Small Business Resources

Posted on September 10, 2015 by businessowner

One of the most daunting aspects of starting your own business is the thought that you have no boss to turn to when things become difficult. In fact, managers and employees look to you for answers, and draw on your

6 Reasons Why Now is the Right Time to Start Your Own Business

Posted on August 28, 2015 by businessowner

You have a fantastic business idea, you’ve done your market research, and you know your business is going to be the next big thing…but you keep telling yourself that now just isn’t the perfect time to start your own company.

7 Entrepreneurs Who ProveIt Never Too Late to Start a Business

Posted on August 20, 2015 by businessowner

7 Entrepreneurs Who ProveIt’s Never Too Late to Start a Business

Entrepreneurship isn’t only for young, tech-savvy people. In fact, a growing number of older entrepreneurs are starting their own businesses in the UK, mainly due to pension shortfalls and the need for change in their professional lives. If you’re a

7 Entrepreneurs Who Made It Before They Turned 20

Posted on August 20, 2015 by businessowner

Although in some cases it’s a good idea to build up some experience and contacts before striking out on your own, sometimes a great idea and hard work is all you need for success. These teenage entrepreneurs are proof that

Turnover Can Benefit Your Small Business

Posted on August 4, 2015 by businessowner

Although a mass exodus of employees is seldom good for business, not all employee turnover is bad for business, either. When an employee leaves, whether voluntarily or involuntarily, it could benefit your small business. Despite the costs of recruitment and

Change Employees Behaviour

Posted on July 28, 2015 by businessowner

Your employees’ behaviour is crucial to the success of your small business because it affects everything from corporate culture to profitability. This means that you may need to inspire employees to change the way they do things and the way

How to be a Great Mentor

Posted on July 21, 2015 by businessowner

As a small-business owner, you’re often a manager, coach, and mentor rolled into one. To make the most of your employees’ talents, you need to know how to develop their skills and knowledge. Learn how to be a great mentor

How to Choose the Right Employee Mentors

Posted on July 14, 2015 by businessowner

Choosing the right employee mentors is an important aspect of your small-business mentoring programme. Although you may prefer to mentor senior managers yourself, this approach is too time consuming to implement on all levels. Ask Who’s Interested Although you understand

9 Tips for Becoming a Better Manager

Posted on July 9, 2015 by businessowner

One of the many hats you wear as a small-business owner is that of a manager. You have to lead your entire staff, including department managers and supervisors. Being a manager is more than simply telling people what to do:a

Top 7 Tips for Coaching Employees

Posted on July 3, 2015 by businessowner

Coaching in the workplace holds numerous benefits for small-business owners and their employees. When workers develop their skills and knowledge in a supportive, challenging environment, they’re happier and more productive. You can delegate without worry, reduce errors and performance problems

How to Build a Culture of Mentorship in Your Small Business

Posted on June 25, 2015 by businessowner

Developing the skills and abilities of your workforce is essential for employee satisfaction and the success of your business. Building a culture of mentorship weaves ongoing development into the very fabric of your enterprise, setting a tone that suits your

Mentoring and Coaching Balance

Posted on June 16, 2015 by businessowner

Managing, mentoring, and coaching play important roles in developing your staff, and all three are necessary for the success of your small business. To strike the perfect balance for your company, learn how these three approaches differ and overlap. Combine

6 Ways to Crush Employee Motivation

Posted on June 10, 2015 by businessowner

One of the most important aspects of being a good leader is having the ability to motivate those around you, and a motivated workforce is a productive one. Moreover, unlike large companies mired in red tape, small businesses can provide

SWOT Analysis for Small Business

Posted on June 1, 2015 by businessowner

Using SWOT Analysis to Make the Right Decisions for Your Small Business

SWOT analysis is an inexpensive yet effective decision-making tool that can help you with anything from formulating a marketing plan to assessing your competition. Understand what this analysis entails to include it in your planning activities. What is SWOT Analysis?

