Small Business Information: Most Popular Articles
These articles are the most popular over the last month.
Power Up Your Presentation
The presentation is starting. Dim the lights. Time for a nap. These are the thoughts of many audiences subject to yet another boring business presentation. How can you awaken the cognitive powers of your audience? Start by learning the 8 secrets of a knockout business presentation.
The presentation is starting. Dim the lights. Time for a nap. These are the thoughts of many audiences subject to yet another boring business presentation. How can you awaken the cognitive powers of your audience? Start by learning the 8 secrets of a knockout business presentation.
Winning Business Proposal
If you need to write a business proposal to win a bid, you will need to know the key winning elements of a successful proposal. Make sure your proposal stands out in the stack of competitor proposals by including the following 5 elements:
If you need to write a business proposal to win a bid, you will need to know the key winning elements of a successful proposal. Make sure your proposal stands out in the stack of competitor proposals by including the following 5 elements:
Limited Liability Company
Study the basics of the limited liability company structure and guide your decision to company business formation.
Study the basics of the limited liability company structure and guide your decision to company business formation.
Tactics for Debt Collection
Hate collecting your money? Learn the secrets of collection letters and other mastery tips to ensure your customers pay.
Hate collecting your money? Learn the secrets of collection letters and other mastery tips to ensure your customers pay.
Form for Content Submission for Publication at About Small Business Information
Small Business Information submission form for use when submitting content for possible publication at About.com Small Business Information site.
Small Business Information submission form for use when submitting content for possible publication at About.com Small Business Information site.
100 Business Opportunities
Whether you are starting a business or looking for new markets for your existing business, our big list of the "100 Best Small Business Opportunities" will inspire your imagination and point you toward new profit centers.
Whether you are starting a business or looking for new markets for your existing business, our big list of the "100 Best Small Business Opportunities" will inspire your imagination and point you toward new profit centers.
Small Business Opportunties
This year's top 10 best business opportunities list provides something for everybody from the hot poker craze to anti-aging spas or smart clothes.
This year's top 10 best business opportunities list provides something for everybody from the hot poker craze to anti-aging spas or smart clothes.
Do You Need A Mission?
Is a personal and corporate mission statement necessary for success in today's hostile business climate? Learn the 3 key ingredients of meaningful mission statements. Explore sample mission statements for ideas to write your own.
Is a personal and corporate mission statement necessary for success in today's hostile business climate? Learn the 3 key ingredients of meaningful mission statements. Explore sample mission statements for ideas to write your own.
Starting Your Business
Starting a small business requires determination, motivation, and know-how. Here's a list of available resources to provide you with the know-how to have a successful small business startup.
Starting a small business requires determination, motivation, and know-how. Here's a list of available resources to provide you with the know-how to have a successful small business startup.
Small Business Loan 101
Learn what you need to know to clinch the loan deal. As a small business owner, your most difficult task is finding the money to operate your business. Taking the necessary steps to prepare for a small business loan can minimize the difficulty.
Learn what you need to know to clinch the loan deal. As a small business owner, your most difficult task is finding the money to operate your business. Taking the necessary steps to prepare for a small business loan can minimize the difficulty.
Small Business Grant
Small business grants are often a hot topic among entrepreneurs with limited funds and access to capital. We have all seen the headlines: Free Government Grant for Small Business.
Small business grants are often a hot topic among entrepreneurs with limited funds and access to capital. We have all seen the headlines: Free Government Grant for Small Business.
Business at Home
What home based business represent the best and hottest opportunity? This top 10 list offers something old and something new.
What home based business represent the best and hottest opportunity? This top 10 list offers something old and something new.
Start Your Own Corporation
Should your small business become a corporation? This is a question you need to ask during the start-up and evolution of your company. Learn what you need to know about incorporating your small business.
Should your small business become a corporation? This is a question you need to ask during the start-up and evolution of your company. Learn what you need to know about incorporating your small business.
Critical Step to Business Plan
Writing a business plan can be an overwhelming task. These feelings often translate into immobilization or confusion as to how to start the business plan.
Writing a business plan can be an overwhelming task. These feelings often translate into immobilization or confusion as to how to start the business plan.
Become an S Corporation?
Is an S Corporation advantageous for your small business? Learn the pros and cons of becoming an S Corporation.
Is an S Corporation advantageous for your small business? Learn the pros and cons of becoming an S Corporation.
Limited Liability Corporation
Limited Liability Corporation (LLC) definition for small business glossary.
Limited Liability Corporation (LLC) definition for small business glossary.
Sole Proprietor Pros and Cons
The most basic of all business legal structures is the sole proprietorship. For new start-ups the choice of becoming sole proprietorship is the simpliest of all business forms but is it the best?
The most basic of all business legal structures is the sole proprietorship. For new start-ups the choice of becoming sole proprietorship is the simpliest of all business forms but is it the best?
High-Impact Marketing Plan
The secret to creating a high-impact marketing plan is to optimize your limited budget. Use low-budget marketing to get your message out to your customers on a regular basis and watch sales revenue grow.
The secret to creating a high-impact marketing plan is to optimize your limited budget. Use low-budget marketing to get your message out to your customers on a regular basis and watch sales revenue grow.
Hottest Small Business Trends
The hottest trends for small business from About.com Small Business Information.
The hottest trends for small business from About.com Small Business Information.
Entrepreneur Personality Type
Starting and growing your own business requires many skills to be successful. Take a look at the business personality types and find out what you need to succeed. Are you Bill Gates, a Visionary, or an Improver like Body Shop founder, Anita Roddick?
Starting and growing your own business requires many skills to be successful. Take a look at the business personality types and find out what you need to succeed. Are you Bill Gates, a Visionary, or an Improver like Body Shop founder, Anita Roddick?
