The decision to become self-employed is a big step and can be both challenging and extremely rewarding. In Austria, there are numerous aspects that should be considered in order to make a successful start to self-employment. In this article, we would like to give you some useful tips to help you start your business. <\/p>\n
Here are our 9 tips:<\/p>\n<\/div>
Before you take the first step into self-employment, you should develop a clear and viable business idea.<\/p>\n
Think about it:<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>
Market research<\/strong> Competitor analysis<\/strong> USP (Unique Selling Proposition)<\/strong> Choosing the right legal form is crucial for the legal and tax framework of your company.<\/p>\n There are different special features depending on the type of company chosen:<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div> Sole proprietorship<\/strong> OG (general partnership)<\/strong> GmbH (limited liability company)<\/strong> KG (limited partnership) or GmbH & CO KG<\/strong> <\/p>\n<\/div><\/li><\/ul><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div> A detailed business plan is essential. It not only serves as a roadmap for your company, but can also help when applying for funding or loans. <\/p>\n Your business plan should include the following points:<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div> Business description<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div><\/li><\/ul><\/div><\/div> Market analysis<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div><\/li><\/ul><\/div><\/div> Financial planning (costs, revenue forecasts, liquidity planning) Marketing and sales strategies<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div><\/li><\/ul><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div> The financial basis is crucial to the success of your company.<\/p>\n Think about different financing options:<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div> Equity<\/strong> Bank loans<\/strong> Funding and subsidies<\/strong> In Austria, most activities are subject to the Trade Regulation Act. In this case, you must register a trade. <\/p>\n The process varies depending on the industry, but in general you will need:<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div> Business registration<\/strong> Tax number<\/strong> Social security<\/strong> Insurance<\/strong> To make your company known, you should develop a marketing strategy. Use different channels:<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div> Marketing<\/strong> Network<\/strong> Customer service<\/strong> Talk to other entrepreneurs. Especially those in your sector. What are their secrets of success? <\/p>\n The experience and mistakes of other companies can be an enormous asset for you. The market and the legal framework are constantly changing. Keep up to date with the latest developments. <\/p>\n Keep an eye on trends, changes and important court decisions. Invest in ongoing training to stay competitive. <\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>
What are you good at?
Who are your potential customers?
What are their needs?<\/p>\n<\/div><\/li><\/ul><\/div><\/div>
Which competitors already exist and how can you stand out?<\/p>\n<\/div><\/li><\/ul><\/div><\/div>
What makes your offer unique?
Why exactly should the customer come to you?<\/p>\n<\/div><\/li><\/ul><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>2. choose legal form<\/h3><\/div>
Easy to set up, but unlimited liability. Tax advantageous with low income. <\/p>\n<\/div><\/li><\/ul><\/div><\/div>
Suitable for several shareholders, but also associated with personal liability. Advantageous for tax purposes if income is low. <\/p>\n<\/div><\/li><\/ul><\/div><\/div>
Popular because of its limited liability, but with higher formation costs and higher running costs. With higher income, more favorable tax treatment than other company forms. <\/p>\n<\/div><\/li><\/ul><\/div><\/div>
A combination of two company forms. You benefit from the limited liability of the GmbH and from the tax advantages also associated with personal liability <\/p>\n3. create a business plan<\/h3><\/div>
\n<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div><\/li><\/ul><\/div><\/div>4. secure financing<\/h3><\/div>
Use savings or support from friends and family.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/li><\/ul><\/div><\/div>
Make sure your business plan is solid to increase your chances of getting a loan.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/li><\/ul><\/div><\/div>
Find out about state funding for start-ups in Austria.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/li><\/ul><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>5. business registration and legal aspects<\/h3><\/div>
This is done at the responsible municipal or district authority.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/li><\/ul><\/div><\/div>
You must register with the tax office.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/li><\/ul><\/div><\/div>
Find out about your social security obligations (SVS).<\/p>\n<\/div><\/li><\/ul><\/div><\/div>
Find out about insurance policies that cover the most important risks. Make sure you find out in advance which specific claims are covered by the insurance and how high your deductible would be in the event of an insured event. <\/p>\n<\/div><\/li><\/ul><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>6. marketing and customer acquisition<\/h3><\/div>
Whether online or offline marketing, make sure your company has a professional external image. Nowadays, a professional website and social media presence are just as indispensable as business stationery with a high-quality feel and look. <\/p>\n<\/div><\/li><\/ul><\/div><\/div>
Build up contacts in your industry. Networking events or industry associations can provide valuable contacts. <\/p>\n<\/div><\/li><\/ul><\/div><\/div>
Satisfied customers are the best advertisement. Make sure you provide excellent service and collect feedback from your customers\/clients. <\/p>\n<\/div><\/li><\/ul><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>7th business partner<\/h3><\/div>
Choose your advisors and business partners with the utmost care.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>8. further training<\/h3><\/div>
9. collateral<\/h3><\/div>