7 Tips for Choosing the Perfect Business Location

Posted on May 25, 2015 by businessowner

Even if you do everything else right, choosing the wrong location for your small business can lead to the failure of your start-up. Before you begin your search, think about what you need, what extras you’d like, what would be

5 Tips for Reducing Employee Fraud and Theft

Posted on May 19, 2015 by businessowner

Whatever the size of your business, employee fraud and theft is a risk if you employ others. Employee dishonesty can be more damaging to morale and the bottom line than external theft is because employees have more opportunities to help

Product Guarantee as a Marketing Tool

Posted on May 13, 2015 by businessowner

Offering a guarantee with your product or service is an inexpensive marketing tool that allows you to build trust in your brand. When you sell something, you already offer an implied guarantee, which means that consumers can expect a certain

9 Tips for Choosing the Perfect Product Packaging

Posted on May 4, 2015 by businessowner

Product packaging should do more than protect items during transit. It should be an extension of your brand that attracts attention, sets your product apart at a glance (online or on the shelf), and convinces consumers of the product’s benefits

Does Offering Discounts Really Benefit Your Small Business

Posted on April 29, 2015 by businessowner

Although offering discounts may seem like an easy way to attract new customers and retain existing customers, it is important to understand the pros and cons of using this strategy before you do. Consider the following factors when assessing the

5 Tips for Using Social Media to Become a Customer Service Rock Star

Posted on April 21, 2015 by businessowner

There’s more to engaging your customer base than providing outstanding content and excellent in-store customer service. Although social media is an excellent tool for spreading information about your products or services, its greatest benefit is as a relationship development tool,

How to Track Marketing ROI

Posted on April 12, 2015 by businessowner

Return on investment, or ROI, refers to the profits you make from a specific investment and the money you save from that investment. It shows whether the time, effort, and money you invest in a certain activity benefit your small

8 Tips for Turning New Customers into Repeat Customers

Posted on April 10, 2015 by businessowner

Although developing sales leads are an important aspect of growing your business, keeping the customers you attract is equally important. Outstanding customer care is the cornerstone of customer retention, but it’s crucial to understand what providing excellent customer service entails.

9 Tips for Beating Insomnia

Posted on April 10, 2015 by businessowner

As a small business owner or entrepreneur, you’ll probably find yourself lying awake at night worrying about the business at some point. If this is a regular occurrence, you’re suffering from insomnia, which can affect your health and productivity. Too

10 Tips for Avoiding Burnout

Posted on April 10, 2015 by businessowner

Everyone is susceptible to burnout, but the prolonged stress under which some entrepreneurs and owners of small businesses operate makes these groups even more likely to feel emotionally, mentally, and physically exhausted. Burnout can leave you feeling overwhelmed, unable to

Written Legal Agreements Important to Your Small Business

Posted on March 30, 2015 by businessowner

Many small businesses operate without written legal agreements or formal contracts. Although verbal agreements can be enforceable and binding, it can be difficult to prove the agreed terms. A written agreement doesn’t have to be complex, and it can save

7 Logo Design Tips for Outstanding Branding

Posted on March 30, 2015 by businessowner

Because your company logo is a visual representation of your brand, it’s a crucial aspect of your branding. A good small business logo captures your corporate identity and becomes a familiar, trusted symbol in the minds of your audience. Even

9 Reasons to Rethink Your Website

Posted on March 30, 2015 by businessowner

Although the thought of redesigning your small business website may seem daunting, several reasons to do so make this a worthwhile expense. In many cases, your website gives customers their first impression of you and your business, and some may

9 Tips for Leveraging LinkedIn as a Small Business

Posted on March 25, 2015 by businessowner

LinkedIn is an excellent networking tool for professionals that allows people to connect and do business. Many small business owners fail to use the platform effectively, collecting connections without ever interacting with anyone, while others find it intimidating. These nine

7 Tips for Negotiating Sales that Benefit Your Small Business and Your Customers

Posted on March 25, 2015 by businessowner

Making sales is what keeps your business afloat. Smaller sales may be straightforward without room for negotiation, but landing a big client may require a little flexibility on your part. Whether you’re selling products or services, use these seven tips

6 Top Tips for Managing a Successful Family Business

Posted on March 25, 2015 by businessowner

According to research published in December 2014 by Oxford Economics for the Institute of Family Business, the family business sector provides 9.4 million jobs and accounts for 25 percent of the UK’s GDP. Family businesses include sibling partnerships, parent-child collaborations,

7 Tips for Increasing Productivity

Posted on March 17, 2015 by businessowner

Everyone’s productivity flags from time to time. Use these seven tips to boost your productivity and do more. 1. Wake Up Earlier Even if you’re not a morning person, waking up earlier is a great way to start the day.

