New startups appear each and every day Young entrepreneurs usually think starting a business is the quickest way to success. Startups are vulnerable especially in the early period of development. This is especially true of those entrepreneurs who lack previous experience in running a business. So, what’s important to follow so to reach success? How can you run your small business without challenges? Have a System for Task Management Implement a system of task management so to get your to-do list under control easily. Otherwise, you’ll risk losing customers, vendors or even your mind. Focus on Your Finances Did you […]

Do you have plans to take your business idea and launch a startup in the New Year? If you are feeling a little overwhelmed with the task, know you are not alone. As you piece your business plan together and iron out the details, make sure you also consider the risks involved. Here are three of the major risks you will face in starting a business, along with three business relationships you should develop to mitigate those risks. 1. Sales Risk No matter what business type you have or industry you are in, there is always a risk that your […]

Moving into 2018, small businesses are focused on their goals and aspiration for the New Year. According to a recent survey by Microsoft Store and SurveyMonkey, 90 percent of small businesses plan to hire one or two employees in 2018 – depending on their budget. Does your small business share these plans to hire additional staff? If so, the following 5 tips will help you find and hire the perfect individual(s). Use Your Business’ Social Media Do you know what interests candidates? Have you put your business “out there” enough for candidates to know who you are and what your […]

The 2016 State of SMB Cybersecurity Report shows that from April 2016 to April 2017, hackers have breached half of all small businesses in the US. A bill making its way through the US Senate proposes to create a set of resources and guidelines that can be used by small businesses for the purpose of protecting themselves from cyber attacks, which are steadily increasing in number. Cyber Attacks Are on the Rise According to a recent survey, 87% of small business owners don’t feel they’re at risk of a cybersecurity attack. 1 in 3 small businesses doesn’t use the necessary […]

Outsourcing is a great means for startups or small businesses to reduce costs so to shift more revenue to operational growth and free up time. Outsourcing can account for continuity, and help you control your operational expenses and risks. Here are 12 tasks you can easily outsource to avoid making a critical mistake, save time, and focus your attention on your core business. Administrative Tasks: Appointments, Scheduling, and Answering Phones Small tasks can take most of your time each day. Outsource your administrative tasks so to be able to focus on the core processes of your business growth. Bookkeeping Avoid […]

It’s shocking how a lot of propaganda is floating around concerning small retail shops (commonly known as mom-and-pop stores) these days. Honestly, all myths surrounding the experience as a startup business owner are often exaggerated. These myths can scare you from venturing into a niche that could be very profitable or, equally, convince you into going after opportunities that don’t really exist. Discover the most common myths about mom-and-pop shop and the truth about small business. Mom-and-pop stores are fading away Truth: While startup businesses are not always at par with established business all the time in terms of revenue […]

According to the US Small Business Administration, there are 28.8 million small businesses in the US. Small businesses, which include those with fewer than 500 employees, represent 99.7% of all business in the US. Between the middle of 2009 and the middle of 2013, small businesses created 60% of the jobs. When it comes to larger stores, 20 of the largest US-based supermarket and grocery store chains are ranked alongside the 250 largest retailers in the world thanks to the revenue they have. Of the 250 world’s largest retail chains, 25% are classified as strictly being supermarket and grocery store […]

Small business owners in a number of industries use invoicing to get paid. If you’re among them, be aware effective invoice strategies are critical to your success and can help you improve your cash flow. First, don’t send invoices with incorrect information because clients may refuse to pay them. Don’t fail to keep detailed records so to avoid mistakes. Second, avoid delayed invoicing, meaning do your best to send invoices as soon as you can after the service is rendered. Otherwise, clients will just ignore the bill. Third, avoid late payments. The point is that clients will pay late if […]

There comes a time in the life cycle of a business when it needs some form of financial help. If you’re an SME owner, for instance, you could want more funds to buy equipment, hire new staff, grow your brand’s awareness, clear your debts, or just meet daily operational costs. Whichever reason it may be, raising capital is rarely an easy endeavor. Nevertheless, you can sleep a little more soundly at night by choosing the method that is best for your situation. Below are some viable options. SBA loans The Small Business Association has been issuing loans to SMEs for […]

  Small businesses can be characterized as micro-managed organizations that are doing their best to complete the most with the least, especially when it comes to cash reserves. If you, as a small business owner, have little or no working capital, you’re going to find yourself in a harsh reality. Getting Access to Working Capital Finding a source for working capital can be challenging for small businesses. Traditional banks have strict requirements and aren’t willing to fund businesses with poor credit scores: they prefer established, reliable businesses. So, small businesses and entrepreneurs should find a reputable business loan provider like […]