The Entrepreneur’s Handbook – 59 Resources For First Time Entrepreneurs

by Neil Patel on May 10, 2009

entrepreneurs handbook

As a first time entrepreneur you probably have tons of questions. And every time you do a Google search for an answer you are bombarded with too much information and in some cases that information contradicts other things you have heard. Due to this, I have created a list of 54 resources that should help you out.

Legal & Accounting

Legal and accounting issues may not seem important when you are starting your company, but they are. Legal and accounting mistakes that you make early on can haunt you for years and can be expensive to fix. So if you are going to start a company you should do things right from the get go.

  • S Corp. vs. LLC: Which Structure is Right for Your Business – Determining the type of legal structure for a new business can be daunting for entrepreneurs and small business owners. Learn more about S Corporations and Limited Liability Companies (LLC), and decide if one of these business structures is right for you.
  • Legal Zoom – a cheap way to get incorporated.
  • Findlaw – a directory of all the lawyers throughout the US.
  • Bookkeeping 101: Debits and Credits – Accounting ends with score keeping but begins with record keeping. The first task of accounting is to accurately record transactions. Transactions are events that change the composition of a firm’s assets, liabilities, and equity.
  • Accounting Basics – This explanation of accounting basics will introduce you to some basic accounting principles, accounting concepts, and accounting terminology.
  • Docstoc – A free place to get legal documents and templates which can drastically help reduce your legal fees and in some cases allow you to do some legal stuff yourself.
  • You’ve Been Sued: What Do You Do? – Everything you wanted to know about being sued.
  • Opening a Business Bank Account – Business bank accounts and your identity.
  • Closing Down Your Business Permanently – If you’re shuttering your business for good, there’s more to it than drawing the blinds.
  • Legal Issues to Consider When Starting Your Business – There are a multitude of legal issues to think about when it comes to starting your business. Everything from your business name to its structure to its operation has legal implications.

Web Design

Design is something we tend to take for granted. Not only is important for your website to look good, but you also want to make sure it is usable and converts.

Internet Marketing

You can have a great product or service, but if no one sees it you will never make any money. Now this doesn’t mean you have to hire a marketing firm to help you out, but you could learn some basic things about Internet marketing.

Hiring Employees

When you don’t have much cash in the bank, you can’t afford to make hiring mistakes. Sooner or later you are going to have to hire a few employees, so you better know what to look for.

Raising Venture Capital

Raising money can be a pain in the ass, especially if you have never done it before. If you want to raise money, you need to know the basic terminology that venture capitalists use, how to create a pitching deck, and how to get in front of venture capitalists.

  • Vfinance – A directory of venture capitalists, angel investors, and business plan templates.
  • Forbes Midas List – A list of the top 100 venture capitalists for the year 2009.
  • The 10/20/30 Rule of PowerPoint – Before you make a powerpoint that showcases your company and how much money you are raising, you should read this.
  • How to Raise Venture Capital – An detailed overview on how you can raise money.
  • Venture Hacks – A blog for entrepreneurs that discusses everything about venture capital.
  • The Funded – An online community of entrepreneurs to research, rate, and review funding sources worldwide.
  • How To Raise Venture Dollars – Ben Elowitz who has raised over 40 million dollars breaks down the tricks to raising money.
  • Paul Graham – Awesome essays about venture capital and entrepreneurship.

General Business Advice

Other entrepreneurs have already solved many of the problems you are going to face. So when you run to into these generic problems, here are some websites you can turn to.

Living The Frugal Life

Although it may sound sexy to be an entrepreneur, most entrepreneurs don’t make a ton of money. You are going to have to learn to live a frugal life so that you can continue to do what you love and not worry about paying your mortgage.

Conclusion

There are a ton of resources out there for first time entrepreneurs, but these are the main ones I use. Do you have any other recommendations?

Update: If you feel that a specific site should be added to the entrepreneurs handbook, leave a comment and I will add it to the blog post.

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{ 196 comments… read them below or add one }

Adam Toren May 10, 2009 at 7:47 PM

Neil,

You have put together a VERY solid list of resources here. There are several sites on here that I have yet to come across and glad that I have now. Needless to say, I have been busy clicking these links! Thanks for including YoungEntrepreneur.com on your list for: The Top 10 Mistakes People Make When Starting A Business!

All the best,

Adam Toren

Reply

Neil Patel May 10, 2009 at 8:22 PM

No problem. It is a great resource!

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Ekey May 10, 2009 at 7:54 PM

I like the compilation there. Especially the Accounting/Legal part. It’s definitely over-looked by MOST, if not all people who are just starting out. They tend to dive head-first into whatever venture they think fits the scene and realize much later that they didn’t pay enough attention to the basics that EVERY business requires and that it’s going to cost quite a bit to fix that mistake.

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Neil Patel May 10, 2009 at 8:07 PM

Thanks! Accounting is where I really messed up when it came to my first few businesses.

