Future-Ready Entrepreneur Checklist: From Employee to Business Owner

Looking to take control of your career and go from employee to entrepreneur? This checklist helps you to get started on your business journey

Foundation Readiness

• [ ] Clear business concept with defined target market

• [ ] Market research conducted to validate demand

• [ ] Unique value proposition articulated

• [ ] Business model with clear revenue streams defined

• [ ] Initial financial projections completed (12-24 months)

• [ ] Personal emergency fund established (3-6 months of expenses)

• [ ] Business registered with appropriate Canadian authorities

• [ ] Business banking accounts established separately from personal accounts

Operations Infrastructure

• [ ] Core business processes documented

• [ ] Project/task management system implemented

• [ ] Customer relationship management (CRM) solution selected

• [ ] Digital tools for productivity and collaboration identified

• [ ] Payment processing system established

• [ ] Accounting system implemented

• [ ] Data backup and security protocols established

• [ ] Virtual or physical workspace optimized for productivity

Skills & Knowledge Assessment

• [ ] Industry-specific technical skills inventory completed

• [ ] Financial literacy self-assessment conducted

• [ ] Digital marketing capabilities evaluated

• [ ] Sales process knowledge assessed

• [ ] Time management and productivity systems established

• [ ] Leadership and team management approach defined

• [ ] Negotiation and contract management skills evaluated

• [ ] Customer service philosophy and standards established

Growth & Scaling Preparation

• [ ] Growth metrics defined and tracking system established

• [ ] Client acquisition strategy documented

• [ ] Networking and partnership opportunities identified

• [ ] Content strategy for thought leadership developed

• [ ] Automation opportunities for routine tasks identified

• [ ] Delegation strategy for non-core activities planned

• [ ] Contingency plans for various growth scenarios prepared

• [ ] Exit or succession planning considerations documented

Canadian-Specific Considerations

• [ ] GST/HST registration requirements understood

• [ ] Provincial business regulations researched and addressed

• [ ] Canadian tax obligations and potential deductions identified

• [ ] Canadian grants and support programs for entrepreneurs explored

• [ ] Local business networks and resources identified

• [ ] Industry-specific Canadian regulations understood

• [ ] Canadian intellectual property protection needs assessed

• [ ] Canadian privacy laws compliance requirements addressed

Digital Presence Development

• [ ] Domain name secured

• [ ] Professional email established

• [ ] Website or online presence created

• [ ] Social media accounts established on relevant platforms

• [ ] Google Business Profile optimized

• [ ] Online review management strategy developed

• [ ] Digital content creation process established

• [ ] Analytics set up to track online performance

Financial Management Fundamentals

• [ ] Startup costs fully calculated

• [ ] Pricing strategy established

• [ ] Cash flow projection created

• [ ] Invoicing system implemented

• [ ] Expense tracking system established

• [ ] Tax obligation schedule created

• [ ] Financial review cadence established

• [ ] Financial contingency plan developed

Work-Life Integration Planning

• [ ] Working hours and availability defined

• [ ] Boundaries established with clients/customers

• [ ] Physical workspace ergonomically optimized

• [ ] Support network of fellow entrepreneurs established

• [ ] Health and wellness maintenance plan created

• [ ] Productivity rhythms identified and leveraged

• [ ] Family/personal commitments protected in schedule

• [ ] Regular business performance reviews scheduled

How to Use Your Score:

• 56-64 checks: Entrepreneur Ready – You've built a solid foundation for success

• 40-55 checks: Nearly There – Focus on addressing your unchecked items

• 24-39 checks: Building Momentum – Prioritize foundational elements first

• 0-23 checks: Early Stages – Consider working with a business advisor to develop your readiness plan

Next Steps: Contact Intero Solutions for a comprehensive Operations as a Service consultation to address your specific operational gaps and accelerate your entrepreneurial journey with confidence.

This checklist is provided by Intero Solutions as a free resource for aspiring Canadian entrepreneurs. For personalized operational support, contact our team at info@interosolutions.ca