Small Business Information: Most Popular Articles
These articles are the most popular over the last month.
101 Small Business Ideas
A list of 101 small business ideas to help you explore business opportunities that may be available to you.
A list of 101 small business ideas to help you explore business opportunities that may be available to you.
Business Name Generators
If you're trying to come up with a winning name for your business and need a little inspiration, try these seven business name generators to break through the mental block to find the best possible name for your business.
If you're trying to come up with a winning name for your business and need a little inspiration, try these seven business name generators to break through the mental block to find the best possible name for your business.
Business Proposal Writing
Discover how to write a business proposal that Wows clients and wins the business. The most common mistake made by business proposal writers is a lack of understand of the client’s business, industry and challenges.
Discover how to write a business proposal that Wows clients and wins the business. The most common mistake made by business proposal writers is a lack of understand of the client’s business, industry and challenges.
Smart Goals
SMART is an acronym for the 5 steps of specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-based goals. It’s a simple tool used by athletes and businesses to go beyond the realm of fuzzy goal-setting into an actionable plan for results.
SMART is an acronym for the 5 steps of specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-based goals. It’s a simple tool used by athletes and businesses to go beyond the realm of fuzzy goal-setting into an actionable plan for results.
Starting a Business - Are You Ready to Start a Business? Quiz
A short quiz to help you evaluate if you are ready to start a business.
A short quiz to help you evaluate if you are ready to start a business.
Marketing Ideas
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.
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.
Starting Your Business
Starting a small business requires determination, motivation, and know-how. Here are the critical steps 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 are the critical steps to provide you with the know-how to have a successful small business startup.
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.
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.
Business Letter Format
Learn quickly and easily how to create a business letter format. Using the proper business letter format in your business communications conveys a sense of professionalism.
Learn quickly and easily how to create a business letter format. Using the proper business letter format in your business communications conveys a sense of professionalism.
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.
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.
Business Ideas 2013
Want to know what kind of business to start in 2013? Check out 47 of the best small business ideas from 2013 in the following categories: home-based businesses, low-cost businesses, green businesses, technology-related businesses and pet-related businesses.
Want to know what kind of business to start in 2013? Check out 47 of the best small business ideas from 2013 in the following categories: home-based businesses, low-cost businesses, green businesses, technology-related businesses and pet-related businesses.
How to Write a Small Business Marketing Plan
A marketing plan is an essential tool for every small business. Use this step-by-step marketing plan tutorial to identify your marketing goals and create a plan for reaching them.
A marketing plan is an essential tool for every small business. Use this step-by-step marketing plan tutorial to identify your marketing goals and create a plan for reaching them.
Sample Collection Letter
In order to understand the best practices of letter creation, a sample collection letter is available to learn how to effectively craft a winning letter.
In order to understand the best practices of letter creation, a sample collection letter is available to learn how to effectively craft a winning letter.
New Customer Welcome Letter
A step-by-step guide to writing a new customer welcome letter for new clients in your business.
A step-by-step guide to writing a new customer welcome letter for new clients in your business.
Cover Letter Example
A step-by-step guide to writing a cover letter that can accompany a business proposal, sales letter, invoice or other client letter, including a cover letter example.
A step-by-step guide to writing a cover letter that can accompany a business proposal, sales letter, invoice or other client letter, including a cover letter example.
Power Up Your Presentation
The business 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 business 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.
Business Name Commandments
What's in a business name? Everything and nothing. The right business name will help distinguish you
What's in a business name? Everything and nothing. The right business name will help distinguish you
Need a Mission Statement?
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.
Simple Business Plan
This simple business plan exercise provides a quick and painless start to the business planning process by asking you a series of questions about your business, your goals and your future plans.
This simple business plan exercise provides a quick and painless start to the business planning process by asking you a series of questions about your business, your goals and your future plans.
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.
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.
Business Letter Samples
A list of business letter samples and tips to help you write effective business cover letters, new customer welcome letters, collection letters, business proposals and sales letters.
A list of business letter samples and tips to help you write effective business cover letters, new customer welcome letters, collection letters, business proposals and sales letters.
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.
Low-Cost Business Ideas
Ten of best low-cost business ideas for the budget-minded business owner, including the pros, cons and resources for each low-cost business idea.
Ten of best low-cost business ideas for the budget-minded business owner, including the pros, cons and resources for each low-cost business idea.
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.
Business Plan Outline
An overview of all of the main sections of a business plan, with links to expanded descriptions, examples and tips for writing each section of your business plan effectively.
