The best time to get your office organized is right now, before you even start your business.
It makes your productively so much more efficient when things are organized. So I encourage you to get in the habit and start now.
The directory lists only one vendor per page. The reason is so that all orders and notes pertaining to that vendor can be recorded easily. It has a space for who you talked to at that company.
There is also a chart where you can list your orders with each vendor. How you paid for the order, and when it was received. Plus any special notes that you will find helpful. There is also a Master Copy included, that you can photo copy and continue the process once you fill the original chart. As time goes on, these charts will prove very valuable to you for comparing costs, not only for products but also for shipping costs, delays, back orders, how returns are handled, etc. But only if you take the time to fill them out.
File folders will also prove to be very helpful. Make a folder for each vendor and put your invoices into each one. Although most of these vendors are listed on the internet and have a website, some of them may also have a print catalog. If they do have a catalog, I encourage you to order one. These catalogs are useful in comparing products and you can do that while enjoying the fresh outdoors. No need to stay inside on those wonderful days.
After all, you are now your own boss and can do as you like. Put these catalogs into each folder as well.
This is also a good time to decide if any outsourcing will be done.
If you don’t like to do something, and you find that you put it on the back burner and it never gets done, those are the things to outsource. Maybe it’s taxes. Get an accountant to do that. Maybe it’s web design. Although that can be outsourced as well, you will benefit if you get some knowledge in how your website is set-up and how to make changes on it.
Having a separate checking account for your business is a good idea. Do it right from the start. If you are planning on using a credit or debit card, try to only use one. It makes keeping track of finances so much easier.
Also, be sure to follow all guidelines for resale numbers, business licenses, etc. Run your business like a professional.
Most of your shipping supplies can be obtained right from the post office. When shipping an order to your customer, putting a delivery confirmation on the box will insure that your package is tracked, right up to delivery.
Be sure to use insurance when shipping breakable products. Even with packaging well, breakage may occur. Follow through with your customer to remedy the situation and your customer will be happy with your "service after the sale". A happy life-long customer is an asset to your business.
Sending updates to your customers, directing them back to your web-site on new arrivals, special offers, close-outs and upcoming holidays, will increase your bottom line. Make a habit of marketing your business. Set aside some time each week to think about advertising your business. Then do it.
To be successful, you need customers. Happy customers will spread the word about your business. Have a link on your website that they can send an announcement to a friend saying, "I thought you would like this site". Wholesale Fashion Cufflink
