Entrepreneurs: Most Popular Articles
These articles are the most popular over the last month.
Make Money Online
Making money online used to pretty much require you to have your own Web site, products to sell, and some marketing savvy. But a whole new generation of dot-coms have arisen that will pay you for what you know (and who you know) without you having to be a web designer or a marketing genius.
Making money online used to pretty much require you to have your own Web site, products to sell, and some marketing savvy. But a whole new generation of dot-coms have arisen that will pay you for what you know (and who you know) without you having to be a web designer or a marketing genius.
Business Ideas on a Budget
Whether you're starting a side business while still employed elsewhere, a student or homemaker looking for extra income, or unemployed and trying to figure out what to do, there are plenty of opportunities for you to start up a side business inexpensively. It's unlikely any of these will make you a living in the first few months, but they all have the potential to grow into full-time careers. We'll take a look at 10 such opportunities and, most importantly, tell you what to do with the $20!
Whether you're starting a side business while still employed elsewhere, a student or homemaker looking for extra income, or unemployed and trying to figure out what to do, there are plenty of opportunities for you to start up a side business inexpensively. It's unlikely any of these will make you a living in the first few months, but they all have the potential to grow into full-time careers. We'll take a look at 10 such opportunities and, most importantly, tell you what to do with the $20!
Create a Great Business Name
A great business name is the beginning of a great brand. It should be memorable, easy to use, and create a certain feeling when heard. Here's a quick how-to on creating one and making sure it's not already used.
A great business name is the beginning of a great brand. It should be memorable, easy to use, and create a certain feeling when heard. Here's a quick how-to on creating one and making sure it's not already used.
Amazon Affiliate Site
You've probably heard before a bunch of hype about how much money you can make with affiliate programs. Maybe you've even set up a site yourself, only to find that after buying the domain name, a few bucks a month in hosting, software or a web designer to design your site, etc., that the piddly affiliate fees hardly even covered your cost. Well, here's the hype-free way to really make money with an Amazon.com affiliate site. And it'll only take a day to make the site. The secret? Read on.
You've probably heard before a bunch of hype about how much money you can make with affiliate programs. Maybe you've even set up a site yourself, only to find that after buying the domain name, a few bucks a month in hosting, software or a web designer to design your site, etc., that the piddly affiliate fees hardly even covered your cost. Well, here's the hype-free way to really make money with an Amazon.com affiliate site. And it'll only take a day to make the site. The secret? Read on.
Doing Business As (DBA)
A fictitious business name, assumed name, or DBA (short for "doing business as"), gives entrepreneurs the ability to brand their businesses effectively with minimal cost. It allows sole proprietors to use a business name rather than their personal name. It also lets a single legal entity (corporation, LLC, etc.) operate multiple businesses without creating a new legal entity for each business. Learn the whys and hows of getting an assumed name.
A fictitious business name, assumed name, or DBA (short for "doing business as"), gives entrepreneurs the ability to brand their businesses effectively with minimal cost. It allows sole proprietors to use a business name rather than their personal name. It also lets a single legal entity (corporation, LLC, etc.) operate multiple businesses without creating a new legal entity for each business. Learn the whys and hows of getting an assumed name.
Breakeven Analysis
If you can accurately forecast your costs and sales, conducting a breakeven analysis is a matter of simple math. A company has broken even when its total sales or revenues equal its total expenses. At the breakeven point, no profit has been made, nor have any losses been incurred. This calculation is critical for any business owner, because the breakeven point is the lower limit of profit when determining margins.
If you can accurately forecast your costs and sales, conducting a breakeven analysis is a matter of simple math. A company has broken even when its total sales or revenues equal its total expenses. At the breakeven point, no profit has been made, nor have any losses been incurred. This calculation is critical for any business owner, because the breakeven point is the lower limit of profit when determining margins.
Secretary of State Offices
Links and phone numbers for the Secretary of State offices of all U.S. states and territories. Secretary of State offices register corporations, limited liability companies, partnerships, business mergers and acquisitions, and articles of dissolution.