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Harnish May 17, 2009 at 5:34 PM

You are right on this. My CPA tells me the same thing. I am glad I had him from the beginning counseling me.

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Neil Patel May 17, 2009 at 7:15 PM

You are lucky because you had guidance from day 1. If you don’t have guidance, that is when you screw up.

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purposeinc May 10, 2009 at 7:59 PM

A nice tidy guide! I would have loved to have found that all in one place when I started!

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Neil Patel May 10, 2009 at 8:09 PM

Thanks DK! It’s good to see that an experienced entrepreneur like you, enjoys the post.

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Akmal Wardak May 10, 2009 at 8:34 PM

Awesome resource Neil, one of those that you feel great after reading the whole list for gaining so much great information. thanks for the compilation.

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Neil Patel May 10, 2009 at 9:11 PM

No problem. I should have created one of these a while ago.

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Matt | Small Biz Bee May 10, 2009 at 8:42 PM

Neil, this is pure gold for the first time entrepreneur. Just an awesome resource that is sure to save many hours of research time…well done, and thank you!

Matt

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Neil Patel May 10, 2009 at 9:11 PM

I’m glad you feel that way. :)

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Cananito May 10, 2009 at 8:57 PM

Again, lots of useful information and all of it so clean, thanks a lot Neil.

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Neil Patel May 10, 2009 at 9:12 PM

Cool! Let me know if you think I am missing anything.

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Ricardo Bueno May 10, 2009 at 9:10 PM

Well I gotta say that I certainly appreciate some of the resources in the Legal & Accounting section! (Don’t get me wrong, the other resources are great as well).

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Neil Patel May 10, 2009 at 9:12 PM

Thanks! That was probably one of the harder sections to create, but probably worth wile for first time entrepreneurs.

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Jay May 10, 2009 at 9:44 PM

Just wanted to say thanks for taking the time to compile all of these resources, very useful info all in one location!

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Neil Patel May 11, 2009 at 8:20 PM

No problem. 5 hours of my time will hopefully save others hundreds of hours. :)

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Harnish May 17, 2009 at 5:35 PM

Are you on delicious? And can you share your bookmarks there?

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Neil Patel May 17, 2009 at 7:16 PM

I don’t really use del.icio.us. :(

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Shanker Bakshi May 10, 2009 at 10:43 PM

Handful of information. I always love to see compilations. as you are a busy person, I’m still wondering how you manage to compile this list?

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Neil Patel May 11, 2009 at 8:21 PM

I just write stuff when I had time. It took me roughly 5 to 6 hours, but I did it while watching the NBA playoffs.

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Ceena May 10, 2009 at 11:04 PM

This is an awesome list. Will certainly share it. Lots of entrepreneurs will love this.

thanks Neil :)

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Neil Patel May 11, 2009 at 8:22 PM

Thanks! The more entrepreneurs that see this list, the better.

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AndreaZ May 11, 2009 at 12:04 AM

Nicely done Neil ;)

Very competitive list of resource for first time entrepreneurs.

I would like to add that becoming an entrepreneur you have to have flexible and creative mind and use it at its effective potential. If you want to survive at business I think it is vital to develop sound problem-solving skills, creativity, visual thinking and self-mastery.

So I would recommend reading a resource about mind innovations and it’s abilities at http://www.litemind.com

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Neil Patel May 11, 2009 at 8:24 PM

I added the site to the list.

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Harnish May 17, 2009 at 5:37 PM

Litemind is a great site. Very insightful.

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Neil Patel May 17, 2009 at 7:19 PM

Glad you like it. I just learned about it from AndreaZ.

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manish pandey May 11, 2009 at 12:31 AM

Really awesome resource Neil,these all of them are useful and important to become a good entrepreneurs.Really so much great information. thanks for the compilation.i will follow all of them….

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Neil Patel May 11, 2009 at 8:24 PM

I’m glad you took the time to look at all of the sites. They are all great.

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Dave Ash May 11, 2009 at 12:44 AM

Good list that, may I also add to this list the following sites which I’ve found invaluable within my business:

Accounting – http://www.arithmo.co.uk/
Web Design – http://alvit.de/handbook/
Internet Marketing – http://www.livewirecampaign.co.uk/

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Neil Patel May 11, 2009 at 8:34 PM

I have added alvit.de to the list. The other sites look more like service sites than informational sites.

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Jiju Alex May 11, 2009 at 1:36 AM

Hey Neil,
You are awesome man, I am a continues reader of your blog for the last two weeks, When I read each article, I am feeling like the things that I searched for years, you are explaining in your blog. I will call you an “Encyclopedia of small things”, greats things we all will get, but, we can’t always easily find small things that help to make these big things. Thanks a lot for these article, continue writing.

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Neil Patel May 11, 2009 at 8:35 PM

LOL, I don’t know if I could be called an Encyclopedia because I still have a lot to learn. But either way, I like it. :)

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Minnesota limo May 11, 2009 at 4:02 AM

Gr8 points Neil, I’m a web designer so always keep in mind that golden points.

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Neil Patel May 11, 2009 at 8:35 PM

No problem. If you know of any other good design resources that should be on the list, let me know.

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Hans Christian Dürr May 11, 2009 at 4:59 AM

Hi Neil,

that’s a really impressive list of resources, thanks a lot for sharing!

-Hans

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Neil Patel May 11, 2009 at 8:36 PM

No problem. I hope to see you back here again.

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fas May 11, 2009 at 5:00 AM

Those are some great resources Neil. Saw you at Dot Com Pho with John, nice tips you got.

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Neil Patel May 11, 2009 at 8:36 PM

Thanks! Yea, I was with John over the weekend… it is always fun hanging with him.

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Rachel May 11, 2009 at 5:24 AM

Wow, Neil, this is great! The Legal and Hiring Resources you’ve rounded up will be a big help to me — there’s a lot of steps that you don’t think about when expanding from freelancer to full fledged business.

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Neil Patel May 11, 2009 at 8:37 PM

Yep, that is why I included the hiring and legal. I still should have included other things like topics regarding business operations.

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Writer Dad May 11, 2009 at 5:32 AM

Many Neil, you don’t post often but you do post right. Fantastic resource page. Thanks. I’m off to tweet it.

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Neil Patel May 11, 2009 at 8:38 PM

Appreciate the words of encouragement. I’ll also try to post more often.

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Dr.S.Balaji May 11, 2009 at 5:33 AM

Neil,
Did you come across any such set of resources specifically suitable for India? If not, I would like to start one, may be, with your help.
Thanks.
Balaji

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Neil Patel May 11, 2009 at 8:39 PM

I haven’t, but a lot of the links should help you out no matter where you are located.

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Matt Hulett May 11, 2009 at 8:41 AM

Nice post, Neil. Since you are linking to one of my posts around raising money, here is another one that might be useful to your readers: http://tinyurl.com/b5fdnh

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Neil Patel May 11, 2009 at 8:41 PM

I would if you didn’t require people to sign up to get the free tools. ;)

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Eric Shafer May 11, 2009 at 9:34 AM

This post is awesome, all these resources should prove useful to anyone working as a freelancer or an entrepreneur.

Featured here: http://www.presidiacreative.com/web-picks-20/

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Neil Patel May 11, 2009 at 8:42 PM

Thanks for the link love!

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Joanna Seetoo Schiele May 11, 2009 at 9:49 AM

What a great guide! Thank you for putting this together and sharing it.

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Neil Patel May 11, 2009 at 8:42 PM

No problem. I will also try to blog more often.

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Brandie Kajino May 11, 2009 at 10:29 AM

Great roundup! Thanks for sharing it all. I really liked the Accounting & Legal as well.

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Neil Patel May 11, 2009 at 8:43 PM

Cool, hopefully it saves you from making the accounting mistakes I made.

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Mark May 11, 2009 at 10:45 AM

Great list. I have already been through a lot of the sections in terms of where my company is at, and I think you have a great mix there.

Definately covered the basics for beginners.

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Neil Patel May 11, 2009 at 8:43 PM

If you know of anything else I should have added to the list, please let me know.

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Mark May 12, 2009 at 4:43 AM

Actually I was trying to think of something when I wrote the original comment, but the only thing I could think of was that many states have Small Business startup check lists on their Secretary of State or Economic Development pages. I have used those checklists for several states already. But as those would be more customized solutions, it wouldn’t really have counted as another link.

One thing that really helped when I was researching VC was actually reading as many websites of VC’s as I could. Many have the same content about what they are looking for in terms of proposals and how to put together pitches. Several had step-by-step instructions on what should be included in pitches as well. If I remember the good ones, I will pass them along (it has been a couple years since I did that project).

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Neil Patel May 16, 2009 at 4:42 PM

Good point. Might as well follow what comes directly out of their mouth instead of taking a 3rd parties word for it.

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Dave May 11, 2009 at 10:48 AM

The truth is few entrepreneurs will ever qualify for venture capital. With a self-employed 401(k) loan one can access up to $50K of their retirement funds without tax penalty. You should add this website tip to your list of resources http://www.InvestSafe.com

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Neil Patel May 11, 2009 at 8:44 PM

You make a valid point, but Investsafe.com looks like a lead gen/service type of site. I can’t add it to the list… sorry.

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Michael D May 11, 2009 at 11:16 AM

So that’s what you were doing all weekend. Great list Neil, you’re productivity and attention to detail is impressive, especially since you make it appear effortless.

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Neil Patel May 11, 2009 at 8:45 PM

Glad you like it. It means a lot coming from an experienced entrepreneur like yourself.

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Mike Kim May 11, 2009 at 12:06 PM

Neil, thank you and all the bloggers out there that are so generous with their time and energy! An invaluable set of resources that will have me entertained and informed every time I have a break in my workflow.

You’re awesome.

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Neil Patel May 11, 2009 at 8:45 PM

No problem. Let me know if I can help you out in any other way.

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Andrew @ Primer Magazine May 11, 2009 at 1:26 PM

Neil, fantastic post! I’ve been looking for answers to some of these questions and this will prove to be an invaluable resource.

Thanks!

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Neil Patel May 11, 2009 at 8:47 PM

Awesome! I was hoping that it would help answer questions like it did for you.

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Jermaine Pleas May 11, 2009 at 1:41 PM

This is awesome info here….even down to reduce rent for business. I never really thought about it like this. Comes to show how businesses for business is taken serious in the world.

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Neil Patel May 11, 2009 at 8:47 PM

Sometimes it is easier to save money than it is to make it. ;)

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Duncan May 11, 2009 at 4:12 PM

Thanks for this post, an excellent resource.

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Neil Patel May 11, 2009 at 8:48 PM

Cool, I will try to write more useful posts in the future.

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Axel Schultze May 11, 2009 at 4:26 PM

Wow – that looks pretty complete. You did an awesome job. How about putting this on a wiki and let others add tips and thoughts. I founded 7 very successful companies – happy to contribute. Like business plan templates, or how to register a new company online for $500…

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Neil Patel May 11, 2009 at 8:51 PM

For me it is easier to keep it in a blog post format and just add to it when people recommend sites.

Leave a comment if you can with sites you would like to be added to the list.

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David Eedle May 11, 2009 at 5:23 PM

Neil, this is a terrific compilation. Even just as a checklist it has value, let alone the content behind the links.

Particularly issues to do with staffing, overheads, finance and legals – all the stuff that entrepreneurs discover is the oil that keeps the wheels turning, yet may not be the glamorous site of running a business.

Wish we’d had a list like this when we started our first online business back in 2000.

Cheers…

David Eedle
http://www.NicheContentMillionaire.com

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Neil Patel May 11, 2009 at 8:51 PM

It’s the basic things like staffing that we all tend to take for granted. ;-)

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Philippa Kennealy MD MPH CPCC PCC May 11, 2009 at 7:19 PM

Very handy – thanks a lot. Will be “re-blogging” this list later this week to my entrepreneurial docs (and then tweeting my blog post)! Like ripples in a pond …

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Neil Patel May 11, 2009 at 8:54 PM

Cool! Thanks for reblogging the post.

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cash-loans-uk May 11, 2009 at 7:36 PM

This list looks petty complete. Great Job Neil. But some sites do not seem to be vey inspiring design-wise.. but I am sure they will have great resource.. yet to explore them all

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Neil Patel May 11, 2009 at 8:54 PM

Yea, the designs may not be great, but the information is.

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Sachin May 11, 2009 at 8:04 PM

This is really a kind of Wikipedia for the first time entrepreneurs…Very useful and worth bookmarking post..THANK YOU.

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Neil Patel May 11, 2009 at 8:56 PM

I like the concept. I just need to make Quick Sprout the go to source for any entrepreneur advice.

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Minnesota limo May 11, 2009 at 9:26 PM

This is a wonderful resource for starters, it’s well written, nicely organized, and easy to read. Perhaps the most valuable contribution this resource can make for most entrepreneurs, especially those involved in technology-based ventures, is that it provides a strong foundation for conversations with an attorney.

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Neil Patel May 16, 2009 at 4:36 PM

Thanks! I have collected many of these sources over the years, so hopefully they will come in handy for you too.

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Alex May 12, 2009 at 1:04 AM

Great article!

I think that online business is a perfect area to start with minimum investments. You learn either web design or web programming and create your own web resource. The idea should be unique, otherwise this will be just waste of time. But if you really like something, for example dating, pets or games – whatever, you can create related website – online dating, pet food online shop or online gaming portal, and you will have success.

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Neil Patel May 16, 2009 at 4:38 PM

Yea, just look at Andrew Warner. He started a business with a few hundred dollars and it happened to be his business ended up making 8 figures a year.

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mark harrison May 12, 2009 at 2:15 AM

Thanks Neil…it is one of those lists that most of us commenting here would have liked to have compiled ourselves but you have just gone out and done it which puts procrastinators like me to shame!

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Neil Patel May 16, 2009 at 4:41 PM

No worries. I too am a procrastinator and should have done this years ago as well.

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Business May 12, 2009 at 9:39 AM

This is a must-read business post. I’m forwarding this to everyone I know. Thanks!

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Neil Patel May 16, 2009 at 4:47 PM

Awesome! Thanks for spreading it to your friends.

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Tara May 13, 2009 at 6:13 AM

Thanks, Neil — as always right to the point. Your research and effort has saved us tons of time and money. Looking forward to more info from you over time!

