Business Pages

Your 360 Degree Business Knowledge Resource

3 min read →
Business Pages Business Strategy

How Important Are Your Employees to You?

3 min read
2544 views
Comments Off on How Important Are Your Employees to You?
3 min read →

Taking care of your employees is one of the most critical things you can do as a small business owner. With that thought in mind, does it seem as if…

Continue Reading

Taking care of your employees is one of the most critical things you can do as a small business owner.

With that thought in mind, does it seem as if you are doing all you can for those you employ?

Not doing so can open up the door to trouble for you if you are not careful.

So, could you be doing more for your employees moving ahead?

Why Employees Matter So Much

When you stop to think about it, where would your small business be without your workers?

Unless you are the small business owner who is the only employee, you rely on those who you pay to work for you.

From handling customers to helping promote your brand to the public; your workers are key.

One of the keys to taking care of your workers is making sure they have all the resources to be successful on the job.

For example, if you have a sales team in place, be sure they are properly equipped with the tools to succeed.

This means not only to reach out to the buying public and sell to them, but also track and record their efforts.

From a deal tracking spreadsheet to other ways in recording the efforts of your team, have it all covered.

Speaking of things covered be sure you give your folks the chance to grow within the company.

Yes, some companies are so small that room for growth is all but impossible. In some instances, this can deter some individuals from wanting to come work for someone.

That said the hope is you have some room for workers to grow. Having that growth available can mean a chance to earn more money, take on added responsibility and so on.

Last, how much flexibility do you offer those who work for you?

In today’s digital age, it is not uncommon for more companies to be offering such flexibility.

This can mean letting an employee choose hours they work, the option to work from home at times, providing childcare onsite to those needing it and more.

By being flexible with such things, you can have a better workplace environment. It can also help you recruit more talent to the company. That is talent who’d otherwise look elsewhere for employment options.

When it comes right down to it, being a good employer benefits you and your employees.

Get with Employees During the Year

It is also important during the year to get with your employees and review how thing are moving along.

You not only want to assess their performance and improvements to be made but also the brand in general. Getting feedback from employees is always a good means of improving your company as time goes by.

While you end up calling the shots and having to make the big decisions as an owner, never forget those under you.

Without your employees, where would you be as a small business owner?

Odds are you would have your hands full and then some without those you employ. 

Comments Off on How Important Are Your Employees to You?
3 min read →
Business Opportunities Business Strategy Business Structures

Could Your Small Business Use a Helping Hand?

3 min read
2902 views
Comments Off on Could Your Small Business Use a Helping Hand?
3 min read →

Do you ever stop and wonder if there are things your small business could use to better position it for success? That said you always want to be assessing your…

Continue Reading

Do you ever stop and wonder if there are things your small business could use to better position it for success?

That said you always want to be assessing your operation to see where you can make improvements.

One such improvement you may need to make would be with your financial outlook.

If money has been an issue for your small business, where will you turn for help?

Don’t Wait Too Long to Get Assistance

In determining if your small business could in fact use a financial helping hand, here are some ways to go about it:

1. Use the Internet to find providers – Getting the help you need can make a big difference with finances. That said it may well be the time to go online and review small business lending options. From a traditional business loan to a revolving line of credit and more, see what would likely work best for you. If approved for financial help, you could have those funds in no time at all. When applying for such help, be sure you have properly filled out all the necessary paperwork. You do not want any delays in such paperwork hindering your ability to get the help you can use.

2. Think on family and friends – You might also decide now is the time to have some family or friends invest in your biz. While such investing is often done before a business gets off the ground, it can also occur once up and running. If you think such help is doable with one or more people you know, do take the time to approach them and discuss. Dealing with people you know can be easier and you may have more confidence you will get the funds from them. That said make sure any such agreements are of course in writing. The last thing you want is that a family relationship or friendship goes south over a money dispute.

