Getting a business up and running takes a lot of hard work. Trying to decide what business to start, determining if there is an audience, and getting your systems in order takes a lot of your effort. And these initial tasks happen at a time when you have only yourself or, at best, limited help…
“What business should I start?” is a common question asked to those of us supporting small-business owners. Sometimes the question is modified as people want a business that “will make lots of money” or will be a success. We, by our position, are assumed to have some special understanding of what the market wants. Okay,…
No doubt about it: We all like to have a “wow” customer experience. Yet research has found that, while the “knock your socks off” experience is one you remember, what gets customers back in the door is when they receive ongoing solid, good service from your company time and time again. Consumers like consistency. They…
If you have been reading my Wednesday contributions to Small Business Survival, you know to expect some tip for your business operation or some new idea seen elsewhere. This week you will find something different. I need your thoughts. I have an opinion but am I realistic? Here is the situation. Over the weekend, I…
Small businesses must think big. I suspect that I am telling you something you aren’t already planning. Owners are always thinking of how to add more staff, sell more, increase the size of your store and, the ultimate, increase the number of locations you have, and make more money. All of those are certainly worthy…
Whether you are starting a business or looking to grow your business, there is always a need for capital or financing. With the advent of Internet, new opportunities for capital have developed. Plus all of the old methods are also still a possibility. Typically, you, the owner, make the first investment into the business. It…
What’s being said about your small business online? Many small business owners have made the decision to not get involved in the growing social media trend. Their reasons include: the time or money it takes; don’t understand it; doesn’t seem necessary; or their customers aren’t using it. Avoiding the online world is the wrong path…
Do you steer away from the competition? Or do you embrace the opportunity and locate beside your competitors? Often small-business owners will tell you that they would be happy if they had no competition. Yet having no competition may mean you are selling something that no one wants. Given that thought, the same owner may…
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