The inside scoop . . .for when you want more than the official line

Want to be your own boss but aren't quite sure how to make it happen? This savvy guide will show you the way. Now revised and updated to cover the latest regulations, techniques, and trends, it walks you step by step through the entire start-up process, from coming up with a business plan and lining up financing to setting up shop, marketing to your customer base, and dealing with accounting, taxes, insurance, and licenses. Packed with real-world tips and tricks that you won't find anywhere else, it delivers all the know-how you need to declare independence from the 9-to-5 world, launch your business—and watch the profits grow!

• Vital Information on real-world entrepreneurship that other sources don't reveal.
• Insider Secrets on how to secure financing and choose a winning location.
• Money-Saving Techniques, including low-cost ways to market your business.
• Time-Saving Tips for creating a business plan and handling legal and accounting basics.
• The Latest Trends, including how to launch a profitable home- or Web-based business.
• Handy Checklists and Charts to help you plan your start-up and succeed in the marketplace.

Includes bibliographical references (p. 349-352) and index.

'MARCIA LAYTON TURNER received an MBA from the University of Michigan and worked at the Eastman Kodak Company before founding her own marketing consulting firm, Layton &Co. She has been featured in such publications as Money, Entrepreneur, and USA Weekend, and she is the author of several books, including Kmart\'s Ten Deadly Sins and, most recently, Emeril!: Inside the Amazing Success of Today\'s Most Popular Chef, both from Wiley. '

'About the Author.

Introduction.

I. Do Your Homework First.

1. Starting from Scratch.

2. What Kind of Business Makes Sense for You?

II. Planning for Success.

3. Your Business Plan.

4. Financing Techniques.

III. Taking the Plunge.

5. Getting Up and Running.

6. Setting Up Shop.

7. Internal Management.

IV. A Marketing Mindset.

8. Pricing Strategies for Profitability.

9. Getting Business.

V. Beyond Start-Up: Managing for Growth.

10. Customer Service.

11. Pursuing Big Business.

12. Adding Staff.

13. Advisers and Partners.

VI. Other Types of Businesses.

14. Home-Based Business Basics.

15. Setting Up a Web-Based Business.

16. Investing in a Business Opportunity.

17. Buying an Existing Business.

VII. There’s More to Life Than Work.

18. Balancing Your Life.

A. Glossary.

B. List of Businesses to Start.

C. Important Documents.

D. Recommended Reading.

E. Resources.

F. Business Contacts.

Index. \n

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