First off, if you are a newer player you should really consider joining an existing clan. If you already have a bunch of people that have said they'd like to become a clan that's one thing, but if you just decide you want to start one for no real reason that can be a mistake. It'd be nice if there were enough players to support so many new clans but that just isn't the case right now. It's better to have 10 committed clans than 50 iffy ones. Personally I suggest you find a good clan and settle in. Once the scene grows then you can split off and strike out on your own. The scene just isn't established enough for everyone and their cousin to start a clan. Your enthusiasm is appreciated, but starting another clan isn't always a good idea. If you still want to start one here's some tips:
1. DON'T go for command structure crap. You don't need to appoint yourself "major general" and make your buddy a "second in command" or anything like that. You barely need a leader at all as long as the members you've found are committed to playing. Don't make such a big deal out of everything and people will be more likely to see your clan as legitimate.
2. Try to find clanless players and recruit them. Keeps your eyes open for good players and when you find them just nicely ask how they'd feel about joining. Don't be a jerk about it if they say no, it's not a big deal. There are plenty of other players out there.
3. Be prepared to lead by example. If you want your team to practice you've gotta be there. You want 'em to battle other clans you gotta be there. If you are the leader and you never do anything you can't expect the clan to either.
4. You should have a website and some means of contact for setting up meetings, intra-clan practices, and clan battles. There are a couple important notes about websites that you can read in this article on Website Creation. There are some very relevant tips in there so I highly suggest reading it before creating your first clan website.
5. The best player does not have to be the leader if you choose to have a leader at all. If your clan needs a leader that is mostly just someone willing to do the dirty work like website creation and maintainance.
6. Every clan needs some ability to coordinate things like practices and games. This does not require a forum, but that may be the easiest way to go about it. There is also the multitude of chat programs like IRC, MSN, Yahoo, AIM, etc...
7. Don't limit your clan to one sourceport or one style of play. I encourage people to play them all so that they can simply go to where ever the action is at any given time. Your clan will see a lot more action if it isn't stuck to one particular game type.
