Skip to main content
We’re here with practical IT information for your business. Access comprehensive IT resources and more.

Search

How to choose the right computer equipment for your business to increase your productivity and efficiency without it costing the earth.

Business software helps you complete a range of tasks. Choose the right software, provide support and train your staff with our introduction.

It is highly likely that you depend on the internet for some aspects of your business. Find out how you can use the internet more effectively.

Good communication with customers, partners and suppliers is vital for business success. This summary explores business communication methods.

How would you cope if your IT system failed or was breached? We cover the main IT security issues and how to protect against them.

Good IT management can help you choose, use and implement IT. Our overview helps you manage IT in a way that maximises the return on your investment.

IT support is vital if you rely on your IT system. But how can you set up an effective safety net in case things go wrong? We explore the options.

Getting the right IT is just the first step. Appropriate training, policies and working practices can help you maximise return on your IT investment.

Revealed: what start up business owners ask Google

9 November 2021

A new study of internet search terms used by new business owners has uncovered the start up business questions that are most frequently asked on Google.

Hitachi Capital Invoice Finance has investigated the most popular search terms used by those that are planning to start a business to find out where they need help and which topics are most important to would-be entrepreneurs.

Unsurprisingly, the most popular search phrases asked by new business owners on Google are "how to start a business" and "how to register a business". However, queries about business plans, websites, social media and mortgages for business owners are high on the list as well.

John Atkinson, head of commercial business at Hitachi Capital Invoice Finance, has analysed the questions and provided key answers. The top five Google search terms for start up business owners are:

How to start a business - 8,200 monthly searches

Atkinson says: "Many people want to start their own business, but often don't know where to start. First of all, it's most important to get the basics sorted … spend time researching potential options, including competitors and the opportunities in the market."

How to register a business - 5,600 monthly searches

Atkinson says: "The most common way for small businesses to be registered is as a sole trader, which only requires a national insurance number. Partnerships are similar to a sole trader set up, but the ownership is shared between a number of people … Limited companies must be registered with Companies House."

How to write a business plan - 3,300 monthly searches

Atkinson says: "A business plan might sound like a daunting prospect, but it's essentially a document describing your business, including information on objectives, strategies, sales and marketing strategy and financial information."

How to build a website - 1,800 monthly searches

Atkinson says: "A good website can make or break a new start-up so it's important you get this right. While it sounds very technical, there are a number of web hosting services, such as GoDaddy or Wix, that can help simplify your process and get your website ready for business quickly."

How to start a business with no money - 1,400 monthly searches

Atkinson says: "Many new businesses might be able to get themselves off the ground with very little money, such as a dog walker or freelancer, but it's important to calculate your outgoings based on your business model."

The following ten most popular start-up search terms are:

The full breakdown of the most Googled start-up questions are available on the Hitachi Capital website.

Written by Rachel Miller.

Stay up-to-date with business advice and news

Sign up to this lively and colourful newsletter for new and more established small businesses.

Contact us

Make an enquiry