As an aspiring small business owner, you're about to embark on an exciting journey full of challenges, rewards, and (if we're being honest) a fair share of tedium. Yep, that's right – even starting your own business has its less-than-glamorous moments. But don't worry, because the Lake Travis Chamber of Commerce is here to help you power through the boring bits so you can get down to the fun stuff!

Secure Funding First

If you're like most entrepreneurs, the thought of finding funding for your business is yawn-worthy. It's tedious, time consuming, and often feels like a complete waste of time. However, it's also one of the most essential steps in getting your business off the ground. Fortunately, there are a few key strategies you can use to make the process a bit less painful.

Take some time to research the different types of funding available. There are grants, loans, and investment capital out there, and it's important to know which one is right for your business. You'll also need to create a solid business plan. This will make it easier to find potential investors and possibly more favorable terms. Also, don't be afraid to ask for help. There are plenty of resources available to entrepreneurs, so take advantage of them.

Licenses and Permits

Another tedious but vital element of starting a business is making sure you have all the necessary licenses and permits in order. Depending on the type of business you're starting, this could involve everything from getting a food handler's license to securing a permit to operate in your city or state. It's not the most glamorous part of starting a business, but it's definitely one of the most important.

Designate as an LLC

Now it's time to choose the right legal structure for your company. LLCs are a popular choice for small businesses, and for good reason. LLCs offer limited liability protection, which means that your personal assets are safeguarded in the event that your business is sued. In addition, LLCs offer flexibility when it comes to taxation; you can choose to be taxed as an S corporation or a C corporation, depending on your needs. Finally, LLCs are relatively easy to establish and maintain, making them a great option for busy entrepreneurs. Here’s more on getting an LLC in Texas.

Ready Accounting and Payroll

Another crucial, albeit boring, component of starting a business is setting up accounting and payroll. This usually involves opening a business bank account, applying for a business credit card, choosing accounting software, and setting up direct deposit for employee paychecks. It might not be sexy, but it's definitely necessary if you want your business to run like a well-oiled machine. 

Craft Your Marketing Campaign

Developing a marketing strategy is an important step in launching any new business. But it doesn't have to be all dry number-crunching and serious market research. In fact, there are plenty of ways to make the process of creating a marketing strategy fun.

• Get input from everyone on your team. Marketing is all about creativity, so tap into the collective brainpower of your whole team. Brainstorming sessions can be a great way to generate ideas and get everyone involved in the process.

• Take a walk on the wild side. One of the best things about starting a new business is that you have the opportunity to try out new things. So don't be afraid to experiment with your marketing strategy. Try out new channels, tactics, and even mediums. The only way to know what works is to test it out for yourself.

• Have some fun with your data. Yes, market research can be dull, but it doesn't have to be. There are plenty of ways to make analyzing data more fun, such as turning it into a game or competition. The key is to find a method that works for you and your team.

These are but a handful of the more tedious aspects of starting a business that you'll need to power through if you want to be successful. But trust us, once you've crossed all these items off your list, you'll be free to focus on more exciting things, like growing your business and serving your customers!

The Lake Travis Chamber of Commerce is committed to helping our communities find entrepreneurial success. Join us today!