3. Cut down on expenses and debt – How good of a job have you been doing when it comes to cutting down on both expenses and debt? As it relates to expenses, there are likely some measures you can take to reduce expenses. See what you are spending money on to run your operation. Chances are good there are better deals you can get from vendors or some things you can lower or cut altogether. When it comes to your company debt, where can you make some improvements on that end? For instance, have you been putting too much on an office credit card? If so, look to change this moving ahead. While some items you need will more times than not mean a credit card, you can often use cash for smaller things. Unless you are going to pay that monthly credit card balance off, you can end up being hit with interest fees.

As you see where a helping hand might come from with your small business, are you confident you will get it?

Comments Off on Could Your Small Business Use a Helping Hand?
3 min read →
Business Finance

Are You Prepared to Buy a Business?

3 min read
4053 views
Comments Off on Are You Prepared to Buy a Business?
3 min read →

If the day is approaching where you think you are ready to buy a business, are you excited? For many in such a position, the thought of owning a company…

Continue Reading

If the day is approaching where you think you are ready to buy a business, are you excited?

For many in such a position, the thought of owning a company is something they have looked forward to for a while now.

So, how you can best prepare yourself for this day?

Make Sure Everything is in Order

When you are looking at buying a business, make sure your finances are in order.

Among the questions to have answers for:

· Do you have the money to buy a business?

· Will you need loans or help from investors to pull it off?

· Is the business you are considering buying in good financial shape?

· Is there considerable debt with the business you are looking to buy?

By being able to answers those and other financial questions, you are less likely to get into trouble.

It is also important that you have a business that is ready to go from day one.

With that in mind, you may come to realize why buy a SaaS business is something to strongly consider.

Such a business allows you to be up and running with the right software. That is from the get-go and not having to worry about such an important facet in today’s business world.

The right software means you will not have to worry about meeting the needs of customers. It also means you are using tech today than make the difference in whether you are able to get and complete a sale.

Speaking of everything being in order when you go to take over a business, what about employees?

In buying a company from someone, will you keep the employees that the previous owner relied on to get the job done?

Some new business owners like to work with people they are familiar with. For others, they will give employees of the previous ownership an opportunity. That would be to prove themselves and make a seamless transition.

No matter which way you decide to go, be sure you have the right people in the right positions. At the end of the day, it can make the difference between happy customers and some deciding to move along.

How Will You Market Your New Business?

Once you have taken ownership of a business, it goes without saying that marketing it will be key.

With that in mind, how will you get the word out to the public about what it is you have to offer?

Among the best ways to go about this:

· Company website

· Company social media pages

· Business App

· Customer testimonials

· Being active in your local community

By doing those and other things, you stand a good chance of having your business resonate with folks.

If buying a company that has been around for a while now, it may already have a good following in the consumer arena. As such, you want to not only keep that reputation, but improve upon it over time.

In acquiring a business, make sure you are prepared for all that comes with it from day one.

Comments Off on Are You Prepared to Buy a Business?
3 min read →
Business Finance

Do More to Invest in Your Company

3 min read
2693 views
Comments Off on Do More to Invest in Your Company
3 min read →

If it seems like you have not done enough to invest in your company, any particular reason behind this? With all you have to gain and lose for that matter,…

Continue Reading

If it seems like you have not done enough to invest in your company, any particular reason behind this?

With all you have to gain and lose for that matter, it is imperative you have your mind in the right place.

So, what are some ways to better invest in all you have worked for?

Investing in All You Have Worked for

When you want and need to invest more in your company, start by looking at your financial picture.

In the event things could be better, where best to begin?

For one, you could go on the Internet to learn more about getting a revolving line of credit.

Such a line can allow you to borrow the amount of funds you need for important things your company needs.

Among the things you may want to put the money towards would include:

· Office equipment – Is it time to upgrade some of the equipment in your office? If so, having those funds available comes at the right time.

· Adding manpower – Are you short on manpower? Without enough help around your company, you could be missing out on business. Having funds at your disposal to bring on added help is key.

· Doing more promotions – Is your company doing enough to promote itself? If the answer is no, more funds can help you better spread the word.

