More Resources

WHOOPS!

5 most common startup mistakes

Starting your own business is tough. In fact, only 39.5 percent of new businesses remain open after six years, according to the SBA's Office of Advocacy. Gene Fairbrother, lead small-business consultant for the National Association for the Self Employed and president of MBA Consulting Inc., reveals the five most common start-up mistakes:

1. Failing to set up strong and established financial routines. Entrepreneurs often don't know where their money is coming from or where it's going.

2. Not conducting the proper market research. Even worse is when start-up entrepreneurs don't respect feedback from customers or potential clients.

Content Continues Below


3. Charging less than the market will bear. This leads to smaller profit margins and ultimately too little revenue to stay open.

4. Getting caught up in day-to-day tasks without future planning. For example, some entrepreneurs market only when they need new business, not realizing it could take months to reap the efforts of their campaign.

5. Not seeking proper support. Remember, business consultants, accountants, lawyers and industry organizations are all a startup entrepreneur's best friends.


Marketplace

Learn how to distribute a press release

Try our new online printing. theupsstore.com/print
Today on Entrepreneur
Current Issue
10 Reasons to Purchase a Franchise
From name recognition to funding advantages, we've gathered the best reasons to become a franchisee.
Magazine Resources
Entrepreneur Connect
What makes a good client gift?
What guidelines do you follow when buying gifts for your clients? Have you ever received an unusual or inappropriate gift?
Resource Centers
Where Business Gets Done
Revisit the lost art of the meeting, the pitch, the presentation and the all important handshake to close the deal.

Insurance Center
Review your company's needs, save on workers' comp, protect your business from lawsuits and more.

Startup How-To Guides
Step-by-step guides to launching your business.

Commercial Vehicle Center
Get the right ride for your business.


Sign Up for the Latest in:
e-Business & Technology
Franchise News
Business Book Sampler
Starting a Business
Sales & Marketing
Growing a Business

E-mail*
Zip Code*