An important investment for any small business is technology, because most businesses cannot operate without computers or software programs these days. When considering an annual budget, upgrades for technology and related services should be at least one line item. Office technology can make your job and your employees’ jobs easier and more efficient, thus justifying … Continue reading Does Your Office Technology Need a Refresh?
So, you want to be a business owner? Owning your own business comes with a lot of perks — and could be something you can pass on to future generations — but it’s also a big responsibility. As many current business owners reach retirement age, the option to purchase an existing business is becoming more … Continue reading Buying vs. Starting a Business
In a rising interest rate environment, now is a good time for small businesses to think about cutting costs and boosting savings. Some cost-cutting strategies are quick and easy, like getting rid of unnecessary expenses or scaling back free lunches, but others represent more long-term options that can make your business leaner, more profitable … Continue reading 10 Money Saving Tips for Small Businesses
Is cash flow tight right now? Successfully managing a company requires the right people, the right products — and the right tools. Delivering convenience to customers and managing transactions efficiently is all part of keeping the cash flowing. With a steady stream of cash at the ready, you’ll be more protected from market fluctuations, have … Continue reading How Your Bank Can Help Manage Your Cash Flow
What exactly is social engineering and why should you be concerned about it? Social engineering is a very popular form of hacking that’s been called the greatest security risk in the decade ahead. It can be done by email, phone or text messaging, and usually the hacker is someone trying to trick you into giving … Continue reading The Threat of Social Engineering: What owners need to know to keep their businesses and clients safe.
Most times small businesses are focused on customer retention, but the reasons for losing a customer can be just as valuable. With so many online tools and the popularity of social media, customer competition is more aggressive than ever before. Customers want you to go above and beyond their expectations because, if you don’t, they’ll … Continue reading 10 Ways to Lose a Customer
Smart and successful business owners know how to manage their finances throughout the year. Weekly, monthly and annual check-ins may be necessary to make sure business operations are on track for where you want to go. If it’s too much for a business owner to check in regularly, the halfway point during the year is … Continue reading Quick Checklist for Small Businesses
Effective July 1, 2017, three of the major credit-reporting companies began following improved standards that will cause some credit scores to rise. As part of the National Consumer Assistance Plan (NCAP), TransUnion, Experian and Equifax are no longer including information about tax liens and civil judgments on a consumer’s record if the data doesn’t include … Continue reading Why Credit Scores are on the Rise
Protecting yourself and your business from fraud allows you to concentrate on what matters most: the success of your business. Running a business is a big investment. Any level of fraud, especially for a small business, could be costly and devastating. Small businesses tend to be more informal, with family-type environments and less checks and … Continue reading How to Protect Your Business From Fraud
Sometimes knowing how not to do something is half the battle. Grooming employees for leadership roles is an essential part to growing your business — and the most cost-effective option for promotion. According to Dale Carnegie Training, $11 billion is lost annually due to employee turnover. Employees who know they can keep growing with an … Continue reading How to (and How Not to) Become a Leader at Work
