In the age of high-speed internet, cloud-based tools, and a shifting workplace culture, the idea of working from anywhere is open to anyone. Whether you’re imagining a beach in Bali or a café in Lisbon, the digital nomad lifestyle is entirely achievable. But how do you actually get started?
Why Start a Remote Business?
There are so many reasons you might consider going solo. From freedom and flexibility to the sheer adventure and the ability to build a business that works around your life. And in today’s global market, you can hire or serve people from anywhere in the world. Creating a far-reaching business with no office rent, no commuting, and fewer bills. The appeal is great, it’s just not always easy to get things started.
Everything You Need to Know About Starting a Remote Business
Choose the Right Business Model
Not all businesses are created equal when it comes to remote viability. You can’t just work to your skillset. You have to choose a model that you can run from anywhere. This might be:
- Freelancing or consulting
- E-commerce
- SaaS or tech startup
- Company formation
- Content creation
- Online education
Formally Incorporate Your Business
Even if you’re working from a hammock in Costa Rica, your business needs a legal base. That’s where company incorporation software comes in – more on that later. But why incorporate? Basically, incorporation adds legitimacy to your business, helping build client trust. You’ll need a legal entity to open business accounts and accept payments. It can unlock tax benefits, depending on your setup. And, importantly, having a formal structure (like an LLC) separates your personal and business liabilities.
Use Company Formation Software
Setting up a new business can be complicated and often expensive. But with modern company formation software, you can bypass the pain. It not only helps you to rapidly register your business online. But if you choose well, it can help you to choose a business structure, gain an employer identification number (EIN) and work through legal documents and compliance. And in the longer term, it gives you the option to manage your tax filings remotely. You can even make a business out of it yourself by providing company formation services to others. With eFiling, we provide the software and the infrastructure; you support the customers.
Set Up Your Business Essentials
Once you’re incorporated, you have a few more important matters to deal with. You’ll need to set up a business bank account, organise payment gateways, onboard accounting tools, and prepare your paperwork, such as contracts and other legal documentation. If you’re intending to take on employees or freelancers, communication tools, such as Slack, Zoom, and Monday can help with team and project management.
Build Your Brand and Online Presence
If you’re working online, you need a strong online brand and presence. This means defining your niche and creating a website to match. Maximise the potential of SEO and content marketing. And use social proof – testimonials and customer feedback – to build your status.
Attract Clients
Finding clients can be the hardest part of starting a business. Many people start by signing up to freelance networks. If that’s not viable to you, reach out to friends, family, and acquaintances, asking for referrals or collaborations. Paid ads and pitching can also be useful if you have the budget.
Go Remote
Once you’re up and running, you can take your business on the road. But you also need to take precautions. Laptops can be broken or go missing, so using cloud-based tools and storing everything in the cloud is the safest option. Only travel to places where you can rely on a good internet connection. And don’t forget to keep track of client time zones – don’t make promises that your circadian rhythm may prevent, returns and even contractor payments isn’t always easy. Your company incorporation software can help you to track annual filing deadlines. And it can be worth investing in other software to remind and support you with other matters of compliance.
Starting a remote business is more accessible than ever. With the right tools – and mindset – you can build a profitable business that fits in your backpack.
Ready to begin? Get in touch with eFiling to discuss launching your own company formation business.