Links and phone numbers for the Secretary of State offices of all U.S. states and territories. Secretary of State offices register corporations, limited liability companies, partnerships, business mergers and acquisitions, and articles of dissolution.
Set Up an LLC
The Limited Liability Company, or LLC, has in recent years become the most popular legal structure for small businesses wishing to incorporate. The exact requirements vary slightly from state to state, but setting up an LLC is a relatively simple process that can usually be done in an hour or less.
The Limited Liability Company, or LLC, has in recent years become the most popular legal structure for small businesses wishing to incorporate. The exact requirements vary slightly from state to state, but setting up an LLC is a relatively simple process that can usually be done in an hour or less.
The Seven Deadly Sins of Po...
It’s not surprising Powerpoint© slideshows have become the norm for visuals in most business presentations. They are quick to produce, easy to update and effective to inject visual interest into the presentation. However, they can also spell disaster even for experienced presenters. The key to success is to make certain your slide show is a visual aid and not a visual distraction.
It’s not surprising Powerpoint© slideshows have become the norm for visuals in most business presentations. They are quick to produce, easy to update and effective to inject visual interest into the presentation. However, they can also spell disaster even for experienced presenters. The key to success is to make certain your slide show is a visual aid and not a visual distraction.
First Impressions
Within the first three seconds of a new encounter, you are evaluated… even if it is just a glance.
Within the first three seconds of a new encounter, you are evaluated… even if it is just a glance.
Pricing Strategy
One of the most difficult, yet important, issues an entrepreneur must decide is how much to charge for his product or service. While there is no one single right way to determine your pricing strategy, fortunately there are some guidelines that will help you with your decision.
One of the most difficult, yet important, issues an entrepreneur must decide is how much to charge for his product or service. While there is no one single right way to determine your pricing strategy, fortunately there are some guidelines that will help you with your decision.
Passive Income
Do you want to continue working 50, 70, 100 hours a week the rest of your life? Good! Neither do I. Do you want to be able to take time off whenever you want to, without worrying about what's going to happen to your business? So do I! In order to do that, you're going to have to start creating income streams that do not require your direct involvement. Passive income will allow you to earn more and work less.
Do you want to continue working 50, 70, 100 hours a week the rest of your life? Good! Neither do I. Do you want to be able to take time off whenever you want to, without worrying about what's going to happen to your business? So do I! In order to do that, you're going to have to start creating income streams that do not require your direct involvement. Passive income will allow you to earn more and work less.
Choosing a Business to Start
The traditional approach to entrepreneurship has been to research the market, identify a need, and create a business to fill it. In recent years, the mantra, "Do what you love and the money will follow," has become increasingly popular. While the latter sounds great, millions have gone broke pursuing that approach. On the other hand, many others have created businesses using the first approach, only to end up bored and burned out. But there's an approach that combines the best of both.
The traditional approach to entrepreneurship has been to research the market, identify a need, and create a business to fill it. In recent years, the mantra, "Do what you love and the money will follow," has become increasingly popular. While the latter sounds great, millions have gone broke pursuing that approach. On the other hand, many others have created businesses using the first approach, only to end up bored and burned out. But there's an approach that combines the best of both.
Ben & Jerry
Ice cream is a sweet treat that few can resist. Although vanilla is the most popular flavor in the U.S., there are a seemingly endless number of varieties and manufacturers. One of the best-known purveyors is Ben & Jerry’s, the brand synonymous with funky flavors like Cherry Garcia and Chunky Monkey and a groovy Vermont vibe.
Ice cream is a sweet treat that few can resist. Although vanilla is the most popular flavor in the U.S., there are a seemingly endless number of varieties and manufacturers. One of the best-known purveyors is Ben & Jerry’s, the brand synonymous with funky flavors like Cherry Garcia and Chunky Monkey and a groovy Vermont vibe.
10-Step, 1-Day Strategic Plan
The Ten-Step, One-Day Strategic Plan
The Ten-Step, One-Day Strategic Plan
Walt Disney
Disney is one of the most recognized brands in the world, but few know as much about the man behind the Magic Kingdom, not to mention the hundreds of animated cartoons, countless feature films and endless toys that bear his name. An influential innovator and entrepreneur in the mid 20th century, Disney went from sketching a rabbit (yes, a rabbit) to running a multi-billion dollar empire.
