In the NewsCybercriminals Target Local GovernmentsA new trend has local governments on guard: global computer hackers stealing their money.Legal IssuesSenate May Take Up Another Pay Bill Before End of TermProponents say the bill would help women pull even with men in compensation levels, asserting that women make only 77 cents for every dollar that men earn. The issue takes on more urgency during a recession, they say, because women are the sole breadwinners in many households. Economy
By Cheryl Sowa · March 16 2010
small business brief, small business, economy, economy
Tips from February 23, 2010 The Small Business tips today discuss businesses in the financial industry to start NOW!
Small Business Financial Adviser: Help businesses save money by planning, budgeting, & re-evaluating their finances.
Personal Accounting: During the rough economic situation, people are having a hard time adjusting their personal finances.
Retirement Consulting/Planning: Baby boomers are preparing to retire. Help them out & give them financial advice.
Tax Adviser: Tax time is quickly approaching! Ask family, friends, & community if they need assistance.
Daily Overview: People have questions about their finances in this economy. Provide them with answers with your business.
By Cheryl Sowa · February 23 2010
small business tips, money, finances, tax
The Small Business tips today discuss various forms of financial resources.
Your Pocket: If you want to start a business without taking out any loans, you can use your own money. It may be costly for you personally, but the benefits from your business could prove to be a good investment.
Friends & Family: Ask those who are close to you for a loan or to invest in your business. It would be a simple way to receive financial resources without going through a bank or other institutions.
Business Loan: A start up business loan from the bank or a lending institution is a way to receive the funds you need from a local institution. Find out more from your financial advisor or a local bank.
Small Business Association: The SBA is available to help small businesses locally. Visit the SBA website for tips and locations in your area.
Daily Overview: Obtaining cash to...
By Cheryl Sowa · February 12 2010
small business tips, small business, sba, start-up
Everyone makes mistakes. For businesses, mistakes can be the deciding factor for staying in business or closing their doors forever. Many novice small business owners make the same mistakes within the first year of opening their business that causes them to have to close down. Find the top five mistakes and what you can do to prevent them below.Mistake #1) Putting Your Heart & Soul Into Your Business, But NOT Your HeadIt takes great deal of passion to start a small business. In fact, many small businesses are a result of a passionate idea or organization. It is important to have the strong feeling to get the business off the ground. Unfortunately, that is not enough. As much passion and drive you have for your business, it is important to also think about other factors for your business, especially your finances. Passion doesn’t pay the bills. You need to have a plan from the get-go to be able to determine if you business is simply a passion-driven ide...
By Cheryl Sowa · February 04 2010
small business, business, entrepreneurs, finances
Government, Politics, and the Economy No Rebound Yet For Smallest Businesses Confidence among America’s smallest business owners fell to the lowest level since February, according to the latest Discover-Small Business Watch. BusinessWeek.comManagement and OperationsDisaster Protection: The Need for Small Business ContinuityBusinessKnowHow has reprinted the latest edition (Fall 2009) of Disaster Recovery Journal and the article “The Need for Small Business, Business Continuity” by Mark R. Lupo. BusinessKnowHow.com Management and Operations
By Cheryl Sowa · December 08 2009
small business brief, small business, customer service, management
Government, Politics, and the Economy
Economy Jumps 3.5 Percent to Largest Growth in Two Years Consumer spending, exports and investments experience greatest gains. ManagerSmarter.comManagement and OperationsSmall Shops Make Big Play for Holiday ShoppersMerchants roll out Christmas wares weeks in advance to lure customers away from large discount retailers. WSJ.comManagement and Operations
By Cheryl Sowa · November 03 2009
small business brief, marketing, small business, economy
Tips from September 25, 2009 The Small Business tips today discuss managing your finances by factoring.
Understand factoring. It's the selling of accounts receivable to an investor rather than wait to collect the money from customers.
Acknowledge the fees associated with factoring. This is the cost of the funds, making the collections, & discount rates.
Talk to your bank. They will be a reliable source to help you decide if factoring will be worth your time or a waste of money.
Weigh negatives vs. positives. Biggest Negative: expensive over time. Positive: allow for growth & improve cash flow.
Daily Overview: Factoring is a helps finance your business quickly & avoid messy loans.
By Cheryl Sowa · September 29 2009
small business tips, small business, finances, factoring
Tips from September 22, 2009 The Small Business tips today discuss choosing a bank that is best for your business.
Be prepared. Provide banks with necessary info, such as financial history, biz plan, goals and what you need.
Do your homework. Know what kind of relationship you want with a bank. Stick to what you want and don't be sold.
Ask key questions: find out who is your personal banker, who makes the decision, regular meetings and availability.
Create the relationship. Talk to multiple people at the bank. Find out who else uses it. Become knowledgeable.
Daily Overview: Choosing the right bank is important. Create relationships & establish trust with the institution handling your money.
By Cheryl Sowa · September 22 2009
small business tips, small business, business, tips
