Starting a new business is a tough job, especially when it is your very first venture. To make things easier for you, here is our list of things you should do before the launch:

1. Prepare a Business Plan

Whether detailed or not, you need to have some sort of a business plan before you launch your startup. As Charlotte Simmonds put it, “Putting a good plan together is the first big step for anyone who wants to turn their business idea into a reality.“ [Charlotte Simmonds]

2. Pick a Name

Picking the right name for your business is crucial. “Naming your business can be a stressful process. You want to choose a name that will last and, if possible, will embody both your values and your company’s distinguishing characteristics.” You can ask your friends and family for suggestions, or get a naming firm to suggest you some names based on what you envision your venture to be. Either way, choose a name that truly represents you and your idea.

3. Get a Co-Founder

In today’s business world, having a co-founder is of utmost importance. No one wants to invest in a company that has a single founder. As Neil Patel mentions in his article “VCs are more likely to invest in a startup that has a founding team, not a founding individual.” He further adds that, “Cofounders can provide the skills you lack, and take you further than you ever expected you’d go.”

4. Pre-Launch Marketing

As daunting as it might sound, but it is one of the most important things to do before your launch your startup. According to Janine Popick, “Building an audience before you even have a product is critical. You’re going to need to tap people to test what you’re building, and it can’t be Aunt Mary and Uncle George.“ Use Facebook, Twitter and other relevant social media platforms to reach out to your target audience. Get a web page with a signup form, start a blog, start your newsletter etc.

5. Ask for Help

You might have your hands full with so much pre-launch stuff to do, but it is OK to ask for help. “Even though entrepreneurs are notorious for trying to do everything themselves, it’s okay to not have it all figured out on your own. Take advantage of other people’s knowledge and experiences when you need to.” You can ask your family and friends or you can hire a full time or virtual assistant.