Cup O' Java

The Work at Home Mom Blues

2012-01-22T15:37:00.000-05:00

by Corrie Petersen

That’s the topic of this week’s feature article in WAHM Tips. Before I wrote this post, though, I wanted to know how common a problem this really is. I know I get a little blue about working at home sometimes, but maybe I was the only one.

Read article here
http://wahm-articles.com/blog/2010/03/the-work-at-home-mom-blues

The Pros and Cons of Telecommuting

2012-01-19T17:17:00.001-05:00

by Liz Krause

Telecommuting from home is not for everyone, but as IP technology such as IP phone systems and mobile apps continue to improve and gain popularity in businesses, more employees are finding themselves in a position to choose telecommuting as an option in the workplace.

Read article here
http://www.stumbleupon.com/su/1VBkGJ/www.theworkathomewoman.com/the-pros-and-cons-of-telecommuting

10 Things to Look for in a Web Hosting Service

2012-01-13T13:24:00.000-05:00

by Darren Dahl

What follows are 10 tips, from business owners and experts alike, about the kinds of questions and issues you want to think about before deciding where to host your website.

Read tips here
http://www.inc.com/guides/201104/10-things-to-look-for-in-a-web-hosting-service.html?partner=newsletter_Startup

Where Not to Look for Money -- And Where You're More Likely to Find It

2012-01-09T10:45:00.001-05:00

by Bob Reiss

One of the major obstacles entrepreneurs face in starting a business is raising the money they need. It can be the most time-consuming, frustrating and disheartening factor in launching a new venture. Save yourself some energy and angst by not looking to sources that conventional wisdom would suggest as logical places to find startup capital. Instead, focus on more realistic prospects.

Read article here
http://www.entrepreneur.com/article/219382

Entrepreneurs' Best Money-Saving Secrets

2012-01-06T13:20:00.003-05:00

by Charlotte Jensen

Even before belt-tightening became de rigueur, entrepreneurs were building businesses while quietly finding ways to cut costs. So who better to ask in a recession for their smartest, savviest cost-cutting tips? Here are 17 creative, easy and unexpected ways entrepreneurs are slashing hundreds -- and sometimes even thousands -- of dollars from their budgets.

Read tips here
http://smallbusiness.aol.com/2009/12/03/entrepreneurs-best-money-saving-secrets/?icid=main%7chtmlws-sb-n%7cdl2%7clink5%7chttp%253A%252F%252Fsmallbusiness.aol.com%252Farticle%252F_a%252Fentrepreneurs-best-money-saving-secrets%252F20091201205509990001

How to Avoid Compromising Your Home Office Data Security

2012-01-02T14:17:00.001-05:00

One of the major risks that savvy business owners need to avoid is that of leaving their valuable and precious office and client data susceptible to cyber theft. That is why the lone entrepreneur or small business owner must wear an additional hat, that being the IT and Data Security Manager.

Read article here
http://blog.morebusiness.com/2011/06/how-to-avoid-compromising-your-home-office-data-security

Business Licenses: Which Type Do You Need?

2011-12-31T14:14:00.001-05:00

Failure to become properly licensed can have a variety of consequences, so it is imperative that all small business owners learn the regulations in their location so that they can meet every requirement.

Which business licenses you need will depend on your location as well as the type of business that you own. Because there is such a variety of requirements from location to location, it is impossible to provide a list that would apply to every business owner.

Continue reading article here
http://www.morebusiness.com/business-licenses

How to Choose a Domain Extension

2011-12-19T11:56:00.000-05:00

by Darren Dahl

Gone are the days when .com and .net were your only options when registering a URL for your business. Here are some tips for developing a domain extension strategy.

Read more here
http://www.inc.com/guides/201105/how-to-choose-a-domain-extension.html?utm_source=start-up&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=incid37763week24

How to Maximize Your Efficiency as a Part-Timer

2011-12-13T10:52:00.001-05:00

by Steven DeMaio

"...As a new part-timer, I've found that anticipating what my full-time colleagues will need when I'm not at work and my ability to maintain work/life balance go hand-in-hand... Here are some tips on how to achieve that efficiency (see my previous post for tips on how to adapt culturally)."

Read article here
http://blogs.hbr.org/demaio/2009/07/how-to-maximize-efficiency-as.html?cm_mmc=npv-_-MANAGEMENT_TIP-_-MAR_2010-_-MTOD0316&referral=00203

6 Business Lessons for Under 30 Entrepreneurs

2011-12-11T13:55:00.001-05:00

by Melinda Emerson

"...Here are the 6 business lessons I shared with the Under 30 entrepreneurs, most of which can be found in my book Become Your Own Boss in 12 Months."

Read Q & A article here
http://succeedasyourownboss.com/07/2011/6-business-lessons-for-under-30-entrepreneurs

Myths and Misconceptions About Starting an Online Business

2011-12-08T14:31:00.000-05:00

by Annette Lucas

Are you trying to start an online business? Are you overwhelmed with the many online business programs available...Learning to read 'between the lines' will better prepare you for what's really involved. Here are some common phrases used to promote online businesses and what they really mean.