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Neil Patel May 16, 2009 at 4:53 PM

No problem. Best of luck with your business ventures.

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Harnish May 13, 2009 at 8:06 PM

Excellent post and compilation of resources. I will be tweeting and forwarding this to a bunch of my friends who will be very grateful to you Neil!

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Neil Patel May 16, 2009 at 5:06 PM

Cool. All the tweets have been helping with traffic.

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AJ Kumar May 14, 2009 at 12:52 AM

Neil you should add persuasive.net as it’s the fastest way to learn persuasive communication ;)

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Neil Patel May 16, 2009 at 5:06 PM

Once your blog becomes a bit more popular. ;-)

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AJ Kumar May 17, 2009 at 10:20 PM

lol…aright, give me a few more months and I’ll take it to 50k unique hits a month! :D

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Neil Patel May 18, 2009 at 11:08 AM

And once you get there, let me know. I will consider adding you. ;-)

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Brent May 14, 2009 at 5:17 AM

Neil,

Can I include this info somehow on thriveamerica.com?

~ Brent

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Neil Patel May 16, 2009 at 5:06 PM

You can.

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jan geronimo May 15, 2009 at 10:16 AM

I’m loving the legal and accounting section of your post. This is a very challenging area for me.

And look at that in the internet marketing section – those are helpful links you’ve got there. Ah, we’re getting to the good finds here. Thank you.

This post deserves a tweet. It’s the least I can do. It’s been very valuable after all. “,)

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Neil Patel May 16, 2009 at 5:09 PM

If you get the time, read the beginners guide to SEO. It will really help you.

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Peg May 15, 2009 at 7:11 PM

This has to be one of the best informative lists I’ve ever read. Like alot of the others, I wish I had it when I first started but there still is alot of information I can certainly use.

I’ll be busy tomorrow thanks to you!

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Neil Patel May 16, 2009 at 5:11 PM

Hopefully you will learn something new. :)

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Nathan Ketsdever May 16, 2009 at 10:56 AM

Great list Neil. Just wish their was some Paul Graham love in there. His essays simply rock! http://www.paulgraham.com/

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Neil Patel May 16, 2009 at 5:14 PM

I added Paul to the list.

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Lean Cuisine Coupons May 16, 2009 at 7:26 PM

Wow Neil,This is great resource for noobs like me.Takes a bit time to understand somethings though.

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Neil Patel May 17, 2009 at 3:48 PM

Yea, a lot of the legal and accounting stuff isn’t easy to grasp at first. But over time, you will get it.

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TheNextBigCloud May 17, 2009 at 10:58 PM

your blog becomes better and better. thanks for this list.

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Neil Patel May 18, 2009 at 11:10 AM

No problem. Hopefully it helps you out in some way or another.

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Susan Petracco May 18, 2009 at 5:25 AM

Great resource, I find this list really handy, particularly as its broken into sections where I can focus on my primary concern at any given time. Bookmarked :)

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Neil Patel May 18, 2009 at 11:14 AM

Thanks for bookmarking!

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Jason Williams May 18, 2009 at 10:28 AM

Entrepreneurs should count themselves lucky for your insightful posts are indeed a blessing!

Great work Neil!

Jason Williams.

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Neil Patel May 18, 2009 at 11:19 AM

Thanks Jason. I should be lucky for having entrepreneurs who are willing to reading my blog. ;-)

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TechMaine May 18, 2009 at 2:27 PM

Hi Neil,

Excellent resource – we also have an online Entrepreneur Handbook published at http://www.techmaine.com/entrepreneur-handbook – it is a bit location specific, but I think folks will find most of our resources of value.

Great to see the additional resources!

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Neil Patel May 19, 2009 at 3:20 PM

I like it. Even though it is only related to Maine, it is a good resource for anyone in Maine.

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Julie Hall May 18, 2009 at 8:38 PM

Hi Neil

Fantastic resource! I thought you might be interested in http://www.women-unlimited.co.uk which is an online magazine and training company supporting women entrepreneurs in the UK. Thanks for looking :)

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Neil Patel May 19, 2009 at 3:36 PM

Nice resource. I would add it, but it is targeted to mainly UK residents. :(

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Injury lawyer May 19, 2009 at 10:45 PM

I have read this most Neil it is a great but can you explain “Opening a Business Bank Account” what kind of account you are talking about? We can not use our personal account as business account.

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Neil Patel May 21, 2009 at 6:46 PM

The reason you want to keep them separate is because you don’t want to mix your personal finances with business finances.

Any account can work. Just open an account from a reputable bank.

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Custom Silicone Bracelets May 21, 2009 at 12:11 PM

Come out with a list of great Ideas after I had to hand in my Business plan for my final assignment gosh… lol

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Neil Patel May 21, 2009 at 6:47 PM

Ouch, that sucks. I could never write a business plan, it takes a lot of work and things change too often.

