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Guide to Starting a Business: Top Ten Tips

Starting a business is an exciting journey, but it comes with challenges that require careful planning and execution. Whether you’re launching a freelance career, a tech startup, or a retail business, setting yourself up for success is key. At Hangr Coworks, we support entrepreneurs at every stage of their journey, so here are our top ten tips to help you start your business on the right foot.

1. Define Your Business Idea

Start with a clear vision. Identify what problem your business solves, who your target market is, and what makes your offering unique. Research the industry and competitors to ensure there is demand for your product or service.

2. Create a Business Plan

A business plan serves as your roadmap for success. Outline your mission, target audience, revenue model, marketing strategy, and financial projections. A solid plan will not only keep you focused but also help attract investors or secure loans if needed.

3. Set Up a Legal Structure

Decide on the best legal structure for your business—sole proprietorship, LLC, partnership, or corporation. Each has different tax implications and liability protections, so consult a legal or financial professional to choose the right one.

4. Register Your Business and Obtain Licenses

Ensure your business is legally compliant by registering it with the appropriate state and federal agencies. Obtain any necessary licenses, permits, or industry-specific certifications required to operate.

5. Manage Finances Wisely

Open a separate business bank account to keep personal and business finances distinct. Track your expenses, set a budget, and consider using accounting software like QuickBooks or Wave. If possible, work with a CPA to understand tax obligations and financial best practices.

6. Build Your Brand and Online Presence

Your brand is how customers perceive you. Create a memorable logo, develop a professional website, and establish a presence on social media platforms relevant to your audience. A strong online presence helps build credibility and attract customers.

7. Develop a Marketing Strategy

Promote your business through a mix of online and offline marketing tactics. Use social media, email marketing, networking events, and SEO to reach your audience. Leverage the power of community spaces like Hangr Coworks to connect with other entrepreneurs and potential clients.

8. Focus on Networking and Relationships

Building relationships is crucial for business growth. Attend networking events, join business groups, and collaborate with other professionals. Coworking spaces like Hangr Coworks provide an ideal environment for connecting with like-minded individuals and potential business partners.

9. Stay Organized and Manage Your Time

As a business owner, time management is essential. Use productivity tools like Trello, Asana, or Google Calendar to stay on track. Set daily, weekly, and monthly goals to measure progress and maintain momentum.

10. Be Adaptable and Keep Learning

The business landscape is constantly evolving, so be open to change and continuous learning. Stay informed about industry trends, take advantage of professional development opportunities, and seek mentorship from experienced entrepreneurs.

Launch Your Business with Confidence at Hangr Coworks

Starting a business is a rewarding challenge, and having the right environment can make all the difference. Hangr Coworks offers a supportive community, networking opportunities, and a productive workspace to help entrepreneurs thrive.

Ready to take the leap? Join Hangr Coworks and surround yourself with a network of driven professionals to help you succeed!

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Coworking and Relationship Building: The Secret to Professional Growth

In today’s fast-paced, remote-driven world, coworking spaces have become more than just a place to work—they’re hubs for connection, collaboration, and community. At Hangr Coworks, we believe that professional success isn’t just about what you know, but also who you know. Relationship building is at the heart of coworking, and here’s why it can be a game-changer for your career and business.

Networking, Without the Pressure

Traditional networking events can sometimes feel forced, making it difficult to foster genuine connections. In a coworking space, networking happens naturally. You’ll find yourself working alongside professionals from various industries, exchanging ideas over coffee, and forming connections that go beyond business cards. Whether you're an entrepreneur, freelancer, or remote worker, the opportunity to build meaningful relationships is built into your daily routine at Hangr Coworks.

Collaboration Creates Opportunities

Coworking spaces bring together people with diverse skill sets and backgrounds, making them a melting pot for collaboration. Need a graphic designer for your startup? A marketing expert to fine-tune your strategy? Chances are, you’ll find them just a few desks away. These organic collaborations often lead to new projects, partnerships, and business growth that wouldn’t have happened in a traditional office or at home.

A Community That Supports Your Growth

Working from home can be isolating, and traditional office environments may lack the camaraderie of a supportive community. At Hangr Coworks, we foster an environment where members uplift and inspire each other. Whether you need a second opinion on a big idea, advice from someone who’s been in your shoes, or just a friendly chat during your lunch break, coworking provides a built-in support system that enhances both your work and well-being.