Continue reading article here
http://www.homewiththekids.com/home-business/myths.php

5 Lifelines for Your Startup - Funding Your Business

2011-11-30T13:05:00.000-05:00

By Amy Reinink

These organizations can help you find direction and funding.

http://www.entrepreneur.com/startingabusiness/startupbasics/article202326.html

The Debtress 100 Best Financial Blogs

2011-11-23T15:16:00.000-05:00

Posted by The Debtress

I scoured the Web looking for blogs that offered solid, helpful financial advice and tools. I received submissions from readers and bloggers across the country. Below is my careful selection of the “Debtress’ Best,” 100 financial blogs to help you live debt free.

The blogs are broken down into five categories:
- Advice and Insight
- News & Analysis
- Share the Journey
- Start Investing
- Ways to Save

Continue reading article here
http://www.totalbankruptcy.com/debtress/the-debtress-100-best-financial-blogs

Top 7 Tips for Taxpayers Starting a New Business

2011-11-17T12:13:00.000-05:00

by Camron Hoorfar

Anyone starting a new business this summer should be aware of their federal tax responsibilities. Here are the top seven things the IRS wants you to know if you plan on opening a new business this year.

Continue reading tips here
http://www.examiner.com/x-12765-Kansas-City-Business-Taxation-Examiner~y2009m7d10-Top-Seven-Tips-for-Taxpayers-Starting-a-New-Business

Put a Price on Your Time

2011-11-13T13:50:00.000-05:00

Business Start Up -> Time Management -> Tool:

Sure, you know time management is important. You can get more done if you manage your time efficiently. But knowing you will be able to get more work done if you take charge of your time, may not be much of an incentive to make changes.

Stop by and fill out this great form!
http://www.businessknowhow.com/manage/timecalc2.htm

50 Tips for Starting a Home Business and Succeeding

2011-11-05T14:10:00.000-04:00

Provided by Kay Green

Read her tips here

http://123homebusinessguide.com/50-Tips-for-Starting-a-Home-Business-and-Succeeding.php

Tips for Launching Your Own Business

2011-10-28T14:00:00.000-04:00

by Judith Lindenberger

Thinking about starting your own business? Here's advice from a successful entrepreneur who knows first-hand what it takes to get a business up and running.

Read tips here
http://www.businessknowhow.com/startup/launchtips.htm

Seven Ways to Make Your Customers Love You

2011-10-18T11:26:00.001-04:00

by Brad Sugars

With so much emphasis placed on finding customers today, business owners often lose sight of keeping the ones they have. Here are a few surefire ways to stem those losses.

Read article here
http://www.entrepreneur.com/article/219712

Want To Start A Home Based Business! First Get Your Funding Strategy Right

2011-10-15T14:53:00.000-04:00

by Kanaga Siva

Proper Funding is a pre-requisite for the successful operation of a Home Based Business. The fact is that without sufficient funds even the best planned Home Based Business whether it is big or small is bound to fail. Cash is an important ingredient absolutely necessary to sustain your Home Based Business and run it. The capital you require will ofcource depend on how big your operation is going to be. Many businesses fail within a year or two for want of sufficient working capital.

Read article here
http://articles.directorym.com/Funding_Strategies_for_Home_Based_Businesses-a964806.html

7 Questions Every Business Owner Should Ask!

2011-10-12T11:51:00.000-04:00

by Rai Chowdhary, MS, CQE, CQM, Six Sigma Coach

We all seek to find the right answers to our problems – Why do customers walk away? Why do employees leave? Why are sales low? How can we bring in more customers? How can we increase sales to existing customers? The first thing we need to understand is that the right answer can come only if we ask the right questions. This isn’t as simple as it sounds. There are some fundamental questions that are vital to the survival of any business...

Read these questions here
http://www.nationalbusiness.org/NBAWEB/Newsletter/972.htm

Work At Home Jobs: For Better Or For Worse

2011-10-07T15:29:00.000-04:00

by Tammy Embrich

The convenience of work at home jobs is perfect for the stay at home Mom or someone who is searching for supplemental income. Working at home certainly has it’s advantages. But have you really thought about the frustrations that go along with that territory? And believe me, they do exist.

Let’s discuss some of them…the “worse” side of working from home...

Continue reading here
http://real-wah-jobs.com/2009/05/work-at-home-jobs-for-better-or-for-worse/work-at-home-jobs-for-better-or-for-worse

9 Popular Misconceptions Cost You Money

2011-10-01T12:30:00.000-04:00

by J. Stephen Pope

Faulty information costs you money! Which of these popular business misconceptions do you believe?

Read his list here
http://www.ryze.com/posttopic.php?topicid=563662&confid=1022

Business Planning: How to Size an Emerging Market

2011-09-27T10:41:00.000-04:00

by Dave Lavinsky, President, Growthink

In developing their business plans, companies of all sizes face the challenge of determining the size of their markets. To begin, companies must present the size of their "relevant market" in their plans. The relevant market equals the company's sales if it were to capture 100% of its specific niche of the market.

Read article here
http://www.businessknowhow.com/manage/emerging.htm

Starting a Business Ideas (Guide)

2011-09-23T13:29:00.000-04:00

Now it's time to find a business idea. You may have a unique idea or you may need help to figure out what could work for you.

We have a long list of Business Ideas, and we have split them into sections for your convenience:
Brick And Mortar Business ideas - read here
Home Based Business Ideas - read here
Low Cost Business Ideas - read here
Online Business Ideas - read here
Service Business Ideas read here

View more resources, tips, tools here
http://www.atouchofbusiness.com

Business: How to Develop an Action Plan

2011-09-11T12:07:00.000-04:00

You need a good plan to put your strategy into action. You need to spend some time working on your business action plan. You also need to review what has been achieved. Your strategy and consequently your business action plan should stress three important aspects - Goals, Budget and Marketing Strategy.

