YOU STARTED A BUSINESS
YOU STARTED A BUSINESS
Contents
Chapter 1: Starting Right; No BS Just Business ............................................................................................... 4
Hey There, Future Mogul ........................................................................................................................ 4
First Impressions? They're Everything .................................................................................................. 5
Free Tools: Not Just for Cheapskates................................................................................................... 5
Why Bother with These Tools? .............................................................................................................. 5
Wrapping It Up ......................................................................................................................................... 5
Chapter 2: Get Connected: Setting Up Your Business Phone Number ........................................................... 6
1: Why You Need a Business-Only Phone Line, Like Yesterday ......................................................... 6
2: Google Voice – A Free Solution.......................................................................................................... 7
Bonus Section: Upgrade to a Lifetime Phone Number with Hushed .................................................. 7
Chapter 3: Start a Strong Online Presence: Creating Your Website ............................................................... 8
1: Why Your Business Needs a Website, Like, Yesterday ................................................................... 8
2: Setting Up a Free Website Through Website.com........................................................................... 9
3: Why Professional Website Building is Better for Marketing and SEO ............................................ 9
Chapter 4: Local Visibility: Starting Your Google My Business Profile ......................................................... 10
1: Google My Business: Your Local Fame Ticket ................................................................................ 10
2: Benefits of GMB .................................................................................................................................11
3: Step-by-Step Setup Guide................................................................................................................11
4: Tips for Success................................................................................................................................ 12
Chapter 5: Reach Local Customers: Starting a Business Yelp Profile ...........................................................13
1: Yelp: Your Business's New Best Friend ........................................................................................... 13
2: Benefits of a Yelp Business Profile .................................................................................................. 14
3: Step-by-Step Guide to Creating a Yelp Business Profile.............................................................. 14
4: Tips for Success on Yelp .................................................................................................................. 15
Chapter 6: Social Engagement: Facebook it’s not just for People..................................................................16
1: Facebook Business: Your Digital Handshake.................................................................................. 16
2: Benefits of a Facebook Business Page ........................................................................................... 17
3: Step-by-Step Guide to Creating a Facebook Business Page....................................................... 17
4: Tips for Success on Facebook ........................................................................................................ 18
Chapter 7: Automating Appointments:Creating a Free Calendly Calendar for Bookings..............................19
1: Calendly: Your Business's New Time Lord ...................................................................................... 19
2: Benefits of Using Calendly ...............................................................................................................20
3: Step-by-Step Guide to Creating a Free Calendly Calendar .........................................................20
4: Tips for Success with Calendly ....................................................................................................... 21
YOU STARTED A BUSINESS
Chapter 8: Automate Communication: Signing Up for a Free Email Autoresponder .................................... 22
1: Email Autoresponders: Your 24/7 Digital Salesman .......................................................................22
2: Brevo.com - Overview, Pros, and Cons ......................................................................................... 23
3: Mailchimp.com - Overview, Pros, and Cons.................................................................................. 23
4: Getting Started with an Email Autoresponder............................................................................... 24
Chapter 9: Manage Relationships: Setting Up a Free HubSpot CRM ............................................................ 25
1: CRM: Your Business's Little Black Book ..........................................................................................25
2: HubSpot CRM: Your Business's Swiss Army Knife ........................................................................26
3: Step-by-Step Guide to Setting Up HubSpot Free tier CRM .........................................................26
4: Benefits of Using HubSpot CRM ..................................................................................................... 27
5: Tips for Success with HubSpot CRM .............................................................................................. 27