7 Ways to Regain Your Confidence after a Business Blunder

Posted on March 17, 2015 by businessowner

Nothings saps confidence like making a huge mistake. Because every business needs a confident leader,regaining your confidence after a business blunder is crucial. Use these seven techniques to get your groove back as quickly as possible. 1. Acknowledge Your Mistake

Top 7 Tips for Starting a Business after 50

Posted on March 17, 2015 by businessowner

Although starting a business poses the same challenges at any age, there are some advantages and disadvantages for older entrepreneurs. For example, people over 50 tend to have more free time and usually have nest eggs they can tap into

7 Techniques for Dealing with Fear of Failure

Posted on March 9, 2015 by businessowner

Whether you want to start your own business or want to expand your existing business, fear of failure may be stopping you from achieving your goals. Business is never a sure thing, and every entrepreneur has to face and overcome

5 Limiting Beliefs that Stand in the Way of Your Success

Posted on March 9, 2015 by businessowner

Your mind is your greatest asset, but you may need to change your way of thinking to make the most of it. Limiting beliefs are the thoughts you have about yourself that stand in the way of your success. If

6 Reasons Entrepreneurs Must Keep On Networking

Posted on March 9, 2015 by businessowner

Most entrepreneurs understand the importance of networking when establishing their businesses, but many overlook the importance of maintaining the relationships they have and building new ones. Networking is one of the most important tools you have to grow your business

Top 8 Expenses to Avoid when Starting a Business

Posted on March 7, 2015 by businessowner

When starting a business, you need to practice strict financial controls to keep your costs as low as possible and increase your likelihood of success. This means distinguishing between needs and wants. You can defer, reduce, or completely avoid the

Top 8 Necessary Start-Up Expenses

Posted on March 7, 2015 by businessowner

Although the definition of ‘start-up expenses’ varies, most definitions include the costs involved in setting up a business. Reining in costs is crucial to the success of your business; most start-ups fail because owners spend too much and earn too

7 Recovery Strategies Following a Financial Setback

Posted on March 7, 2015 by businessowner

However effective your business plans and processes, your small business is almost guaranteed to experience a financial setback at one time or another. While effective strategizing offers some protection, how you deal with this type of challenge can make or

8 Ways to Make the Most of Your Marketing Budget

Posted on February 23, 2015 by businessowner

Marketing can be an expensive exercise, especially when you assign a pound value to your own time. These eight tips can help you make the most of the time and money you set aside for marketing. 1. Don’t Change a

How to Create an Effective Marketing Strategy

Posted on February 23, 2015 by businessowner

A marketing plan provides direction for the marketing activities of your company. As such, it should be easy to understand and straightforward, and it should contain information relevant to your business and industry. This short guide can help you learn

8 Common Marketing Pitfalls

Posted on February 23, 2015 by businessowner

Effective marketing is a key aspect of business success because it allows you to create and grow a customer base. Knowing what small businesses tend to do wrong can help you avoid common mistakes and make the most of your

9 Ways to Boost Your Confidence and Develop a Successful Mindset

Posted on February 19, 2015 by businessowner

Starting your own business is incredibly hard work and it’s easy to lose confidence when facing setback after setback. However, staying motivated is essential for success. If you feel your confidence flagging, these techniques can help you stay focused and

9 Ways to Keep Your Employees Motivated

Posted on February 19, 2015 by businessowner

Keeping your employees motivated helps with everything from skills development to employee retention to increased productivity. Unfortunately, no magical formula exists for keeping everyone motivated all the time. However, your strong leadership and enthusiasm goes a long way to energising

8 Tips for Keeping Meetings Engaging and Productive

Posted on February 19, 2015 by businessowner

Although meetings with employees and managers are essential, they can turn into a waste of time for small business owners and their teams. Preparing reports for and attending meetings can drain away as much as a full workday per week.

