools like QuickBooks, Wave, or FreshBooks

• Track income and expenses

• Set aside money for taxes (aim for 25-30% of profits)

If numbers aren’t your thing, consider working with a bookkeeper or accountant.

Step 7: Build Your Brand

Your brand is more than just your logo—it’s the personality and promise behind your business.

Focus on:

• Visuals – logo, color palette, fonts

• Voice – how you speak in your content and copy

• Values – what you stand for

Create a brand style guide to stay consistent as you grow.

Step 8: Create a Website and Online Presence

Even if you're just starting out, having a digital home is non-negotiable.

Essentials for Your Website:

• About page (share your story!)

• Clear offer or services

• Contact form or scheduling link

• Testimonials or social proof

Use platforms like Squarespace, Wix, or WordPress for user-friendly site building.

Don't forget social media. Choose 1–2 platforms where your ideal customer hangs out and show up consistently.

Step 9: Start Selling

Don’t wait until everything is “perfect” to start offering your product or service. If you wait for perfection, you'll never get started. What's important is that you continue to learn, refine and improve every step of the way.

Here’s how to get your first few sales:

• Offer a beta version to friends or followers

• Post in Facebook groups or local business directories

• Reach out to your network with a personal message

Remember: Progress beats perfection.

Step 10: Market Like a CEO

You don’t need a massive marketing budget to make a big impact.

Try:

• Email marketing (free tools like MailerLite or ConvertKit)

• Pinterest marketing (great for women-led lifestyle or service brands)

• Instagram reels or TikTok for showing your behind-the-scenes process

• Content marketing like blogging or podcasting to build trust

💡 Marketing is just storytelling that solves a problem. Be real. Be helpful. Be consistent.

Step 11: Build a Support Network

You don’t have to do this alone. In fact, you shouldn’t.

Look for:

• Women’s business Facebook groups

• Local networking events or chambers of commerce

• Online communities like Hello Seven, The Female Founder Collective, or SheEO

• A business coach or mentor to help guide your growth

Surround yourself with like minded people who are building too—it makes a huge difference.

Step 12: Stay Legal and Scalable

As your business grows, you’ll need to keep up with additional responsibilities:

• Quarterly tax payments

• Business insurance

• Contracts for clients or partnerships

• Scaling your offer or hiring help

Take this as an opportunity to network with other small businesses that offer tax and legal services. Use your resources and learn quickly!

You Don’t Need Permission to Begin

You just need to start.

Take the first step. Then the next. Trust yourself. And remember: The world needs more women creating their own tables instead of waiting for a seat at someone else’s.

Love ya,

Becky Hendrix