“ONE MAN…” might be a great way to start a movie preview, but it’s no way to start a business. Far fewer American dreams are built on a single pair of shoulders than the movie industry might have you believe. In the long run, more often than not, it’s the great team-builders that rule the day. In other words, when your small business starts facing big decisions, your most important choice might be the company you keep.

Small Business Lawyer
Incorporating a business isn’t just the first step toward legally operating your company — it’s your first opportunity to seek out a long-term legal partner. As your business grows, you’ll want a well-rounded attorney who can meet your various small business needs as they arise, so don’t take this decision lightly. You’ll want to fill this role before your business even gets off the ground.

Banker
For legal and financial purposes, you’ll want to begin treating your business as a separate entity from yourself (even if you’re a sole proprietor) right from the beginning. Once you’re equipped with a state-issued Tax ID number, you’ll want to talk to a Banker to get your corporate accounts in the books. These may include loans, checking, and credit card accounts, depending on the specifics of your business.

Accountant/CPA
Tax season might only come once a year, but the task you’ll face in properly managing and tracking your finances is a year-round responsibility. Since the decisions you make in the way you manage your money can drastically effect your tax premium, you’ll want to connect with an experienced Certified Public Accountant (CPA) as soon as possible. Try to seek one out within your first month of running the business.

Insurance Agent
The incorporation process can protect you as an individual, but your business needs its own safety net to stand up to the elements. Your insurance agent will make it their mission to cover your assets — with policies in general liability, worker’s comp, key man insurance, business disruption and more. Just as it is for the other important things in your life, a good insurance plan for your business can be the key to a good night’s sleep. — so the sooner you meet your agent, the better.

Business Consultant
It’s dangerous to steer the ship alone when you’re caught in the eye of the storm. To ensure you stay on course for success, you’ll want a strong business consultant watching over your operations from outside the organization. By combining an outside perspective with a wide array of business knowledge, a good business consultant can help you set your goals, plan your business, maintain your focus and realign as necessary along the way.

Marketing Consultant
Many entrepreneurs make the mistake of viewing marketing as an expense — the fact is, it’s an investment. From the foundational elements that establish your brand to the overall strategy for finding and engaging your target audience, a good marketing agency or consultant will act as an extension of your company — using their expertise to help you reach your business goals.

Running a business isn’t easy, but a trusted group of advisers can make it a lot less overwhelming. Just remember, you can answer every question the world will ever throw at you — all you’ve got to know is who to ask.