Starting a business is an exciting journey, but it comes with a host of challenges that can be daunting to tackle alone. To ensure your small business thrives, it’s crucial to surround yourself with the right team of professionals.
Knowing who to hire first for your startup may also require you to know what services to outsource, what services to keep inside your organization, and who to go to for advising when everyday crises may arise. For example, according to ZipDo, 72% of companies outsource at least one HR function, and, according to Capterra, 71% of businesses need at least some outsourcing for their accounting needs. You certainly don’t need to do everything yourself, but what services do small businesses need the most?
This guide will help you identify key roles that can support your business planning and growth.
IT/Tech Support
Even the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has identified cybersecurity as a key threat to organizations. Every small business needs a security plan, and qualified IT professionals are who to hire first for a startup. They can troubleshoot technical issues, manage your software and hardware needs, and protect your data from cyber threats.
Key Services:
- Network setup and maintenance
- Cybersecurity
- Troubleshooting technical issues and support
- Software and hardware management
Marketing
Effective marketing and community management are essential for building brand awareness and engaging with your audience. These professionals develop and execute marketing strategies, manage customer relationships, and foster a loyal community around your brand.
Key Services:
- Marketing strategy development
- Community engagement
- Customer relationship management
- Brand building
Social Media Manager
According to Hubspot, social media is the preferred product discovery platform of consumers in the most powerful age bracket: 18 to 44. More and more direct purchases are being made online through social media, so a social media manager can significantly boost your brand and online sales. They create, curate, and manage content across social media platforms, engaging with your audience and driving traffic to your website.
Note that marketers will sometimes offer social media management under their umbrella, but if you can only afford one service, social media may be the way to go. According to Forbes, businesses spend the largest portion of their marketing budget on social media and community building (52%).
Key Services:
- Content creation and curation
- Social media strategy
- Audience engagement
- Analytics and reporting
Bookkeeper
A bookkeeper helps keep your financial records in order. They manage daily transactions, reconcile accounts, and ensure your books are accurate and up-to-date. This is crucial for making informed business decisions and preparing for tax season.
Key Services:
- Recording daily transactions
- Account reconciliation
- Financial reporting
- Expense tracking
Accountant
Mistakes in tax preparation can be very costly for small businesses, and many make very common mistakes. An accountant is essential for your business’s financial health. They provide insights into your financial performance, help with tax planning and compliance, and advise on financial strategies to grow your business.
Key Services:
- Tax planning and preparation
- Financial analysis
- Compliance and reporting
- Strategic financial advice
Financial Advisor
A financial advisor helps you make strategic decisions about your business’s financial future. They assist with investment strategies, retirement planning, and financial risk management.
Key Services:
- Investment planning
- Retirement planning
- Risk management
- Financial strategy
Lawyer
A good law firm can protect your business from many types of issues. A lawyer ensures your business operates within legal boundaries. They help with business formation, contract drafting, compliance issues, and can represent you in legal matters.
Key Services:
- Business formation and structuring
- Contract drafting and review
- Legal compliance
- Representation in legal matters
Insurance Agent
An insurance agent helps protect your business from unforeseen risks. They assess your business needs and recommend appropriate insurance policies to safeguard your assets.
Key Services:
- Risk assessment
- Insurance policy recommendations
- Claims assistance
- Policy management
Web Developer
A web developer is crucial for creating and maintaining your online presence. They design and develop your website, ensuring it is user-friendly, functional, and optimized for search engines.
Key Services:
- Website design and development
- Maintenance and updates
- SEO optimization
- User experience enhancement
Human Resources
Small businesses tend to need many kinds of HR support, if not their own HR department. Human Resources departments handle recruitment, employee relations, payroll, and compliance with labor laws, ensuring a productive and compliant work environment.
Key Services:
- Recruitment and onboarding
- Employee relations
- Payroll management
- Compliance with labor laws
Knowing who to hire when starting a business is crucial for your success. By surrounding yourself with these essential professionals, you can focus on growing your business while ensuring all critical areas are well-managed. Whether you’re just starting or looking to expand, these experts provide the support and expertise needed for small business advising and successful business planning.
Remember, building a strong team of professionals is one of the best investments you can make in your business. Start today, and watch your business thrive.
