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Do I need a business entity for offline marketing?

by ckbank
4 replies
I've done phone sales before. I understand the benefits of having a business entity. However, until I make some money to form a corp. or llc., can I still succeed or even do offline marketing? Why would you trust a random person who calls you?
#business #entity #marketing #offline
  • Profile picture of the author iAmNameLess
    Good question, something that is overlooked and not paid attention to very often.

    Can you be successful without a business entity? Yes, especially short term. Is it a good idea to stay that way? NO.

    I'd recommend you incorporate when you can. In web design, if you outsource this and an image is used that is copyrighted material, even some stock photos, you can be sued and held personally liable. If you offer SEO, and something happens you can be liable.

    It is always good to have some protection. Right now, if you consider yourself a freelancer then just test out the waters. If you decide you want to go at this more seriously, then incorporate.
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  • Profile picture of the author Deidra Renee
    I agree with IamNameLess..when you're first starting out, I wouldn't worry about it too much to NEVER get started. Once you get the money though, you need to invest in that.

    At least get your business name registered and a Tax ID# to start, but once money starts coming in there's really no excuse and reason not to get the appropriate LLC, INC, etc..but like I said, don't let it STOP you from STARTING!! I still have not to this day had anyone ask me about an LLC or anything that has purchased my services, but it's not about that it's about protecting yourself and your business.
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    • Profile picture of the author ckbank
      Originally Posted by Deidra Renee View Post

      I agree with IamNameLess..when you're first starting out, I wouldn't worry about it too much to NEVER get started. Once you get the money though, you need to invest in that.

      At least get your business name registered and a Tax ID# to start, but once money starts coming in there's really no excuse and reason not to get the appropriate LLC, INC, etc..but like I said, don't let it STOP you from STARTING!! I still have not to this day had anyone ask me about an LLC or anything that has purchased my services, but it's not about that it's about protecting yourself and your business.
      Since we are on the topic. I want to ask something that's a bit unrelated. Do you guys necessarily have formal education in web design and seo or do you just do it from experience?
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      Now that's what I call Guerrilla Marketing.
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      • Profile picture of the author mikeyman120
        yes you can still succeed. You just can't take checks made out to a business name or if you do you have to hold them until you register a name and get a bank account. I am planning on starting an offline business with no money. I'll be using the clients money. For the first month I won't be ready to take checks to a business name as I haven't picked a name yet and so I will offer them $50 off for making checks out to my name and $100 off for cash. So I have to make it happen without taking business checks the first month. I hope it goes ok.
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