Disney is one of the most recognized brands in the world, but few know as much about the man behind the Magic Kingdom, not to mention the hundreds of animated cartoons, countless feature films and endless toys that bear his name. An influential innovator and entrepreneur in the mid 20th century, Disney went from sketching a rabbit (yes, a rabbit) to running a multi-billion dollar empire.
Joint Venturing 101
Depending on what you want from your business and how fast you want to get there, joining forces to create a more powerful presence in your market may be an attractive option. Joint ventures can help you grow the amount of business you do and the size of the projects you take on without growing the actual size of your business.
Depending on what you want from your business and how fast you want to get there, joining forces to create a more powerful presence in your market may be an attractive option. Joint ventures can help you grow the amount of business you do and the size of the projects you take on without growing the actual size of your business.
The Problem with MLM
It never ceases to amaze me the extreme polar views on the topic of network marketing and MLM. Some people are passionate about it in the extreme, and there are even top celebrity authors like Robert Allen, Mark Victor Hansen, and Robert Kiyosaki doing it and advocating it. Yet, in many circles, you might as well declare yourself a leper as admit to being in network marketing. So what's the problem?
It never ceases to amaze me the extreme polar views on the topic of network marketing and MLM. Some people are passionate about it in the extreme, and there are even top celebrity authors like Robert Allen, Mark Victor Hansen, and Robert Kiyosaki doing it and advocating it. Yet, in many circles, you might as well declare yourself a leper as admit to being in network marketing. So what's the problem?
Ingvar Kamprad
Thanks to the decline in the dollar, IKEA founder Ingvar Kamprad is now, according to some, the wealthiest person in the world. What started as a person-to-person business selling everything from pens to picture frames has grown to over 200 stores in 31 countries, employing over 75,000 people and generating over 12 billion in sales annually. IKEA is still privately held by Kamprad, who flys coach, takes the subway to work, and drives a ten-year-old Volvo.
Thanks to the decline in the dollar, IKEA founder Ingvar Kamprad is now, according to some, the wealthiest person in the world. What started as a person-to-person business selling everything from pens to picture frames has grown to over 200 stores in 31 countries, employing over 75,000 people and generating over 12 billion in sales annually. IKEA is still privately held by Kamprad, who flys coach, takes the subway to work, and drives a ten-year-old Volvo.
Sole Proprietorship Checklist
So you want to go into business for yourself? Run your own show? Being a sole proprietor is the easiest way to get started in business, but there's still more to it than just getting business cards printed and sticking up a web page. You may not need a formal business plan, but this checklist will help you make sure you've at least given some thought to the many complexities that may arise.
So you want to go into business for yourself? Run your own show? Being a sole proprietor is the easiest way to get started in business, but there's still more to it than just getting business cards printed and sticking up a web page. You may not need a formal business plan, but this checklist will help you make sure you've at least given some thought to the many complexities that may arise.
Time Is Money
It's an old cliche that we all know and understand, but to what extent do you really apply it in your business? Are you paying yourself too little by doing work that could be delegated and skipping the high-ROI work you could be doing?
It's an old cliche that we all know and understand, but to what extent do you really apply it in your business? Are you paying yourself too little by doing work that could be delegated and skipping the high-ROI work you could be doing?
Entrepreneurs on Entrepreneurs
Looking for some inspiration? See what some of the world's most famous entrepreneurs have to say about entrepreneurship.
Looking for some inspiration? See what some of the world's most famous entrepreneurs have to say about entrepreneurship.
Hugh Hefner
Hugh Hefner is the supreme bachelor of our time. He has forever changed our world by breaking the boundaries related to sexuality, age, and gender. He created a revolutionary magazine with naked women and great articles in a time when sexuality was not even appropriate to talk about.
Hugh Hefner is the supreme bachelor of our time. He has forever changed our world by breaking the boundaries related to sexuality, age, and gender. He created a revolutionary magazine with naked women and great articles in a time when sexuality was not even appropriate to talk about.