Chapter 10: Keeping Track of Money - Setting Up a QuickBooks Online Account ....................................... 28
1: Show Me the Money: Why You Need to Watch Your Wallet .........................................................28
2: QuickBooks Online: Your Business's Money Maestro ...................................................................29
3: Step-by-Step Guide to Setting Up QuickBooks Online .................................................................29
4: Benefits of Using QuickBooks Online ............................................................................................. 30
5: Tips for Success with QuickBooks Online ..................................................................................... 30
Chapter 11: Show Me the Money: The Straight Talk on Getting Paid .............................................................31
1: Don't Mess Around with Payments .................................................................................................. 31
2: The Card Pass AI Difference ........................................................................................................... 32
3: Accept Anything, Even Crypto........................................................................................................ 32
4: Done-for-You Setup and Training .................................................................................................. 32
5: Why Choosing the Right Payment Processor is a Big Deal .......................................................... 32
Bonus Chapter: Learn from Other’s Mistakes - Don't Reinvent the Wheel,Just Learn to Roll ...................... 33
Introduction ........................................................................................................................................... 33
Been There, Done That, Got the T-Shirt ............................................................................................ 34
Facebook Groups: Not Just for Cat Memes ...................................................................................... 34
Dodge the Landmines .......................................................................................................................... 34
Conclusion............................................................................................................................................. 34
YOU STARTED A BUSINESS
Chapter 1
Starting Right; No BS Just Business
Hey There, Future Mogul
S
o, you've had this burning idea, a dream that's kept you up at night, and a fire
in your belly to make it big in the business world. That's great I am glad you
made the jump! But let me tell you something: passion alone ain't gonna cut
it. You need the right tools, the right approach, and, most importantly, the right
start.
YOU STARTED A BUSINESS
First Impressions? They're Everything
Imagine walking into a party with a stained shirt and mismatched shoes. Not the
best look, right? Your business is no different. If you start off looking like a mess,
that's the impression you'll leave. And trust me, in the business world, redoing first
impressions is a costly affair.
Free Tools: Not Just for Cheapskates
I get it. You're starting out, and every penny counts. But here's the kicker: "free"
doesn't mean "cheap." The digital world is bursting with free tools that are worth
their weight in gold. And in the next chapters, we're diving deep into these
treasures. They're not just about saving a few bucks; they're about making you look
like the pro you are.
Why Bother with These Tools?
1. Look the Part: Using the right tools makes you look professional. It's like
wearing a sharp suit - people take notice.
2. No More Guesswork: With the right data in your hands, you're not shooting
in the dark. You're making decisions that hit the bullseye.
3. Time's Money: Why waste hours on tasks when a tool can do it in minutes?
Time saved is money earned.
4. Growth Ready: Start with the right tools, and when your business explodes
(and trust me, with the right approach, it will), you won't be scrambling to
keep up.
Wrapping It Up
Starting a business isn't a walk in the park. It's a thrilling roller coaster ride. And like
any ride, you want to make sure you're strapped in right from the start. So, as we
dive into the next chapters, remember: it's not about the cost of the tool; it's about
the value it brings to the table.
YOU STARTED A BUSINESS
Chapter 2
Get Connected: Setting Up Your
Business Phone Number
1: Why You Need a Business-Only Phone Line, Like Yesterday
Listen up: If you're still using your personal number for business, you're doing it
wrong. A dedicated business line isn't just a "nice-to-have" anymore; it's a "youbetter-have." It's like wearing a suit to a business meeting instead of those old
sweatpants. Plus, do you really want clients calling during your personal time? Didn't
think so. Let's dive into how you can snag a free business number with Google
Voice. And, because I'm feeling generous, I've got a killer bonus tip about getting a
forever number with Hushed.
YOU STARTED A BUSINESS
2: Google Voice – A Free Solution
Google Voice offers a free phone number that can be used for business purposes.
Here's how you can set it up:
1. Create or Sign In to Your Google Account: If you don't have a Google
account, you'll need to create one. If you already have one, simply sign in.
2. Visit Google Voice: Go to the Google Voice website and select "For Personal
Use."
3. Choose a Number: You'll be prompted to choose a number from the available
options. Pick one that suits your business.
4. Verify Your Existing Phone Number: Google Voice will ask you to verify an
existing phone number to link with your new number.
5. Customize Settings: You can set up voicemail, call forwarding, and other
features according to your needs.
6. Start Using Your Number: You can now use this number to make and receive
calls and texts for your business.
