Starting your own business from scratch can be challenging and overwhelming, so setting yourself up for success from the very start is crucial. If you lay down a solid foundation to build your business, you'll have a much higher chance of success. Follow these tips to get your business off the ground and headed in the right direction.

1. Devise a Plan
While it may be tempting to dive right in, you must first formulate a plan for your new venture, also known as a business model. Ask yourself a few questions to determine your business's shape: What is my customer base? Will I open an online shop or a physical storefront? Are there any new business trends I should pay attention to before I start? What does my competition look like? Answering these questions and more will give you a blueprint; once you have a basic plan established, you can embellish it with your own style and personality.

2. Finance Your Venture
Money is absolutely the most significant factor in determining whether or not you get your business off the ground. If you've been saving for a while and have a nice nest egg to start, that's awesome. If not, that's ok too. Head down to your bank and talk to a financial representative about applying for a business loan. However you decide to fund your business, ensuring you have enough money for all your startup costs is essential. In addition to obvious expenses such as point-of-sale equipment, furnishings, and supplies, remember to set aside some funds for permits and licenses, taxes, and insurance.

3. Make It Official
Depending on how you decide to structure your company–sole proprietorship, corporation, partnership, or LLC–you must register your business through the proper channels. After deciding on a business name, you'll need an EIN (Employer Identification Number), which is basically a business version of a Social Security Number. Next, register with your state and open a business bank account specifically for your company; you cannot use a personal bank account to conduct any business. This paperwork ensures you pay the correct taxes; skipping this step could have serious legal repercussions.

Also, don't forget to apply for the proper licenses and permits; for example, if you are opening a restaurant, you'll need an employee (or several) to take a food handler's course and a liquor license, if applicable.

4. Assemble a Team
Choosing the proper employees can make or break a new business. Of course, every business owner wants the absolute best team they can get, but if you pay extra attention to each candidate and get to know them as individuals, you'll be much more likely to hire someone who is a good fit. Remember, employees are people with goals and dreams, strengths and weaknesses. By paying close attention to these qualities, you can assign roles that play to everyone's strengths, which accomplishes a few things. First, it ensures your employee will perform up to their potential because you're utilizing a skill they enjoy. Also, your team members will be much happier in their roles, which translates to satisfied customers.

5. Outfit Your Establishment
Now is the time to let your creative side out and design your space. Choose a color theme, furniture, art, shelving, and other decorative elements to make your business come alive. Also, now is the time to check out helpful technology for your business, such as a POS (point of sale) setup and a security system.

It's also a great time to establish your company's online presence. Build a website with information about your business, important contact info, hours, and a photo gallery for everything you want to show off. Also, be sure to sign up for as many social media sites as possible so you can interact with your clients and the community at large.

Starting your own company can feel like an overwhelming undertaking, but with a proper plan, you'll have the strongest possible foundation to build your success.