Read plan here
http://www.morebusiness.com/develop-action-plan

Analyzing Customers in Your Business Plan

2011-09-10T17:24:00.001-04:00

by Dave Lavinsky

The Customer Analysis section of the business plan assesses the customer segments that the company serves. In it, the company must 1) identify its target customers, 2) convey the needs of these customers, and 3) show how its products and services satisfy these needs.

Read article here
http://www.businesshighlight.org/business/entrepreneur/analyzing-customers-in-your-business-plan.html

HOW TO: Start Up a Small Business

2011-09-07T11:42:00.000-04:00

How to Guides on starting a new business.

Main Topics:
Going Broke
Laying the Startup Groundwork
Planning for a Successful Start
Raising the Capital
Establishing Your Image
Finding Customers

View thru all these guides here
http://www.entrepreneur.com/howto/startyourbiz.html

Tax Calendar for Small Businesses and Self-Employed

2011-09-05T15:33:00.001-04:00

This 12-month wall calendar is filled with useful information on general business taxes, IRS and SSA customer assistance, electronic filing and paying options, retirement plans, business publications and forms, and common tax filing dates. Each page highlights different tax issues and tips that may be relevant to small business owners with room on each month to add notes, state tax dates, or business appointments.

View here
http://www.irs.gov/businesses/small/page/0,,id=82780,00.html

Business Planning Tools

2011-08-17T17:12:00.000-04:00

Provided by MasterCard | MasterCard®

Today, it is more difficult than ever for businesses of all sizes to anticipate changes and plan appropriately for the future. Recognizing changing industry conditions and being nimble enough to quickly adapt are of special importance to small businesses who often lack the human and monetary resources to forecast market developments..

Read resources here
http://www.mastercardbusiness.com/apmea/en/smallbiz/businessplanning/businessplanning.html

How to Assess a Direct Selling Opportunity

2011-08-08T00:14:00.000-04:00

by Josh Spiro

Despite the pyramid and Ponzi schemes that imitate direct selling, there are plenty of legitimate opportunities to be found. Here's how to tell the difference.

Read his informative article here
http://www.inc.com/guides/2010/07/how-to-assess-a-direct-selling-opportunity.html?partner=newsletter_Startup

10 Tips for the First Time Entreprenuer

2011-08-02T15:00:00.000-04:00

by Scott Gerber

Advice from a young entrepreneur in the trenches

Whenever possible, I encourage up-and-comers and established entrepreneurs to mentor the next generation of dream-seekers; for it is this insight and insider education that will provide the foundation for the entrepreneurs of tomorrow. With that, here are 10 pieces of advice that I wish someone had given to me before I launched my first venture.

Read article here
http://www.entrepreneur.com/startingabusiness/youngentrepreneurscolumnistscottgerber/article203254.html

40 Green Business Tips

2011-07-26T13:17:00.000-04:00

posted by Melissa Hincha-Ownby

I am a big fan of The Green Girls blog; yesterday blogger MonicaF created a list of 40 eco-friendly changes that businesses can make. Each of these changes is a step towards a more sustainable business and most of the changes are low-cost and low-hassle.

Read more on this here
http://www.mnn.com/eco-biz/sustainable-business-practices/blogs/40-green-business-tips

Paying Yourself: From Startup and Beyond

2011-07-24T16:55:00.000-04:00

Determining your salary is one of the most important decisions you'll make as a business owner. Here's how to do it. So how do you know what is enough to get by and what you are worth? You have to do some planning and simple mathematics, and then budget that amount into your income and cash-flow projections so that you know how much operating capital you will require during the formative stages of your company's development.

Read article here
http://www.entrepreneur.com/money/moneymanagement/article80024.html

Free Hard to Find 800 Numbers

2011-07-14T20:38:00.001-04:00

Great Resource with lots of companies and retailers listed!

Read list here
http://www.hardtofind800numbers.com

5 Alarming Facts On Why Most Home Business Owners Fail and How To Overcome Them

2011-07-11T13:58:00.000-04:00

Written By: Rebbekah on November 30, 2009

Read her blog post here
http://advantagemarketingforyou.com/5-alarming-facts-on-why-most-home-business-owners-fail-and-how-to-overcome-them

Free Hard to Find 800 Numbers

2011-07-09T15:10:00.001-04:00

Great Resource with lots of companies and retailers listed!