An overview of all of the main sections of a business plan, with links to expanded descriptions, examples and tips for writing each section of your business plan effectively.
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.
Start Mobile Phone Business
The 5 hottest mobile phone business opportunities represent the ideal cell phone business to start. Learn more about starting a mobile phone business.
The 5 hottest mobile phone business opportunities represent the ideal cell phone business to start. Learn more about starting a mobile phone business.
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.
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.
How to Name a Business
Choosing a business name can be easy, or it can be one of the most challenging aspects of starting a business. Here are five tips that can help you choose the right business name.
Choosing a business name can be easy, or it can be one of the most challenging aspects of starting a business. Here are five tips that can help you choose the right business name.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Famous Advertising Slogans
These famous advertising slogans of all time have the common traits of being highly memorable and are tied to a strong benefit. Who can forget these classics?
These famous advertising slogans of all time have the common traits of being highly memorable and are tied to a strong benefit. Who can forget these classics?
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.
Master Public Speaking
The words public speaking strikes fear and anxiety in the minds of otherwise competent and confident people. Does the thought of speaking in front of a group evoke fear, make you sweat, starts your heart pounding?
The words public speaking strikes fear and anxiety in the minds of otherwise competent and confident people. Does the thought of speaking in front of a group evoke fear, make you sweat, starts your heart pounding?
7 Common Sales Objections and How to Overcome Them
Use these tips to overcome seven of the most common sales objections you will hear during the sales process in your small business.
Use these tips to overcome seven of the most common sales objections you will hear during the sales process in your 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.
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 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.
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.
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?
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.
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.
Client Gift Ideas
Are you looking for the perfect business gift for an important client? Start by browsing this collection of 15 client gift ideas that will help you show how much you appreciate your client's business.
Are you looking for the perfect business gift for an important client? Start by browsing this collection of 15 client gift ideas that will help you show how much you appreciate your client's business.
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.
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.
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.
Data Entry
There are a lot of legitimate opportunities available for data entry businesses. If you are an exceptional typist with an eye for detail, a data entry business might be a great business idea for you.
There are a lot of legitimate opportunities available for data entry businesses. If you are an exceptional typist with an eye for detail, a data entry business might be a great business idea for you.
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.
9 Tips for Providing Excellent Customer Service
Providing excellent customer service requires a number of easy steps that create an ongoing process that's memorable to your customers. Here are nine ways to start providing great customer service right now.
Providing excellent customer service requires a number of easy steps that create an ongoing process that's memorable to your customers. Here are nine ways to start providing great customer service right now.
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.
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.
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?
Company Description
An overview of the company description section of a small business plan.
An overview of the company description section of a small business plan.
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.
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.
Home-Based Business Ideas
With determination, focus and drive, you can build a profitable business right from your home. Here are ten home-based business ideas to help you start exploring your options.
With determination, focus and drive, you can build a profitable business right from your home. Here are ten home-based business ideas to help you start exploring your options.
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?
What is a USP
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.
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.
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.
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.
How to Boost Employee Morale
A high morale work place is essential to any business. Discover 11 low cost employee morale boosters.
A high morale work place is essential to any business. Discover 11 low cost employee morale boosters.
7 Rules of an Effective Business Card
Follow these seven business card rules so you can make sure your business card is an effective extension of your brand.
Follow these seven business card rules so you can make sure your business card is an effective extension of your brand.
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.
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.
Business Loan Qualification
When banks start to tighten lending to the small business market, they look to reduce the risk of issuing a small business loan. To qualify, a small business must understand the risk assessment processes bankers use in loan determinations.
When banks start to tighten lending to the small business market, they look to reduce the risk of issuing a small business loan. To qualify, a small business must understand the risk assessment processes bankers use in loan determinations.
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.
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 simplest 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 simplest of all business forms but is it the best?
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.
Reduce Business Costs
Reducing costs in your business is about making smarter choices. Here are 10 areas you can make different decisions to reduce costs in your small business.
Reducing costs in your business is about making smarter choices. Here are 10 areas you can make different decisions to reduce costs in your small business.
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.
Tech-Related Business Ideas
There are many different technology-related business ideas out there. Here are ten, including the pros and cons, and resources to help you get started.
There are many different technology-related business ideas out there. Here are ten, including the pros and cons, and resources to help you get started.
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.
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.