Serendipitous Learning and Development

When you’re surrounded by professionals with different expertise, you gain access to continuous learning opportunities. From informal conversations to workshops and events hosted at Hangr Coworks, you’re always in a space where knowledge-sharing happens naturally. This exposure to new perspectives and skills can help you stay ahead in your industry and keep your career evolving.

A Work Environment That Keeps You Motivated

Let’s face it—staying productive in isolation can be a challenge. Being part of a coworking community brings an unspoken accountability factor. Seeing others focused on their goals motivates you to stay on top of your tasks. Plus, the energy of a dynamic workspace like Hangr Coworks can reignite your passion and drive for what you do.

Join the Hangr Coworks Community

If you’re looking for more than just a desk, but a space where relationships fuel success, Hangr Coworks is the place for you. Come for the workspace, stay for the connections, and grow alongside a community of professionals who are as ambitious and driven as you are.

Ready to experience the power of coworking and relationship building? Book a tour at Hangr Coworks today and discover how your network can shape your success!

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Time Management Hacks for Entrepreneurs & Remote Workers

Entrepreneurs and remote workers enjoy the flexibility of setting their own schedules, but without structure, it’s easy to fall into productivity traps. Time management isn’t just about working harder—it’s about working smarter. At Hangr Coworks, we understand the challenges of balancing workload, meetings, and personal time, so here are some tried-and-true time management hacks to help you stay focused and maximize efficiency.

1. Plan Your Day the Night Before

Starting your day with a plan eliminates decision fatigue and sets you up for success. Take 10 minutes each night to outline your top three priorities for the next day. Whether you use a physical planner or a digital tool like Trello or Asana, having a clear roadmap will help you hit the ground running in the morning.

2. Time Block Your Schedule

Time blocking is one of the most effective ways to stay productive. Instead of reacting to tasks as they come, allocate specific time slots for different activities—emails, deep work, meetings, and breaks. The Pomodoro Technique (working in 25-minute sprints with 5-minute breaks) can also help maintain focus and prevent burnout.

3. Eliminate Distractions

One of the biggest challenges of working remotely is avoiding distractions. Here’s how to stay on track:

  • Use noise-canceling headphones or listen to focus-boosting playlists.
  • Set your phone to “Do Not Disturb” during deep work sessions.
  • Work in a dedicated, clutter-free workspace (like Hangr Coworks!).
  • Use website blockers like Freedom or StayFocusd to prevent unnecessary browsing.

4. Set Boundaries for Work and Personal Life

Working from home often blurs the line between work and personal life. To maintain balance:

  • Establish a designated workspace.
  • Set work hours and stick to them.
  • Communicate availability to family and friends to minimize interruptions.
  • End your workday with a shutdown ritual, such as reviewing your tasks or taking a short walk.

5. Prioritize Tasks with the Eisenhower Matrix

Not all tasks are created equal. The Eisenhower Matrix helps categorize tasks based on urgency and importance:

  • Urgent & Important – Do these immediately.
  • Important but Not Urgent – Schedule time for these.
  • Urgent but Not Important – Delegate if possible.
  • Neither Urgent nor Important – Eliminate or postpone. This method helps cut through the noise and focus on what truly matters.

6. Leverage Technology for Productivity

There are countless tools to streamline workflow and keep you on track. Some favorites include:

  • Notion or Evernote – For organizing notes and projects.
  • Slack or Microsoft Teams – For efficient team communication.
  • RescueTime – To analyze how you spend your time.
  • Google Calendar – For scheduling and time blocking.

7. Take Breaks to Recharge

Contrary to popular belief, working longer hours doesn’t always mean getting more done. Regular breaks improve productivity and creativity. Try the 90-minute work cycle—work in focused sessions, then step away for a few minutes to refresh your mind. Taking a walk, stretching, or grabbing a coffee at Hangr Coworks can do wonders for productivity.

8. Join a Coworking Community for Accountability

One of the best ways to improve time management is to work in a productive environment. Coworking spaces like Hangr Coworks provide structure, reduce distractions, and offer networking opportunities with other driven professionals. Surrounding yourself with motivated individuals fosters accountability and keeps you focused.