Read list here
http://www.hardtofind800numbers.com

Struggling to Successful Entrepreneur – 5 Part Series

2011-07-03T12:21:00.002-04:00

Sponsored by Chris Makell, Radiance Marketing

Struggling to Successful Entrepreneur – Part 1
If you’re an entrepreneur, the title of this post didn’t surprise you and likely intrigued you. Good. My intent for this series, “Struggling to Successful Entrepreneur” is to help you to go from overwhelmed, frustrated and painfully close to burned out.
http://radiancemarketing.com/2011/struggling-part-1

Struggling to Successful Entrepreneur – Part 2
Struggling entrepreneurs who want to play small is why I’ve created the Think Big…Play Bigger™ Business Growth Model. It is a way of moving forward in your business from where you are to where you want to be. You can learn more about the model on my website.
http://radiancemarketing.com/2011/struggling-part-2

Struggling to Successful Entrepreneur – Part 3
Before I tell you how to go from overwhelmed and struggling to successful as an entrepreneur so that you can Think Big…Play Bigger™ in your life and business. We have to talk about something that was a big ah-ha for me and a lot of my clients.
http://radiancemarketing.com/2011/struggling-to-successful-entrepreneur-part-3

Struggling to Successful Entrepreneur – Part 4
So how do we become the strategic successful entrepreneur who thinks big…plays bigger? What are the 3 keys nearly every entrepreneur underestimates? You begin by focusing on fundamentally growing your business. Not with tactics but with a strategy. It sounds simplistic, I know.
http://radiancemarketing.com/2011/struggling-to-successful-part4

Struggling to Successful Entrepreneur – Part 5
So focusing on my strengths is the first key, what the next one you need to be strategic and successful? I want you to ask yourself, “What is it that I want my business to do?” Very few of us think about the “what” of our businesses. What do you want your business to do?
http://radiancemarketing.com/2011/struggling-to-successful-part5

10 YouTube Videos Every Entrepreneur Should Watch

2011-06-28T12:21:00.000-04:00

View slide show here

http://www.inc.com/ss/10-youtube-videos-every-entrepreneur-should-watch?utm_source=running-a-business&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=incid37860week24#2%C2%A0%C2%A0

Four Mistakes That Can Kill Your Small Business

2011-06-27T11:26:00.001-04:00

by Carol Tice

"That's the assertion of author and business-management expert Mark Stevens. So, what are these four fatal flaws that could doom your business? Here is Stevens' list.."

Read article here
http://www.entrepreneur.com/blog/219751

How Business Planning Leads to Better Management

2011-06-21T12:20:00.001-04:00

by Tim Berry

What many business owners fail to understand is that good planning equals good management. Let me explain. Planning is about managing resources and priorities in an organized way. Management is related to leadership, and it’s related to productivity.

Read article here
http://www.entrepreneur.com/article/219424

Seven Ways Solopreneurs Can Grow a Home Business

2011-06-19T14:25:00.000-04:00

by Carol Tice

With a little creativity you can keep expanding your home business, without hiring employees or renting an office. Here are seven tips for increasing revenue at your home business while keeping it a one-person show.

Read article here
http://www.entrepreneur.com/blog/219433

4 Characteristics of Great Logo Design

2011-06-16T21:05:00.001-04:00

View slide show here
http://www.inc.com/ss/4-characteristics-of-great-logo-design?partner=newsletter_Startup#0

Self-Employment Basics (3 Articles)

2011-06-10T13:28:00.003-04:00

The 6 Principles of Success
by Salman Amin, Business Insider
http://www.inc.com/articles/201103/6-principles-of-success.html

Why a Clear Focus Is Essential to Success
by Martin Zwilling, Business Insider
http://www.inc.com/articles/201103/why-a-clear-focus-is-essential-to-success.html

Do You Have What It Takes to Start a Business?
by Martin Zwilling, Business Insider
http://www.inc.com/articles/201103/do-you-have-what-it-takes-to-start-a-business.html

25 Most Influential Women Tweeting About Entrepreneurship

2011-06-06T14:22:00.001-04:00

by Holly Reisem Hanna

With women starting new businesses at twice the rate of men, and with women dominating the social media realm, I knew that there was no shortage of women tweeting about entrepreneurship.

Read her list here
http://www.theworkathomewoman.com/25-most-influential-women-tweeting-about-entrepreneurship

What It Takes to Succeed As an Entrepreneur

2011-05-25T15:53:00.002-04:00

by Michelle Juergen

Venture Capital Investor Brad Feld on What It Takes to Succeed As an Entrepreneur
and dives into the trenches of entrepreneurship to learn what makes some businesses successful.

Read article here
http://www.entrepreneur.com/article/219337

7 Tips for Hiring as the Recession Winds Down

2011-05-21T12:48:00.002-04:00

by Kay McFadden

If you have been running lean on employees, now is the time to hire, and this guide explains why.

"...With so much at stake nowadays, owners may want to speed up the staffing process so they can "get back to work." But hiring is among the most important, high-impact aspects of that work."

Read tips here
http://www.inc.com/guides/201102/7-tips-for-hiring-as-the-recession-winds-down.html?partner=newsletter_Success

Online Business Startup Blog

2011-05-15T12:28:00.001-04:00

Great deal of information on a wide range of topics per to startup, starting a business, marketing, financing, accounting, networking and much more. Worth the read!

View blog here
http://bhopu.com

Case Study: How to Restart a Company

2011-05-09T15:27:00.002-04:00

by Amy Barrett

Could Robin Sauve's bid to relaunch a business backfire? Here's how she managed to finance her start-up through the early stages.

Read article here
http://www.inc.com/magazine/20110301/case-study-small-business-start-up-financing.html?partner=newsletter_Success

The 10 Best Entrepreneurship Courses of 2011

2011-05-02T12:00:00.002-04:00

by Leigh Buchanan, From the April 2011 issue of Inc. magazine

University courses in entrepreneurship are better—more useful, more real, more likely to produce actual companies—than they have ever been. Here are 10 we’d love to take.

