Staying neutral during politically charged times can be essential for small businesses that want to maintain a diverse customer base and minimize potential backlash. Here are some strategies to achieve this:
Focus on Core Values: Stick to your business's mission and core values. Ensure that your messaging, marketing, and service delivery reflect these principles without veering into political discourse.
Avoid Political Discussions: Train employees to steer clear of political conversations,... more
Posted at 10:23 AM
Monday, October 28, 2024
Do you have Market Research? What even does that mean? Do you know what will work with customers of your product or service? Ugg.. gonna have to hire some firm to tell me what I could find out? Or, like always, just do it myself.
Small businesses can conduct their own market research through several effective methods:
Surveys and Questionnaires : Use online tools like Google Forms or SurveyMonkey to create surveys targeting current customers and potential audiences. Keep questions clear and... more
Posted at 10:00 AM
Monday, October 28, 2024
Traditional team building can be worth the investment for small businesses, as it fosters stronger relationships, improves communication, and boosts morale among employees. These activities can enhance collaboration, leading to increased productivity and a healthier workplace culture. However, the effectiveness often depends on the choice of activities and participants' engagement. It's essential to tailor team-building exercises to suit the team's dynamics and specific goals. While costs can vary, successful team... more
Posted at 09:20 AM
Sunday, October 27, 2024
The pet industry has seen remarkable growth, leading to various successful business opportunities. One of the best businesses is pet grooming services, where owners seek professional care to keep their pets looking and feeling their best. Additionally, pet daycare and boarding services are in high demand as busy pet owners look for safe, engaging environments for their furry companions.
Pet supply stores that offer organic and specialty foods are trending, catering to the growing health-conscious market. Online... more
Posted at 08:23 AM
Friday, October 25, 2024
Working from home offers numerous benefits, including increased flexibility, reduced commute time, and the potential for a better work-life balance. Employees can create a personalized workspace and often experience higher productivity due to fewer office distractions. However, it can also lead to feelings of isolation, difficulty in separating work from personal life, and challenges in team collaboration. Communication may suffer without face-to-face interaction, and employees might miss out on networking... more
Posted at 09:17 AM
Thursday, October 24, 2024
Some very lucrative businesses can just start up on a shoestring... Are you wondering how to get off the employee train and report to yourself... some of these ideas can be part time until you get rocking....Service, Service, Service Cleaning Services: Residential or commercial cleaning services are always in demand. You can start small with minimal equipment and gradually expand your team.
Tutoring: If you have expertise in a particular subject, offering tutoring services to students can be fulfilling and... more
Posted at 09:55 AM
Wednesday, October 23, 2024
The 3% surcharge on credit card transactions can be a contentious issue for small businesses. On one hand, accepting credit cards can attract more customers and increase sales, as many consumers prefer the convenience of card payments. The surcharge helps offset processing fees, preserving profit margins. However, it can deter some customers who dislike extra charges or perceive them as unprofessional. Evaluating the local market and customer preferences is crucial; if most competitors absorb the fees, it may be wise to do the... more
Posted at 11:57 PM
Wednesday, October 23, 2024
It is so fun to give someone a job but it is terrible to let someone go... when should I hire a contractor vs an employee...? Deciding whether to hire a contractor or a W2 employee depends on several factors related to the nature of the work, the business's needs, and financial considerations. Here are some key considerations to guide this decision:
Duration of Work : If the work is temporary or project-based, hiring a contractor might be more appropriate. Contractors allow flexibility to scale the workforce up or down... more
Posted at 06:42 PM
Wednesday, October 23, 2024
We chose Pony Express bank in Liberty and kept a totally local connection. Choosing a local banker is crucial for small businesses for several reasons. Firstly, local bankers have a deeper understanding of the community and its economic landscape, which can lead to more tailored financial solutions that meet the specific needs of local businesses. This localized knowledge helps in assessing risk and opportunities more accurately than national banks.
Secondly, building a relationship with a local banker can... more
Posted at 02:55 PM
Wednesday, October 23, 2024
Deciding to add an employee is a significant step for a small business and requires careful consideration of various metrics and factors to ensure the decision supports sustainable growth. Here are some key metrics and considerations:
Workload and Capacity : Assess whether the current team is overwhelmed with work. Frequent overtime, missed deadlines, and employee burnout are indicators that additional help may be necessary.
Revenue Growth : Consider whether the business's revenue is consistently... more
Staying neutral during politically charged times can be essential for small businesses that want to maintain a diverse customer base and minimize potential backlash. Here are some strategies to achieve this:
