
LESSONS FROM IBM
April 1st at 7:56pm
International Business Machines (IBM), is a global technology company that provides hardware, software, cloud-based services and cognitive computing. Founded in 1911 following the merger of four companies in New York State by Charles Ranlett Flint, it was originally called Computing-Tabulating-Recording Company. A lot of IBM’s success can be traced back to its earliest years and the actions of Thomas Watson Sr., who ran IBM from 1914 to 1952. Today’s entrepreneurs and CEOs could learn some lessons from Watson, especially if they want to build a company for the ages. 1. At the start, convince the troops you’re a company of…

LEASE OR BUY YOUR BUSINESS CAR? TAXES AND OTHER INFO
March 25th at 7:49pm
If you are considering car leasing for your business, you may be wondering if it is better to lease or buy. Here are some factors to consider, including which one gives your business a better tax break. Here are some comparisons between leasing and buying a business vehicle: Ownership: This is different for businesses than for individuals, because of the tax benefits of ownership. Depreciation A leased car typically doesn’t get you any tax benefits (depreciation), while owning the car can give you depreciation deductions. Initial costs: Up-front costs for leasing and buying are different (down payment vs. first month/security deposit), so…

VOIP PHONES FOR YOUR BUSINESS
March 4th at 10:25pm
Business VoIP services have become increasingly attractive to small-business owners because of their simplicity, wide range of features, and—most of all—inexpensive pricing, compared to traditional phone line systems. They can also eliminate a lot of on-site hardware, so it might be time to deal with that e-graveyard. VoIP transforms outgoing or incoming calls into a digital signal and sends it through the internet, converting it to a standard telephone signal to reach a non-VoIP number. Through VoIP, you can place outgoing calls or receive incoming calls directly from a computer, a VoIP phone, or a regular phone that’s hooked up…

THE ART OF SELLING
February 25th at 10:11pm
Every business revenue relies one way or another in the ability to sell services or products. Here are top tips from professionals on how to master the art of selling. 1. Learn to be comfortable interacting with others and try to develop a comfort level in talking with people you have never met. Joining a couple of social groups such as Toastmasters International that assist all types of professionals in public/group speaking can help. 2. Consider taking a sales course at a nearby college, entrepreneurial center, or chamber of commerce. 3. Develop a strong level of self-confidence in your ability…

HOW TO HIRE A BUSINESS LAWYER
February 18th at 12:18am
The nature and objectives of your business will determine the legal expertise that is most valuable to you. To better define your company’s legal objectives, you can ask yourself the following: What legal guidance does my company need (regarding employees, contractors, government regulations, taxes, customer warranties, and so forth) in order to avoid future liability?Where are there efficiency or competency gaps in the company’s daily operations?What are my short and long-term goals for the business?Does the company need to raise additional capital?Does the business need to lease or purchase any commercial property?Does the business need to restructure its existing debt…

BUSINESS CHARISMA
February 11th at 11:51pm
We learn from small business leaders about the value of charisma in a small business, and what it takes to be an inspirational figurehead capable of achieving tangible results, whether that’s getting the best out of staff or winning new clients. Charisma can definitely be developed and is built through confidence of who you are and owning it. Like most traits some people are naturally abundant is that area while others have to work at it, but irrespective of where you are on the spectrum it can be nurtured in order to further both your business and personal life. Genuine…

HOW TO DRESS FOR SUCCESS
January 7th at 10:38pm
You might be the most talented, experienced, and brilliant applicant your potential employer has ever met, but there’s a chance those factors won’t be enough to land your dream job. Even if you’re perfectly qualified for a position and nail every interview question, you might not get the job if you’re not dressed right for the occasion. To dress for success, wear a neutral-colored suit with a white button-up and tie. Or, you could wear a pencil skirt with a white or light-colored blouse. Alternatively, if you’re going for a business casual look, wear khakis and a button-up shirt or…

TOP SELLING BUSINESS BOOKS YOU MUST READ
December 17th at 9:31pm
1. “Think and Grow Rich,” by Napoleon Hill Key takeaway: You can achieve anything you conceive and believe. Thoughts are things — and they are incredibly powerful. Focus on what you want to achieve and strengthen your resolve by having what Hill calls a “definiteness of purpose.” It’s also essential that you persist in the face of obstacles that are bound to impede your growth along the way. 2. “Rich Dad, Poor Dad,” by Robert Kiyosaki Key takeaway: Know the difference between an asset and a liability. There’s a reason the rich get richer: They understand the vital yet often…