View course list here
http://www.inc.com/magazine/20110401/the-10-best-entrepreneurship-courses-of-2011.html?partner=newsletter_Startup

5 Mobile Payment Tools for Business

2011-04-20T13:21:00.001-04:00

by Dave Smith

"Considering the efficiency and affordability of these systems, even for the smallest of businesses, mobile payment systems might just be the future of commerce. Here are five of the top mobile payment solutions currently available..."

Read post here
http://www.inc.com/guides/201103/5-mobile-payment-tools-for-business.html?partner=newsletter_Startup

How to Choose the Best Options for Your Company’s 401(k) Plan

2011-04-13T13:03:00.002-04:00

by Carolyn M. Brown

"The quality of your company’s 401(k) plan will impact your employees’ ability to retire with enough money in their coffers to sustain their retirement living...Structure your company 401(k) plan in a way that it encourages the highest amount of savings. Studies show that automatic enrollment and auto-escalation are features that significantly increase 401k participation and savings..."

Read article here
http://www.inc.com/guides/2011/01/how-to-choose-the-best-options-for-your-companys-401k-plan.html?partner=newsletter_Success

5 Tips for a Useful Mission Statement

2011-04-10T12:57:00.001-04:00

"Your statement ought to be an important representation of your company culture. It's an opportunity to institute an overall sense of identity and should be constantly maintained and referred to..."

Read tips here
http://www.inc.com/ss/5-tips-on-developing-an-effective-mission-statement?partner=newsletter_Startup#0

8 Things You Should Know Before Becoming a Direct Seller

2011-04-07T10:58:00.000-04:00

By Carolyn M. Brown

Just about every consumer product or service imaginable is sold somewhere in the world through direct selling. As its name implies, the products or services of a company are sold directly to consumers by independent distributors—not employees.

Read article here
http://www.inc.com/guides/2010/07/8-things-you-should-know-before-becoming-a-direct-seller.html

The Five-Second Commute (WAH)

2011-04-02T11:57:00.002-04:00

by Sue Shellenbarger

"Amid the economy's many ailments, some good news has remained mostly off the radar: The at-home work force is growing, and it is encompassing new occupations ranging from radiology and nursing to auditing and teaching.

The bad news: Fierce competition means your odds of landing one of these jobs are poor. And if you succeed, you will probably take a pay cut..."

Read this informative article here
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748703819904574555710881471416.html?mod=WSJ_newsreel_careers

51 Ways To Reward Employees Without Money

2011-03-27T11:32:00.003-04:00

by Shannan Hearne - Posted on HER-Mastermind-Network, LinkedIn

"..tough times don’t mean that you should just forget about rewarding your employees. There are many ways that you can reward employees without handing them money, and many of these are things you can do right now, with very little effort..."

Read her list of ideas here
http://tinyurl.com/47euxra

5 Things to Remember When Setting Up Your Business

2011-03-23T13:28:00.000-04:00

There are thousands of tasks that every small business owner must consider and do in order to set up a new business. However, whether you are a new small business owner or an experienced entrepreneur, here are five things to remember when setting up a small business.

Read tips here
http://www.morebusiness.com/setting-up-small-business

Kick Start Your Business With a Five Day Action Plan

2011-03-20T14:19:00.002-04:00

by Denise O'Berry

"Creating an action plan doesn’t need to be a long drawn out process. You can create one in five days (or less!) and then be kicking it in gear creating success for your business. Here’s how."

Read her tips here
http://www.deniseoberry.com/index.php/2010/01/02/kick-start-your-business-with-a-five-day-action-plan

Resources for Entrepreneurs and the Self-Employed

2011-03-10T23:01:00.000-05:00

Connect with over 33,000 volunteer business mentors, 22,500 federal, state and local programs and myriad online educational tools.

If you can't find what you need, AskBUZ.

FTC: Great Information for Avoiding Job Scams

2011-03-07T13:44:00.000-05:00

If you’re looking for a job, you may see ads for firms that promise results. Many of these firms may be legitimate and helpful, but others may misrepresent their services, promote out-dated or fictitious job offerings, or charge high fees in advance for services that may not lead to a job.

Read informative tips here
http://cwahm.com/wordpress/2010/articles/from-the-ftc-great-information-for-avoiding-job-scams

Top 3 Time Wasters Every Small Business Owner Should Avoid

2011-03-05T13:45:00.002-05:00

Posted by buzz under Business Planning

"There are many ways to save time and spend more focus on business matters. Here are three time-wasters we think you can eliminate to help give you extra hours in a day for more important matters.."

Read tips here
http://blog.morebusiness.com/2011/01/top-3-time-wasters-every-small-business-owner-should-avoid

15 Fraud Warning Signs, False Employee Comp Claims

2011-02-27T13:23:00.002-05:00

Courtesy of Andrew Harris, Jr - Liberty Insurance

Do you have an employee putting a claim in for workermen's compensation? Here are 15 fraud warning signs -- (PDF download)

Download information here
http://ow.ly/2NMgK

The Hidden Costs, Risks For Small Businesses from Health Care Law

2011-02-12T13:34:00.002-05:00

by Kim Luu

"Here are some of the financial costs and business risks every business owner should be aware of, beyond the well-publicized $19 Billion cost estimate for additional paperwork.."

Read article here
http://preview.tinyurl.com/46hdw97

How to Smooth Things Over with a Dissatisfied Customer

2011-02-03T12:45:00.001-05:00

Posted by Raj Khera - This is a guest blog post by Jill Tooley.