101 Small Business Gift Ideas
Are you looking for business gift ideas for your clients, employees, colleagues or other favorite small business owners? You are certain to find the perfect gift through this compilation of 101 business gift ideas.
Are you looking for business gift ideas for your clients, employees, colleagues or other favorite small business owners? You are certain to find the perfect gift through this compilation of 101 business gift ideas.
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.
Student Business Tips
How to navigate the opportunities for young entrepreneurs.
How to navigate the opportunities for young entrepreneurs.
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.
How to Conduct a SWOT Analysis for Your 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.
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.
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.
Green Business Ideas
A collection of green business ideas for the eco-conscious business owner. Explore the pros, cons and resources of these ten green business ideas
A collection of green business ideas for the eco-conscious business owner. Explore the pros, cons and resources of these ten green business ideas
bizstartupques
Small business-related questions to consider before starting a new business.
Small business-related questions to consider before starting a new business.
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.
Internet Research
Do you have a knack for quickly finding relevant information on the Internet? If so, an Internet research business may be the perfect business idea for you.
Do you have a knack for quickly finding relevant information on the Internet? If so, an Internet research business may be the perfect business idea for you.
Life Coaching
Are you a compassionate, non-judgmental listener who likes helping other overcome personal challenges? Discover if a life coaching business is for you.
Are you a compassionate, non-judgmental listener who likes helping other overcome personal challenges? Discover if a life coaching business is for you.
Marketing Strategy
Tips for writing an effective marketing strategy section of a small business plan.
Tips for writing an effective marketing strategy section of a small business plan.
Business Name Styles
There are hundreds of styles and trends in business names, but six rise to the top as the most common business name styles. Consider these popular styles as you decide what name is right for your business.
There are hundreds of styles and trends in business names, but six rise to the top as the most common business name styles. Consider these popular styles as you decide what name is right for your business.
Air Duct Cleaning
Details on starting an air duct cleaning small business, including the pros, cons and resources for more useful information.
Details on starting an air duct cleaning small business, including the pros, cons and resources for more useful information.
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.
Project Management
Learn how to use your structured and organized nature and excellent follow-up to start a project management business.
Learn how to use your structured and organized nature and excellent follow-up to start a project management business.
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.
Business Plan Help
If you are struggling to write a business plan, help is here! This guide will explain why a business plan is a must-have for most small businesses, walk you through some of the most important background information you need to collect for your business plan, and help you get started with a business plan outline.
If you are struggling to write a business plan, help is here! This guide will explain why a business plan is a must-have for most small businesses, walk you through some of the most important background information you need to collect for your business plan, and help you get started with a business plan outline.
How to Grow Your Facebook Page Community
A list of 18 ways to grow your Facebook community once you have created and customized your Facebook business page.
A list of 18 ways to grow your Facebook community once you have created and customized your Facebook business page.
Virtual Call Center
If you are reliable and have a highly professional telephone presence, a virtual call center business is a business idea you may want to explore.
If you are reliable and have a highly professional telephone presence, a virtual call center business is a business idea you may want to explore.
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.
Cloth Diaper Service
Review a cloth diaper service small business idea, including the pros, cons and resources to help you start a cloth diaper service.
Review a cloth diaper service small business idea, including the pros, cons and resources to help you start a cloth diaper service.
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.
A Guide to Using Facebook for Business
This guide will help you use Facebook for business purposes. Explore the tips, tools and resources provided in this guide to develop a powerful and effective Facebook presence.
This guide will help you use Facebook for business purposes. Explore the tips, tools and resources provided in this guide to develop a powerful and effective Facebook presence.
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.
Management Summary
A description of the management summary section of a small business plan, what should be included, a sample management summary and tips for writing an effective management summary section.
A description of the management summary section of a small business plan, what should be included, a sample management summary and tips for writing an effective management summary section.
Handmade Crafts
A handmade crafts business can be the perfect small business idea if you are skilled in a handmade craft. Here are the pros and cons, and related links.
A handmade crafts business can be the perfect small business idea if you are skilled in a handmade craft. Here are the pros and cons, and related links.
Marketing Guide
If you are starting a small business and are ready to get your feet wet with marketing, this collection of articles will help you plan, implement and develop effective marketing techniques for your startup.
If you are starting a small business and are ready to get your feet wet with marketing, this collection of articles will help you plan, implement and develop effective marketing techniques for your startup.
Small Business Goal Setting Guide
Goal setting resources that will help you maximize your goal setting process and guide you as you achieve your business goals, from the simplest to the most ambitious goals on your list.
