#startagency

Biggest Takeaway:  There were so many!  These are all guys who have started their own businesses and had lots of advice to share to those of us considering the same.  
 

Some of the things discussed during the session:

• Why is it great to be your own boss?  have control over what you produce, flexibility around where/when to work
• What do you need to start your business?  a business plan, a place to work where you can shut the door and focus, clients, advice from others
• How do you make life easier for project management, invoicing, tracking, etc?  there are lots of online tools (basecamp, dropbox, skype, for example)
• What didn't you plan for that you wished you did?  legal stuff (setting up the company, establishing a client contract, etc.), needing a lawyer, make sure to protect yourself financially in your client contract
• How do you build a virtual business?  use online tools as mentioned previously, use twitter (and like tools) to maintain and build relationships, build a network of people you trust to do the work
• How do you attract clients outside your area code?  go to conferences, build a portfolio including client testimonials, keep in touch with the people you meet, team up with businesses in other area codes
• Do I need a lawyer and an accountant?  YES
• Tips for finding new business:  speaking engagements, set up searches on twitter

Some recommended resources:

• The E-Myth Revisited:  Why Most Small Businesses Don't Work and What to Do About It by Michael Gerber
• freeagentcentral.com
• jigsaw.com
• thelistinc.com
• sortfolio.com