One of the great economic development columns published today is BOTTOM LINE by Charles Lawton, in the Maine Today business section. Recently, he wrote, Maine doesn’t have a jobs problem; we have a skills problem. He points to the increasing competition for skilled workers. Even in economically depressed areas, certain industries are begging for qualified…
I believe in celebrating failure, redefining it as a positive, seeing failure as a sign of progress. Apparently, Scott Westcott at the National Federation of Independent Businesses agrees, at least a little. His article, The Fruits of Failure, explores some examples, and encourages giving failure awards, and I applaud him for researching and writing it….
Darn few businesses have marketing plans. Most businesses need one. Just like our simplified business plans and simplified online marketing, a simplified marketing plan for the real world helps guide you in growing your business. Simplified Marketing Plan Outline Name and describe each market Tell what methods you will use to reach them Establish the…
Jory Des Jardins didn’t intend to be a small business owner, but here it is. As a co-founder of BlogHer, she finds herself fully into the realities of small business. She shares her Point of View in The Small Business Owner’s Guide to Life. It’s a constant state of conflict for the bootstrapping small business…
The US Congress has established the very first National Entrepreneurship Week for March 2007, according to Inc. Magazine. People are more aware of entrepreneurship than ever, but I don’t think people realize that it is the lifeblood of small towns and rural areas. Without entrepreneurship, we have almost no new jobs. If you are involved…
Time for the weekend Brag Basket. This is your chance to post a comment and tell the world (or a few like minded people) about your successes this week. What’s the point? Promote your business, or yourself. Review your week, learn your lessons, and build on your successes. Enjoy it! You deserve a chance to…
Stephanie Paul offers her opinion on the Top Five Expenses Entrepreneurs Overpay For. I’ve included just her top tips here. 1.Insurance Check with your local trade association, which may surprise you with competitive group insurance rates. 2. Taxes Entrepreneurs habitually over-estimate quarterly tax payments because the IRS charges significant penalties for an underestimate. 3. Employees…
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