Goal setting resources that will help you maximize your goal setting process and guide you as you achieve your business goals, from the simplest to the most ambitious goals on your list.
eBay Consulting
An eBay consulting business may be the perfect business idea for an eBay pro who wants to help others use eBay effectively and generate a significant income.
An eBay consulting business may be the perfect business idea for an eBay pro who wants to help others use eBay effectively and generate a significant income.
Products and Services
An overview of the products or services section of a small business plan, including what should be included and tips for writing an effective products and services section.
An overview of the products or services section of a small business plan, including what should be included and tips for writing an effective products and services section.
Home Office Checklist
Use this checklist to identify the items you need to create an efficient home office that will help you work productivity.
Use this checklist to identify the items you need to create an efficient home office that will help you work productivity.
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.
Bookkeeping
A bookkeeping small business can be a great way to put your financial skills to work. Here are the benefits and potential challenges of a bookkeeping business.
A bookkeeping small business can be a great way to put your financial skills to work. Here are the benefits and potential challenges of a bookkeeping business.
Personal Concierge Service
Starting a personal concierge business can be a great business idea for anyone who enjoys assisting others, has a flexible schedule, and thrives on variety. Here is a look at the pros and cons, and resources for more information.
Starting a personal concierge business can be a great business idea for anyone who enjoys assisting others, has a flexible schedule, and thrives on variety. Here is a look at the pros and cons, and resources for more information.
Computer Repair Business
If you have a technical background and expert understanding of computers, a small business as a computer repair service could be a great business idea for you.
If you have a technical background and expert understanding of computers, a small business as a computer repair service could be a great business idea for you.
7 Ways to Communicate More Effectively in Your Small Business
Effective communication is an important part of starting and growing a successful small business. These tips will help you improve your communication processes.
Effective communication is an important part of starting and growing a successful small business. These tips will help you improve your communication processes.
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.
onlinepymt
Five online payment services that can make it easier for small business owners to get paid.
Five online payment services that can make it easier for small business owners to get paid.
Composting
Information about starting a composting small business, including the pros, cons and resources to explore for tips and advice.
Information about starting a composting small business, including the pros, cons and resources to explore for tips and advice.
Choosing a Sales Incentive System
A list of sales incentives systems appropriate for different kinds of small businesses.
A list of sales incentives systems appropriate for different kinds of small businesses.
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.
Freelance Writing
Freelance writing can be an excellent small business if you are a determined and skilled writer. Here is a look at the benefits and challenges, plus a few recommended resources.
Freelance writing can be an excellent small business if you are a determined and skilled writer. Here is a look at the benefits and challenges, plus a few recommended resources.
Delegation Tips
Delegation can help small business owners grow their businesses and do more in less time, and there are steps to be taken early on in the process to make it more effective. Here are the top seven tips for effective delegation to get you on the right track.
Delegation can help small business owners grow their businesses and do more in less time, and there are steps to be taken early on in the process to make it more effective. Here are the top seven tips for effective delegation to get you on the right track.
Construction Cleanup
Learn what it takes to start a construction cleanup business, including the pros and cons, and where you can find more information about getting started.
Learn what it takes to start a construction cleanup business, including the pros and cons, and where you can find more information about getting started.
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?
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.
Essentials of Accounting
Accounting is by far, one of most important aspects of starting and operating a business. It’s so easy to get caught up in the start up glamorous tasks of designing a business card or choosing a business name, yet without a solid understanding of the numbers you will not survive.
Accounting is by far, one of most important aspects of starting and operating a business. It’s so easy to get caught up in the start up glamorous tasks of designing a business card or choosing a business name, yet without a solid understanding of the numbers you will not survive.
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.
Employee Gift Ideas
Find the perfect employee gift! Browse this collection of 10 employee gift ideas that will help you show how much you appreciate your staff's hard work.
Find the perfect employee gift! Browse this collection of 10 employee gift ideas that will help you show how much you appreciate your staff's hard work.
Ink and Toner Cartridge Refilling
Learn what it takes to start an ink and toner cartridge refilling business, including the pros, cons and where you can get more information.
Learn what it takes to start an ink and toner cartridge refilling business, including the pros, cons and where you can get more information.
Cash Versus Accrual Accounting
An introduction to the two generally accepted accounting systems, and their relevance for various kinds of small businesses.
An introduction to the two generally accepted accounting systems, and their relevance for various kinds of small businesses.