· Expanding your operation – You may be at a point and time where you want to expand your operation. If so, those added funds can help you expand.

No matter how you opt to use the funds you get, know that you are investing in your business.

Using Technology to Help You

Another way you invest in your company is by using technology.

As tech continues to emerge, it is important you stay on top of things.

Many consumers in today’s world use a sizable amount of technology in their everyday lives. As a result, they expect businesses to do the same. If your business is lagging when it comes to technology, you may see a loss in business as a result.

Stay up on tech needs for your business through ways that include:

· Following industry tech blogs and more online. These can provide you with worthwhile info as it relates to technology in your line of work.

· Survey customers on what they want from you. Their responses can help lead you to add more technology or refine some of the tech you have now.

· Attend tech trade shows tied to your business during the year. Make it a point to attend trade shows in your industry when you can. These can prove quite valuable to you in picking up tips.

No matter how you use technology in your line of work, know that it can be quite beneficial to you.

Planning for the Future

Last, are you thinking at all about the future and how it relates to your business?

By having one eye down the road, you can be better prepared.

Knowing when and how to invest in your company will give you the chance to not fall behind others. It also allows you to have a plan in motion for growing your company.

In investing more in your company, always think about how you can grow and stay relevant.

Comments Off on Do More to Invest in Your Company
3 min read →
Business Pages

How to Customize Christmas Photo Cards for Your Business

3 min read
4582 views
Comments Off on How to Customize Christmas Photo Cards for Your Business
3 min read →

The Christmas season presents a unique opportunity to celebrate with those close to you. Additionally, you can make Christmas photo cards and send them to your loved ones. If you…

Continue Reading

The Christmas season presents a unique opportunity to celebrate with those close to you. Additionally, you can make Christmas photo cards and send them to your loved ones. If you are running a business, it is no exception.

The holiday photo cards are one of the best ideas if you intend to give yourself a cutting edge from your competitors. Sending your customers holiday photo cards are a great way of staying in touch with them. Here is a simple guide on how you can create the best photo cards for your customers.

Cool Colors

As a business owner, it is essential to take charge of running all aspects of your business operations. That includes even the creation and mailing of the holiday photo cards. Colors such as blue and purple are one of the best options to spell the business language.

Choose Photos that Relate with Your Customers

A better option is choosing neutral photos that symbolize the Christmas season, like Santa, snow, and the Christmas tree. If you want to select a personal photo, it will make no sense to include pictures of your immediate family as the main picture in the photo card. Think about it. Do your clients identify with your family? Maybe, if it is a family business.

However, as a company, you can include the management and members of staff. Alternatively, you can also add activities your company takes part in during the holidays in spreading the Christmas spirit, especially to those in need. For instance, when taking part in development that brings a positive impact to society, like donations to organizations.

Make It Brief

Remember, it is essential to give a personal touch when creating a photo card. Do not be tempted to revamp the holiday photo card like a business catalog. While you may be tempted to be extremely formal, a little fun will be okay. Customize the templates and include your business name. For instance, Happy holidays from Go Green Company.

Remember to Show Appreciation

The holiday photo card is an excellent tool to remind your customers how important they mean to the business. Additionally, thank them for their continuous support during the year. It would be best if you also remembered to include your commitment to serving your customers.

The Immense Benefits Too

Sending holiday cards to your customers reminds them of what you offer in products and service delivery. The photo card is also a great way to market to potential customers who come across the card. Additionally, you can use it as an avenue to send greetings. You can also include your company logo, team signatures, and even the company building photos.

Creating the holiday photo cards with an online editor allows you to personalize them. You can also include a gift card and a calendar for the New Year. Not to forget, Mixbook offers discounts on large orders. You need several holiday photo cards to send them to your clients, why not receive some discount while still delivering the best to your customer?

