The tip that meant the most to me as I started my own business was to leverage my existing brand into creating a business presence. Rather than thinking of starting a business as creating something all new, it is helpful to think about it as an extension of all the work you have done in the past to build a reputation, an online presence, a broad and diverse network, and a trusted identity. Business strive to create goodwill, so if you can amplify the goodwill you have already created into goodwill for your business, then you will giving yourself a head start. Take the time to inventory your brand, your social networks, your online voice, your subject matter expertise, and what you are known for. Then take the inventory of your brand assets and build your business brand directly on them.