Business Liability Insurance
Protecting your small business from risks is the foundation of success. Take the necessary time to investigate your business liability insurance needs. It could just be the most important decision to your company’s survival.
Protecting your small business from risks is the foundation of success. Take the necessary time to investigate your business liability insurance needs. It could just be the most important decision to your company’s survival.
Secret SWOT Analysis
The SWOT analysis is a business tool available in the tool box of any small business owner. However, running a business forces you to focus on the issues and fires burning today, not tomorrow. Learn how to apply a SWOT analysis to your business, and position yourself ahead of competitors.
The SWOT analysis is a business tool available in the tool box of any small business owner. However, running a business forces you to focus on the issues and fires burning today, not tomorrow. Learn how to apply a SWOT analysis to your business, and position yourself ahead of competitors.
Winning Business Partnership
Small business owners often choose a sole proprietor business structure when starting a business. The road to entrepreneurship can be made more rewarding by forming a business partnership.
Small business owners often choose a sole proprietor business structure when starting a business. The road to entrepreneurship can be made more rewarding by forming a business partnership.
Myths of Sales Prospecting
Sales prospecting done right can have a huge impact on your sales revenue. It doesn't take great courage to deal with the fear of rejection during prospecting. Just an open mind to challenge the old school of sales and the myths of prospecting.
Sales prospecting done right can have a huge impact on your sales revenue. It doesn't take great courage to deal with the fear of rejection during prospecting. Just an open mind to challenge the old school of sales and the myths of prospecting.
Advertising Success
Small business owners can reap huge rewards by understanding the basic fundamentals of advertising. Gain confidence and better ad results by learning the 6 laws of small business advertising success.
Small business owners can reap huge rewards by understanding the basic fundamentals of advertising. Gain confidence and better ad results by learning the 6 laws of small business advertising success.
Business Card Design Test
Reach in your wallet and pull out your business card. Learn if your business card will pass the business card test or be trashed.
Reach in your wallet and pull out your business card. Learn if your business card will pass the business card test or be trashed.
Business Name Commandments
Dirty Ernies Paragon Hotel and Fireball Oven Co are actual business names. These companies broke the naming commandment of "avoiding word play dangers." Discover if your business name meets "The 10 Commandments of a Great Business Name."
Dirty Ernies Paragon Hotel and Fireball Oven Co are actual business names. These companies broke the naming commandment of "avoiding word play dangers." Discover if your business name meets "The 10 Commandments of a Great Business Name."
Create a Competitive Advantage
In today's economy, big and small businesses are seeking every opportunity to win sales through competitive advantages. Smart small business owners know a sales strategy can create a competitive advantage.
In today's economy, big and small businesses are seeking every opportunity to win sales through competitive advantages. Smart small business owners know a sales strategy can create a competitive advantage.
Home Office Design
It may be time to consider your office design and your productivity. You may not have the time or budget for an office design makeover, but a few simple ideas can go long way in boosting your business productivity.
It may be time to consider your office design and your productivity. You may not have the time or budget for an office design makeover, but a few simple ideas can go long way in boosting your business productivity.
LLC and Taxes
To create an LLC, you’ll need to file the proper documents with the appropriate state agency and pay filing fees. But before you make a decision on a corporate structure, you should first understand the tax implications of an LLC.
To create an LLC, you’ll need to file the proper documents with the appropriate state agency and pay filing fees. But before you make a decision on a corporate structure, you should first understand the tax implications of an LLC.
8 RFP Submission Tips
Every entrepreneur must decide whether or not to pursue the opportunity with a business proposal. Learn what you need to consider before you delve in and respond to an RFP.
Every entrepreneur must decide whether or not to pursue the opportunity with a business proposal. Learn what you need to consider before you delve in and respond to an RFP.
Build Your Referral Business
Referred leads offer a 60 percent close ratio for your small business. Learn how to optimize your customer referrals to your company.
Referred leads offer a 60 percent close ratio for your small business. Learn how to optimize your customer referrals to your company.
Your Patent Information Plan
What does it take to successfully turn a patent idea into a marketable product? There are 6 key pieces of patent information you will need to succeed. Each part plays an important role. If you miss one, the results can be disastrous.
What does it take to successfully turn a patent idea into a marketable product? There are 6 key pieces of patent information you will need to succeed. Each part plays an important role. If you miss one, the results can be disastrous.
Winning Business Contracts
A business contract is a legally binding agreement between two parties for an exchange of services that are of value. For a contract to be valid, an offer must be made and accepted.
A business contract is a legally binding agreement between two parties for an exchange of services that are of value. For a contract to be valid, an offer must be made and accepted.
Sales Boosting Sales Letter
Are you frustrated that your sales letter isn't getting results? Do you wonder how you could write a better sales letter? If you said, "yes" to either of these questions then I invite you to read on as you will be richly rewarded.
Are you frustrated that your sales letter isn't getting results? Do you wonder how you could write a better sales letter? If you said, "yes" to either of these questions then I invite you to read on as you will be richly rewarded.
Business Greeting Card
When sending holiday cards use proper business greeting card etiquette. What is a well-meaning gesture can offend the people you want to impress when it is not done properly. Learn the 8 rules when sending holiday cards.
When sending holiday cards use proper business greeting card etiquette. What is a well-meaning gesture can offend the people you want to impress when it is not done properly. Learn the 8 rules when sending holiday cards.
Cash Flow 101
Cash flow is the lifeblood of all businesses. Learn the Cash Flow 101 Rules to free yourself from cash flow worries.
Cash flow is the lifeblood of all businesses. Learn the Cash Flow 101 Rules to free yourself from cash flow worries.