Bonus Section: Upgrade to a Lifetime Phone Number with Hushed
While Google Voice offers a great free solution, it does have some limitations. If
you're looking for more features and better call tracking, consider upgrading to a
lifetime phone number through Hushed.
For just $25, you can get a lifetime phone number with Hushed. Here's why you
might consider this option:
Enhanced Call Tracking: Keep track of calls and messages more efficiently.
Fewer Limitations: Enjoy more features and fewer restrictions compared to
Google Voice.
Lifetime Access: Pay once and enjoy the benefits forever.
To take advantage of this exclusive offer, visit Hushed Lifetime Offer and follow the
simple steps to set up your number.
YOU STARTED A BUSINESS
Chapter 3
Start a Strong Online Presence:
Creating Your Website
1: Why Your Business Needs a Website, Like, Yesterday
Hey, it's 2023, not the Stone Age. If your business doesn't have a website, what
rock have you been living under? A website isn't just a fancy digital business card.
It's your 24/7 salesman, your global storefront, and the face of your brand. Think
you're too small to need one? Think again. No website = no credibility. And in this
digital world, if you're not online, you're invisible. So, let's get you out of the
shadows and into the spotlight.
YOU STARTED A BUSINESS
2: Setting Up a Free Website Through Website.com
Website.com offers a user-friendly platform to create a free website. Here's a stepby-step guide to getting started:
1. Visit Website.com: Go to Website.com and click on "Create a Free Website."
2. Choose a Template: Browse through the available templates and choose one
that fits your business theme.
3. Sign Up: Create an account using your email address or social media
credentials.
4. Customize Your Site: Use the drag-and-drop editor to add text, images, and
other elements. Customize the layout to match your brand.
5. Add Essential Pages: Include pages like Home, About Us, Services, Contact,
etc., to provide comprehensive information about your business.
6. Publish Your Site: Once you're satisfied with the design, click on "Publish" to
make your site live.
7. Optimize for Mobile: Ensure that your site is mobile-friendly, as many users
browse on their smartphones.
3: Why Professional Website Building is Better for Marketing and SEO
While a free website is a great starting point, investing in a professionally built
website offers significant advantages, especially in terms of marketing and search
engine optimization (SEO):
Customization: Professional designers can create a unique website that
reflects your brand, unlike template-based free sites.
SEO Optimization: A well-built website will be structured with SEO in mind,
helping your site rank higher on search engines like Google.
Performance and Speed: Professionally built websites often load faster and
provide a better user experience, reducing bounce rates.
Integration with Marketing Tools: Custom-built sites can be integrated with
various marketing tools and platforms, enhancing your marketing efforts.
Scalability: As your business grows, a professionally built website can be
easily expanded and adapted to meet new needs.
Compliance and Security: Ensuring that your site complies with legal
requirements and is secure against threats is easier with professional
assistance.
YOU STARTED A BUSINESS
Chapter 4
Local Visibility: Starting Your Google
My Business Profile
1: Google My Business: Your Local Fame Ticket
Listen up, champ. If you're running a business and you're not on Google My
Business, you're basically playing hide and seek... and losing. Big time. In today's
world, folks are searching locally, and if you're not popping up on their screens,
guess who is? Your competition. GMB isn't just another fancy tool; it's your golden
ticket to local stardom. And the best part? It's free. So, stop letting customers pass
you by. Get on GMB, show up on Google Search and Maps, and let the world know
you're open for business.
YOU STARTED A BUSINESS
2: Benefits of GMB
1. Increased Visibility: Your business appears in local search results, making it
easier for nearby customers to find you.
2. Customer Engagement: Customers can leave reviews, ask questions, and
interact with your business directly through your GMB profile.
3. Insights and Analytics: Understand how customers are interacting with your
business online and make informed decisions.
4. Free Advertising: Showcase your products, services, and promotions
without any cost.
3: Step-by-Step Setup Guide
Create or Sign In to Your Google Account: If you don't have a Google
account, create one. If you already have one, simply sign in.
