Start your E-Commerce Business the right way
Newbie Mistakes will Cost - Time & Money!
Please read this page thoroughly before jumping in with both feet!
Organization
Sorry its the boring bit first, but it does save both time & money.
As in any business you are going to be purchasing supplies, products, services, & joining
mailing lists.
If you don't stay organized your computer is going to be full of
un-returnable expensive junk & your email inbox is going to be full of spam!
However these issues are easily addressed by preparing your computer for what you are doing;
- Create a project folder on your desktop. Right Click-New-Folder
- Create 4 Sub-Folders & name them - Receipts, Passwords, Site & Downloads, plus another Sub-Folder
in Downloads named Pictures.
- Make sure your bowser is set to ask where to download. Tools-Options
- Place an empty notepad in all the folders- Start-All Programs-Accessories-Notepad. Now save
in a folder - Repeat for all folders.
That wasn't so hard - I recommend you make additional sub folders as required, always putting a notepad in the
folder. Now you just need to be regimented in using your folder structure.
If you buy something download it to the downloads folder & extract it into a new folder in downloads. Copy
the receipt & paste it into the notepad. If you join something record your login & Password plus the
access url in the password notepad. I think you get the idea.
I follow this process & also use the software "Affiliate Organizer" its very
handy but not essential. X-Site Pro website builder also has an Affiliate Wizard
feature to store your affiliate information & URL's.
If you don't use software to store all your affiliate info you will need to create another folder named
affiliate programs.
Access to your affiliate details is critical ..
Why? Because occasionally you won't find exactly what you are looking for in the major network
directories, however you may find a site you like running its own program. It is critical you stay on top
of these independent sites, many don't check their affiliate sales very often & you will have to chase
them for payment. Without good records you won't know where to start.
BONUS
This valuable bonus is the one you give yourself - For being
organized.
In April you have all the information you need to claim
your deductions.
Yes even if your not a business yet, you can still deduct your expenses.
Hosting, Office Supplies, Software & more..
I will be writing a section on Tax & Incorporation shortly.
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