Articles Index
SWOT Analysis for Small Business
The SWOT analysis process explained for small business owners, from the brainstorming process, to using a SWOT matrix, to using the data uncovered in the process.
SMART Goal Setting 101
SMART goal setting is a popular technique for validating your goals. Here is an introduction to SMART goal setting that will help you maximize goals in your business.
How to Grow Your Small Business
A summary of how small business owners can take their business to the next level and keep moving forward.
How to Write an Elevator Pitch
An elevator pitch or elevator speech can be a powerful tool for a small business owner. Here is a step-by-step process for creating an effective elevator pitch.
How to Write a Unique Selling Proposition
A unique selling proposition (USP) is a statement that succinctly outlines how your business, product or service is different from that of your competition. This four-step exercise will help you write a unique selling proposition for your company, product or service.
101 Small Business Marketing Activities
There are thousands of effective small business marketing tactics to promote your products and services. Here is a list of 101 small business marketing ideas to get you started.
Is Having a Passion for Business Enough?
Having a business passion makes sense and has proven to be a key factor for many successful small business owner, but passion alone is not enough to make a new business successful. Here are some of the other factors that can set you on the path to small business success.
101 Small Business Ideas
A list of 101 small business ideas to help you explore business opportunities that may be available to you.
How to Start a Small Business
How to start a small business including developing a business idea, conducting business research, selecting a business structure, choosing a business name and setting up your accounting system.
Do I Need an Accountant?
Deciding if your small business needs an accountant isn't always an easy decision. Explore if hiring an accountant is right for your business by reviewing this list of common tasks completed by an accountant.
7 Tips for More Effective Time Management
Having enough time is a challenge for many small business owners. Here are a few time management and productivity tips to help you join forces with time and teach yourself how to become more productive.
Backward Goal Setting
Goal setting doesn't have to have a million moving parts. It can be as easy as starting from the end and working backwards. Here's how to do it effectively.
SMART Goal Setting Worksheet
This SMART goal setting worksheet will help you measure your business goals against the SMART criteria in order to determine if your goals are achievable and worthy of your time.
What Motivates You?
Understanding what motivates you before you start a business can help you be more mentally prepared for the challenges you will face. Here are some tips for identifying your motivation and using it during the business startup process.
How to Beat Procrastination Right Now
Procrastination can stem from a lot of sources but the end result is always the same -- inaction. Learn how to get past procrastination and get the job done.
How to Get and Stay Motivated
Get motivated to accomplish the most challenging goals on your list, and learn how to stay motivated when the going gets tough, with these motivation tips.
Email Management Tips for Improved Productivity
Email is an essential part of managing a small business, but it can often become a major time drain. Follow these tips to make email management more productive.
Three Questions to Ask Before Setting Up Your Home Office or Workspace
Setting up a home office requires some forethought and planning. Review these three important questions before you start to create your home office.
Why You Need Paper Business Cards for Your Small Business
Technology may provide alternative ways to share contact information at networking events, but there is no replacement for traditional paper business cards. Here's why.
Small Business Networking Guide
Resources to help you improve your business networking approach, prepare yourself to make the most out of every business networking situation and discover how to make a lasting impression on your clients, customers and professional peers.
What Not to Do When Using Social Media for Business
There aren't any set rules when it comes to using social media for business, but there are several actions that are worth avoiding if you want to support your brand online, instead of hurting it. Here is a look at seven of the biggest things to avoid when using social media for business.
Get Started with Goal Setting in Five Steps
Goal setting tips to help small business owners get started with goal setting, focus on the specifics of what they hope to accomplish, and start to put their plan into action.
Do You Really Need a Business Plan?
Business plans can be one of the most effective tools for the small business owner who is starting, growing and even managing a business. Here are some reasons why writing a business plan is a good idea.
SMART Goal Examples
SMART goal setting is an effective process for setting and achieving your business goals. Review these examples that provide clear and easy-to-follow SMART goal examples.
How to Overcome the Fear of Failure
The process of starting a business can be filled with fear. Use these tips to overcome the fear of failure and push through to success.