How to Start an On-line Business

Whether you are a budding entrepreneur out to conquer the world with the greatest e-marketing idea since eBay, or you run a small boutique that isn't doing the amount of walk in business you'd like, the Internet is becoming more and more attractive as a business arena. Think of it as today's Main Street, only without the overhead of rent, parking, signage and those pesky utility bills. You can set up an online business just about anywhere, if you have the right tools.

Of course, the web is a great place to start shopping for guidance and instruction as you begin your cyber-journey. I suggest studying the sites of successful e-preneurs and figuring out what you like about their set-up. Then, get in touch with one of the dozens of local Internet/On-line marketing companies who can help you as much or as little as you need.

If you have a business, but want to supplement your sales by creating an e-branch, then you'll have a head start, but you'll still want to be sure you've got adequate power in your PC, and the technical savvy to accomplish your goals.

If your budget is limited, bear in mind that local small business administrations frequently team with technical colleges/schools to offer seminars on everything from web page design to how to accept e-payments. It's a great way to get the information you need to get started.

Start with a clear idea of what you want to accomplish. If you are a start-up company, you're going to need the same things traditional businesses require, i.e. inventory, packaging materials, access to shipping, the right computer and, of course, a plan.

So, a good computer, the right technical advice, a means to deliver your product whether it be enough RAM to accept hundreds of e-orders, phone lines for customer service or a reliable freight carrier with competitive rates… and you'll soon find yourself running a booming E-Biz on the Internet's main street where the open sign can stay lit 24 hours a day.

Difficulty: Easy