Starting Up a Small Business

Looking to start a business? Whether you're a complete beginner, have existing business experience, or simply curious about entrepreneurship, this course provides a comprehensive overview of essential business concepts. Taught by John McCarthy, a business school graduate and experienced entrepreneur who has launched multiple small businesses, this course bridges theory and practice. You'll learn real-world applications alongside fundamental principles.

This course is designed for anyone – regardless of industry – interested in exploring entrepreneurship, whether for full-time income or as a side hustle. We'll use John's experience starting a successful home services business as a practical example throughout.

Here's a breakdown of what you'll learn:

• Course Introduction: Get acquainted with the course structure and objectives.
• Different Types of Businesses: Explore various business models and identify the best fit for you.
• Finding Your Business Idea: Overcome the challenge of choosing what business to start with practical guidance. We'll use a real-world example to illustrate this process.
• Business Naming: Learn effective strategies for creating a memorable and impactful brand name.
• Post-Idea Steps: Essential actions to take after you've decided on your business concept and name.
• Business Plan Development: Create a solid foundation for your business success with a step-by-step guide to writing a business plan.
• Small Business Marketing Basics: Understand fundamental marketing strategies to attract and retain customers.
• Small Business Operations Basics: Learn the core principles of efficient business operations.
• Small Business Accounting & Finance Basics: Gain a grasp of essential accounting and finance practices for managing your business finances.
• Small Business Human Resources Basics: Understand the fundamentals of managing employees in a small business.
• Contingency Planning: Prepare for the unexpected with essential contingency plans to safeguard your business.
• Final Thoughts: A concluding summary and encouragement for future success.

Our goal is to provide you with valuable, actionable knowledge that you can confidently apply to your own business ventures for years to come.