Visit Google My Business: Go to the Google My Business website and click
on "Manage Now."
Enter Your Business Name: If your business doesn't appear in the dropdown
menu, click on "Add your business to Google."
Choose Your Business Category: Select the category that best describes
your business.
Add Your Location: Enter your business address and service areas if
applicable.
Provide Contact Information: Include your business phone number and
website.
Verify Your Business: Google will need to verify that your business is
legitimate. This is usually done by sending a postcard with a verification code
to your business address.
Customize Your Profile: Once verified, you can add photos, hours of
operation, special offers, and more to enhance your profile.
Respond to Reviews and Engage with Customers: Regularly update your
profile and engage with customers through reviews and posts.
YOU STARTED A BUSINESS
4: Tips for Success
Keep Information Updated: Ensure that your contact information, hours, and
services are always up to date.
Encourage Reviews: Ask satisfied customers to leave positive reviews and
respond to them promptly.
Utilize Posts and Offers: Regularly post updates and special offers to keep
your profile engaging.
Monitor Insights: Use GMB insights to understand customer behavior and
refine your marketing strategies.
YOU STARTED A BUSINESS
Chapter 5
Reach Local Customers: Starting a
Business Yelp Profile
1: Yelp: Your Business's New Best Friend
Alright, let's cut to the chase. If your local business isn't on Yelp, you're leaving
money on the table. Period. Think of Yelp as that bustling town square where folks
gather, chat, and, most importantly, recommend where to spend their cash. With a
boatload of users scouting for the next best thing, Yelp's where you want to shine.
So, don't just slap up a profile and forget it. Nurture it. Because a rockin' Yelp
presence? That's your ticket to more eyeballs, more trust, and more cha-ching in
the register.
YOU STARTED A BUSINESS
2: Benefits of a Yelp Business Profile
1. Enhanced Visibility: Your business appears in local search results on Yelp,
making it easier for nearby customers to discover you.
2. Customer Reviews: Customers can leave reviews, providing valuable
feedback and building credibility.
3. Business Insights: Understand customer behavior and preferences through
Yelp's analytics.
4. Promotional Opportunities:
announcements.
Showcase
special
offers,
events,
and
3: Step-by-Step Guide to Creating a Yelp Business Profile
Visit Yelp for Business: Go to the Yelp for Business website and click on
"Claim your Business."
Find Your Business: Search for your business by name and location. If it's
not listed, you can add it.
Claim Your Business: Click on "Claim" next to your business listing and
follow the prompts to verify ownership.
Create or Sign In to Your Yelp Account: If you don't have a Yelp account,
you'll need to create one. If you already have one, simply sign in.
Complete Your Profile: Add detailed information about your business,
including address, phone number, website, hours of operation, and photos.
Describe Your Services: Provide a clear and engaging description of what
you offer, highlighting what sets you apart.
Respond to Reviews: Engage with customers by responding to reviews, both
positive and negative, in a professional manner.
Utilize Yelp's Tools: Consider using Yelp's advertising and promotional tools
to further enhance your profile.
YOU STARTED A BUSINESS
4: Tips for Success on Yelp
Encourage Customer Reviews: Ask satisfied customers to leave positive
reviews and always thank them for their feedback.
Monitor and Respond: Regularly check your Yelp profile for new reviews and
questions, and respond promptly.
Keep Information Accurate: Ensure that all information on your profile is up
to date, including special offers and events.
Follow Yelp's Guidelines: Familiarize yourself with Yelp's content guidelines
and ensure that your profile complies.
YOU STARTED A BUSINESS
Chapter 6
Social Engagement: Facebook it’s
not just for People
1: Facebook Business: Your Digital Handshake
Alright, here's the deal: If your business isn't shaking hands on Facebook, you're
missing out on a party where everyone's invited. And trust me, it's a big one.
Facebook isn't just for sharing cat videos and vacation pics anymore. It's the digital
main street where businesses meet, greet, and treat their customers. So, if you're
not there, what's the holdup? Dive in, mingle, show off your goods, and give your
business the social life it deserves.
