Tips from February 5, 2010 The Small Business tips today discuss common public relations (PR) mistakes. Poorly Written Press Releases: Incorrect format, improper grammar and punctuation, and misspelled words contribute to a poorly written and structured press release. Don't send something out to the public and media that is not grammatically correct.  Over-Hype: Hype and excitement is important, but too much is over dramatic and will draw negative attention towards your PR campaigns. No Purpose: Press releases announcing petty, unimportant things related to your business doesn't convey a positive image and people will stop listening to you. No Plan: Releasing a press release to the public without a proper follow up plan is a huge mistake. You need to know what to do to proceed, who to direct questions to, and have a backup plan. Daily Overview: Sending out poor press releases for the wrong reasons with no p... [Read Full Article]

Wal-Mart has set on an endeavor to break into the Chicago retail market yet again. A location has been proposed in Chatham, a town on the South Side of Chicago, for a second Wal-Mart within Chicago city limits. There are people that have voiced their opinions against Wal-Mart. Some believe that there will be no tax revenue for the city, no net job increase, Wal-Mart will drive down wages, and, most importantly, destroy local businesses. Wal-Mart and its allies refute the accusations, saying that the neighborhood and its area residents should be the ones who decide on the fate of the mega mart. Truthfully, the South and West sides of Chicago don't have very many options for their necessities and few resources. The Chatham Wal-Mart is one of the suggested solutions. The StoryAll businesses, including ones that are already established, need to have support to get the business started on the right foot. This can be done through public relations, marketing efforts, words o... [Read Full Article]

Tips from February 3, 2010 The Small Business tips today discuss common social media mistakes. Incomplete Profile: People won't know who you are or be able to find things in common to make a connection or network. Fake Friending/Following: One way relationships on social media is an awful way to network. Create a two way relationship with REAL people that you want to get to know.  Selling by Spamming: Bombarding your business pushes customers away. No relationship? No clients. Connect first, promote later. Lack of Measurement: You need to measure so your business doesn't put time & energy in campaigns that are failing. Daily Overview: Creating one way relationships is the biggest mistake businesses in social media make. Avoid this by an active profile, creating two way relationships, and gauging what works. [Read Full Article]