Ending Soon! Save 33% on All Access

10 Things All Entrepreneurs Must Do Before Quitting Their Day Job The steps you must take to turn a side hustle into a full-fledged business.

By Nina Zipkin

Before running a business full time, many entrepreneurs toggle between their day job and a dedicated side hustle. So how do you know when it's time to take the leap and leave your steadier gig behind? If you can check these items off your list, consider your decision made and exit your current job on a positive and graceful note. And for four more indispensable startup tips, check out the video above.

Related: 5 Tips from Entrepreneur Pros on Starting a Business

  1. Research. Do the requisite market research, talk to potential customers and scope out your competition.
  2. Legal. Engage an attorney to trademark your ideas and incorporate the business.
  3. Web presence. Buy a domain and build a dynamic website. Make sure customers have a way to get in touch with you and your team.
  4. Money. Open a bank account specifically for your business
  5. Social media. Find the platforms that work for you and start building the support of your customers.
  6. Identity. Develop a consistent brand from your logo to your voice on social media.
  7. Team building. Work with like-minded co-founders and assemble a support network of investors and advisors.
  8. Business plan. Can't take action without one.
  9. Budget. Make sure you have clear, separate books for both your business and personal expenses.
  10. Presentation. You're going to have to share your vision with many people as you get the company off the ground. Get your business proposal presentation in top shape.

Related: 4 Hidden Elements of Leadership to Learn Before Starting Up

Nina Zipkin

Entrepreneur Staff

Staff Writer. Covers leadership, media, technology and culture.

Nina Zipkin is a staff writer at Entrepreneur.com. She frequently covers leadership, media, tech, startups, culture and workplace trends.

Want to be an Entrepreneur Leadership Network contributor? Apply now to join.

Business News

'Creators Left So Much Money on the Table': Kickstarter's CEO Reveals the Story Behind the Company's Biggest Changes in 15 Years

In an interview with Entrepreneur, Kickstarter CEO Everette Taylor explains the decision-making behind the changes, how he approaches leading Kickstarter, and his advice for future CEOs.

Career

Is Consumer Services a Good Career Path for 2024? Here's the Verdict

Consumer services is a broad field with a variety of benefits and drawbacks. Here's what you should consider before choosing it as a career path.

Business Ideas

87 Service Business Ideas to Start Today

Get started in this growing industry, with options that range from IT consulting to childcare.

Business Models

How to Become an AI-Centric Business (and Why It's Crucial for Long-Term Success)

Learn the essential steps to integrate AI at the core of your operations and stay competitive in an ever-evolving landscape.