Three strategies for startup success

The media loves to show startups as independent from the traditional marketplace, portraying them as scrappy underdogs destined to turn the market on its head. While this has been the case for a select few projects, most startups experience trials that can be devastating to the unprepared. Below are strategies to avoid the most common mistakes startups and small businesses make.

• Welcome challenges: The start of a new project can be frantic, and it is easy to be swept up in the excitement of future prospects. As plans turn into reality,  it is important to stay alert for incoming hurdles. Prepare for each new challenge as best you can, but be careful to keep options open for the future. Forbes reminds business owners that challenges will grow with your company, so try to remain as flexible as possible and budget resources accordingly.

• Don't be afraid to ask for help: There is a wealth of information online both in special interest forums and social media circles. Research market blogs, get to know other projects and interact with people within the community. Not only does this increase the visibility of your own endeavor, but you also can gain valuable insight into what strategies the competition are employing. Shel Horowitz, author of Grassroots Marketing: Getting Noticed in a Noisy World, advises in an interview with Entrepreneur, "If you find someone who knows what they're doing, it might be a good idea to hire them on a consulting basis for a few hours. That way, you get the advice you need without committing to a full-time salary."

• Manage overhead costs: Every dollar saved is a dollar than can be reinvested in your company. Virtual offices are perfect for businesses that do not yet have a fixed address or lack the space to host clients. On Point Executive Center offers a range of a la carte services, including a fully equipped mail room to send and receive correspondence, receptionist services and customized call handling. 

"The staff and management's professionalism, courtesy, friendliness, commitment to detail and customer service is what has kept us with On Point. My partner, my employees, our clients and potential customers have all been consistently treated with respect and consideration by all members of the staff at On Point Executive Center," said Jack 'Z' of ATi Services of Tampa, Inc.