Tips from March 17, 2010 The Small Business tips today discuss marketing your business with your blog. Listen - Do you know what is going on in your industry? Your blogosphere? The world today? You need to listen to know what others are talking about, what people want to know, and what people need to know. Listen first, then blog. Personal & Professional - Create a relationship with clients, or potential clients, in the blogosphere. Include others you work with who contribute to your blog. Create a short bio on each employee, and let them interact as well. Don't Be Too Salesy! It is okay to sell to your readers, but only after you create a brand and a relationship with your readers. Avoid being too salesy, instead, blog about what is important to your industry, followers, and clients, and add a short product placement at the end. Get into a rhythm of posting to your blog. Post a few times every week, about 2-3 times is a go... [Read Full Article]

In the NewsStimulus Funding for SBA Loans Runs Out—AgainIn a case of legislative déjà vu, the Small Business Administration has announced that funding for two popular lending programs is on the verge of running out - again. WSJ.comIn the NewsConsumers Buy Into 'Buy Local'More groups are forming to send shoppers to home-grown independent businesses. But their impact on jobs is hard to quantify. BusinessWeek.com Management & Operations [Read Full Article]

Networking is important to small businesses in that it helps them to stay in business, grow their business, and connect to other business owners. The general way to network is usually by having your information on a neat business card and give your information to others. To create a big name for yourself when networking, you need to step out of your comfort zone and create a buzz. Here are few ideas.Professional Business CardsYes, business cards are important for networking so they can have your contact information. No, they should not be the only thing that you do. For starters, make sure your business cards are professional. Have an edgy design on quality paper with all your contact information. Business cards should be kept in a safe place to avoid tearing and ripping. You might also want to consider adding your Twitter ID and Facebook profile to your card as a way for people to keep up with you in more of the real-time business world. Q & A... [Read Full Article]

Tips from September 16, 2009 The Small Business tips today discuss nonverbal communication by your business presentation. Be organized. Put clutter away & have no garbage. Keep it professional & clean. It shows how you will do business with them. Have your business logo & hours available & easy for all to see. Make sure there is no question of where & when. Present yourself in a positive manner. Represent your business by being clean, put together & dressed appropriately. When working from home, keep your home clean & orderly. Remove distractions (family, pets) to show business is important to you. Daily Overview: Wherever you work, be clean, organized, & presentable to communicate your work ethic. [Read Full Article]

Tips from Friday, April 3, 2009 The Small Business tips today will help you to find the right tax preparer for your specific needs. Ask for referrals. Word of mouth marketing works on all fronts. Good service gets good referrals. If you choose to go w/ a big-box tax preparer (like H&R Block) ask to meet w/ a CPA. You'll pay the same but get real experience. Local and independent tax firms often specialize in needs of the small businesses in their area. Complex issues? Try CPA or EA. Don't be afraid to shop around or leave the accountant you hired if you're not comfortable. Daily Overview: Ask other businesses who prepares their taxes, try for good local experience. Always, find the right fit for YOU. I am not a tax professional and have attempted to condense sometimes complicated and detailed tax tips into 140 characters per line. My interpretation may not be exact. Please contact a tax... [Read Full Article]