Blogging for Business
The blogging movement is picking up speed as businesses begin to realize the benefits of blogging. Discover what a business blog can do for you.
The blogging movement is picking up speed as businesses begin to realize the benefits of blogging. Discover what a business blog can do for you.
Seal the Deal Sales Technique
Can you close a sale in just seven seconds? You can do it faster if you use a sales technique to make a great first impression. Seven seconds is the average length of time you have to make a first impression.
Can you close a sale in just seven seconds? You can do it faster if you use a sales technique to make a great first impression. Seven seconds is the average length of time you have to make a first impression.
Find Your Business Life Cycle
Your business is changing. With the passage of time, your company will go through various stages of the business life cycle. Learn what upcoming focuses, challenges and financing sources you will need to succeed.
Your business is changing. With the passage of time, your company will go through various stages of the business life cycle. Learn what upcoming focuses, challenges and financing sources you will need to succeed.
10 Small Business Deductions
These 10 essential small business tax deductions will help you navigate through the maze of write-offs.
These 10 essential small business tax deductions will help you navigate through the maze of write-offs.
Sales Management Blunders
Learn the biggest sales management blunders and how you can avoid them. Spending the necessary time wearing your sales manager hat will help foster a rewarding culture and build a successful sales team to boost your business to new levels.
Learn the biggest sales management blunders and how you can avoid them. Spending the necessary time wearing your sales manager hat will help foster a rewarding culture and build a successful sales team to boost your business to new levels.
The Meaning of Colors & Biz
Learn if the colors of your business puts your customers in a buying mood and supports a positive image of your company or do your colors create the wrong perception?
Learn if the colors of your business puts your customers in a buying mood and supports a positive image of your company or do your colors create the wrong perception?
Business Plan Outline
Everything you need to know to create a money winning business plan outline. Learn what you need make sure your business plan is complete.
Everything you need to know to create a money winning business plan outline. Learn what you need make sure your business plan is complete.
Account Receivable Financing
When regular small business financing such as loans and credit are limited, some business owners will turn to accounts receivable financing. Is accounts receivable financing right for your business?
When regular small business financing such as loans and credit are limited, some business owners will turn to accounts receivable financing. Is accounts receivable financing right for your business?
Bouncing Back Tips
Small Business sales strategies in slump
Small Business sales strategies in slump
All About Private Placement
With the limited infusion of capital into the stock market, the private investor market is an attractive alternative for investors and small businesses. Private placement offers a viable form of business financing without the constraints of taking a company public and conceding control. .
With the limited infusion of capital into the stock market, the private investor market is an attractive alternative for investors and small businesses. Private placement offers a viable form of business financing without the constraints of taking a company public and conceding control. .
Creating A Marketing Promotion
Promotional marketing is a business marketing strategy designed to stimulate a customer to take action towards a buying decision. Is your small business promotional marketing ready?
Promotional marketing is a business marketing strategy designed to stimulate a customer to take action towards a buying decision. Is your small business promotional marketing ready?
7 Habits of Business Success
The elusive dream of business success captures the imagination of aspiring and existing business owners everywhere. A vision of flowing profits, industry respect, thrilled customers, and a balanced life. This vision is only possible by developing habits that drive business success.
The elusive dream of business success captures the imagination of aspiring and existing business owners everywhere. A vision of flowing profits, industry respect, thrilled customers, and a balanced life. This vision is only possible by developing habits that drive business success.
Top 10 Business Opportunities
The hottest business opportunities from your About.com Small Business Information Guide. Learn what's hot in business opportunities.
The hottest business opportunities from your About.com Small Business Information Guide. Learn what's hot in business opportunities.
Pre-Employment Screening
Pre-employment screening is a necessary hiring practice to avoid lawsuits and costly hiring mistakes. Gone are the days of a simple reference check and a few phone calls to screen new employees. Amid security concerns, corporate scandals, and workplace violence, pre-employment screening has been gaining ground.
Pre-employment screening is a necessary hiring practice to avoid lawsuits and costly hiring mistakes. Gone are the days of a simple reference check and a few phone calls to screen new employees. Amid security concerns, corporate scandals, and workplace violence, pre-employment screening has been gaining ground.
Hire Employee or Independent?
Hiring an independent contractor or new employee is an important business decision. To guide you to the best possible decision, consider the pros and cons of hiring an employee or an independent contractor.
Hiring an independent contractor or new employee is an important business decision. To guide you to the best possible decision, consider the pros and cons of hiring an employee or an independent contractor.
Business Card Design
Since 90+% of business cards designed are printed in black ink on white card stock, different is often better. Business success depends on showing potential customers that you're different and better than your competitors.
Since 90+% of business cards designed are printed in black ink on white card stock, different is often better. Business success depends on showing potential customers that you're different and better than your competitors.
Getting a Bank Loan or Credit
Getting a bank loan or credit starts with you.
Getting a bank loan or credit starts with you.
Dr. Seuss Selling Technique
Learn the secrets of Dr. Seusus's selling technique and build your sales. Most people have read the Dr. Seuss tale "Green Eggs & Ham", either as kids or to their children. What is interesting is the relevance this story has to selling.
Learn the secrets of Dr. Seusus's selling technique and build your sales. Most people have read the Dr. Seuss tale "Green Eggs & Ham", either as kids or to their children. What is interesting is the relevance this story has to selling.
5 Minute Brochure Design Test
You only get one chance to make a favorable impression with your brochure design. Improve your marketing response rates by taking the 5 minute brochure design trash test.
You only get one chance to make a favorable impression with your brochure design. Improve your marketing response rates by taking the 5 minute brochure design trash test.