Comments Off on How to Customize Christmas Photo Cards for Your Business
3 min read →
Business Pages

5 Tips When Designing Packaging for Your Products

3 min read
3253 views
Comments Off on 5 Tips When Designing Packaging for Your Products
3 min read →

So you’ve got a fabulous new product that you can’t wait to launch. You’ve thought the product through, put it through testing, and you are confident that it will make…

Continue Reading

So you’ve got a fabulous new product that you can’t wait to launch. You’ve thought the product through, put it through testing, and you are confident that it will make a huge splash in the market. You realize that a robust marketing campaign will be imperative to blitz the consumers and create buzz, so you’ve also got that taken care of. But here’s something you may not have given as much thought to and can actually have a huge impact on the success of your product – and that’s the packaging.

Did you know that packaging alone can have a massive effect – both positive and negative – on consumers? It can move someone to purchase the item or have them turning away. So, what makes something “good” packaging? Here are five tips to keep in mind when designing packaging for your products.

How the Packaging Looks on the Shelf

If your product will appear in stores and on shelves, you need to be hyper-aware of how it will look and sit. For example, will it stand up, does it need to hang, be stacked, and so forth? You need to know that the package will appear as you envisioned on the shelf in order to grab the attention of customers and close the sale.

Product Needs to Be Clearly Identified

It’s also important that the product is clearly identified with one quick glance. Customers shouldn’t have to pick it up, turn it over, read about it, and still feel confused about what it is and what it does.

Eco-Friendly Packaging Goes a Long Way

As The Package Lab points out, eco-friendly packaging has also become incredibly important. With people being more aware of their carbon footprint and the amount of waste they generate, they are looking for products with the least amount of packaging possible and packaging that is recyclable. Some of the materials you may want to use include recycled cardboard and paper, eco-friendly plastic, resealable packaging to limit waste, organic fabrics, and biodegradable packing peanuts.

Company Logo and Product Name Should Take Priority

When it comes to the print on the packaging, your company logo and product name should take priority. Give each of these prime real estate, as this helps with branding and recognition. Don’t forget, your company logo alone can sell a product.

Packaging Should be Easy to Open

Finally, you want to take into consideration how difficult it is to get into the packaging. Customers shouldn’t have to struggle and feel frustrated with your packaging. Sure, you want the item to be safe and secure, but at the same time, you don’t want to go too far. In order to address this issue, the packaging should go through plenty of test phases first to ensure it’s easy enough to open.

Packaging that Sells the Product

By keeping each of these design tips in mind, you’ll be creating packaging that not only looks great but that can also help you to sell your product.

Comments Off on 5 Tips When Designing Packaging for Your Products
3 min read →
Business Opportunities

Does Your Company Need a Financial Shot in the Arm?

3 min read
2913 views
Comments Off on Does Your Company Need a Financial Shot in the Arm?
3 min read →

When you look at the financial health of your company, are you pleased with what you see? In the event the answer is no, how long until you act? Waiting…

Continue Reading

When you look at the financial health of your company, are you pleased with what you see?

In the event the answer is no, how long until you act?

Waiting too long to act could put your company in dire straits.

With that in mind, is it time you took action?

Avoid Seeing Your Business World Go Down the Drain

As you look for ways to improve company finances, start by sitting down to look at your company books.

If you are not happy with how your finances are doing, you need to figure out the following:

  • How did you get in this position in the first place?
  • What can you do to fix things?
  • Are you in danger of possibly losing your business?
  • Are competitive businesses also experiencing such downward trends?

By putting your fingers on what is going on, you are better able to come up with a solution or solutions for the issue.

One option to consider in getting your finances more in order would be asking for help.

Have you ever applied for a small business loan? What is revolving credit and do you need to think about applying for it? Do you have any other business owners you are on good terms with that can give you some advice? That is on how they turned around their businesses?

By exploring all the options possible to give your company a shot in the arm, you are being pro-active.

Might Anyone Invest in Your Company?

When looking for some help, any chance that family or friends may want to invest in your company?

Some people are hesitant to ask those they know to help them in such an endeavor. For others, they are not all that shy about asking.

