anyone know much about starting a small business?

[RedMage138]

Thinking about starting to do some pc tech support and system building just to supplement my income. Anyone have experience with anything like this, know what steps I should take to get started, etc?

[Darth Biscuit]

Only accept cash and give no receipts... problem solved.

[mr beauxjangles]

Although you might get some great advice here, and as a former small business owner I could provide some of my own (although not relevant to your industry) I would strongly suggest going to your local Small Business and Technology Development Center (SBTDC) if you're serious about starting a business and not just helpin some friends on the side. They are federally-supported but not federally-staffed or operated, with hundreds around the country and are typically tied to universities. I'm not sure where you live, but their advisors should be a good place to start for someone with an interest. Come prepared with at least some things on paper - financials, a business plan (at least an outline), target market, etc. Some SBTDCs are absolutely terrible and some are tremendous. It completely depends on the committment of the affiliated University to supporting entreprneurship in their community. At a minimum, they'll give you objective advice on refining your business plan and on whether or not they think starting a business is a smart financial decision for you.

I've informally worked with many SBTDCs through my work as a community and economic development consultant. They can turn out to be a great resource or a tremendous disappointment. It all depends on the local staff, but it's worth a trip to see in my opinion.

Here's the link for the NC system:

http://www.sbtdc.org/services/index.asp

[pantherfan49]

If you decide to do the LLC route, let me know and I will prepare the documents up for you.

[Zaximus]

Yeah I've thought about doing a PC tech business too, just never got around too it. Seems like it may be more of a pain though.

[SorthNarolina]

I wish I had just done PC building and tech support as a teen. Just take whatever comes. I used to help my dad when he would do workshops for people when he was in professional development. I'm building a work station for a guy starting his own consulting business soon.

[charlotte49er]

You might want to check into these guys:

http://www.fastteks.com/Franchise.aspx