Small Business Opportuntity
So you think you have found the one business opportunity that will bring you freedom, fame, and plenty of profits? Does it meet the 8 simple rules? Before you run out and cash in your life-savings, stop and separate your emotions from the small business opportunity.
So you think you have found the one business opportunity that will bring you freedom, fame, and plenty of profits? Does it meet the 8 simple rules? Before you run out and cash in your life-savings, stop and separate your emotions from the small business opportunity.
Smart Business Credit Tips
With the growing popularity of small business credit cards and ever changing interest rates, now is the time to learn the 6 steps to effective small business credit card management.
With the growing popularity of small business credit cards and ever changing interest rates, now is the time to learn the 6 steps to effective small business credit card management.
8 Uncommon Employee Benefits
Lack the employee benefit budget of a Fortune 500 company? There are employee benefit solutions to make your staff happy without breaking the bank.
Lack the employee benefit budget of a Fortune 500 company? There are employee benefit solutions to make your staff happy without breaking the bank.
Winning Trade Show Premiums
Gift giving creates a favorable impression. However, how many promotional trade show giveaways do an effective job? Before jumping into the trade show giveaway game consider the following...
Gift giving creates a favorable impression. However, how many promotional trade show giveaways do an effective job? Before jumping into the trade show giveaway game consider the following...
Origin of Million Dollar Ideas
Million dollar business ideas have no boundaries, age limits, race restrictions, time lines, or economic class. They can occur when you least expect them. For psychologist Roger Adams, it occurred during a midlife crisis and divorce. For management consultant Mercia Tapping, it happened after a 10-year battle with allergies and the search for a cure. Ruta Fox was a freelancer running out of work when she said "Ah" to her "Aha" moment.
Million dollar business ideas have no boundaries, age limits, race restrictions, time lines, or economic class. They can occur when you least expect them. For psychologist Roger Adams, it occurred during a midlife crisis and divorce. For management consultant Mercia Tapping, it happened after a 10-year battle with allergies and the search for a cure. Ruta Fox was a freelancer running out of work when she said "Ah" to her "Aha" moment.
Principles Of Business Ethics
One of the most important attributes for small business success, is the distinguishing quality of practicing admirable business ethics. Learn the 7 Principles of Admirable Business Ethics.
One of the most important attributes for small business success, is the distinguishing quality of practicing admirable business ethics. Learn the 7 Principles of Admirable Business Ethics.
Hottest Small Business Trends
The hottest trends in business from About.com Small Business Information.
The hottest trends in business from About.com Small Business Information.
Pricing Strategies
The pricing strategy of a small business can ultimately determine it's fate. Small business owners can ensure profitability and longevity by paying close attention to their pricing strategy.
The pricing strategy of a small business can ultimately determine it's fate. Small business owners can ensure profitability and longevity by paying close attention to their pricing strategy.
Small Business Banking 101
Mixing your personal bank account with business is like oil and water they don't mix. Learn the five reasons not to mix personal & small business banking.
Mixing your personal bank account with business is like oil and water they don't mix. Learn the five reasons not to mix personal & small business banking.
Office Space: Lease or Buy?
Office space: lease or buy? In order to make your decision easier, your About.com Guide for Small Business Information has assembled the key facts of leasing versus buying office space.
Office space: lease or buy? In order to make your decision easier, your About.com Guide for Small Business Information has assembled the key facts of leasing versus buying office space.
Email Management
Incorporating this 6 simple tips into your small business will put you on the road to effective email management.
Incorporating this 6 simple tips into your small business will put you on the road to effective email management.
Top Business Opportunity
For the past few months, your Small Business Information Guide, has extensively researched the best business opportunities for the new year. This year's top small business opportunities cover 8 different markets. So take a peek at what's hot in business opportunities today.
For the past few months, your Small Business Information Guide, has extensively researched the best business opportunities for the new year. This year's top small business opportunities cover 8 different markets. So take a peek at what's hot in business opportunities today.
Reduce Employee Turnover
Nothing can be more frustrating than the constant aggravation of employee turnover. High or low employee turnover can be detrimental to your company. Learn what you need to know to calculate and curtail employee turnover.
Nothing can be more frustrating than the constant aggravation of employee turnover. High or low employee turnover can be detrimental to your company. Learn what you need to know to calculate and curtail employee turnover.
Raving Customer Testimonials
A fanatical customer testimony is worth more than 1000 words of bland sales copy. A compelling customer testimony validates the claims you make about how great your business is.
A fanatical customer testimony is worth more than 1000 words of bland sales copy. A compelling customer testimony validates the claims you make about how great your business is.
Top Five Traits You Gotta Have
To understand the valuable qualities in selling, I asked experts and business owners what characteristics allow a salesperson to transcend the trite.
To understand the valuable qualities in selling, I asked experts and business owners what characteristics allow a salesperson to transcend the trite.
Buying A Franchise
Buying a franchise is an option considered by corporate employees experiencing downsizing or unfavorable work conditions. Before you take the leap, your About.com Guide for Small Business Information has assembled the pros and cons of buying a franchise.
Buying a franchise is an option considered by corporate employees experiencing downsizing or unfavorable work conditions. Before you take the leap, your About.com Guide for Small Business Information has assembled the pros and cons of buying a franchise.
Small Business Financing
Learn what you need to know about getting small business financing. The "traditional" rules of banking relationships and the 5 C's of credit will be explored.
Learn what you need to know about getting small business financing. The "traditional" rules of banking relationships and the 5 C's of credit will be explored.
Ten Trade Show Best Practices
Is now a good time to spend on trade shows? With overall economic and business activity at a stand still, trade shows attendance and exhibits may be down. However, much like the stock market, the best opportunities can be at the bottom.