It comes down to thinking if in fact some you know have both the financial ability and willingness to help you out. In the event they do, what have you got to lose by asking them?

Make sure that any investments you get from family members or friends are spelled out. You want the documentation to be as exact as if you were working with a stranger on this matter.

By making sure everything documented, there is less of a chance of this coming back to haunt you. That is potentially ending a relationship you have worked hard to forge in the first place.

Is It Time to Review Company Debt?

Finally, when was the last time you reviewed your company debt.

Unfortunately for some owners, debt is a sizable problem in their business world. As a result, they are not in the best of financial positions.

For many of these individuals, credit card debt is the number issue at hand.

That said do you have notable credit card debt at your business? If you do, now would be a good time to begin addressing it. Failure to do so can lead to more problems than you care to realize.

When your company needs a financial shot in the arm, where will you look to get it?

Comments Off on Does Your Company Need a Financial Shot in the Arm?
3 min read →
Business Opportunities

Are You Ready to Buy a Startup?

3 min read
3112 views
Comments Off on Are You Ready to Buy a Startup?
3 min read →

If the notion of buying a startup company has crossed your mind a time or two, are you any closer to doing it? In buying a startup, you have many…

Continue Reading

If the notion of buying a startup company has crossed your mind a time or two, are you any closer to doing it?

In buying a startup, you have many opportunities in front of you.

From molding the biz the way you want to it growing into something, the possibilities are endless.

So, is it time to buy a startup?

What Will Be Your First Move?

If you decide buying a startup is for you, here are a few pointers to keep in mind:

  1. Get some help out of the gates – It would be a wise move to get some help out of the gates with plans to buy a startup. So, the startup acquisition means finding pros that help people such as you buy startups. Let them do much of the heavy lifting. That is finding you potential startups to consider and much more. In going this route, you do not have to worry as much about potential mistakes you could make along the way. When you have a good deal of information on startups supplied to you, take the time to sift through it. Before you know it, you can find the startup that is best suited to your needs.
  2. Making sure finances are in order – You want to be sure your finances are in order before acquiring a startup. The last thing you need is to run into any money problems. You want your new acquisition to hit the ground running. This means you are financially prepared for all that will come with starting a company. From hiring employees to marketing and more, be sure you have the finances necessary to make a go of it.
  3. Where will you work from? – It is also important to determine where you will work from. So, this can mean having an office site that you rent or buy. It may also mean you work from home. Deciding this is important for several reasons. One, if you plan to have employees under you, chances are high you will want an office setting that you rent or buy. If you are going to be the only employee, you may well be comfortable working from the confines of home. 
  4. Getting the word out – You want to be sure you do all you can to spread the word about your startup. Given the company does not have a history, this takes on added importance. So, you will need to do all you can when it comes to marketing, advertising and more. If too few consumers know about you, it will be hard to get a buzz going. The best thing to do is do blanket marketing and advertising. Spread the word in as many places as possible and as often as possible.
  5. Feel a sense of accomplishment – Last, feel a sense of accomplishment with your new startup. You have put the plans in motion and worked hard to get here. There is nothing wrong with feeling good about it.

If buying a startup is in the cards for you, are you ready to get to work now?

Comments Off on Are You Ready to Buy a Startup?
3 min read →
Human Resources Recruitment

Is Your Employer Doing Well By You?

3 min read
2852 views
Comments Off on Is Your Employer Doing Well By You?
3 min read →

Picking the right employer to work for is not always the easiest thing in the world to do. That said are you confident you are working for someone who cares?…

Continue Reading

Picking the right employer to work for is not always the easiest thing in the world to do.

That said are you confident you are working for someone who cares?

If the answer is no, might it be time to consider finding another person to call your employer.

Given many have to work to keep a roof over their heads and food on the table; you want to be one of those who enjoy working.

How Can Your Employer Improve Things?

