Starting a business isn't easy–leading one to success is even harder. With such a high chance of failing, new entrepreneurs should pull no punches when it comes to preparation.
2. Failure is a
Reality
NEW BUSINESS STRUGGLE
It's estimated that about 90 percent of all
startups will, at some point, fail.
Starting your business isn’t easy–nor
should it be. It means breaking into a
new sector, fixing a new need or finding
a better way to do something that helps
everyone.
Here are some tools that new businesses
should consider for future success.
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3. Google
Analytics
ANALYTICS/TRAFFIC
Few companies are as reliable and driven
as the tech giant Google. Google Analytics
allows you to track traffic to your website,
bounce rate, duration at which the users
are active on the page, sources, and much,
much more. Analytical tracking may not
seem like a big issue at first, but if your
company exists on the web, Google
Analytics can be a huge help in online
marketing.
Demandbase functions somewhat
similarly to Google Analytics, with more
of an emphasis on lead-tracking, ad-
targeting, engagement and target
conversion.
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Demandbase
4. KickStarter
FUNDING
I’ve written about the power of
crowdfunding in the past. It can be an
incredibly powerful tool not only in raising
funds for your business, but in helping to
get the word out. Creating a Kickstarter
project can function a bit like free
advertising if your product catches on.
AngelList gives people the ability to do
a little bit of everything–invest money in
a startup, raise money for your own
startup or find/post jobs that you need
help with while you’re getting your
business off the ground.
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AngelList
5. Mint
FINANCIAL TRACKING
Mint is a handy smartphone app that
allows you to track your spending over
time, see where you’re over and under
spending, and budget for the future. If
you’re someone who struggles with
personal finances, Mint might be a big help
before you start a business.
Gusto, formerly known as ZenPayroll, is
a payroll and benefits system that
allows you to manage everything from
payroll to workers comp claims under
one roof. If you’re unsure or unready to
commit, Gusto offers a 30 day free trial
to new users via its website.
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Gusto(formerly ZenPayroll)
6. Edison
SUSTAINABILITY
While sustainability may not be the
foremost concern for you and your small
business, it should be a primary concern of
all businesses moving forward. With the
understanding that we now have of the
damage that we’re doing to the planet, it’s
important to keep green products in mind
when running a business if you expect
growth. Edison is a piece of software that
allows for reduced carbon emissions of
computers at your business for a fairly low
price.
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7. For More on Business,
Philanthropy and
Sustainability:
Carole Argo
CaroleArgo.org