Is now a good time to spend on trade shows? With overall economic and business activity at a stand still, trade shows attendance and exhibits may be down. However, much like the stock market, the best opportunities can be at the bottom.
Customer Service Secrets
Five principles of customer service from the field of behavioral science. New insights into customer service for small business.
Five principles of customer service from the field of behavioral science. New insights into customer service for small business.
C Corporation
Creating a C Corporation is more complicated than forming a limited liability company or a sole proprietorship, but there are several tax benefits your company could enjoy.
Creating a C Corporation is more complicated than forming a limited liability company or a sole proprietorship, but there are several tax benefits your company could enjoy.
HSA for Small Business
A new approach enacted by Congress last year called HSA or health savings accounts, provides new avenues for reducing current healthcare costs. Learn how an HSA can benefit your small business.
A new approach enacted by Congress last year called HSA or health savings accounts, provides new avenues for reducing current healthcare costs. Learn how an HSA can benefit your small business.
5 Stages of Consumer Behavior
Tackling the buying resistance problem begins with understanding how consumers or companies make buying decisions. The following indicates the buying stages and some marketing and sales methods to break the resistance.
Tackling the buying resistance problem begins with understanding how consumers or companies make buying decisions. The following indicates the buying stages and some marketing and sales methods to break the resistance.
A Small Business Exit Plan
Learn the four D’s of a business exit strategy: death, disability, divorce, and departing. The idea that your business will provide you with income after you are no longer there may not be a reality. To have a successful business, you must plan for all four D’s.
Learn the four D’s of a business exit strategy: death, disability, divorce, and departing. The idea that your business will provide you with income after you are no longer there may not be a reality. To have a successful business, you must plan for all four D’s.
Common Business Plan Mistakes
What are the common mistakes made when writing a business plan?
What are the common mistakes made when writing a business plan?
Sweet Sales Success
They are a sales force of 3.7 million. Their products are not available in stores. Annual sales are $700 million in only 3 months of the year. Who is this incredible sales organization?
They are a sales force of 3.7 million. Their products are not available in stores. Annual sales are $700 million in only 3 months of the year. Who is this incredible sales organization?
Make the Best of Your Office
A recent Microsoft Hardware Poll found 90% of employees stated their office space design had a direct effect on productivity. Do yourself a favor and take a few simple steps to better office design to help your well-being and bottom line.
A recent Microsoft Hardware Poll found 90% of employees stated their office space design had a direct effect on productivity. Do yourself a favor and take a few simple steps to better office design to help your well-being and bottom line.
Improve Your Business Tips
Your business is on an upward track or on its way down. Making improvements to make your business better is a conscious choice. These 10 tips should help you focus on the areas of business offering the biggest gain.
Your business is on an upward track or on its way down. Making improvements to make your business better is a conscious choice. These 10 tips should help you focus on the areas of business offering the biggest gain.
Overcome Business Startup Fear
If ever there was a better time to start your own business now would be it. Entrepreneurs today have access to a wealth of knowledge, a variety of support sources and reduced startup costs.
If ever there was a better time to start your own business now would be it. Entrepreneurs today have access to a wealth of knowledge, a variety of support sources and reduced startup costs.
Top Ten Business Opportunities for 2003
The hottest business opportunities for 2003 from your About.com Small Business Information Guide. Learn what's hot in business opportunities in the New Year.
The hottest business opportunities for 2003 from your About.com Small Business Information Guide. Learn what's hot in business opportunities in the New Year.
Big Company Selling Strategy
Selling your services to big corporations is an attractive proposition. The contracts are larger than with small businesses and individuals, and often longer-term.
Selling your services to big corporations is an attractive proposition. The contracts are larger than with small businesses and individuals, and often longer-term.
Making Sure it All Adds Up
Your business plan financials are essential for lenders and investors who want to see hard figures before putting money into your business. Solid financials could help you get loans and attract investors, even if you aren't operating yet.
Your business plan financials are essential for lenders and investors who want to see hard figures before putting money into your business. Solid financials could help you get loans and attract investors, even if you aren't operating yet.
Start Up Tips
Learn what you need to know during the first 90 days of starting a business.The process of starting a business involves key steps from choosing a business name to selecting a business structure. Once your doors are open, the first 90 days of being in business set the foundation for successful survival.
Learn what you need to know during the first 90 days of starting a business.The process of starting a business involves key steps from choosing a business name to selecting a business structure. Once your doors are open, the first 90 days of being in business set the foundation for successful survival.
Ignite Employee Motivation
The workplace environment can be shaped to create a motivating workforce. Before you can build motivation within your company, you must understand motivation.
The workplace environment can be shaped to create a motivating workforce. Before you can build motivation within your company, you must understand motivation.
21st Century Business Trends
The 21st century presents plenty of changes that will impact your small business in the future. Here are 8 small business trends for the 21st century.
The 21st century presents plenty of changes that will impact your small business in the future. Here are 8 small business trends for the 21st century.
Business Startup Secrets
Finding the hot business opportunity is the first step. Once you find a hot idea you need to evaluate whether the business makes sense not only in the market but also for you personally. Keep in mind these five factors in determining the right startup business for you.
Finding the hot business opportunity is the first step. Once you find a hot idea you need to evaluate whether the business makes sense not only in the market but also for you personally. Keep in mind these five factors in determining the right startup business for you.
Business Planning
While conventional wisdom dictates that cash flow and revenue projections are the key to taking control of your business, sales will drive many of the other numbers. Sales forecasting is a key element of any business plan, which you must compose if you’re starting a venture or making significant changes within an existing business.
While conventional wisdom dictates that cash flow and revenue projections are the key to taking control of your business, sales will drive many of the other numbers. Sales forecasting is a key element of any business plan, which you must compose if you’re starting a venture or making significant changes within an existing business.