YOU STARTED A BUSINESS
2: Benefits of a Facebook Business Page
1. Increased Visibility: Reach a wide audience and attract potential customers.
2. Customer Engagement: Interact with customers through posts, comments,
and messages.
3. Brand Building: Showcase your brand's personality and values.
4. Insights and Analytics: Understand your audience's behavior and
preferences.
5. Advertising Opportunities: Utilize Facebook's advertising tools to target
specific demographics.
3: Step-by-Step Guide to Creating a Facebook Business Page
Log In or Sign Up for Facebook: If you don't have a Facebook account, create
one. If you already have one, log in.
Visit the Page Creation Section: Click on the "+" icon at the top right corner
and select "Page."
Choose a Category: Select "Business or Brand" as your page category.
Enter Your Business Information: Provide your business name, category,
address, and contact information.
Add Visuals: Upload a profile picture and cover photo that represent your
brand.
Complete Your Page Info: Fill in details about your business, including a
description, website, hours of operation, and more.
Create Your First Post: Welcome your audience with an introductory post
about your business.
Invite Friends and Customers: Invite your friends, family, and customers to
like and follow your page.
Utilize Facebook's Tools: Consider using Facebook's advertising and
promotional tools to enhance your page's reach and engagement.
YOU STARTED A BUSINESS
4: Tips for Success on Facebook
Post Regularly: Keep your audience engaged with regular updates, offers,
and relevant content.
Respond to Comments and Messages: Engage with your audience by
responding to their comments and messages promptly.
Use Visual Content: Images and videos tend to perform well on Facebook,
so incorporate them into your posts.
Analyze Performance: Monitor your page's insights to understand what
content resonates with your audience and adjust your strategy accordingly.
Follow Facebook's Guidelines: Ensure that your page complies with
Facebook's community standards and advertising policies
YOU STARTED A BUSINESS
Chapter 7
Automating Appointments:
Creating a Free Calendly
Calendar for Bookings
1: Calendly: Your Business's New Time Lord
Listen up, time is money. And in this go-go-go world, nobody's got a second to
waste playing phone tag or email ping-pong just to set up a meeting. Enter Calendly.
Think of it as your personal assistant who never sleeps. It's like having a 24/7 open
door, where customers can stroll in and book a slot when it suits 'em. No fuss, no
back-and-forth, just smooth sailing. So, if you're still juggling appointments the oldschool way, it's time to level up. Get Calendly and watch your scheduling headaches
vanish.
YOU STARTED A BUSINESS
2: Benefits of Using Calendly
Time-Saving: Automate the scheduling process, reducing back-and-forth
communication.
Customer Convenience: Allow customers to book appointments 24/7,
according to their preferences.
Integration: Sync with popular calendar apps to avoid double bookings.
Professionalism: Provide a sleek and professional booking experience.
Customization: Tailor your scheduling page to match your brand.
3: Step-by-Step Guide to Creating a Free Calendly Calendar
1. Visit Calendly: Go to the Calendly website and click on "Sign Up."
2. Create an Account: You can sign up with your Google or Microsoft account
or use an email address.
3. Set Your Availability: Choose the days and times you're available for
appointments.
4. Choose Appointment Types: Define the types of appointments you offer
(e.g., consultation, service call) and set their duration.
5. Customize Your Page: Add your logo, business description, and custom
questions for attendees if needed.
6. Integrate Your Calendar: Connect Calendly to your existing calendar (e.g.,
Google Calendar) to ensure synchronization.
7. Share Your Link: Provide customers with the link to your Calendly page
through your website, email, or social media.
8. Monitor Bookings: Keep track of upcoming appointments and receive
notifications for new bookings.
YOU STARTED A BUSINESS
4: Tips for Success with Calendly
Offer Multiple Options: Provide different appointment types and durations
to cater to various customer needs.
Set Up Reminders: Enable email or SMS reminders to reduce no-shows.
