1. Develop a Business Plan – Make sure to include an executive summary, company description, market analysis, structure and organization, services and products offered, marketing strategy, financial projections and management.
2. Choose Your Business Name – Pick something that reflects your brand and is easy to remember.
3. Obtain Business Licenses and Permits – Check with your local and state governments to determine which licenses and permits you need.
4. Determine Business Structure – Research whether a sole proprietorship, LLC or corporation is the best fit for your business.
5. Open a Business Bank Account – You should keep your business and personal finances separate.
6. Get Insurance – You’ll need to obtain general liability insurance, auto insurance and worker’s compensation insurance for employees.
7. Find Office Space – Consider a home office or co-working space if you don’t plan on hiring staff immediately.
8. Choose Your Equipment – Research what kind of equipment you’ll need to do the job, such as mowers, edgers, blowers, trimmers and other landscaping tools.
9. Set Your Rates – Decide how much you will charge for your services.
10. Market Your Business – Think about promotional strategies such as creating a website or social media accounts, developing a referral program and running ads.
11. Hire Employees – If you need help with the workload, consider hiring employees or subcontractors.
12. Stay Organized – Use accounting software to track expenses and manage invoices and payments.
13. Track Your Progress – Monitor your business’s performance with financial statements and other metrics.
14. Celebrate Success – Celebrate the milestones you reach, big and small.