Business Plans-Small Business Owner Center

I've found through the years that many types of individuals purchase my business guides for different reasons. Some are just trying to get an idea of what is really entailed in running a small service business and after reading my step-by-step guide realize running their own small business isn't for them. That's fine and actually my guide has served it's purpose in assisting them to make a decision based upon facts concerning competing in the real world.

I've found the majority of readers actually do take positive action to one degree or another. Many actually go all the way and start their own businesses following my business plan. Still others already have their own business and use a few of my suggestions to "fine tune" one area of their business or another. It seems that the subjects of estimating jobs and advertising is the most valuable to these readers.

Many times though, after starting new or implementing new ideas, they come up with new problems or questions that may not have been addressed by my guides.

Many online marketer's develop a mailing list so they can constantly target their customers for more products. Before long, if you are like me, you delete their email or simply ignore it, which means you might lose out on updates relating to your business.

Consequently, I've set up a special part of my site to address these points. For years I've used email for readers to communicate with me but found many had similar problems or questions.

Now I've set up a Home Business Blog - Use this to present us with questions or topics you would like discussed.

Information on developing your business website

I’ve purchased several of my vehicles through these online sources

Used Ford Pickup Trucks and Vans http://topfordpickuptrucks.com/fordauctions/

Used Dodge Pickup Trucks and Vans http://topdodgetrucks.com/sales/

Used Chevy Pickup Trucks and Vans http://chevytrucksalesandstuff.com/sales

Used and New Utility and Cargo Trailers http://www.utilitytrailerspot.com/

**Additional Note on Vehicle Selection

Vehicle Questions: One of the most often asked questions are associated with the type of vehicle is best for your business. There really is no one single answer. I always suggest 'thinking ahead' to what services you might be offering in the future.

Just to provide an example, This was my business vehicle and trailer with which I offered all my home services for several years. I personally used a van or pickup truck for decades in my business.

		A quality fiberglass cap adds versatility plus contributes to your business image.	A Strong Roof Rack is a necessity if doing painting or gutter work. I've purchased these racks Here They have Van Racks and Contractor Racks for Pickups with and without caps.
I suggest using a small utility trailer for ANY business you start. Choose a model with a ramp door as above for easy loading/unloading. I purchased my trailers HERE	A full size Pickup works perfectly for any business UNLESS you will ONLY do Floor care* If you will only do cleaning and carpet cleaning, a VAN would be the best choice

I’ve used pickup trucks and vans through my years of service. Try to decide what services you will provide before purchasing a truck. If you will do just carpet cleaning and commercial cleaning or general cleaning, a van would be your best choice. A full size van will also allow for commercial ladder racks if you do outside work in the future. Considering all things, a Full Size Van might be your best value.

Then again, if you have a pickup truck with a cap, you will do fine with painting and power washing but it will difficult loading and unloading carpet machines. (this is why I encourage purchasing a small utility/cargo trailer)

When just starting out, you might want to get a vehicle that will double as a second family vehicle as well as your business vehicle. Personally speaking, I’ve always purchased used window vans for this purpose.

You might find that as time goes by your needs will change. For example in recent years I do more gutter work and house painting then carpet cleaning. Consequently, I use a Silverado pickup with a cap and ladder rack. The only downside is loading and unloading floor machines. But I use a small enclosed utility trailer for those jobs which is a minor part of my business.

Don’t be afraid to be different. I know a successful floor man who uses a Honda Element. The best idea is to try to plan ahead and not spend any more money up front then is necessary. You want something that will contribute to your professional image but you don't want to break your budget on purchasing 'too much' truck.

You get the idea, try and think ahead.

One additional note: Today you can really get depressed when considering the cost of fuel. Remember your vehicle is another part of your business presentation and is a necessity if you want to look like a pro. My pickup has a 327 V8 which gets better gas mileage then my previously owned Chevy window van with a V-6. I own a 4 x 4 due to the mountainous region in which I live and work. The secret today is that many are trading in their full size trucks because they don't need them for business and are switching to smaller vehicles. This enables business buyers like us to get some very good deals on used trucks. If you read my business guides you'll see how to pass along your fuel costs to your customers. It's just another cost of being in business and just has to be managed correctly.

Business Guide Updates and Video