Find Your Business Life Cycle
Your business is changing. With the passage of time, your company will go through various stages of the business life cycle. Learn what upcoming focuses, challenges and financing sources you will need to succeed.
Your business is changing. With the passage of time, your company will go through various stages of the business life cycle. Learn what upcoming focuses, challenges and financing sources you will need to succeed.
Small Business Bartering
Is bartering for your small business? Learn how bartering can help your small business.
Is bartering for your small business? Learn how bartering can help your small business.
Earning Customer Loyalty
Loyalty cards and programs have their rewards and pitfalls. With customer loyalty cards and programs reaching a saturation point, how can a small business stand out?
Loyalty cards and programs have their rewards and pitfalls. With customer loyalty cards and programs reaching a saturation point, how can a small business stand out?
Winning Customer Relations
Reaching and nurturing customer relations are essential for a small business to survival. Central to managing any customer relationship is CRM or customer relationship management software. Discover the necessary survival strategy of managing customer relations with the technology of today.
Reaching and nurturing customer relations are essential for a small business to survival. Central to managing any customer relationship is CRM or customer relationship management software. Discover the necessary survival strategy of managing customer relations with the technology of today.
Find a Business Broker Tips
The right business broker can help your small business find a source of potential buyers and aid in the sale of your company. Learn what you need to know to find the best business broker.
The right business broker can help your small business find a source of potential buyers and aid in the sale of your company. Learn what you need to know to find the best business broker.
Business Valuations Made Easy
If you’re preparing to sell your business, you'll first need to know how much your company is worth by conducting a business valuation. It will give you, your investors and potential buyers a good idea of what your business’s value is by looking at both tangible assets like real estate and cash, as well as intangible assets like intellectual property.
If you’re preparing to sell your business, you'll first need to know how much your company is worth by conducting a business valuation. It will give you, your investors and potential buyers a good idea of what your business’s value is by looking at both tangible assets like real estate and cash, as well as intangible assets like intellectual property.
Sesame Street Business Lesson
A marketing lesson from Sesame Street. Learn how to have your business stand out in a crowded market place.
A marketing lesson from Sesame Street. Learn how to have your business stand out in a crowded market place.
Small Business Best Practice
Learn what big business already knows about benchmarking best practices and how to effectively borrow or steal ideas, tactics and strategies.
Learn what big business already knows about benchmarking best practices and how to effectively borrow or steal ideas, tactics and strategies.
Business Metrics
Business Metrics definition for small business glossary.
Business Metrics definition for small business glossary.
Most Popular Articles
Top 10 Most Popular Small Business Articles
Top 10 Most Popular Small Business Articles
Master Public Speaking
The words public speaking strikes fear in the minds of otherwise competent and confident people. Master the art of public speaking for greater success.
The words public speaking strikes fear in the minds of otherwise competent and confident people. Master the art of public speaking for greater success.
Small Business Blog Benefits
Business Blogs FAQ: What are the benefits of blogging for small business, consultants, coaches, and free agents?
Business Blogs FAQ: What are the benefits of blogging for small business, consultants, coaches, and free agents?
Choosing an Outsource Company
When you hire an outsourcing company, you are essentially choosing a partner for your business. Learn everything you need to know about outsourcing for your small business.
When you hire an outsourcing company, you are essentially choosing a partner for your business. Learn everything you need to know about outsourcing for your small business.
Recovering From Disasters
Small business is ill equipped for disaster recovery following a major catastrophe. Learn the 9 factors you need to consider when deciding what direction to take your small business following a natural or man-made disaster.
Small business is ill equipped for disaster recovery following a major catastrophe. Learn the 9 factors you need to consider when deciding what direction to take your small business following a natural or man-made disaster.
Debt or Equity Financing
Debt and equity financing are two different financial strategies: Taking on debt means borrowing money for your business, whereas gaining equity entails injecting your own or other stakeholders’ cash into your company.
Debt and equity financing are two different financial strategies: Taking on debt means borrowing money for your business, whereas gaining equity entails injecting your own or other stakeholders’ cash into your company.
5 Tax Tips for Year-end
Holiday cheer. Hustle and bustle. Hardly a time to think about small business taxes. But a quick look at these year-end tax tips for small business can pay big dividends for 2008.
Holiday cheer. Hustle and bustle. Hardly a time to think about small business taxes. But a quick look at these year-end tax tips for small business can pay big dividends for 2008.
Joint Venture Success
No small business today can afford to ignore the rewards of joint venturing. According to Commonwealth Alliance Program (CAP), businesses anticipate strategic alliances to account for 25% of all revenue by 2005, a total of 40 trillion dollars.
No small business today can afford to ignore the rewards of joint venturing. According to Commonwealth Alliance Program (CAP), businesses anticipate strategic alliances to account for 25% of all revenue by 2005, a total of 40 trillion dollars.
Business Health Insurance Tips
Small business health insurance may take a huge chunk out of your revenue, but benefits often attract better employees and help retain existing workers. Satisfied, healthy employees are more likely to help your business grow. If you're struggling to provide health insurance, here are some tips that could reduce your small business health insurance costs.
Small business health insurance may take a huge chunk out of your revenue, but benefits often attract better employees and help retain existing workers. Satisfied, healthy employees are more likely to help your business grow. If you're struggling to provide health insurance, here are some tips that could reduce your small business health insurance costs.
Avoid Market Research Errors
Avoid these 6 common mistakes in market research for small business. It's absurd how many businesses are launched without ever talking to a single potential customer. Avoid the common errors and use market research wisely to position your business for success.
Avoid these 6 common mistakes in market research for small business. It's absurd how many businesses are launched without ever talking to a single potential customer. Avoid the common errors and use market research wisely to position your business for success.
