Work: Self-Employment - Getting Started

While business plans are usually used for small businesses instead of people who want to become self employed, thinking through the subjects usually found in a business plan forces you to think through both the big picture and what you wish to accomplish, as well as the details of how you will operate.

The business plan will help you determine how much money you will need to keep your life going until you earn enough money to continue your style of living.

Include which experts will be a part of your team. Perhaps one of the most important decisions you will make is identifying professionals to assist in areas where you lack expertise -- such as accounting, tax, legal, insurance and perhaps marketing issues. Look for professionals that work with self employed people or small businesses, that are compatible with your needs, and that have a business philosophy similar to yours. For more information, see How to choose an accountant, lawyer, insurance broker.

Think about what you want to happen if you become sick, either for a short or longer period of time.

• Who can take over? Is the person prepared?
• Have you made arrangements so someone else can sign checks? Borrow money? Sign contracts?
• Who needs to know what, and who doesn't?
• What do you want people to be told?

You can view sample business plans, complete with advice on how to create a business plan, at the government's Small Business Association site: www.sba.gov/starting .

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