The Business Plan
Business planning is a vital component of starting and growing a successful enterprise. Many different templates and variations of business plans exist, so you must choose the right one for your purpose and your enterprise. Having a business and knowing what to do with it are very separate issues and creating a well-executed business plan for the right reasons will enhance the odds that your venture will be one of the ones to succeed.
Business planning is a vital component of starting and growing a successful enterprise. Many different templates and variations of business plans exist, so you must choose the right one for your purpose and your enterprise. Having a business and knowing what to do with it are very separate issues and creating a well-executed business plan for the right reasons will enhance the odds that your venture will be one of the ones to succeed.
Oprah Winfrey
In a recent poll, About.com asked readers to select the entrepreneur they most admired. Was it Bill Gates? Richard Branson? Donald Trump? Nope -- Oprah Winfrey stood out head and shoulders above the rest. Read Oprah's story and some of the things that make her so admirable.
In a recent poll, About.com asked readers to select the entrepreneur they most admired. Was it Bill Gates? Richard Branson? Donald Trump? Nope -- Oprah Winfrey stood out head and shoulders above the rest. Read Oprah's story and some of the things that make her so admirable.
Mary Kay Ash
The founder of Mary Kay Cosmetics created a business that has helped some half a million women fulfill their dreams of business ownership. A best-selling author and powerful motivational speaker, Lifetime Television named her the Most Outstanding Woman in Business in the 20th Century.
The founder of Mary Kay Cosmetics created a business that has helped some half a million women fulfill their dreams of business ownership. A best-selling author and powerful motivational speaker, Lifetime Television named her the Most Outstanding Woman in Business in the 20th Century.
Calculating Startup Costs
You’re confident you’re sitting on the next million-dollar idea. Whether you’ve already secured funding or just trying to figure out what it will take to get started, an accurate estimate of start-up costs is necessary to reasonably predict financial performance in the first few quarters. Of course every business and every industry have different cost requirements, but these steps can help you start the number-crunching.
You’re confident you’re sitting on the next million-dollar idea. Whether you’ve already secured funding or just trying to figure out what it will take to get started, an accurate estimate of start-up costs is necessary to reasonably predict financial performance in the first few quarters. Of course every business and every industry have different cost requirements, but these steps can help you start the number-crunching.
Henry Ford
Henry Ford was not the inventor of the automobile, but his innovations in assembly-line techniques and the introduction of standardized interchangeable parts contributed to making the United States a nation of motorists and produced the first mass-production vehicle manufacturing plant.
Henry Ford was not the inventor of the automobile, but his innovations in assembly-line techniques and the introduction of standardized interchangeable parts contributed to making the United States a nation of motorists and produced the first mass-production vehicle manufacturing plant.
Desk Exercises
Are you a desk-bound entrepreneur? If so, then you have to get a little extra exercise to make up for the fact that you're sitting all day. Exercise will also reduce stress, increase your energy and clear your mind. But the gym can seem like a waste of time. It's not the 45 minutes working out that's a problem -- it's the additional 45 minutes of prep, travel and cleanup. Well here are eight simple exercises you can do to build strength, tone and flexibility without leaving your office.
Are you a desk-bound entrepreneur? If so, then you have to get a little extra exercise to make up for the fact that you're sitting all day. Exercise will also reduce stress, increase your energy and clear your mind. But the gym can seem like a waste of time. It's not the 45 minutes working out that's a problem -- it's the additional 45 minutes of prep, travel and cleanup. Well here are eight simple exercises you can do to build strength, tone and flexibility without leaving your office.
Lorenzo Borghese
Even without a title of “prince,” Lorenzo Borghese would not fall into the category of “pauper.” Recently in the news for his appearance on ABC’s The Bachelor: Rome, Borghese is following in his grandmother’s footsteps as a cosmetics entrepreneur and has created his own line of luxury bath and grooming products – only these are for pets.
Even without a title of “prince,” Lorenzo Borghese would not fall into the category of “pauper.” Recently in the news for his appearance on ABC’s The Bachelor: Rome, Borghese is following in his grandmother’s footsteps as a cosmetics entrepreneur and has created his own line of luxury bath and grooming products – only these are for pets.