PowerPoint Presentation Rules
You can create and deliver a powerful PowerPoint presentation if you understand the five cardinal rules of terrific PowerPoint presentations.
You can create and deliver a powerful PowerPoint presentation if you understand the five cardinal rules of terrific PowerPoint presentations.
Scenario Planning Benefits
It is easy to fall into the trap of running your business while looking in the "rear-view mirror'. Making decisions based on what has happened is dangerous and counterproductive to thriving and surviving in uncertain times. In a period of volatile uncertainty, one adaptive tool is to prepare for the unknown by scenario planning.
It is easy to fall into the trap of running your business while looking in the "rear-view mirror'. Making decisions based on what has happened is dangerous and counterproductive to thriving and surviving in uncertain times. In a period of volatile uncertainty, one adaptive tool is to prepare for the unknown by scenario planning.
Reduce Small Business Taxes
Here are seven ways to reduce your small-business tax burden.
Here are seven ways to reduce your small-business tax burden.
Steps to Trademark Protection
No matter the size of your business, you run the risk of trademark infringement each time you name a product, service, and your company. With an ever-growing number of tradenames, take the necessary steps to reduce your risk of trademark infringement.
No matter the size of your business, you run the risk of trademark infringement each time you name a product, service, and your company. With an ever-growing number of tradenames, take the necessary steps to reduce your risk of trademark infringement.
The Five Minute Presentation
The five minute presentation is the most challenging of all presentations to create and deliver. The five minute presentation from an audience perspective is more engaging and less boring than a 30 or 60 minute talk.
The five minute presentation is the most challenging of all presentations to create and deliver. The five minute presentation from an audience perspective is more engaging and less boring than a 30 or 60 minute talk.
Business Disability Insurance
What would happen to your business if you were paralyzed for one year? To the unprepared small business owner, an illness or accident resulting in disability can be devestating to your life and business. Disability insurance will replace your income in the event of an accident or illness.
What would happen to your business if you were paralyzed for one year? To the unprepared small business owner, an illness or accident resulting in disability can be devestating to your life and business. Disability insurance will replace your income in the event of an accident or illness.
Shared Office Space Solution
It makes sense to choose your office space like any business decision; look at the alternatives and determine your best course of action. One cost-effective alternative to traditional office leasing is the shared office space.
It makes sense to choose your office space like any business decision; look at the alternatives and determine your best course of action. One cost-effective alternative to traditional office leasing is the shared office space.
Venture Capital Definition
Venture capital defintion for small business glossary.
Venture capital defintion for small business glossary.
Inspirational Business Women
Women-owned small businesses continue to be the shining light in the current market. The following women in business have overcome great odds and serve as a beacon for all those to follow.
Women-owned small businesses continue to be the shining light in the current market. The following women in business have overcome great odds and serve as a beacon for all those to follow.
Business Property Insurance
Business property insurance is a must to protect your company's assets. While business property insurance isn't required by law, it's a wise investment to limit your liability in the event of a natural disaster or other calamity. Without it, your business may not survive financially.
Business property insurance is a must to protect your company's assets. While business property insurance isn't required by law, it's a wise investment to limit your liability in the event of a natural disaster or other calamity. Without it, your business may not survive financially.
Find a Good Accountant
Small Business tips from your About.com Small Business Information Guide. How-to find a good accountant.
Small Business tips from your About.com Small Business Information Guide. How-to find a good accountant.
Shoebox Accounting System
For many start-ups and sole-proprietors, the shoebox or file box was a temporary fix prior to setting up an accounting system. But with procrastination the box can become the nemesis of your small business.
For many start-ups and sole-proprietors, the shoebox or file box was a temporary fix prior to setting up an accounting system. But with procrastination the box can become the nemesis of your small business.
Sesame Street Business Lesson
Marketing lesson from Sesame Street. How to have your business stand out in a crowded market place.
Marketing lesson from Sesame Street. How to have your business stand out in a crowded market place.
Trade Show Exhibit Success
The key to great trade show exhibiting is marketing. Learn to avoid exhibitors' mistakes and increase your chances for a successful trade show exhibit.
The key to great trade show exhibiting is marketing. Learn to avoid exhibitors' mistakes and increase your chances for a successful trade show exhibit.
Workers Compensation Fraud
A growing concern among small business owners and insurers is workers compensation fraud. Learn the red flags of prevention. The National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB) estimates that workers’ compensation fraud is the fastest growing insurance scam in America.
A growing concern among small business owners and insurers is workers compensation fraud. Learn the red flags of prevention. The National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB) estimates that workers’ compensation fraud is the fastest growing insurance scam in America.
Business For Sale
You've put your blood, sweat and tears into building your business, and now it's time to sell a business. But potential buyers won't flock to your business if you simply put up a for sale sign, says Jim Chamberlain, a management counselor and financial expert with SCORE, a nonprofit organization that serves small businesses.
You've put your blood, sweat and tears into building your business, and now it's time to sell a business. But potential buyers won't flock to your business if you simply put up a for sale sign, says Jim Chamberlain, a management counselor and financial expert with SCORE, a nonprofit organization that serves small businesses.
Marketing Survival
Some soar. Some crash. Others survive. The competitive business environment has been challenging for many companies. What factors contribute to the success of a survivor? The answer is small business marketing.
Some soar. Some crash. Others survive. The competitive business environment has been challenging for many companies. What factors contribute to the success of a survivor? The answer is small business marketing.
Trademark Registration
A brand name or logo is what distinguishes your company. When you successfully register a trademark, you gain exclusive rights to use those identifying symbols for your business.
