Finding your inner entrepreneur

As for contacts, you'd be surprised just how many people you know who could be very useful when you start your own business and would be delighted to be so: ex-bosses and ex-colleagues who may be able to advise you or introduce you to people who can; supportive friends and family; people with money to invest; and acquaintances in the media, who might help you to publicise your new business.

Remember that friend of a friend who is a graphic designer and would be happy to design your logo for free, or cheaply, or an uncle who is a printer and could give you credit on your first marketing materials. Think hard if you know anyone who is, or is married to, a tax expert or a lawyer. They can be very important. Even include your teenage children whose computer skills could be a tremendous help.

Don't feel guilty using people. Just be prepared to help others in return.

Next in the series

Read more from Lynne Franks' SEED Handbook: the feminine way to create business.