Business Concept
It is crucial that your business plan states your business concept and value proposition. Since this part of the business plan follows the executive summary and company history, readers already should have a general idea of your company. The business concept, however, comprises your vision of the company, explaining the value your product or service will bring to the customer, why you are especially qualified to offer it, as well describing your offering's uniqueness and growth potential.
It is crucial that your business plan states your business concept and value proposition. Since this part of the business plan follows the executive summary and company history, readers already should have a general idea of your company. The business concept, however, comprises your vision of the company, explaining the value your product or service will bring to the customer, why you are especially qualified to offer it, as well describing your offering's uniqueness and growth potential.
Wayne Huizenga Biography
Wayne Huizenga is the only person in history to have founded three Fortune 500 companies, and six NYSE-traded companies. Huizenga is founder of the third largest U.S. waste disposal company, Republic Industries; the global leader in video entertainment, Blockbuster Entertainment; and the country's first and world's largest publicly-traded automotive dealership, AutoNation. He's also currently the owner of the Miami Dolphins football team.
Wayne Huizenga is the only person in history to have founded three Fortune 500 companies, and six NYSE-traded companies. Huizenga is founder of the third largest U.S. waste disposal company, Republic Industries; the global leader in video entertainment, Blockbuster Entertainment; and the country's first and world's largest publicly-traded automotive dealership, AutoNation. He's also currently the owner of the Miami Dolphins football team.
Donald Trump
Donald Trump has a long list of accomplishments. While he may be best known in pop culture for "The Apprentice", he built his reputation and his fortune (and lost it and built it again) in commercial real estate. He has developed some of Manhattan's most prestigious office buildings, residences and hotels, as well as casinos, hotels and golf resorts in prime locations like Atlantic City, Palm Beach and Palm Springs. He is also owner of the Miss Universe, Miss USA and Miss Teen USA pageants.
Donald Trump has a long list of accomplishments. While he may be best known in pop culture for "The Apprentice", he built his reputation and his fortune (and lost it and built it again) in commercial real estate. He has developed some of Manhattan's most prestigious office buildings, residences and hotels, as well as casinos, hotels and golf resorts in prime locations like Atlantic City, Palm Beach and Palm Springs. He is also owner of the Miss Universe, Miss USA and Miss Teen USA pageants.
Google Yourself
The ready availability of information on the Internet makes it easy for people to do free basic background checks on people before entering into business relationships with them. This is something you should definitely do yourself before hiring anybody as an employee, consultant, or contractor. So what does Google have to say about you? If you don't know, you'd better find out. Those skeletons in your closet may not be as hidden as you think. Or worse yet, you may have someone else's skeletons!
The ready availability of information on the Internet makes it easy for people to do free basic background checks on people before entering into business relationships with them. This is something you should definitely do yourself before hiring anybody as an employee, consultant, or contractor. So what does Google have to say about you? If you don't know, you'd better find out. Those skeletons in your closet may not be as hidden as you think. Or worse yet, you may have someone else's skeletons!
Business Organizational Forms
This article describes the differences among the six basic business organizational structures used by for-profit businesses in the United States.
This article describes the differences among the six basic business organizational structures used by for-profit businesses in the United States.
Executive Summary
The executive summary is the introduction to a formal business plan. It summarizes the business proposition, key financial projections, where the business stands at present and elements that are critical for success. Remember this is the first thing a potential investor will read. If your executive summary doesn't grab his or her attention, then he or she probably won't bother reading the rest of your package.
The executive summary is the introduction to a formal business plan. It summarizes the business proposition, key financial projections, where the business stands at present and elements that are critical for success. Remember this is the first thing a potential investor will read. If your executive summary doesn't grab his or her attention, then he or she probably won't bother reading the rest of your package.
Business Opportunities 2005
2004's hot trends become 2005's hot opportunities. If you're thinking about starting a business this year, here are some of the best new business ideas you may want to consider.
2004's hot trends become 2005's hot opportunities. If you're thinking about starting a business this year, here are some of the best new business ideas you may want to consider.