Business Consulting
If you have experience mentoring and advising aspiring small business owners, a small business as a consultant could be the perfect business idea for you.
If you have experience mentoring and advising aspiring small business owners, a small business as a consultant could be the perfect business idea for you.
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.
Business Mistakes
Starting a business isn't easy. There isn't a fool-proof plan to reach small business startup success, but here are 10 of the most common mistakes to avoid as you start your business.
Starting a business isn't easy. There isn't a fool-proof plan to reach small business startup success, but here are 10 of the most common mistakes to avoid as you start your business.
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...
Small Business Grant
Looking for small business grants? Grants are often a hot topic among entrepreneurs with limited funds and access to capital. But where do you find and win a small business grant?
Looking for small business grants? Grants are often a hot topic among entrepreneurs with limited funds and access to capital. But where do you find and win a small business grant?
Party Planning
Start a business that focuses on one of the things you love most – a good party! Learn about the pros and cons, as well as how to get started as a party planner.
Start a business that focuses on one of the things you love most – a good party! Learn about the pros and cons, as well as how to get started as a party planner.
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.
Virtual Assistant
Do you thrive when collaborating with other small business owners and love to think on your feet? If so, a virtual assistant small business may be the perfect business idea for you.
Do you thrive when collaborating with other small business owners and love to think on your feet? If so, a virtual assistant small business may be the perfect business idea for you.
nextlevel
A summary of how small business owners can take their business to the next level and keep moving forward.
A summary of how small business owners can take their business to the next level and keep moving forward.
Small Business Loan and You
The first place to start when it comes to finding your first small business loan or credit is not with your banker, accountant or lawyer but with you. The business is the owner so your personal credit history is an important aspect in getting a small business loan.
The first place to start when it comes to finding your first small business loan or credit is not with your banker, accountant or lawyer but with you. The business is the owner so your personal credit history is an important aspect in getting a small business loan.
Successful Small Business Owners
Successful business owners possess common traits that help them achieve success. Here are some of the most common and powerful character traits that describe small business owners who have started successful businesses.
Successful business owners possess common traits that help them achieve success. Here are some of the most common and powerful character traits that describe small business owners who have started successful businesses.
Origin of Million Dollar Ideas
Million dollar business ideas have no boundaries, age limits, race restrictions, time lines, or economic
Million dollar business ideas have no boundaries, age limits, race restrictions, time lines, or economic
Organic Hair Care Products
Discover what it takes to start an organic hair care products business, including pros, cons and a list of resources where you can get more information.
Discover what it takes to start an organic hair care products business, including pros, cons and a list of resources where you can get more information.
Goal Setting Software
A list of goal setting and tracking software to help you create, track and achieve your most important goals.
A list of goal setting and tracking software to help you create, track and achieve your most important goals.
Handyman
If you are a do-it-yourself type of person, becoming a handyman may be a great business idea for you. Discover what it takes to start a handyman business.
If you are a do-it-yourself type of person, becoming a handyman may be a great business idea for you. Discover what it takes to start a handyman business.
Dog Treat Bakery
Learn about the benefits and challenges of starting a dog treat bakery business, and where to find more information about getting started.
Learn about the benefits and challenges of starting a dog treat bakery business, and where to find more information about getting started.
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.
Tips for Writing an Elevator Pitch
An elevator pitch or elevator speech can be a powerful tool for a small business owner. Here are nine tips for writing an effective elevator pitch.
An elevator pitch or elevator speech can be a powerful tool for a small business owner. Here are nine tips for writing an effective elevator pitch.
Social Media for Business
Small business owners who haven't gotten started with social media for business might be overwhelmed, intimidated and confused. Here are 7 tips to help you navigate the social media waters in a manageable and effective way.
Small business owners who haven't gotten started with social media for business might be overwhelmed, intimidated and confused. Here are 7 tips to help you navigate the social media waters in a manageable and effective way.
The Ultimate Guide to Using Social Media for Small Business
Tips and resources for using social media in your small business.
Tips and resources for using social media in your small business.
Market Analysis
A description of the market analysis section of a small business plan, what should be included, a sample market analysis and tips for writing an effective market analysis section.
A description of the market analysis section of a small business plan, what should be included, a sample market analysis and tips for writing an effective market analysis section.
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.
The Complete Guide on How to Name a Business
A guide that explains how to name a business, shares important things to consider, and provides tools to help you overcome your business-naming challenges.
A guide that explains how to name a business, shares important things to consider, and provides tools to help you overcome your business-naming challenges.
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. .