Small Business Information: Most Popular Articles
These articles are the most popular over the last month.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Business Ideas 2010
Want to know what kind of business to start in 2011? Check out 47 of the best small business ideas from 2010 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 2011? Check out 47 of the best small business ideas from 2010 in the following categories: home-based businesses, low-cost businesses, green businesses, technology-related businesses and pet-related businesses.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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?
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.
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.
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?
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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?
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.
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.
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.
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.
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?
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.
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.
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.
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.
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?
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.
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?
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.
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.
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.
Patent Your Invention
Having winning invention ideas takes more than the Eureka moment. Learn how to patent an idea. Before you embark on the invention journey, determine if you have the necessary ingredients for a great invention idea.
Having winning invention ideas takes more than the Eureka moment. Learn how to patent an idea. Before you embark on the invention journey, determine if you have the necessary ingredients for a great invention idea.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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.
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?
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.
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.
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.
10 Things You Need To Do To Build a Successful Relationship with Your Bookkeeper
Tips and advice for finding and working efficiently with your small business bookkeeper.
Tips and advice for finding and working efficiently with your small business bookkeeper.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
Small Business Opportunties
This year's top best business opportunities list provides something for everybody from the hot poker craze to smart clothes.
This year's top best business opportunities list provides something for everybody from the hot poker craze to smart clothes.
Sending Thank You Notes
The lost art of sending a personalized business thank you notes to your customers is an easy method to stand out in a sea of average businesses.
The lost art of sending a personalized business thank you notes to your customers is an easy method to stand out in a sea of average businesses.
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.
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.
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.
Marketing Strategy
A description of the marketing strategy section of a small business plan, what should be included, a sample marketing strategy and tips for writing an effective marketing strategy section.
A description of the marketing strategy section of a small business plan, what should be included, a sample marketing strategy and tips for writing an effective marketing strategy section.
How to Raise Your Small Business Rates without Losing Clients
Raising your rates in your small business doesn't have to result in the loss of clients. Follow these tips to raise your rates and earn what you deserve for the services you provide.
Raising your rates in your small business doesn't have to result in the loss of clients. Follow these tips to raise your rates and earn what you deserve for the services you provide.
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.
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.
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.
Sales Boosting Sales Letter
Are you frustrated that your sales letter isn't getting results? Do you wonder how to improve your sales
Are you frustrated that your sales letter isn't getting results? Do you wonder how to improve your sales
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.
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.
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.
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.
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. .
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.
Business Email Management
Incorporating these 6 simple business email tips will put you on the road to effective email management and make your life much easier. Spend the time to master the essentials of email.
Incorporating these 6 simple business email tips will put you on the road to effective email management and make your life much easier. Spend the time to master the essentials of email.
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.
How to Bootstrap Your Small Business from the Ground Up
Bootstrapping is when you start, run and grow a business with limited capital. These tips will help you make the most of the funds you have available in your small business.
Bootstrapping is when you start, run and grow a business with limited capital. These tips will help you make the most of the funds you have available in your small business.
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.
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.
bizstartupques
Small business-related questions to consider before starting a new business.
Small business-related questions to consider before starting a new business.
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?
Executive Summary
An explanation of the executive summary section of a small business plan, what it should include, how it should be written, and tips for writing an effective executive summary.
An explanation of the executive summary section of a small business plan, what it should include, how it should be written, and tips for writing an effective executive summary.
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.
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.
Dr. Seuss Selling Technique
Most people have read the Dr. Seuss tale "Green Eggs & Ham", either as kids or to their children. What
Most people have read the Dr. Seuss tale "Green Eggs & Ham", either as kids or to their children. What
Benefits and Disadvantages of Corp
An in-depth look at the advantages and disadvantages of incorporating your small business, including discussion about limited liability, double taxation, stock and shareholders, corporation paperwork and more.
An in-depth look at the advantages and disadvantages of incorporating your small business, including discussion about limited liability, double taxation, stock and shareholders, corporation paperwork and more.
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.
