Starting out, what you need
All businesses need a few basic things in place before they can really get started, here are some of the essentials;
Phone - So that people can contact you and you can contact people.
A postal address - Even if you are a web only business you will need to receive paper mail, whether its bank statements, invoices or goods.
Email address - Even if you are a bricks and mortar business you will need an email address if you do anything on-line, whether its buying stock, or contacting customers.
A bank account - You will need a place to put your money.
Stationary - Pens, paper, staplers, hole punches, sellotape.
Business stationary - Invoices, receipts, headed paper, compliment slips, business cards.
Notepad - Essential for writing critical information in, always keep one with you, whether you need to write down a potential clients contact details on the go, or a fantastic brain wave you’ve just had.
IT basics - A PC to store information, send and receive emails, create documents, also consider getting a basic printer.
IT software - Whether its the free copy of OpenOffice or MS Office, you’ll need something to create documents, send email, publish flyers.
A basic calculator - You may have a super computer in the office, but it pays to carry a simple calculator, or at the very least know how to use the one in your phone.
The above is not an exhaustive list and your particular needs may vary, but there are certain essentials that all businesses regardless of what they do need.
