As soon as you launch your business, you want the world to know you’ve arrived. You can do that in a variety of ways, from handing out business cards to putting up a Web site.

Most entrepreneurs want printed letterhead and business cards that convey professionalism and polish. Depending on your business, you may also want brochures that describe your products or services. Visit local printers to see whether they offer design services or can recommend a good graphic designer.

If you have a commercial office, you’ll probably also need a sign—a relatively inexpensive and constant form of advertising. Get help from a professional sign company to make sure your sign is attractive, informative and conveys the nature of your business.

Get to know others in the business community through organizations such as the chamber of commerce. Ask your local Small Business Information Center whether your community is home to networking groups of business people, and get involved right away. Volunteer for projects—especially those that can help you form relationships with key business and community leaders.

Consider putting up a simple Web site that explains what you do, how to contact you, what your office hours are and so on. In many communities commercial Internet providers and “freenets” offer Web pages to local businesses for modest fees. National Web-hosting companies also offer small sites at low cost. Some offer easy-to-use software that makes it possible for anyone to quickly put together a basic site.