How do you handle a tricky situation and attempt to circumvent negative feedback before it’s published all over the web? Here are a few tips to help you address customer concerns and calm the waters before they rage out of control.

Read blog post here
http://blog.morebusiness.com/2010/09/how-to-smooth-things-over-with-a-dissatisfied-customer

12 Tips Starting Online Business

2011-01-20T13:18:00.002-05:00

. . . & Creating a Website that Works! Weekly Audiocast by Women in Ecommerce™

Before you start an online business, there are questions you must answer and things to consider.

Here audio tips here
http://preview.tinyurl.com/4sq44cz

Download the PDF transcript here:
http://wecai.org/attachments/-01_Twelve_tips_to_start_an_online_business.pdf

Top 40 Business Resources for Work at Home Women

2011-01-01T11:12:00.001-05:00

Did you know that women are starting small businesses at twice the rate of men? With flexible schedules, financial freedom, satisfying work, and more time to spend with your loved ones, it's no wonder why women are jumping on the entrepreneurial bandwagon.

With this new surge of women entering the entrepreneurial ranks, it will be imperative to your success to keep up with the latest small business trends, news and strategies.

View list here
http://www.theworkathomewoman.com/40-top-business-resources-for-work-at-home-women

Top 5 No No's for Mompreneurs

2010-12-24T14:58:00.001-05:00

by Holly Reisem Hanna

As a mompreneur I know how tough it can be to juggle a new business, family and your personal life - honestly there never seems to be enough hours in the day. But just because you're strapped for time and/or money, it is not okay to cut corners and compromise your integrity. Make sure you're not committing these top 5 no-no's.

Read article here
http://www.theworkathomewoman.com/the-top-5-no-no%E2%80%99s-for-mompreneurs

11,520 Resources Starting an Online Business

2010-12-09T10:04:00.003-05:00

Courtesy of Paras Chopra

Free, 40 Page guide (scroll down to view complete outline), covering topics on marketing, starting a business, blogging, podcasting and so much more.

Read more and download your copy here
http://paraschopra.com/business/free-business.php

Three Crucial Elements Needed for the Start-Up Business Owner

2010-12-05T10:16:00.002-05:00

Courtesy of Denise O'Berry

[Please enjoy this guest post from my colleague Julie Anna Schultz of FamilyBusinessIdeas.com]

"Over the years that I have been working with online business owners I've noticed common traits. Each of these commonalities impact the success or failure of your business..."

Read article here
http://www.deniseoberry.com/index.php/2010/09/27/three-crucial-elements-needed-for-the-start-up-business-owner

How to Handle an Angry Client

2010-11-27T13:22:00.000-05:00

by Tom Hopkins

"Too many salespeople, when faced with clients who range from dissatisfied to down right angry, choose the loser's path by postponing handling the situation. This results in one of two things happening. Either the angry client decides the problem isn't worth the aggravation and cools down (what every salesperson wishes would happen, but like many wishes, just thinking it won't make it so)..."

Continue reading...
http://www.salespractice.com/forums/p-21694.html

Free Small Business Owners Resource Guide

2010-11-12T11:02:00.001-05:00

Provided courtesy of Denise O'berry

"If you're looking for the free Small Business Resource Guide, then you came to the right place. This guide is packed with resources for small business owners."

Click here to view details
http://www.smallbusinessmatters.com/whatspossible/resource_guide.html

4 Tips for Choosing a New Online Business Name

2010-11-02T20:08:00.001-04:00

Posted by Nathan

The name you choose can have a tremendous impact on your SEO, marketing strategy, and attracting potential leads and customers to your website. Here are some tips to make sure that your domain name smells the sweetness of success.

Read article here
http://blog.morebusiness.com/2010/09/4-tips-for-choosing-a-new-online-business-name

Small Biz: Q & A List

2010-10-18T20:24:00.003-04:00

Covers topics on: Franchising, Marketing, Legal Issues, General Info, Financial, Human Resources, Taxes and Importing/Exporting

More details and to view list, click here
http://www.bizoffice.com/qa/QA_v1.2.cgi

9 Tips For Doing Business Globally

2010-10-04T15:55:00.001-04:00

[There are several pages to read through. Some good tips here.]

Begin reading tips here
http://www.inc.com/ss/9-tips-doing-business-globally?partner=newsletter_Success#0

Five Tips to Work More Effectively From Home

2010-10-02T12:03:00.001-04:00

Courtesy of Denise O'berry - Please enjoy this guest post from the helpful folks at Office Suites Plus, a virtual office company.

"..When you take the proper steps, a home office allows you to work from the comfort and convenience of home without sacrificing productivity. Here are five helpful tips to make your “home office” time more productive."

Read article here
http://www.deniseoberry.com/index.php/2010/03/06/five-tips-to-work-more-effectively-from-home

10 Things to Do Before You Start Your Start-Up

2010-09-22T09:19:00.001-04:00

There are some ways to prepare yourself, test your idea, and improve it before you actually found a company around it. We've compiled the best examples from recent Inc. articles and Inc.com guides of tips for the very early steps of building a start-up.

