Running a successful small business involves more than just working for yourself.

Before you leap in you need to consider three important aspects:

• Will the business satisfy your needs?
• Do you have enough skills to run the business?
• Do you have a sound business proposition?

Experience suggests you are more likely to succeed if there is a good match between your business venture and your skills, interests and motivations.

Some tips on starting a business:

• Learn as much as you can about your proposed business.  Use networks like business associations and ask questions.
• Be realistic about the effort, time and money it will take.
• Keep accurate financial and customer records from the start.
• Find a good accountant, lawyer, banker and insurance agent.