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Snorkeling offers some of scuba diving’s visual benefits, but does not
require certification or expensive dive gear. A snorkeler requires only a
mask, fins and a snorkel that allows him to breathe air from the
surface. Many snorkelers flock to tropical destinations, such as the
Caribbean and Hawaii, as those snorkeling sites offer crystal-clear
water through which to view colorful fish and underwater habitats. Gulf
of Mexico waters near Houston vary in visibility because of strong
currents, but other Texas coastal destinations, such as South Padre
Island, offer sufficiently clear water to provide attractive snorkeling
destinations.
Step 1
Structure your snorkeling business. Work with a Certified Public Accountant to select the best organizational structure for your snorkeling business. Common business formats include sole proprietorships, S corporations and limited liability companies. Ask your accountant to list the advantages and disadvantages of each business entity. Request examples of similar recreational businesses operating under each structure.Step 2
Complete your organizational and licensing logistics. Contact your city or county clerk’s office to obtain a business license, and ask about other permits needed to operate in that jurisdiction. In the Houston area, the process is streamlined to encourage small business development. Call or visit the City of Houston’s One Stop Business Center for free license and permit information, referrals to other agencies and a “Getting Started” Packet addressing many business concerns.Step 3
Meet your insurance and tax requirements. Work with a commercial insurance agent familiar with the risks of service businesses, as well as the special circumstances encountered by a water-based recreational business. Ask about business liability insurance, as well as your need for other liability coverage. Contact your state department of revenue about your need for a sales tax license.Step 4
Lease a business and equipment storage location. Locate a visible, convenient storefront that includes rental equipment storage space. If you plan to conduct retail equipment sales, ensure your location has sufficient floor display space. Contact your city’s zoning department to confirm the city allows a retail business at that location. Work with a sign-maker to create colorful exterior signage that showcases your snorkeling business.Step 5
List your snorkeling business competitors. Identify other regional businesses that conduct snorkeling trips and also rent or sell snorkeling equipment. Many dive shops sell snorkeling equipment in addition to scuba gear, so these shops represent your primary retail competition. List accessible big box and sporting goods stores as well.Step 6
Purchase your wholesale snorkeling equipment. Estimate the number of people you can easily accommodate on a snorkeling trip, and list the collective snorkeling equipment required for those customers. Include snorkels, masks and fins for adults and children. Stock gear-transport bags, and consider beach shoes and sun protection gear. Order additional equipment to adequately stock your retail operation, if applicable.Step 7
Outfit a snorkeling trip transport vehicle. Ask your accountant if it is appropriate to purchase or lease a vehicle to transport your customers to snorkeling destinations. Based on her advice, obtain a suitable vehicle, such as a multiple-seat van. Consult your state department of motor vehicles for licensing and registration requirements. Work with a sign company to create colorful exterior vehicle graphics that serve as a mobile billboard.Step 8
Hire personable and experienced staff. Find outgoing employees who are
familiar with regional snorkeling and diving destinations. Post campus
bulletin board notices for college students with flexible schedules.
Place newspaper help-wanted ads for workforce veterans seeking a new
career. Outfit your staff in matching attire for a professional image.Step 9
Market your snorkeling business. Work with a graphics designer to create colorful rack cards that vividly describe your snorkeling business. Ask regional visitor centers to add your cards to their centers’ displays. Contact hotel marketing directors about favorable snorkeling trip rates for hotel guests. Call your city’s convention and visitors’ bureau about upcoming recreational expositions. Showcase your snorkeling business in front of prospects seeking an enjoyable water-based experience with a minimum investment.Things Needed
- Sketch of your exterior building signage
- List of regional dive shops
- List of regional big box stores
- List of regional sporting goods stores
- Wholesale snorkeling equipment order
- Written requirements for a transport vehicle
- Sketch of your transport vehicle graphics
- Copy for campus bulletin board notices
- Copy for help-wanted ads
- Matching staff attire
- Written rack card information
- List of regional visitor centers
- List of regional hotels
- List of regional recreational expos
Nice I also share with you something hope this helpful for you my friends. Don't let a Realtor (who represents landlords) show you space all over town. This will effectively create commission splitting between the property's listing agent and the outside agent. It will also undermine your negotiating power, as the agent will know how you feel about every location. Realtors may be helpful in pointing out a good location--but will they negotiate aggressively on your behalf if it means jeopardizing their landlord-paid commission? (The higher the rent, the higher the agent's commission.) Even the most altruistic agent will struggle trying to serve two masters. Check it out thanks.
ReplyDeletesmall business leasing