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Jon Bischke May 23, 2009 at 9:02 PM

Great list Neil! I recently taught an eduFire class called “Resources for Entrepreneurs”. It was before you published this list but if I teach it again I will definitely work this in! In the meantime, here are the slides from the presentation:

Resources for Entrepreneurs

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Neil Patel May 31, 2009 at 12:36 PM

Thanks for the link! Edufire is an awesome resource.

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Yogindernath May 26, 2009 at 7:53 PM

This information is really worth to read Neil.….I have never really thought like this. I would like to know more about “Opening a Business Bank Account” what kind of account is it? Moreover I believe that we should not use our own personal account for this.

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Neil Patel May 31, 2009 at 2:19 PM

It is going to be different for everyone, but I recommend reading http://www.bargaineering.com/articles/

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Rappers May 28, 2009 at 3:40 AM

Thanks for this Neil..I stumbled onto your blog from the DIYThemes.com homepage (I use the same theme :) …good to find a young Indian entrepreneur.

Getting a startup established in India, though, is about ten times as difficult – the legal details are just way too confusing and convoluted.

I’ve bookmarked this page already though..has a lot of very interesting resources

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Neil Patel May 31, 2009 at 2:36 PM

Thanks for letting me know where you came from. DIYThemes.com is an awesome site!

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Jerico Landingin June 24, 2009 at 11:52 AM

Hello Neil,
Awesome read. I’m just starting out. Saves me so much time b/c of the info u’ve provided. Thanks again.

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Neil Patel June 29, 2009 at 12:35 PM

No problem. Just make sure you share it with other entrepreneurs. ;-)

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Peter June 29, 2009 at 9:10 PM

Nice work you managed to get me to open a whole bunch of tabs. Now to do some reading. :)

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Neil Patel July 26, 2009 at 7:41 AM

Great Peter! I hope enjoy everything else as much as you did this one.

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FloridaPersonalInjurylawyer July 1, 2009 at 8:55 PM

The last day of a recession is the best day to start a business, the saying goes. So tackle the above steps in this article now – and be ready to ride the rebound when it comes.Thanks Neil

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Neil Patel July 23, 2009 at 10:30 PM

Work on your skills so when that day arrives, you can go 100%

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used tires July 4, 2009 at 1:11 PM

I have read this most Neil it is a great but can you explain “Opening a Business Bank Account” what kind of account you are talking about? We can not use our personal account as business account.

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Neil Patel July 26, 2009 at 7:53 AM

No, you want to go to your local bank and ask them to open up a separate business account. When it comes time to do taxes, P&L, etc. You want to be able to access information that’s clean and purely for your business, instead of going through each transaction to determine which is what.

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Worthy Posts July 6, 2009 at 8:30 PM

Great list, but even better is the category breakdowns. It can really help those starting out to think about some areas they haven’t even considered.

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Neil Patel July 26, 2009 at 10:21 AM

Yeah, I made this page a great source for people who need the help. Easy to access ;)

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Ricky Peterson July 6, 2009 at 10:15 PM

Really helpful resources Neil. I guess this will surely help me as i am in Early days of my blogging. Can you give me few inputs as to how can i increase traffic on my blog, at this point around 300 unique visitors are coming on the blog.

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Lapis lazuli July 8, 2009 at 1:26 AM

try to use some bookmarking site to increase your blog traffic.

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Neil Patel July 26, 2009 at 10:21 AM

Comment on Various blogs in your niche and write AMAZING content!

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Nina July 8, 2009 at 2:14 PM

Great resource Neil!
Nothing in your list about picking your first office though. There’s lots of office communities sprouting up in major metropolitan areas that cater especially to new start-up companies. These “turn-key” office solutions save entrepreneurs thousands with their all-inclusive packages.

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Neil Patel July 26, 2009 at 10:22 AM

hmm that’s pretty interesting. I would just advise you to be careful as many people will offer you start-up packages that end up taking away a lot of your capital.

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Life Coaching Online July 9, 2009 at 10:51 PM

Hi Neil,

This is really incredible and loads of excellent tips, links and advice. I wish I had seen your site when I was starting my business 10 years ago, would have saved me a load of time and effort.

Accountants and lawyers are 2 things you need to get right in business. Get that wrong and you are doomed.

Thanks for you wonderful site.

Tim

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Neil Patel July 26, 2009 at 10:23 AM

They are a BIG HELP. I made the wrong choice with my originally lawyer, but in the end, I got a new one and it all worked out. Never cheapen out when choosing an accnt or lawyer.

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cheapdvds July 9, 2009 at 11:42 PM

Thanks for this great list of resources, although I hope I’ll never have to use some of them (You’ve Been Sued: What Do You Do?, Closing Down Your Business Permanently etc.) ;)

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Neil Patel July 26, 2009 at 10:24 AM

haha, it’s important to have an All-star team, just in case.