A brand name or logo is what distinguishes your company. When you successfully register a trademark, you gain exclusive rights to use those identifying symbols for your business.
Applying for SBA Loans
The Small Business Administration helps facilitate loans for small businesses. If you think you might need a backer to secure funding, startup SBA loan programs could help your small business find its footing.
The Small Business Administration helps facilitate loans for small businesses. If you think you might need a backer to secure funding, startup SBA loan programs could help your small business find its footing.
Merchant Services 101
Understanding how to select merchant services can impact your sales revenue and profit. Learn the essential 6 questions of merchant services, and the hidden rules of the merchant account game.
Understanding how to select merchant services can impact your sales revenue and profit. Learn the essential 6 questions of merchant services, and the hidden rules of the merchant account game.
Avoid Small Business Audits
Strategies to help your small business avoid an audit or weather one if it comes.
Strategies to help your small business avoid an audit or weather one if it comes.
Why do I need a business plan?
Business Plan FAQ Why do I need a business plan?
Business Plan FAQ Why do I need a business plan?
Online Fax
Although faxing remains one of the most efficient means of transmitting such documents, companies no longer need a land line or a costly fax machine in order to send and receive them. Instead, they can use Internet fax.
Although faxing remains one of the most efficient means of transmitting such documents, companies no longer need a land line or a costly fax machine in order to send and receive them. Instead, they can use Internet fax.
Franchise Financing
Financing a franchise comes with a significant amount of responsibility and costs. Like any small business, you will need to draft a detailed business plan and research the industry and the franchise before opening your doors.
Financing a franchise comes with a significant amount of responsibility and costs. Like any small business, you will need to draft a detailed business plan and research the industry and the franchise before opening your doors.
Reprint Request
article reprint request for About.com Small Business Information site
article reprint request for About.com Small Business Information site
Few Write Business Plans
If business plans are so important why do so few people actually write one?
If business plans are so important why do so few people actually write one?
Magic Box and Email Marketing
Small business is jumping on the affordable email marketing bandwagon. Combine your email marketing newsletter with a "magic box" for a sales campaign you'll never forget
Small business is jumping on the affordable email marketing bandwagon. Combine your email marketing newsletter with a "magic box" for a sales campaign you'll never forget
Unique Selling Proposition USP
Unique Selling Proposition USP for small business glossary.
Unique Selling Proposition USP for small business glossary.
Biz Lessons From The Simpsons
Homer and cast provide a multitude of business lessons for any entrepreneur. Here are 5 good and bad business lessons for your enjoyment and education
Homer and cast provide a multitude of business lessons for any entrepreneur. Here are 5 good and bad business lessons for your enjoyment and education
Equipment Leasing 101
Free up working capital by leasing equipment. Everything you need to know about equipment leasing.
Free up working capital by leasing equipment. Everything you need to know about equipment leasing.
Sole Proprietorship
Sole proprietorship definition for small business glossary.
Sole proprietorship definition for small business glossary.
Recovering From Disasters
With no guarantee of success following a disaster, the decision to rebuild the business requires answering some tough questions. Learn the 9 factors to consider in disaster recovery.
With no guarantee of success following a disaster, the decision to rebuild the business requires answering some tough questions. Learn the 9 factors to consider in disaster recovery.
Hire An Accounting Team
To get a grasp on your small business accounting and financials, should you hire a bookkeeper, an accountant, a controller, or a Chief Financial Officer (CFO)? When is the best time to hire each type of professional?
To get a grasp on your small business accounting and financials, should you hire a bookkeeper, an accountant, a controller, or a Chief Financial Officer (CFO)? When is the best time to hire each type of professional?
Profit Pricing Strategies
The pricing strategy of a small business can ultimately determine its fate. Small business owners can ensure profitability and longevity by paying close attention to their pricing strategy.
The pricing strategy of a small business can ultimately determine its fate. Small business owners can ensure profitability and longevity by paying close attention to their pricing strategy.
Small Business Privacy Issues
Small business has much to gain by adopting a privacy policy. Privacy policies present an opportunity for building customer trust, enhancing company credibility and winning more business. Is your small business privacy-friendly?
Small business has much to gain by adopting a privacy policy. Privacy policies present an opportunity for building customer trust, enhancing company credibility and winning more business. Is your small business privacy-friendly?
Part-time Business Disaster
Part-time businesses allow entrepreneurs to "test the waters" and see if the business is viable while still earning a full-time paycheck. But there are many traps to avoid when moonlighting. Learn the 6 keys to avoid part-time business disaster.
Part-time businesses allow entrepreneurs to "test the waters" and see if the business is viable while still earning a full-time paycheck. But there are many traps to avoid when moonlighting. Learn the 6 keys to avoid part-time business disaster.
Surviving Hard Times
Surviving a recession or other hard times requires a steel determination but in today's merciless marketplace, more is needed. Here are 6 small business hard time strategies to help steer the chopping waters of commerce.
Surviving a recession or other hard times requires a steel determination but in today's merciless marketplace, more is needed. Here are 6 small business hard time strategies to help steer the chopping waters of commerce.
Employee Pension Plans 101
An employee retirement plan for small businesses is easier to establish and run than you may think. Employer contributions are generally tax-deductible, and you may qualify for a $500 tax credit for setting up a pension plan. In addition, small business retirement plans require less paperwork than traditional pension plans and may help to draw and retain employees.
An employee retirement plan for small businesses is easier to establish and run than you may think. Employer contributions are generally tax-deductible, and you may qualify for a $500 tax credit for setting up a pension plan. In addition, small business retirement plans require less paperwork than traditional pension plans and may help to draw and retain employees.
Business Plan Software
Business Plan FAQ Should I use business plan software?
Business Plan FAQ Should I use business plan software?