Maximize Your Productivity at Hangr Coworks

Time management is a skill that takes practice, but with the right habits and environment, you can take control of your schedule and accomplish more. If you’re looking for a workspace that supports your productivity while offering a strong professional community, Hangr Coworks is the perfect place.

Want to work smarter, not harder? Book a tour at Hangr Coworks today and start optimizing your workday!

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Guide to Tax Tips for the Self-Employed Professional – Insights from Jill Flinton, CPA

Being self-employed comes with incredible freedom—choosing your own projects, setting your own hours, and growing your business on your terms. However, one challenge that many self-employed professionals face is managing taxes. Without an employer handling withholdings, staying on top of tax obligations is essential to avoid surprises.

At Hangr Coworks, we love connecting our members with valuable resources, and who better to share expert tax advice than our very own member, Jill Flinton, CPA? Here are Jill’s top tax tips to help freelancers, consultants, and small business owners navigate tax season with confidence.

1. Keep Track of Your Income and Expenses

The key to stress-free tax preparation is maintaining accurate financial records. Use accounting software or a simple spreadsheet to track income and categorize expenses throughout the year. This helps ensure you’re not scrambling to find receipts when tax deadlines approach.

2. Know What You Can Deduct

As a self-employed professional, you can deduct a range of business expenses that reduce your taxable income. Common deductions include:

  • Home office deduction – If you work from home, a portion of your rent/mortgage, utilities, and internet may be deductible.
  • Coworking space fees – Your Hangr Coworks membership is a legitimate business expense!
  • Office supplies and equipment – Computers, printers, and even pens and notebooks count.
  • Marketing and advertising – Website costs, social media ads, and business cards are deductible expenses.
  • Professional development – Courses, workshops, and certifications that help grow your business.

3. Set Aside Money for Quarterly Taxes

Unlike traditional employees, self-employed individuals don’t have taxes withheld from their income. The IRS requires estimated quarterly tax payments if you expect to owe more than $1,000 in taxes for the year. Mark your calendar for these deadlines:

  • April 15
  • June 15
  • September 15
  • January 15 (of the following year)

Setting aside a percentage of your income each month for taxes will prevent financial stress when payments are due.

4. Understand Self-Employment Tax

Self-employed individuals must pay self-employment tax (15.3%) to cover Social Security and Medicare, in addition to income tax. 

5. Consider Retirement Contributions

Saving for retirement not only secures your future but can also reduce your taxable income. Self-employed professionals can contribute to:

  • SEP IRA (Simplified Employee Pension)
  • Solo 401(k)
  • Traditional or Roth IRA These options provide tax advantages while helping you build long-term financial security.

6. Keep Business and Personal Finances Separate

Open a dedicated business bank account to track income and expenses more efficiently. This simplifies bookkeeping and makes it easier to claim deductions accurately.

If you are using a credit card, ideally have one in the business name. If that is not initially possible, use one card exclusively for business expenses.

7. Work with a Professional CPA

While DIY tax software can help, having a knowledgeable CPA like Jill Flinton on your team ensures you’re maximizing deductions and staying compliant with tax laws. A tax professional can provide personalized guidance and help you plan for future growth.

Stay Tax-Savvy and Focus on What You Do Best
Tax season doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By staying organized, planning ahead, and leveraging expert advice, you can keep more of your hard-earned money while remaining compliant with tax regulations.

Want to connect with other professionals like Jill Flinton and gain valuable insights for your business? Hangr Coworks is more than just a workspace—it’s a community that helps you thrive.

Need personalized tax advice? Reach out to Jill Flinton, CPA, and take the stress out of tax season! This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

 

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Reciprocal Membership with Palette and Hangr

Beginning April 15, 2023, Hangr Coworks and Palette Offer Reciprocal Membership to its members.

Available for full-time members at Hangr Coworks in Clifton Park, and the Palette Community in Saratoga Springs and Schenectady, active members are now offered a reciprocal membership with Palette and Hangr Coworks, which allows for up to two visits per month to Palette’s or Hangr Coworks OPEN SEATING coworking spaces during standard business hours. (Subject to availability).

This will allow for more connection, collaboration and community between our organizations and we are here for that!

Members may visit the PARTNER page to request their Guest Pass. 

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