How to Review, Monitor, and Assess Performance for Increased Business Growth

Posted on February 14, 2015 by businessowner

Reviewing, monitoring, and assessing performance allows you to streamline your business processes by identifying wasted resources. Everyone in the business, including you, should be using his or her time efficiently for maximum productivity. Factors that influence productivity include implementing the

6 Reasons Why Continuous Training for Employees is Crucial to the Success of Your Business

Posted on February 14, 2015 by businessowner

The cost of employee training may make you reluctant to develop the skills of your staff members. However, your employees should be assets to your business, and the most effective way to ensure that you surround yourself with the best

8 Mistakes to Avoid when Starting a Business

Posted on February 14, 2015 by businessowner

Although several factors influence the likelihood of business success, some entrepreneurs who fail make the same mistakes. Know what to avoid when starting your own business to ensure that common pitfalls don’t obstruct the success and growth of your company.

Should You Become a Part-Time Entrepreneur

Posted on February 3, 2015 by businessowner

If you have a business idea but aren’t quite ready to quit your day job, becoming a part-time entrepreneur may be the ideal option. Learn more about the advantages and disadvantages of working for yourself in your spare time, and

8 Tips to Help You Become a Social Media Rock Star

Posted on February 3, 2015 by businessowner

Social media offers inexpensive, user-friendly platforms that allow you to build relationships with your customers and promote your brand. Chances are most of your customers and potential customers are already using some form of social media, which makes reaching them

7 Money Management Tips for Small Business Owners

Posted on February 3, 2015 by businessowner

Money management includes everything from receiving payments to investing surplus cash. Effective financial management reduces the risk of loss and fraud while maximising profits and business growth. Use these seven tips to streamline your financial procedures. Find the Right Banking

6 Ways to Improve Your Communication Skills

Posted on January 26, 2015 by businessowner

In previous posts we’ve establish the importance of communication skills in leadership and business management. Miscommunications cause conflict and frustration and can even cost you money. Fortunately, you can improve your communication skills whatever your skill level. Use these six

7 Aspects of Business Every Entrepreneur Should Master

Posted on January 26, 2015 by businessowner

A successful business relies on an entrepreneur who has developed the skills she needs to manage it. The list of skills a small business owner needs seems daunting, but some develop over time while others are relatively easy to learn.

7 Essential Leadership Skills for Entrepreneurs

Posted on January 26, 2015 by businessowner

Leadership is a crucial yet often overlooked aspect of entrepreneurship. Leadership is almost exclusively about managing and inspiring those around you, from investors to employees. Learn which skills you need to turn your great business concept into a successful business.

5 Tips for Offering the Best Customer Service in Your Industry

Posted on January 19, 2015 by businessowner

Whether you offer a product or service to business or regular customers, customer service is a crucial part of making your business stand out. Without customers, you wouldn’t have a business, so keeping your customers happy and having a reputation

5 Small Business Goals for 2015

Posted on January 19, 2015 by businessowner

The start of a new year is the perfect time to set new goals for your small business. Short-, medium- and long-term goals keep you and your employees focused on the important things you want to achieve, whether it’s growing

6 Tips for Conducting a Successful Job Interview

Posted on January 19, 2015 by businessowner

Knowing where and how to find the right talent for your small business is one thing, but choosing the right candidate (and leaving the person with a positive view of your company) can be a challenge. Use these six tips

6 Tips for Finding the Right Employees for Your Small Business

Posted on January 13, 2015 by businessowner

Finding the right employees for a small business can be extremely difficult. Recruitment is time consuming, and you need to find employees who meet your business needs and can work in your business environment. In small businesses, employees usually have

5 Bookkeeping Tips for Small Businesses

Posted on January 13, 2015 by businessowner

When running a small business, keeping track of your finances is crucial. Good bookkeeping ensures that you know exactly what to expect in terms of expenses and cash flow, allows you to monitor and attain your business goals, and helps

Understanding the Types of Business Legal Structures

Posted on January 13, 2015 by businessowner

Choosing the right legal structure for your small business is essential because it determines factors such as your personal liability for business debts, the taxes you must pay, and the profit structure. Remember that you can change your business structure