Below are some of the tasks involved in starting a secretarial service and offering typing services from home.
• Determine what services you want to offer.
• Determine what kind of clients you want to target.
• Determine a space where you will set up your home office or select a business location.
• Purchase equipment and office supplies: computer, software, printer, desk, and computer chair, pens, paper, paper clips, and stapler.
• Choose a business name. Verify that the name is not used by someone else. Register your Fictitious Business Name (D.B.A.) if you will operate your business under a name other than your personal name. Check if the business name is available as a domain name (e.g. yourname.com) and register the domain name.
•Get a separate phone line. You don't want your kids to answer the phone when a client calls. If you plan on advertising in the Yellow Pages, you may need a business line.
•Create promotional materials and stationary: Design a logo; Design and print business cards; Design postcards or flyers; Design letterhead (print it from your computer); Design a fax cover sheet; Design invoices/sales receipts; Write sales letters; Design a web site or have one designed. Select a domain name and hosting company.
•Get an email address.
•Get a business license. (check with your city and state)
•Order Yellow Pages advertising and other advertising.
•Call everyone you know and introduce your business.
•Open a business bank account.
You will need to take additional steps if you'll have employees, a business partner, or will incorporate. Procedures vary from state to state. Check with your city and county to find out what legal requirements you'll have to comply with.
Refer to this checklist often when starting your business to check what steps you'll need to take next.
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