Corporate Gift Guidelines
Before you set out to find the perfect corporate gift for your clients, know the 8 essentials of corporate gift buying. Buying the perfect corporate gift for your clients has never been easier with the availability of products online and retail.
Before you set out to find the perfect corporate gift for your clients, know the 8 essentials of corporate gift buying. Buying the perfect corporate gift for your clients has never been easier with the availability of products online and retail.
Bouncing Back Tips
Small Business sales strategies in slump
Small Business sales strategies in slump
How to Franchise Your Business
Curious whether or not your own small business could serve as the model for a franchise? Read on to find out how to go about becoming a legally recognized franchisor.
Curious whether or not your own small business could serve as the model for a franchise? Read on to find out how to go about becoming a legally recognized franchisor.
Venture Capital Definition
Venture capital defintion for small business glossary.
Venture capital defintion for small business glossary.
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.
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.
LLC's and More
The choice you make for the structure of your business, whether a LLC or some other form, will have an impact on your business liability, fund-ability and tax implications.
The choice you make for the structure of your business, whether a LLC or some other form, will have an impact on your business liability, fund-ability and tax implications.
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.
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.
Student Business Tips
How to navigate the opportunities for young entrepreneurs.
How to navigate the opportunities for young entrepreneurs.
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.
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?
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.
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.
Financial Analysis
A description of the financial analysis section of a small business plan, what should be included, a sample financial analysis and tips for writing an effective financial analysis section.
A description of the financial analysis section of a small business plan, what should be included, a sample financial analysis and tips for writing an effective financial analysis section.
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.
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.
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...
Sections of Business Plan
Sections of a business plan.: key ratios management risks loan obligations plan faq success ratio
Sections of a business plan.: key ratios management risks loan obligations plan faq success ratio
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.
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.
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.
Getting a Bank Loan or Credit
Getting a bank loan or credit starts with you.
Getting a bank loan or credit starts with you.
FMLA 101 for Small Business Owners
How small business owners can understand and comply with the The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA).
How small business owners can understand and comply with the The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA).
Kroger Swot Analysis
To gain an understanding of a SWOT analysis, this article will provide a SWOT analysis of Kroger Co.
To gain an understanding of a SWOT analysis, this article will provide a SWOT analysis of Kroger Co.
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.
Small Business Money
Finding small business funding is one of the survival skills needed for small business success. Whether you're a start up or growing business, learning the basics of raising capital will go a long way to ensure you stay in business.
Finding small business funding is one of the survival skills needed for small business success. Whether you're a start up or growing business, learning the basics of raising capital will go a long way to ensure you stay in business.
Do You Really Need a Business Plan?
Business plans can be one of the most effective tools for the small business owner who is starting, growing and even managing a business. Here are some reasons why writing a business plan is a good idea.
Business plans can be one of the most effective tools for the small business owner who is starting, growing and even managing a business. Here are some reasons why writing a business plan is a good idea.
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.
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.
Business Licenses 101
You'll have to deal with a fair amount of paperwork before opening your new business. In addition to registering your business and finding out whether you need a tax ID number, you may need local, state and federal business licenses and permits. This is a basic checklist of items to consider as you set up your business.
You'll have to deal with a fair amount of paperwork before opening your new business. In addition to registering your business and finding out whether you need a tax ID number, you may need local, state and federal business licenses and permits. This is a basic checklist of items to consider as you set up your business.
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.
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.
Small Business Insurance
Any business is exposed to a variety of risks. A smart business one will take the necessary acts to mitigate the risk and one valuable risk manager is insurance.
Any business is exposed to a variety of risks. A smart business one will take the necessary acts to mitigate the risk and one valuable risk manager is insurance.
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.
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.
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.
8 Tips Financial Plan Profits
To be successful in business, you need to make a financial plan and check it against the facts on a monthly basis, then take immediate action to correct any problems. Learn the 8 steps you should take...
To be successful in business, you need to make a financial plan and check it against the facts on a monthly basis, then take immediate action to correct any problems. Learn the 8 steps you should take...
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.
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.
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.
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.