Launching a business is hard work. There are many things to consider and the process, for many, is overwhelming. The failure rate for startups averages 20% during the first year of operation. If you include the ones that never reach the launch point it’s 50%. Launching a business is hard so here are tips for getting your ‘rocket’ off the pad.

Have a Launch Plan

The Plan should answer: What, When, How, and How Much.  Spend the time thinking and developing the Plan which must include benchmarks and goals to be reached over specific time periods.

Money, Money, Money

Make sure you have the funds necessary to launch your new venture. This is a must. If you don’t have the money – don’t start until you do! That includes all the funds relevant to the kind of business you are contemplating and is enough to cover all of the anticipated expenses – including 6 months of personal expenses.

Marketing The New Venture

There are only two endeavors that generate sales for any business: marketing and innovation – everything else is an expense. You must have a marketing budget and it should be one of the more significant expenditures in your Plan.

Spend your marketing dollars wisely and track the return value of each promotion dollar. Use both online marketing and traditional media. Segment and pinpoint your target market.

Create An Identity

You are the protector of your company’s brand. Every business, no matter size, must have a brand and that brand needs to be forged and nurtured. The Brand is the Business – they are one in the same.

You must create an identity for your new business and that identity is market driven. It is based upon a promise you are giving to new customers that your business well perform and ‘serve up’ exactly what you are marketing. 

Use Technology to Increase Productivity

Make sure you are using all of the latest technology in building and operating your new business. Only purchase what is needed to manage the business in a efficient and productive way. If necessary  (I say necessary because many of the business apps available come with free tutorials and/or host assistance) seek professional help. Keep in mind that what cost thousands just a few years ago can now be had for hundreds.

CX – Customer Experience

The most important task required for a startup is making sure your business is providing a great Customer Experience (CX). This is crucial. Place yourself in your  customers’ shoes to ensure that they are receiving what you would require as a customer. The experience must be honest, engaging, easy, and complete.

These startup tips are the ones you’ll need to juggle. They are hard, they take time, they demand great effort and thought. And are essential for success.