FAQs on Starting Your Information Business

What should I consider before starting my business?

In addition to our many resources for small business start-up, AIIP has created a special guide for prospective IIPs:

• Download our guide on the Getting Started Guide page,

It discusses what it means to be an IIP, how to decide whether being IIP is a good fit for you, how to set up your business, and how to develop effective sales and marketing strategies.

What do new IIPs need to know?

Knowing that you're not alone is a big asset. New members can attend our Welcome meet-ups, held quarterly.

Another asset is AIIP conversations on your first year in business. Seasoned info-entrepreneurs answer questions from new business owners on topics ranging from getting clients to finding a niche and setting prices. Tap our collection of recorded programs, too.

Who can advise me during the early stages of my business?

Volunteers in the AIIP Peer to Peer Support Program offer support and guidance for members in the process of starting and building their IIP businesses.

• Ground your ideas by talking with peer members.

• Mentors can help new members assess their strengths and weaknesses as IIPs, and they can provide input on initial networking and marketing strategies.

Feedback via our private discussion list is another way to get valuable advice.

Can I join AIIP even if I haven’t launched my business?

Yes! A Student or an Associate membership will let you get a close-up view of what it takes to start and succeed as an IIP.

• Learn more about what you can gain from an AIIP membership—and how AIIP can help you reach your professional goals.

Should I attend the AIIP Annual Conference?

Yes! AIIP's Annual Conference is designed for all of the association’s members, with special programming for first-year members and for individuals still considering whether to start a business. Experience the collegiality of the AIIP community first-hand while investing in your own professional development and future success. 

In this video, hear how first-time attendee Eddie Ajaeb made a successful foray into content marketing, inspired by the 2017 AIIP Annual Conference and his first year of membership in AIIP.