Need help on business startup

business startup

[webstar]

Hi guys,
Me and a couple friends plan to start up a consulting business. Initially, we will be focusing on Website/Web Application development. We have been working on the technical side for a few years and also have some project management experience. But we have never build a business from ground up. So basically we are a bit lost and don't know where to start.

We have the right people, but we haven't got a chance to build up our reputation because it's hard to find a decent project with no work we've done to show the potential customers.

Forgive me if I'm asking the wrong question. Do we need to find a marketing company to help us get jobs? Is there a good strategy to take this first step?
By the way, is there any legal document I need to prepare before I actually start the business?
All I can think of is “NDS” and “Service Agreement”.

Welcome all comments and tips.
Thanks so much

[Animated]

i had the same issue like you but in time you need a portfolio to build up,like any other business people like to see what you have accomplished before they finally choose you, what i did is use my own sites,some friends i helped and took some simple freelance projects , there is not much money in them maybe but its great for the resume.

[Ahkamden]

As the previous poster mentioned. Definitely get a portfolio. Even if it requires one or two good sites done for bare bones.

After that. There are many sites where you can Rent someone, even a coder, to design your site. Or have them Free lance a code and design for your.

Or start with local companies and create good sites. But if you are all Internet savvy, and aren't sure how to market the new company.

Something seems off.

Ahk

[aspdaddy]

Your sales wont come from internet marketing, companies you can service at this stage of the business dont search the web for new websites.

As soon has you have some portfolio, even if its based on work you have been doing for employers,get it documented nicely & start cold calling and arranging to visit local businesses. Maybe back it up with targetted mailshots and presentations and local business networks. Maybe focus on a few sectors at a time.

They dont have to say they want a new website, but you need a good offer / sales plan to put to the companies you contact.

[webstar]

Thanks for all the tips!

[legallink]

On the document side, make sure you have some basic contract templates together, and also a legal structure set up.