How to Start a Business During the Recession

Posted by Ety D.
6
Nov 21, 2011
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Starting a business during a recession might sound like a daunting proposition, but in reality, a slow economy can be an excellent time to launch a successful operation. Many existing companies are going out of business or looking for partnerships, which means a savvy business person can get into the market at a lower cost. Financial institutions will lend to those with good credit and a solid business plan, and government loan programs are increasing in an effort to jump-start the economy. Additionally, the economy affects everyone, including commercial property owners and all kinds of suppliers. As a result, a new business has a chance to save money on startup expenses by making purchases from motivated sellers.

Tips :

1.  Write your business plan. A business plan maps out every aspect of how you plan to run your operation and delineates how and when you expect to realize profit. The business plan is a necessary document if you're applying for a small business loan.

2.  Research the economic conditions of the geographic area in which you plan to launch your business, and incorporate your findings into your business plan. Is the need for your type of business growing or slowing? Who are your competitors? Are they faring well or falling by the wayside? What will you do differently from them to compete in a slow economy?

3.  Develop a marketing plan. Much like a business plan, a marketing plan will help you identify your target demographic. Are the prospective people in your target market continuing to buy the product or service you plan to offer, or are they looking for less expensive alternatives? Can you offer something different from your competition? Consumers will spend money in a recession as long as they can see value in their purchases. Consider ways to promote your product or service that shows customers how they can save time or money or do things for themselves.

4.  Secure all necessary business licenses. This can be accomplished through your state secretary of state's office or your local business licensing bureau.

5.  Select a location for your business. A commercial real estate professional can help you find the best space for your budget and can provide insight into the dynamics of the location. You don't want to find yourself in an office park that is quickly being abandoned by its tenants or in a shopping center complex that is about to go bankrupt. A real estate professional should be able to give you solid information about retail traffic and the financial stability of the property.

6.  Apply for a business loan or startup funding, if necessary. Because of the recession, plan your budget to have at least six months of extra operating funds. If your business gets off to a slow start because of the recession, you'll need the extra money to fall back on.

7.  Purchase supplies, equipment and inventory for your business. Before paying retail price for new items, look at similar businesses that are downsizing or going out of business because of the recession and consider the benefits of buying out their stock.

8.  Hire and train employees and open for business. Make customer service a major priority and continually watch for trends in your industry that might signal a downward economic trajectory for your business. Revisit your business and marketing plans on a regular basis to keep you on track and recession-proof.








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Ety D.
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employement

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Sandy John
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Data Center Consultant

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Logo & Graphic Designer

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Blogger

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SEO firm

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Forensic accountant

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Life Learner

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Business Consultant

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Web Designer, Website Owner

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Thank you for coming to my page

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