In looking at your work situation, go over the following to see if it could be better:

  1. Conditions – As important as getting paid is, no job is worth it if the employee is mired in bad conditions. That said are your working conditions good or bad? If the latter, look to see how they may be improved. It may mean sitting down with your employer or immediate supervisor. Have an honest and respectful conversation with them. They may not be aware of one or more issues you confront on a regular basis in the workplace. If improvements are not likely, it may be time for you to consider going somewhere else.
  2. Money – Are you making decent money at your job? If not, this is something else you need to rethink. Struggling to pay your bills and keep food on the table only makes things worse. You can’t be the most productive employee if you are continually stressed out over such things. Not only is getting paid the right amount important but also how you get paid. If you have to wait longer than necessary for your payments this can bring on more stress. So, look into if your employer offers a variety of payment options from ACH vs wire and more. If your payments are an issue, look to rectify the problem.
  3. Growth – Do you get opportunities at your workplace to grow? Many employees like the notion of being able to climb up the corporate ladder over time. If you are being held back from such chances, it may be time to consider going elsewhere. Growing at your workplace can mean more responsibilities, added money and more. If there is no opportunity to go up, now may be the time to move along if you have something else lined up.
  4. Flexibility – It is also good to have a job where there is flexibility in play. For example, do you get the opportunity to ever work from home? If you have a young child and no babysitter at home, does your employer offer any child daycare? These are but two of the things many employees yearn for when deciding where they want to work. Companies that have their employees’ best interests in mind will often offer such. If you are not getting these and other possibilities at work, is it a deal-breaker for you?

When you stop and look at your employer and the job you are in, would you say you are happy?

If the answer is no; how much longer until you decide it is time for a different gig?

Comments Off on Is Your Employer Doing Well By You?
3 min read →
Business Finance

3 Tips for a More Successful Small Business

3 min read
6273 views
Comments Off on 3 Tips for a More Successful Small Business
3 min read →

No matter the amount of time you’ve had your small business, it is important to do all you can to make it successful. That being the case; have you been…

Continue Reading

No matter the amount of time you’ve had your small business, it is important to do all you can to make it successful.

That being the case; have you been taking all the necessary steps to be successful and stay there? If not, you could be putting your business and your own financial well-being in danger.

So, is it time you had a more successful small business in your hands?

Always Know Your Money Situation

As you look at ways to make your small business more successful, keep these tips in mind:

1. Your money – Making sure your business is healthy is something you always need to focus on. That said there may be times where your business is in the red. Even if only for a short period of time, it should be of concern to you. With this in mind, do all you can to keep your finances in order. You may be at a point now where you need a little financial infusion. One way to go about this would be applying for a small business line of credit. If you gain approval for such a line of credit, it can help you in some different ways. From new equipment or expanding your office space to hiring more help, having that line of credit is a plus. Speaking of your money, are you in over your head with debt? If so, do all you can to lower it. The most common form of such debt is credit card issues. Remember, the interest fees alone when not paying off your monthly balance can hurt you. Do all you can to stay in the black with your finances and avoid prolonged visits to the red.

2. Your message – It is important that you have a clear and winning message as it pertains to your business. That said is your message resonating with enough consumers? If the answer is no, it can mean you fall further behind competitors. It makes sense to review your marketing messages on occasion. You may need to tweak it here and there. For some, it can mean a complete overhaul to a different message. As part of getting your message out there, know your targeted audience in the first place. Doing things blindly is not a smart way to go about it. By doing some surveys and getting feedback, you have a better notion of who it is you want to market to in the first place.

3. Your reach – Last, how you go about reaching out to customers are quite important too. That said are you doing enough online and offline to reel in more business? What about the business you have now? Do you do enough to keep people coming back? Always make it a priority to reach out to consumers on a regular basis. From social media to face-to-face encounters, let consumers know you care about them.

As you look for ways to make your small business more successful, many of them boil down to commonsense.

So, how successful can you be when it comes to running your small business?

Comments Off on 3 Tips for a More Successful Small Business

Type on the field below and hit Enter/Return to search