Where to begin:

You need a written business plan.

It is easy to get so busy with day-to-day responsibilities after starting your own business that you don't write down a business plan. However, it isn't enough to just carry the plan in your mind. One reason to have a formal business plan is to attract investors. Writing a business plan will help you see beyond the day-to-day grind and focus on the future. A business plan starts by explaining your company's objectives and why it will succeed. It must explain how money will be used and repaid (if dealing with investors). The typical plan includes sections on organization, products or services, marketing, and financials.

You need a marketing plan.

Although the business plan included a section on marketing, it is important to create a separate, more in-depth marketing plan to cover each new service, product, geographic area, target market, and industry you are targeting. A marketing plan establishes your strategy for reaching your target market. Building a good description of your target market is essential. Who are they and where are they located? What is it your customers really want? How are you going to reach them? How much will you charge for your products or services?, etc.

Marketing -- even on a shoestring -- is essential. Consistent marketing makes a difference.