Becoming an Entrepreneur
Opening a Classified Advertising Business
We've collected some good advice that is perfect for aspiring entrepreneurs who are thinking about starting a classified advertising business. Read this before you start!
Thinking about opening a classified advertising business? We tell you what you need to know to get started.
Best Practices for Writing a Classified Advertising Company Business Plan
As a startup entrepreneur, you're learning that small business ownership can be a lonely career path. That's especially true when it comes to writing a business plan � the seminal document that will shape the direction of your new classified advertising business.
Fortunately, you don't have to tackle your classified advertising company's business plan by yourself. There are plenty of useful solution designed to assist classified advertising business entrepreneurs in business plan writing.
For more information, take a look at our Business Plan Help section.
Don't Ignore the Competition
Prior to opening a classified advertising business within your community, it's a good idea to find out what the competition looks like. Use the link below to get a list of local competitors in your area. Simply enter your city, state and zip code to get a list of classified advertising businesses in your town.
Before you open up shop, make sure you know what you will offer to your customers that provides a significant advantage over your competition's offering.
Learning More About the Industry
As part of your due diligence on opening a classified advertising business, be sure to have a conversation with someone who is in the business. Local competitors are not going to give you the time of day, mind you. The last thing they want to do is help you to be a better competitor.
However, an entrepreneur who owns a classified advertising business on the other side of the country will be much more likely to talk with you, once they realize that you are not going to directly compete with them in their community. In fact, they are often very willing to share startup advice with you. Our estimate is that you may have to contact many business owners to find one who is willing to share his wisdom with you.
Do you know how to find somebody who runs a classified advertising business that lives outside of your area?
Simply, try our helpful link below, type in a random city/state or zipcode, and start calling.
Pros & Cons of Buying a Classified Advertising Business
An acquisition can be a great way to enter classified advertising business ownership. But it's important to evaluate the benefits and drawbacks of buying a business before you decide on either an acquisition or startup approach.
PROs: Existing companies have proven business models and a history of profitability. They should also have some degree of brand recognition and an established customer base.
CONs: Acquired classified advertising businesses sometimes have entrenched processes and systems that run counter to your business objectives. If an acquisition target appears unmalleable, move on to another prospect.
Explore Franchising Options
Speed to market is an essential factor in startup success. Franchising may be the vehicle to make your ownership goals a reality.
The link below will take you to the Gaebler advertising franchise directory, a resource containing a list of classified advertising business franchise startup opportunities in your area.
Related Articles on Starting a Company
These additional resources regarding starting a business may be of interest to you.
Share this article
Additional Resources for Entrepreneurs