Keep Information Updated: Ensure that your availability and appointment
details are always accurate.
Analyze Performance: Utilize Calendly's insights to understand booking
trends and customer behavior.
YOU STARTED A BUSINESS
Chapter 8
Automate Communication: Signing
Up for a Free Email Autoresponder
1: Email Autoresponders: Your 24/7 Digital Salesman
Alright, let's get one thing straight: If you think email's dead, you're living in the past.
Email's not just alive; it's kicking butt and taking names. But here's the kicker: you
can't be at your computer 24/7, typing away like a madman. That's where email
autoresponders come in. Think of them as your tireless digital wingman, always
ready to send that welcome, that thank-you, or that "Hey, remember us?" message.
So, if you're not automating your emails, you're leaving cash on the table. Time to
step up and let the autoresponder do the heavy lifting.
YOU STARTED A BUSINESS
2: Brevo.com - Overview, Pros, and Cons
Overview: Brevo.com is an email marketing platform that offers automation tools
designed for simplicity and efficiency.
Pros:
User-Friendly Interface: Intuitive design makes it easy for beginners to
navigate and set up campaigns.
Affordable Pricing: Competitive pricing, especially for small to medium-sized
businesses.
Integration Capabilities: Easily integrates with popular e-commerce
platforms and CRM systems.
Responsive Support:
troubleshooting.
Quick
and
helpful
customer
support
for
Cons:
Limited Advanced Features: Might not offer some of the advanced
automation features that larger businesses require.
Template Restrictions: Fewer customizable email templates compared to
some competitors.
3: Mailchimp.com - Overview, Pros, and Cons
Overview: Mailchimp is one of the most popular email marketing platforms, known
for its robust features and flexibility.
Pros:
Comprehensive Features: Offers a wide range of tools, from basic email
automation to advanced segmentation and personalization.
Extensive Template Library: A vast collection of customizable email
templates suitable for various industries.
Analytics and Reporting: Detailed insights into email performance,
subscriber activity, and more.
YOU STARTED A BUSINESS
Integration Options: Integrates with a multitude of third-party apps and
platforms.
Cons:
Learning Curve: With its extensive features, it might be overwhelming for
absolute beginners.
Pricing: While they offer a free tier, costs can escalate as your subscriber list
grows or if you need advanced features.
4: Getting Started with an Email Autoresponder
Determine Your Needs: Before choosing a platform, understand your
business's email marketing needs and goals.
Sign Up: Visit the chosen platform's website and sign up for an account.
Create Your List: Import your existing email list or set up sign-up forms to
gather new subscribers.
Design Your Emails: Use templates or design your emails from scratch.
Set Up Automation: Define triggers (e.g., new sign-up, purchase) that will
send automated emails.
Monitor and Optimize: Regularly check the performance of your emails and
adjust strategies as needed.
YOU STARTED A BUSINESS
Chapter 9
Manage Relationships: Setting Up a
Free HubSpot CRM
1: CRM: Your Business's Little Black Book
Alright, here's the lowdown: Business isn't just about selling stuff; it's about
relationships. And if you're not keeping tabs on who's who in your business world,
you're dropping the ball. Enter the Customer Relationship Management (CRM)
system. It's like that trusty little black book, but on steroids. It doesn't just remember
names; it remembers conversations, deals, likes, dislikes, and that time they
mentioned their cat's birthday. With a CRM, you're not just making sales; you're
building bonds.
YOU STARTED A BUSINESS
2: HubSpot CRM: Your Business's Swiss Army Knife
Now, let's talk HubSpot CRM. This isn't just another fancy tool; it's the Swiss Army
knife of CRMs. Whether you're a mom-and-pop shop or the next big thing,
HubSpot's got your back. Track leads, check out metrics, and integrate it with all
the other cool HubSpot tools. It's like having a full-blown business command center
right at your fingertips. So, if you're serious about doing business the smart way,
HubSpot's where it's at.
3: Step-by-Step Guide to Setting Up HubSpot Free tier CRM
1. Visit HubSpot: Go to the HubSpot CRM website and click on "Get Started for
Free."