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Pdf July 13, 2009 at 11:03 AM

I would like to add that becoming an entrepreneur you have to have flexible and creative mind and use it at its effective potential. If you want to survive at business I think it is vital to develop sound problem-solving skills, creativity, visual thinking and self-mastery.

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Neil Patel July 26, 2009 at 10:25 AM

Creativity is easily said to be a key to success. The more creative you are in your business, the more marketable you’ll be.

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Rapidshare July 13, 2009 at 11:05 AM

I founded 7 very successful companies – happy to contribute. Like business plan templates, or how to register a new company online for $500…

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Neil Patel July 26, 2009 at 10:26 AM

Sure, what resources do you have?

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Yoga Mat Review July 20, 2009 at 8:23 AM

Thanks for this, Neil. That surely, is gonna help a budding entrepreneur like me. What I want to know now is, is it better to start off a company after I do some successful freelancing or is there a better way off?

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Neil Patel July 26, 2009 at 10:27 AM

You can start off whenever, but if you have some kind of platform to work off of, it will give you that extra boost you’re looking for.

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Suite 171 September 21, 2009 at 7:29 AM

Looks like you have some good tools for many people. I always go back to the basics when things seem to change or aren’t going as expected.

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Neil Patel September 21, 2009 at 9:26 PM

Many people try and look for the advanced tools, gizmos, and gadgets while the simplest ones are the ones that usually do the trick.

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How to WordPress October 2, 2009 at 9:14 PM

Thanks for the awesome resources. I’ve been looking for a post like this that links to a variety of different articles and guides. It sure beats surfing the web trying to find them all.

Thanks again!

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Neil Patel October 5, 2009 at 8:39 AM

Its definitely your one stop shop

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Ruby on Rails Craftsman November 9, 2009 at 3:57 AM

Hi Neil,

You have got a very nice list there. I also read your entrepreneurial journey and was really inspired by it. I wish you all the best in your current and future endeavors.
Can you please suggest us some good resources on picking up company names? I like your crazyegg and kissmetrics :) .

Thanks,
Ruby on Rails Craftsman.

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Neil Patel November 10, 2009 at 10:40 PM

Well, just create some names and ask people you trust and admire for their feedback.

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satrap November 11, 2009 at 2:49 PM

this is great. thanks man. its like having your own library of greatest books for becoming a successful Entrepreneurs. it takes time and effort to get all of these resources together. i thank you for doing this selflessly.

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Neil Patel November 11, 2009 at 10:06 PM

That’s great to hear! The more resources you have available to you, the easier it will be for you make informed decisions.

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Guru Sanket Biswal November 20, 2009 at 11:58 AM

This is like the best resource ever for a beginner … I’m a student n am about begin a startup with few my pals n the resources mentioned here is gonna help start from an entire another level … Thnx a lot to you :)

You have no idea how grateful I’m :)

PS: I cant even believe that you reply to all your comments. Well, I’ll be waiting for mine

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Neil Patel November 21, 2009 at 11:40 AM

I’m glad you enjoyed it. You getting the help you need to start up and make your venture into a success is my goal. I’m always happy to contribute.

I reply to every comment because you took the time to comment on my blog, I feel it’s necessary for me to respond to you. :)

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Online Profits November 25, 2009 at 5:41 AM

Hi Neil,

Wow… What a great source of info… One of the best I’ve come across… Will definately save many many hours… This is exactly the kind of post that many starting out need…

Great job!

Thanks so much for making it avaiable.

Brye

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Neil Patel November 26, 2009 at 4:11 PM

No problem Brye, but it really comes down to whether or not you apply it in your business (obviously with methods of trial and failure). Otherwise, this helpful will be just that… helpful information.

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Cherilynn December 10, 2009 at 3:57 PM

Awesome resource! Thank you for this information. I will be awhile going through it all.

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machbio December 20, 2009 at 8:31 AM

great list.. i missed this one after all these days.. following ur blog

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Neil Patel December 20, 2009 at 10:02 PM

Well at least you found it now! Make sure you subscribe to be informed with all the new updates.

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mma pound for pound December 21, 2009 at 1:51 PM

great list neil, it help us for learn, your’ entrepreneur is very awesome, thank’s very much neil…

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Neil Patel December 24, 2009 at 11:18 PM

I’m glad you found it useful bud… let’s just make sure you’re able to apply it in your business.

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GonulCafe December 28, 2009 at 8:12 AM

Great list. I have already been through a lot of the sections in terms of where my company is at, and I think you have a great mix there.

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Neil Patel December 28, 2009 at 6:28 PM

Thanks bud… I have been through a heap of mess so I just like to share with my readers with what I do that works and most importantly… what doesn’t.

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Quality Motto December 31, 2009 at 4:55 PM

I really lack of accounting skills, your list seems very important for me. Thanks for that! Yet for some of them, I have learned so many times, so I may ignore it.

