Dedicate a computer, phone and fax to your exclusive use. Hire experts to help if you aren't already savvy about these vital steps. Obtain a Federal Tax ID number. Don't line up business before you're entirely ready to start filling your agenda. A brochure or press release about your new endeavor and further marketing projects.
Many ventures take three years to turn a profit.
Excerpted with permission from Small Business Success , Volume XI, produced by Pacific Bell Directory in partnership with the U.S. Small Business Administration.