Read article here
http://www.inc.com/guides/2010/08/10-things-to-do-before-you-start-your-start-up.html?partner=newsletter_Startup

Become Your Own Boss

2010-09-21T05:58:00.002-04:00

10 Legitimate Working From Home Online Jobs - Free ebook

Read details here
http://www.workingfromhome-online.com/becomeyourown/become_your_own_boss_info.html

Sign up for ebook here
http://www.workingfromhome-online.com/becomeyourown/index.html

**NOTE: Be sure to always check out any WAH job!**

5 Powerful Ways to Build Your Credibility as an Entrepreneur

2010-09-20T14:14:00.001-04:00

by Onibalusi

As an entrepreneur, one of the most important things you should focus on is building your credibility. Be it online or offline, having credibility is very important for new business opportunities, contacts, and your overall business experience.

Read article here
http://epiclaunch.com/5-powerful-ways-to-build-your-credibility-as-an-entrepreneur

State & Federal Labor Law Posters

2010-09-19T18:48:00.001-04:00

Great Resources for business owners!

State & Federal Labor Law Posters
http://www.businessknowhow.net/posters/index.asp

14 Attention Grabbing Tactics for Launching New Biz

2010-09-04T15:17:00.001-04:00

by Denise Wakeman

You’ve created a blog for your business. Now what? You’re probably asking yourself, “How do people find out about my new blog?”

The simple answer is: You have to promote your blog and let people know it exists.

Click to hear audio
http://blogsquad.posterous.com/14-attention-grabbing-tactics-for-launching-a

Step by Step Guide: Starting a New Business

2010-08-08T05:50:00.002-04:00

Topic Overview:

1. Are You the Entrepreneurial Type?
2. Small Business FAQ
3. Introduction
4. Deciding What You Want To Do
5. Viability Of Your Idea
6. New Learning
7. Writing a Business Plan
8. Financing Your Business
9. Effective Partnering
10. Mentors and Resources
11. Business Structure
12. Licenses, Regulations and Permits
13. Small Business Insurance
14. Employment Issues
15. Hiring/Managing/Firing Employees
16. Accounting System/Internal Controls
17. Implement Your Marketing Plan/Selling Product
18. Creating Your Product
19. Refining Your Marketing Plan
20. Modifying Your Product, Creating New Products
21. Reevaluating Your Company
22. Growing Your Company
23. Contemplating Your Exit Strategy
24. Further Small Business Resources

To read the guide, click here
http://www.thinkinglike.com/Small-Business-Book/Small-Business-BK-TOC.html

Free Resources - Starting Online Business

2010-07-26T23:30:00.001-04:00

How to Start an Online Business: 11,520 Free Resources for the Internet Entrepreneur (Free Guide)

View complete list here
http://paraschopra.com/business/free-guide-start-online-business.php

Small-Business Tax Breaks in 2010

2010-07-15T16:00:00.001-04:00

By Matthew Bandyk
Posted: March 4, 2010

"This year, taxes on small-business owners are under particular scrutiny. They're getting so much attention because Congress is currently debating a jobs bill with multibillion-dollar tax credits for small businesses..."

Read article here
http://money.usnews.com/money/business-economy/articles/2010/03/04/small-business-tax-breaks-in-2010.html

State Business Licensing Center

2010-07-07T00:11:00.000-04:00

When starting a business, it is important to be aware of the license and permit requirements outlined by the state in which the business will be operated. Each state government requires varying licensing requirements depending upon your business type. This new resource is designed to be a one-stop center to help entrepreneurs in all states find the important business licensing information that they need.

http://www.morebusiness.com/state-licensing-center

101 Best Blogs for WAHMs

2010-07-02T12:59:00.002-04:00

If you are looking to build a career as a WAHM, be prepared to do the dirty work. Like conventional job hunting, finding work as a stay-at-home mom requires pounding the virtual pavement online to find a gig that suits your niche and expertise.

This is a great list filled with loads of blogs on a wide variety of topics and subjects!

View complete list here
http://www.universityreviewsonline.com/2005/10/101-best-blogs-for-wahms.html

5 Free Collaborative Tools for Startups

2010-06-28T20:29:00.000-04:00

Get these 5 links here
http://bhopu.com/2010/03/5-free-collaborative-tools-for-startups

5 Steps to Taking Customer Service Social

2010-06-24T12:08:00.004-04:00

posted by Lauren Vargas

"...Customer service is no longer an area to triage customer complaints. It’s about anticipating customer needs at the right time and place. Organizations must relearn how to interact with their community, shed some of the heavily automated barriers, and get back to the basics of customer service."

Read post here
http://mashable.com/2010/05/28/customer-service-social/?utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+Mashable+%28Mashable%29

10 Steps to Starting and Succeeding in Business

2010-06-21T21:22:00.001-04:00

Copyright© by Dr. William R. Osgood

By participating in this program, you are already taking the first step of what is an exciting and rewarding adventure for many. For others, starting and running their own venture is a bad choice. The reality is that most businesses will be out of business in less than 5 years after they get started – and most of these because they failed. The sad truth of the matter is that most of these business failures can be avoided. That is the purpose of this program – to help you avoid the pitfalls that can limit a business's success or even make it fail, and reinforce the strengths and decisions that can lead to success.

