So far, our articles have taken you through the critical knowledge, attributes, and skills required to establish a credible and successful online graphic design business. You now know what it takes to succeed in this business and where you may need additional training or experience.

Armed with this important background information, it's time to think about the actual work of establishing your business.

Organization is important to your ability to succeed. And organization starts now. Creating a plan and a timeline for establishing your business is your first step in the process. We'll talk about that in detail in the section below. But first, a little about your business entity and the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).

Tax Identification Number and business license

Another consideration as you begin planning for your business is whether or not you want or need to acquire a tax identification number (sometimes known as an employer identification number or EIN). This is a federal identification number that the IRS issues to identify business entities. A unique identifying number is required for tax returns and other official documents.

However, if you are conducting business as a sole proprietor, which you are most likely to do as an online graphic designer, then you can use your social security number in place of an EIN on governmental forms, tax documents, and other official documents. Keep in mind that most small business advisors recommend using a federal tax identification number to protect the privacy of your social security number.

You should consult a legal professional if you have questions related to this topic. In addition, be sure to research any specific state requirements for creating your business as well. Some states or counties require a business license if you are running a business out of your home, even if it is an online-based business.

Questions you need to answer

• what is the timeline for launching the business
• what do you want to offer and what is your niche market
• what tools and software do you need to acquire
• what hardware do you need
• what message do you want your website to convey
• who is your target audience
• how will you promote yourself and your services, and create your website
• how will you charge for your services
• how will you manage your business
• how can you stay current and on the cutting edge of design

These are all questions that must be answered now. And we'll give you the answers you need to succeed.

Let's accelerate the process of establishing your lucrative online business so you can begin to reap the benefits quickly.

Establish a timeline

One key component of your business plan is to establish a timeline for preparation and deployment of your plan. Having a timeframe for completing specific components of the plan will aid you in keeping your project on track. This is a part of your overall business planning and is something that will evolve over time as you identify additional strategies to enhance your planning.

For example, allowing time for particular components of the plan will give you a realistic picture of when you can expect to contact your first potential clients and begin reaping the financial rewards of your business venture.

The following components of the plan should have a time allocation since they are the most time consuming and thought-provoking components of the plan:

1. Creation and development of your logo and brand image (more on this later)

2. Creation and launch of your website

3. Development of your marketing strategy (how you will communicate about your business to potential customers)

Depending on whether or not you are already experienced and have the hardware and software needed to deliver the business, your timeline for launching your business is flexible.

You can launch your graphic design business in as little as two weeks or it could take as long as two months – again, this is dependent on your current skill level and the tools and knowledge you already possess.

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