Starting Your Corporate Catering Service

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By Shirley Evans


When people want an additional source of income, they either choose to take on another job or to start a business. However, the second option comes with risks and if not done properly, can be more trouble than its worth. Corporate catering happens to be one of the most lucrative ventures you can invest in. To succeed in this field, you have to make sure you get it right from the beginning.

Many startups tend to fail due to lack of a proper plan. This is not just about what you need to start, but also where you imagine your business a few years down the line. In this line of work you need to look around, to determine what other people have overlooked. With this in mind, you should be able to come up with a menu, and a list of all the things you need. It will then be easy to start budgeting.

Apart from excellent culinary skills, you will also have to run the business. If you have done this before this might be easy for you. On the other hand, if this is your fist business venture, consider getting business classes. This does not need to be at an advanced level, but it should give you the skills you need for bookkeeping. It will also save you from having to hire additional staff.

Marketing and networking will be necessary, in order to get clients. There are other companies offering the same services in Tucson, Arizona and therefore, you have to compete for customers. You have to make sure your prices are reasonable, and your food samples are exceptional, to boost your marketing pitch. You should also think of offering incentives that other companies do not provide, to win over the target market.

You must get all additional employees needed, before your fist big event. This might be additional chefs, waitresses, or even drivers. These should be people you can trust, and you should at least vet them, to see the quality of their work.

In order to be self-sufficient, you have to have your items for dressing the tables, and cutlery for the food. For some events, you might need to work with other people who can provide chairs, and lighting arrangements. You might need to rent some of these items initially, or liaise with individuals who can provide these services while you handle the food.

Do not overlook getting permits for the sale of food, or even insurance covers for your employees. You also need to register the business. Getting all these documents before you start will be important, as it will save you from embarrassing scenes, and also fines. You will also need to keep in mind that a number of those documents will need to be regularly updated, to remain valid.

Perseverance, open-mindedness, and optimism are some traits you need to acquire, once you launch the business. You should try to network with other people in the company. This will expose you to new trends, and it can also be a good way to get clients. The other catering agencies may also stop viewing you as a threat and send some business your way.




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