Get Serious/Freelance
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- MLPROJECT
I'm just getting out of school and want to start doing more freelance. What kind of steps do I need to take to make it legit? i.e. trademarking an agency name if i go that route, organizing stuff for taxes, etc... I'm mainly wondering about the trademarking aspect - the rest gets way complicated, i know. Any tips you guys have would be appreciated
- Gorbie0
a registered business lisence and a business checking account..
i don't think you'll have to worry about trademarking anything.
i could be wrong though...
- MLPROJECT0
well, if i wanted to umbrella myself under a firm name i'd have to trademark something, but i don't know how to get that rolling or how much it costs...
- speed_d0
I know it costs like 30 bucks to tm a name in VT... depends on the state though...
- gruntt0
get in touch with your local small business association. They're a great resource and it's free.
- MLPROJECT0
i didn't realize there was anything like that... i'll have to check it out. thanks
- TResudek0
You're name is covered when you register your business with the state. They won't let you register a business name that is similar or the same as another business in a similar industry.
TR
- speed_d0
If you approach the SBA it is a good idea to writed something up... sort of a business plan... just bring something with you so they know you are serious about starting out... you will get further that way
- gruntt0
speed_d, that is good advice but the SBA will also show you how to properly write up a business plan. You can walk in with an idea in your head and they will tell you the proper steps to take.
- MLPROJECT0
when you go in, do you just have to pick up papers or will you talk to someone the first time? is it a good idea to wear a tie or something?
- k0na_an0k0
it will cost you some money but if you're going to freelance full time you many want to incorporate yourself. that way if anything does ever go wrong a company can not sue you personally.
- speed_d0
I know the SBA will show you how to write the proper business plan.... but it goes further if you have something to show you have put some thought into it rather than just walking in with an idea...
- speed_d0
I don't know if you need a tie, but don't go in with ripped clothes and an obscene t-shirt
- MLPROJECT0
yeah, someone said to make yourself a LLC, but i haven't looked into it 100%
- MLPROJECT0
well, yeah. i just didn't know HOW formal it was. like biz casual vs. fortune 500 attire.
- speed_d0
Do your ideal clients represent a casual business or fortune 500?
Then you know how to dress
- MLPROJECT0
that's the clients though... that's self explanitory... the SBA isn't my client - i didn't know their demeanour when you go in there looking for advice
- speed_d0
I realize that... you are going to be in business to serve you clients not the SBA... Again, showing them you know who your clients are and how to approach them will go a long way to getting their help and speeding things up... those govt agencies work slow... anything you can do to prepare ahead of time will just help you out....
to be safe, you can never over-dress... that way you play it safe... go with the tie
- TenaciousG0
1.Setting up an LLC will keep people from suing you for your personal assets.
2. Trade mark any logos you make for yourself and your company.
3. Get a law student friend or another designer to help you write a basic work for hire contract.
- MLPROJECT0
oooh good call. 2 of my roommates are in law school. score...