Start Your Business, One Step At A Time

Starting out? Starting again?
Perhaps you have an idea for a business but are unsure what to do first. Or perhaps you tried before, bought a few things, got lost in advice and stopped. That can happen to anyone. You can pick things up again, one decision at a time.

I’m Mark Gossage. I made this site for people who want straightforward help getting a business off the ground, whether you work alone, serve people locally or plan to sell online.

What do you actually need?
First, get clear on what you offer and who it is for. Then think about how people will find you, understand what you do and get in touch. A website, a business email address or a way to collect payments may help, but what you need first depends on your business.

You do not have to buy every tool on day one. My free Business Essentials Guide takes you through the main decisions in plain English. It helps you work out what you need now, what might help later and what you can leave alone for the time being.

What is in the guide?
A simple starting checklist covering your offer, where people can find you, your business name and web address, ways for customers to contact or pay you, keeping in touch with their permission, and checking what is working. It explains why each part may matter and what to consider before spending money.

What happens after I sign up?
Enter your email and confirm it using the message we send. You will then receive the guide, followed by emails looking at individual tools and services, how they work, who they might suit and when you may be better off waiting. I will also share useful updates when something changes.

My promise to you
Work through the free guide and the first few emails, and you’ll know which core tools make sense for your business, why you might need each one and what can wait. You’ll have a reason for your choices instead of another long list of things to buy.

Can I trust a recommendation?
I want you to know why I suggest a tool, where it falls short and whether it suits someone just starting out. Some links may earn me a commission if you choose to buy. I will say when that applies. The guide is free, and you do not have to buy anything I recommend.

You can unsubscribe from the emails at any time. Take the guide, make your first decision and move at a pace that works for you.