2. Sign Up: Create an account using your email address or sign in with Google.
3. Set Up Your Profile: Add your company information, including name,
address, and industry.
4. Import Contacts: You can manually add contacts or import them from a
spreadsheet or another CRM.
5. Customize Your Dashboard: Tailor the CRM dashboard to show the metrics
and data most relevant to your business.
6. Create Deals and Tasks: Add potential sales or tasks associated with
contacts to keep track of business opportunities.
7. Integrate with Other Tools: HubSpot CRM can integrate with various tools,
including email, calendar apps, and other HubSpot products.
8. Engage and Monitor: Use the CRM to send emails, schedule meetings, make
notes, and monitor interactions with contacts.
YOU STARTED A BUSINESS
4: Benefits of Using HubSpot CRM
User-Friendly Interface: HubSpot CRM is designed for ease of use, making
it accessible even for CRM beginners.
Real-Time Updates: Get instant notifications about interactions, such as
when a contact opens an email.
Integration Capabilities: Seamlessly integrates with other HubSpot tools
and many third-party apps.
Detailed Analytics: Gain insights into sales funnels, customer interactions,
and more.
Free Tier Available: Access a robust set of features without any cost, with
the option to upgrade as your business grows.
5: Tips for Success with HubSpot CRM
Regularly Update Contact Information: Ensure that all contact details and
notes are up-to-date to maintain accurate records.
Utilize Automation Features: Automate repetitive tasks, such as sending
follow-up emails, to save time.
Engage in Training: HubSpot offers tutorials and resources to help users
make the most of the CRM.
Analyze and Adjust: Regularly review analytics to identify trends and adjust
strategies accordingly.
YOU STARTED A BUSINESS
Chapter 10
Keeping Track of Money - Setting Up
a QuickBooks Online Account
1: Show Me the Money: Why You Need to Watch Your Wallet
Listen up, hotshot. Running a business isn't just about making the big bucks; it's
about knowing where every darn penny goes. If you're not on top of your financial
game, you're playing with fire. And trust me, getting burned ain't fun. You need to
track the cash coming in, the cash going out, and where you're headed next. Enter
QuickBooks Online. It's like having a financial guru in your pocket, helping you make
the smart moves and dodge the dumb ones.
YOU STARTED A BUSINESS
2: QuickBooks Online: Your Business's Money Maestro
Alright, let's dive into QuickBooks Online. This ain't your grandpa's accounting book.
It's a sleek, cloud-based powerhouse built for businesses that mean business.
Whether you're sending invoices, tracking expenses, or figuring out payroll,
QuickBooks has got you covered. And the cherry on top? You can access it
anywhere, anytime. So, if you're serious about keeping your financial house in order,
QuickBooks Online is your go-to tool.
3: Step-by-Step Guide to Setting Up QuickBooks Online
1. Visit QuickBooks Online: Navigate to the QuickBooks Online website. (but
use this link to get free 30 days https://quickbooks.intuit.com/ca/free-trial/ )
2. Choose a Plan: QuickBooks Online offers various plans tailored to different
business needs. Select the one that fits your requirements.
3. Sign Up: Create an account using your email address, or sign in with Google.
4. Enter Business Details: Provide essential information about your business,
including name, industry, and business type.
5. Customize Your Settings: Set up your chart of accounts, connect your bank
accounts, and customize your invoice templates.
6. Add Transactions: Start recording your business transactions, such as sales,
expenses, and payroll.
7. Integrate with Other Tools: QuickBooks Online can integrate with various
third-party apps and platforms to streamline your financial processes.
8. Monitor Financial Health: Use the dashboard to get an overview of your
business's financial health, including cash flow, outstanding invoices, and
expenses.
YOU STARTED A BUSINESS
4: Benefits of Using QuickBooks Online
Accessibility: Being cloud-based, you can access your financial data from
anywhere, anytime.
Real-Time Updates: All data is updated in real-time, ensuring you always
have the most current financial information.
