Growing Your Business
Essential steps for starting and scaling your business successfully
Your Path Depends on Your Business Type
The specific steps you'll take depend greatly on the type of business you're starting. Many businesses in our directory fall into these categories:
- Business-to-Consumer (B2C) - Local services like plumbers, landscapers, salons, restaurants
- Business-to-Business (B2B) - Consultants, accountants, marketing agencies, IT services
- Professional Services - Attorneys, financial advisors, real estate agents, coaches
While the fundamentals remain the same, adapt these steps to fit your specific situation and industry requirements.
1. Create a Business Plan
Every successful business starts with a solid plan. Your business plan is your roadmap to success, outlining your goals, strategies, and how you'll achieve them.
Free Resources to Help You:
- SCORE - Free mentoring and business plan templates from experienced business professionals. Visit SCORE.org
- Small Business Administration (SBA) - Comprehensive guides, templates, and resources for starting your business. Visit SBA.gov
These organizations offer free one-on-one counseling, workshops, and educational resources specifically designed to help entrepreneurs succeed.
2. Handle Legal Requirements
Proper legal setup protects you, your business, and your customers. The specific requirements depend on your business type and location.
LLC, Corporation, Sole Proprietorship, or Partnership
Business name, EIN (Employer Identification Number), state and local licenses
Industry-specific licenses, health permits, zoning permits
Business insurance, contracts, terms of service
Recommended: Consult with a business attorney to ensure you've covered all legal bases. This investment now can save you significant headaches and costs later.
3. Set Up Financial Systems
Strong financial management is crucial for business success. Know where every dollar comes from and where it goes.
Keep personal and business finances separate from day one
QuickBooks, FreshBooks, Wave, or Xero - track income, expenses, and invoices
Professional guidance for tax planning, deductions, and financial strategy
Quarterly estimated taxes, sales tax collection if applicable
Good financial records make tax time easier and help you make informed business decisions throughout the year.
4. Build Your Online Presence
In today's digital world, your website is often the first impression customers have of your business. Make it count.
Clear services, contact information, testimonials, and calls-to-action
Help customers find you when searching for your services
Most people browse on their phones - ensure your site looks great on all devices
Phone, email, contact forms, and ideally online booking if applicable
Your website should make it incredibly easy for customers to understand what you do and how to work with you.
5. Build Your Email List
Email marketing remains one of the most effective ways to reach customers. Your email list is an asset you own and control.
Mailchimp, ConvertKit, Constant Contact, or similar services
Free guide, discount, helpful tips - give people a reason to subscribe
Share tips, promotions, and stay top-of-mind with your customers
Make unsubscribing easy and honor opt-out requests immediately
6. Accept Credit Card Payments
Make it easy for customers to pay you. Accepting credit cards increases sales and provides a professional payment experience.
Square, Stripe, PayPal, or merchant services from your bank
Consider both website payments and mobile card readers for flexibility
Ensure PCI compliance and customer data protection
Recommended Payment Solution
Deposyt - A powerful payment processing solution that makes accepting credit cards simple and affordable. Enjoy competitive rates, excellent customer service, and easy integration with your business.
7. Create Your Free Business Listing
Get discovered by local customers and business partners by creating your free listing on Referral Network USA. Your listing helps people find you and connects you with a community of business professionals.
Create a professional profile with your business information, services, and contact details
Link directly to your website and social media profiles for maximum visibility
Join our member directory to exchange referrals with other local businesses
Share via email, text messages, and social media posts to let people know where to find you
Get Listed Today
Join thousands of local businesses in our directory. Create your free listing in minutes and start connecting with customers and business partners in your area. Share your listing everywhere to maximize your reach!
8. Establish Social Media Presence
Meet your customers where they spend time online. Different platforms serve different purposes - choose what fits your business.
Essential for B2B businesses and professional services. Build your network, share expertise, and connect with potential clients.
Great for local businesses and community building. Share updates, promotions, and engage with customers.
Perfect for visual businesses - food, design, beauty, retail. Show your work and build brand aesthetic.
Good for real-time updates, customer service, and industry news. Build thought leadership.
Pro Tip: Start with 1-2 platforms where your customers are most active. It's better to be excellent on one platform than mediocre on five.
9. Set Up Virtual Meeting Capabilities
Virtual meetings have become essential for modern business. Whether you're meeting with clients, partners, or team members, professional video conferencing is a must.
Choose reliable software with screen sharing and recording capabilities
Use calendar integration and booking links to simplify appointment setting
Invest in a decent webcam, microphone, and good lighting for professional presentations
Recommended Platform
Pxch - A powerful webinar and video meeting platform designed for professionals. Present in 40+ languages, host engaging webinars, and conduct professional business meetings with HD video streaming and interactive features.
More Resources Coming Soon
We're continuously adding more tips, tools, and resources to help you grow your business. Check back regularly for:
- Industry-specific guides and best practices
- Marketing templates and strategies
- Networking tips and relationship-building advice
- Technology recommendations and tools
- Success stories from businesses in our network
Ready to Grow Your Network?
Join our directory and start connecting with customers and partners in your area