Step-by-step guide to starting a business

When considering starting a business, you should think about the different business options available to you.

Business hours and premises

You might want to start your business full-time or part-time, or even in your spare time. You could also choose to work from home or separate premises.  

For further information see:

• starting a part-time business
• starting a business from home
• buying business property
• renting commercial property

Business structures

It's worth thinking carefully about which structure best suits the way that you intend to do business - see legal structures for businesses - an overview

Business name

Choosing a business name is a creative and enjoyable process, it is recommended that you choose a name that reflects your business strategy - see how to choose the right name for your business and the rules for naming your business.

For further research see:

• choose business property - explains how to choose the right premises and consider the options available to you as a start-up
• buy a franchise explains what franchising is and why it might suit you more than starting your own business
• buy an existing business looks at the issues around buying an established business, which may be quicker and easier than starting from scratch
• avoid common mistakes when starting a business- this guide will help you avoid the most frequent assumptions and mistakes made by new business owners

Your business skills

You should also think about assessing your own skills and where you might need some extra development or support - for example, looking after the business' finances.

Watch the video below to help you discover how your skills and experience can help you start-up.