Get complete details and lesson info here
http://www.buzgate.org/8.0/nj/ten_steps.html

14 Twitter Feeds Startups/Founders Should Follow

2010-06-17T15:10:00.002-04:00

by Gary G

"....The key to using Twitter productively, of course, is avoiding idle banter and following only those offering concrete, actionable advice. To that end, Grasshopper scoured Twitter for fourteen accounts that any startup founder would be well-served to follow."

http://grasshopper.com/blog/company/2010/03/25/14-twitter-feeds-startups-founders-should-follow

Self Employment Tax Tips

2010-05-12T07:14:00.001-04:00

http://www.cityhalljob.com/articles/34919-Self-Employment-Tax-Tips.html

10 Things to Be Clear About Starting a Company

2010-04-26T05:32:00.002-04:00

By Bernard Lunn, ReadWriteWeb
Published: May 7, 2009

Read his list and insights here
http://www.nytimes.com/external/readwriteweb/2009/05/07/07readwriteweb-10-things-to-be-clear-about-before-you-star-12208.html

33 Lessons Learned By Entrepreneurs

2010-04-21T07:15:00.001-04:00

Entrepreneurs usually go into business wearing some lovely rose-colored glasses, only to learn that there are a whole host of myths and misconceptions about owning your own business. I asked a variety of entrepreneurs what was the one thing that they wish that somebody had told them about business ownership before they started their companies. Below are the biggest business myths and misconceptions, straight from their mouths, that could have reshaped their entrepreneurial journeys.

Read complete list here
http://www.carolroth.com/unsolicited-business-advice/?p=764

How to Start a Business After Chapter 7 Bankruptcy

2010-03-28T19:53:00.004-04:00

By eHow Contributing Writer

Starting a business after filing bankruptcy is not easy, but it can be done. It will take a bit more effort to re-establish your credit and to obtain a loan if you need one. It is important that you are willing to do the necessary steps that are required to start over again.

Read article here
http://www.ehow.com/how_5842621_start-business-after-chapter-bankruptcy.html

The Top 2 Home Business Success Roadblocks....

2010-01-06T18:14:00.001-05:00

By Lonnie Bradley

"....Some entrepreneurs don't even realize how these roadblocks are stopping them from achieving home business success.

Those two home business success roadblocks are Perfection and Paralysis analysis."

Read article here
http://ezinearticles.com/?The-Top-2-Home-Business-Success-Roadblocks-and-How-to-Crush-Through-Them&id=3444156

What Makes Up a Successful Entrepreneur?

2009-12-30T12:45:00.001-05:00

Posted by Stephen Fisher

Over the last few months I have been participating in a survey of successful entreprenurs and Professor Vivek Wadwa of Harvard Law School has been gathering data for a bunch of research reports on “What Makes Up a Successful Entrepreneur”. It has gotten some great coverage and this slideshow in BusinessWeek: The Anatomy of an Entrepreneur is a great example. It has some awesome charts so if you are a data junkie with a weakness for pretty graphs, you are gonna love this slide show.

Read his article here
http://growsmartbusiness.com/2009/12/what-makes-up-a-successful-entrepreneur/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+sbsi+%28The+Small+Business+Success+Index+%28SBSI%29%29&utm_content=Netvibes

Martha Stewart’s 10 Rules for Starting a Business

2009-12-11T23:42:00.002-05:00

by Laurie Pawlik-Kienlen

A reader asked for info on starting a business – she wants to be a female entrepreneur! Well, who better to learn from than successful businesswoman Martha Stewart? Her ten rules for creating and maintaining a successful business will help even established entrepreneurs.

Read article here
http://seejanesoar.theadventurouswriter.com/for-female-entrepreneurs-martha-stewarts-10-rules-for-starting-a-business/?utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter

10 Ways a Start-Up Can Use Social Media to Market Itself

2009-12-01T01:18:00.001-05:00

By Edward Boches

“How can a start-up with a few employees and a tiny marketing budget get its name out there?”

Read article here
http://blog.hubspot.com/blog/tabid/6307/bid/5297/10-Ways-a-Start-Up-Can-Use-Social-Media-to-Market-Itself.aspx

The 4 Key Places to Ask for Money in a Grant Proposal

2009-11-20T02:30:00.003-05:00

"Foundation representatives want to know exactly how much you need and exactly how the funds will be used. According to the Canadian Million Dollar Round Table Foundation’s grant application, “It is easier to award funds when the committee can see specifically where the funding will be used. Knowing exactly how a grant will be used by an organization can be a major factor in the approval or denial of a grant request.”

Read article here
http://www.freshfundraising.ca/Ask.html

Spirutality and the Entrepreneur

2009-11-13T23:42:00.001-05:00

Special Guest: Elizabeth Foley

What is most important for business (any business) is bringing in and marrying the spiritual compontent to the material part of the business.

Details here
http://www.theauthenticyouonline.com/?p=1831

Listen to show here
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/TheAuthenticYouRadio

Two Key Principles for Success

2009-11-03T13:58:00.001-05:00

by David Samuel

I hope this article gets more people to become aware of how our life passes like grains of sand in the hourglass, and before you know it, time is all used up.

Read article here
http://www.selfgrowth.com/articles/two_key_business_principles_for_success

13 Ways Entrepreneurs Abuse Social Media

2009-10-26T09:41:00.002-04:00

by Monica O'Brien

...Some of the most common mistakes entrepreneurs make with social media revolve around making decisions that aren’t consistent with having good business sense. Because social media tools are free, startups and small businesses tend to take the pasta approach: throwing noodles at a wall to see what sticks. Here are some of the most common mistakes to avoid with social media.

Read article here
http://blog.monicaobrien.com/entrepreneurs-abuse-social-media