How would I start a business, marketing and advertising for other local small businesses?

tim_emily_weaver: How would I start a business, marketing and advertising for other local small businesses?
I would offer many different options for business owners to choose. printing and distributing flyers or corner signs, running ads in the newspaper and online websites or radio. Pretty much anything to do with advertising/ promoting for local businesses owned by individuals (like lawn care, roofing, restraunt, hair salon etc.) What should I do to start my business and is this a stupid idea?

Answers and Views:

Answer by Common Sense
It’s a stupid idea only because you don’t know what to do. What do you know about buying advertising? Do you know people at local radio stations and newspapers? Online advertising? SEO?
Learn first.

Answer by Gustavo
I really think this is a good idea. I would contract you. Here are a few things you should know.

1. Pick a good name. Something people will remember.

2. Will you be a Sole Proprietor, LLC, or Corporation? This effects your liability if you get sued and taxes.

3. How much seed capital, or money do you have to start your business? This can include credit available.

4. Do you have a contract your costomers will sign? AKA an Engagement Agreement. Without this you will probably not get paid, and you will always want to leave very clear what you will do and not do. That way there are not any mistunderstandings.

5. Do you have an office, or work from home? Office will help you get clients vs home where business is rent free.

6. How will you keep records? Bookkeeping is very important. If the IRS has questions and you don’t have records you will loose audits and get fined. This can lead to not having funds to run your business. BE CAREFUL and keep records.

7. Will you have employees or sub-contractors? This can also get you in trouble. If you pay an employee cash that employee can sue you and you will most likely not have money to run your business after all the fines. BE HONEST.

8. Do you have an Accountant, Lawyer who will help you and give you advise? This is an investment. We can help you to stay out of trouble and grow your business. Look for a trustworthy accountant.

Hope this helps and Good Luck!

Answer by emilydelcity21
I think it’s a bit unfair to say it’s stupid when you really don’t know what I know. I may be unsure about initially starting a business from my idea, but I am sure of how to run it. I don’t believe I need to know people at radio stations or newspapers to be successful. I would pay to run ads just like everyone else. I would have a successful business because I provided good service not because I “got the hook-up”. lol