LEARN HOW TO MANAGE YOUR ONLINE REVIEWS

March 5th at 9:57pm

Online reviews are important because they have become a reference point for buyers across the globe and because so many people trust them when making purchasing decisions… 90% of people first check out online reviews before making a purchase. Online users are used to finding information about both local and international businesses by themselves. Even a simple Google search for a local coffee shop will produce results with reviews on Google+, so the research of credibility can begin there. Also, review sites are getting popular as well. Though customer reviews vary in comprehensibility and accuracy, they have a profound effect…

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TYPES OF INSURANCE FOR SMALL BUSINESSES

March 3rd at 8:35pm

Small business insurance is important for all small business owners to have. It’s the coverage you need to protect the livelihood you’ve worked so hard to build. The right small business insurance will help cover expensive damage and lawsuits from accidents, natural disasters, professional errors, workers compensation claims and more. Any small business, regardless of industry, niche, or location should always take steps to protect itself from the unexpected. Different options are available for small business owners when it comes to insurance.  Whether you own a home-based or a brick-and-mortar store or company providing products or services locally or globally, you need…

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HOW TO FIND THE RIGHT BUSINESS PARTNER

March 2nd at 8:52pm

When you are considering joining businesses with another person, there is a lot to be considered before you sign on the dotted line. If you are married, think back to when you first met your spouse. Most people refer to going into business together like a marriage. And, in many regards, they are correct. Both agree to a long-term commitment that requires a lot of time, trust, and devotion. The most important part of this package is trust. The worst that can happen is the business is a bust. Even the tightest friendship can end in a nasty way if…

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SMALL BUSINESS TAX PLANNING

February 28th at 10:44pm

If you’re a business owner, then tax season can bring on a whole new set of tax-related challenges. Fortunately, there are a number of valuable tax filing strategies to maximize credits and deductions that can benefit a business owner. The federal government levies four basic types of business taxes: income tax, self-employment tax, taxes for employers, and excise taxes. The IRS has a helpful Guide to Business Taxes that provides information on each of these taxes. Many small business owners find comfort in working with a CPA or qualified tax professional. But if you feel comfortable enough to prepare your taxes on your own, then there…

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HOW TO PREPARE FOR SMALL BUSINESS FINANCING

February 27th at 10:31pm

Traditional bank funding can be hard to attain, especially for a business acquisition. This is rarely the only form of funding, however, and often involves funding or seller financing in addition. Assumption of debt: With this financing option, you essentially purchase both the business’s assets and liabilities. Planning is the key to getting that business funding you need for starting a business or for business expansion and change. Key Steps to a Successful Business Funding Proposal Gather and Update Business Records. Prepare a Business Plan. No self-respecting business funding can expect to be successful without some kind of business plan. You need…

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MERCHANT CASH ADVANCES ARE HOT

February 25th at 11:00pm

Today’s small businesses don’t need to rely on big banks for financing options. Over the past decade, there has been a rise in alternative funding platforms that make it easier and faster for startups and small businesses to find the cash they need when they need it. When business owners consider applying for a merchant cash advance (MCA), it is usually because they are in need of cash flow immediately, have poor credit, or haven’t had success with traditional funding applications. MCAs give business owners flexibility as funds can come through to their bank accounts within days and the transaction requires…

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BUSINESS NETWORKING – TIPS FOR ENTREPRENEURS

February 22nd at 5:25pm

Business networking simply refers to building and cultivating relationships with people of similar interests in ways that can benefit all parties. Whenever people gather for Chamber of Commerce socials, join professional associations, go to conventions, or ask friends for introductions or recommendations, they’re networking. Many people network to get leads for new business, but networking can also help you find a job, change careers, hire good employees, sell products, improve your business practices or accomplish any number of professional goals. Today’s professionals use traditional forms, but they also have other choices for business networking. They might join groups, attend networking events or…

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WHY IS YOUR BUSINESS CREDIT SCORE IMPORTANT

February 22nd at 5:09pm

A business credit score tells funders how likely you are to repay them in a timely fashion. Your scores can be found at Dun & Bradstreet, Equifax and Experian. These scores may help you secure better terms the next time you apply for small-business funding or get an insurance policy for your business. The same way your personal credit score is the key to your personal finances, your score is the key to your business finances, and therefore, plays a large role in the growth and success of your operations. Your business credit score will ultimately be one of the deciding factors that contribute to your ability to secure…

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