Integration Capabilities: Seamlessly integrates with other tools, including
CRM systems, payment gateways, and e-commerce platforms.
Detailed Reporting: Generate various financial reports to analyze business
performance and make informed decisions.
Security: QuickBooks Online uses advanced encryption and security
protocols to ensure your financial data is safe.
5: Tips for Success with QuickBooks Online
Stay Consistent: Regularly update your financial data to maintain accurate
records.
Engage in Training: QuickBooks offers tutorials and resources to help users
maximize the software's capabilities.
Set Up Automated Processes: Automate repetitive tasks, such as recurring
invoices or monthly expenses, to save time.
Review Financial Reports: Regularly review and analyze financial reports to
monitor business health and identify trends.
YOU STARTED A BUSINESS
Chapter 11
Show Me the Money: The Straight
Talk on Getting Paid
1: Don't Mess Around with Payments
Listen up, folks. You're in the big leagues now, and if you're fumbling with outdated
payment methods, you're not just losing cash—you're trashing your rep. People
want to pay fast, easy, and without worrying about some hacker's sticky fingers.
So, if you're not giving 'em that, you're basically telling 'em to take their money and
run. Time to step up your game.
YOU STARTED A BUSINESS
2: The Card Pass AI Difference
Alright, let's talk Card Pass AI. This ain't your grandpa's payment system. It's the
future, baby. Free equipment? Check. Point-of-sale systems that don't suck?
Double-check. And get this: They even throw in free marketing help. Yeah, you
heard me. Plus, they've got loyalty and rewards programs that'll make your
customers stick like glue.
3: Accept Anything, Even Crypto
Now, here's the kicker: Card Pass AI lets you accept all forms of payment. Yeah,
even that crypto stuff your nephew keeps yapping about. They're not just in the
game; they're changing it.
4: Done-for-You Setup and Training
Worried about the tech side of things? Don't be. Card Pass AI's got you covered
with done-for-you setup and training. They're not just giving you the tools; they're
showing you how to use 'em.
5: Why Choosing the Right Payment Processor is a Big Deal
Look, you wouldn't pick a racecar without checking under the hood, right? Same
goes for your payment processor. You gotta look at the fees, the security, and how
well it plays with your other systems. And customer support? Non-negotiable. You
want a team that's got your back, not one that leaves you hanging.
Hit them up at https://cardpass.ai or call
give them a call at 805-225-7191
YOU STARTED A BUSINESS
Bonus Chapter
Learn from Other’s Mistakes Don't Reinvent the Wheel,
Just Learn to Roll
Introduction
Alright, let's get one thing straight: Business ain't a walk in the park. You're gonna
trip, maybe even face-plant a few times. But here's the kicker: you don't always
have to be the one tripping. Thanks to this digital age, you can watch, learn, and
sidestep the banana peels others have slipped on.
YOU STARTED A BUSINESS
Been There, Done That, Got the T-Shirt
Every big shot in business, no matter how high and mighty they seem now, started
at the bottom. They've got war stories, battle scars, and a bunch of "I wish someone
told me that" moments. And guess what? They're sharing those tales. For free.
Facebook Groups: Not Just for Cat Memes
Facebook's not just for stalking your ex or sharing vacation pics. It's become the
go-to spot for business folks to huddle up, swap stories, and drop knowledge
bombs. These business groups? They're like mini masterclasses waiting to be
explored.
Dodge the Landmines
Dive into these groups, and you're not just getting advice; you're getting a roadmap.
A cheat sheet. A heads-up on the potholes in the road ahead. And trust me, in
business, a little heads-up can save you a whole lot of headache.
Conclusion
Look, no two business journeys are the same. But why stumble in the dark when
others are shining a flashlight for you? Jump into communities, especially the
goldmines on Facebook, and let the collective wisdom guide your hustle.
I've aimed to capture Perry Belcher's candid, direct, and slightly humorous style.
Let me know if this hits the mark or if you'd like any adjustments!
YOU STARTED A BUSINESS