PS: What I like from your ideas is that anywhere, you always tell us to have a frugal life. It really inspires me now. :D

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Neil Patel January 3, 2010 at 3:08 PM

Well don’t ignore it because they are important to implement and integrate if you haven’t done so already. Keep your inspired emotion and take action on something right away.

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Joe @ Small Business Ideas February 16, 2010 at 7:22 AM

Great Resource Collection.

I’d say this is one of the most complete resourse list for start ups all on one page.

Good Stuff,

and nice TrackBacks.

Thank Neil

Joe @ Small business ideas

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Neil Patel February 17, 2010 at 11:35 PM

Thanks Joe, glad you found it useful.

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Maurelle Mejos February 26, 2010 at 9:09 AM

This site is so informative and the people are so serious when it comes to commenting. By the way, thanks for the share of usefull tools and sites. I’l be visiting those.

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Neil Patel February 27, 2010 at 3:12 PM

Sometimes people take what I write too seriously, which is fine because I’m more than happy to clear it up.

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Spam Check March 6, 2010 at 9:50 PM

Hey Neil, thanks for this very comprehensive post about Entrepreneur. I can use this on my Entrep subject in school. Cheers!

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JP March 29, 2010 at 8:11 AM

Thank you Neil for the resources. I would also recommend Nathan Lustig’s comprehensive list, Entrepreneur 101.

http://www.nathanlustig.com/entrepreneur-101/

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Neil Patel April 2, 2010 at 9:19 PM

Thanks for sharing that JP!

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Cheapshock April 20, 2010 at 4:59 AM

The steps of being the first time entrepreneurs doesn’t seem easy. Many things have to be researched. Thank you for the resource lists. At least, it let us know that what issue we have to consider. Great stuff!!

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Neil Patel April 24, 2010 at 7:02 PM

Research is critical to any entrepreneur’s success… so is persistence ;)

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Karthick May 10, 2010 at 5:59 AM

This is a great reference book.

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Neil Patel May 11, 2010 at 3:57 PM

Thanks! Yes that was my goal, to make is a powerful source for entrepreneurs to use.

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Inner Game May 22, 2010 at 3:46 PM

wonderful list, thanks , the ones i will use the most right now is web design, we(me) tend to underestimare its importance

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Neil Patel May 23, 2010 at 8:19 AM

That’s fantastic…. anyone of them is helpful and will make a difference.

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Win Online June 7, 2010 at 11:36 AM

I will look into v finance for my company. Probably will have to make it a LLC. But I remember reading your article about venture capitol lists not really investing into LLC’s..

So many decisions you have to make it is crazy man!

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Neil Patel June 9, 2010 at 6:01 PM

You should probably consult with an expert in your area to see what works best for you.

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Jess June 9, 2010 at 8:00 AM

I’m glad there are resources like this available. I’ve seen good friends ruined because they jumped in with a very romantic, idealistic idea of what it would be to run their own business. No formal business training, no idea of the mechanics of how a business works and it’s so dangerous.

Personally, I think you need to work for someone else before you’re prepared to work for yourself.

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Neil Patel June 9, 2010 at 6:27 PM

I think that’s a great idea as you can learn so much from people that have “been there and done that”

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Brett July 1, 2010 at 10:34 PM

Great Resource, I’ll be back with a coffee and an hour spare to go through in detail.

A motivation speaker said to me once, You either pay now, or you pay later. Either way your going to pay.

It often less expensive to pay now, so keep that in mind when your thinking of skipping an important step just because of the cost.

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Neil Patel July 6, 2010 at 9:07 PM

lol, I like that a lot! It makes a lot of sense.

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Hermes Birkin July 10, 2010 at 1:16 AM

Money can`t buy Happiness? Whoever said that doesn`t know where to buy.
Buyhermesbirkin offers the high quality Hermes bags and services.
No matter it is the classic Birkin bag, or the Kelly and Lindy bag,
or the latest new designs, you can find them here. Just selecting one,
you will be the next Victoria in the street. – Comes from Shuna Sun

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Brett July 16, 2010 at 7:39 AM

I think there is another way to look at this…

The first time thought I made ….this many mistakes.
Then the next time the list gets smaller…
Then a little smaller…
Then smaller…

And someone say one day, hey you an over night success..
Yeh right..

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Neil Patel July 17, 2010 at 10:11 AM

lol, yeah that’s usually how it works. I’m over night success, it only took 10 years.

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How To Increase Sales July 26, 2010 at 3:56 PM

Sometimes I could use a wise word from a (Kung Fu) Grand Master. Someone who has traveled the road before, that could provide a wise word when needed.

It sure feels lonely sometimes that you have no one to turn to and talk about the project I am working on.

Then again, they would probably rap it in a riddle, that would not make any sense.

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Neil Patel July 27, 2010 at 9:34 PM

not clear on what you mean.

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