The Cash Flow Statement
A cash flow statement, along with the balance sheet and income statement, are the three most common financial statements used to gauge a company’s performance and overall health. The same accounting data is used in preparing all three statements, but each takes a company’s pulse in a different area.
A cash flow statement, along with the balance sheet and income statement, are the three most common financial statements used to gauge a company’s performance and overall health. The same accounting data is used in preparing all three statements, but each takes a company’s pulse in a different area.
Private Lending Alternatives
It happens everyday. Well-prepared entrepreneurs are walking into the banks with brilliant business ideas with well developed business plans — and are walking out empty-handed. For individuals who do not want to give up a certain percentage ownership in the business as is often required by venture capitalist and deal with the angel investors who may demand a board position or significant day-to-day control, the private lender may be an alternative worth considering.
It happens everyday. Well-prepared entrepreneurs are walking into the banks with brilliant business ideas with well developed business plans — and are walking out empty-handed. For individuals who do not want to give up a certain percentage ownership in the business as is often required by venture capitalist and deal with the angel investors who may demand a board position or significant day-to-day control, the private lender may be an alternative worth considering.
Michael Dell
Michael Dell, born February 1965, started the road to success out of his University of Texas dorm room in with just $1000 and an idea in 1984. Michael Dell is both Chairman and CEO of his company with a net worth of over $30 billion. Dell sells directly to the customer so to avoid middleman mark-ups.
Michael Dell, born February 1965, started the road to success out of his University of Texas dorm room in with just $1000 and an idea in 1984. Michael Dell is both Chairman and CEO of his company with a net worth of over $30 billion. Dell sells directly to the customer so to avoid middleman mark-ups.
Simon Cowell
Simon Cowell is best known as the obnoxious judge on the hit TV show American Idol whose cynical comments sent contestants running out the door in tears, but what most don’t know is that his work didn’t start there and most definitely won’t end there. His list of achievements is long and includes being a successful record producer and executive for the BMG UK record company to gathering wannabe entrepreneurs on his show, American Inventor.
Simon Cowell is best known as the obnoxious judge on the hit TV show American Idol whose cynical comments sent contestants running out the door in tears, but what most don’t know is that his work didn’t start there and most definitely won’t end there. His list of achievements is long and includes being a successful record producer and executive for the BMG UK record company to gathering wannabe entrepreneurs on his show, American Inventor.
Top Ten Tips: How To Keep Y...
If you've got a job working for someone else, and want to keep that job, here are ten tongue-in-cheek techniques which you absolutely must follow in order to keep your job today. Reading this will remind you how glad you are you work for yourself.
If you've got a job working for someone else, and want to keep that job, here are ten tongue-in-cheek techniques which you absolutely must follow in order to keep your job today. Reading this will remind you how glad you are you work for yourself.
Financial Projections
Creating financial projections for your startup is both an art and a science. Although investors want to see cold, hard numbers, it is tough to predict your financial performance three years down the road, especially if you are still raising seed money. Regardless, a short- and medium-term financial projection is a required part of your business plan if you want serious investors’ attention. Here are some tips for crafting solid financial projections.
Creating financial projections for your startup is both an art and a science. Although investors want to see cold, hard numbers, it is tough to predict your financial performance three years down the road, especially if you are still raising seed money. Regardless, a short- and medium-term financial projection is a required part of your business plan if you want serious investors’ attention. Here are some tips for crafting solid financial projections.
Social Networking Sites
Where services such as Friendster, MySpace and Connexion have been successful bringing singles and groups together based on affinity and mutual interests, business-networking services are now offering a parallel experience in the professional world. Along with LinkedIn are such offerings as Ryze (www.ryze.com) and Tribe.net (www.tribe.net). This use of online, friend/associate-based networking will prove to be one of the most valuable business tools the Internet has yet provided.
Where services such as Friendster, MySpace and Connexion have been successful bringing singles and groups together based on affinity and mutual interests, business-networking services are now offering a parallel experience in the professional world. Along with LinkedIn are such offerings as Ryze (www.ryze.com) and Tribe.net (www.tribe.net). This use of online, friend/associate-based networking will prove to be one of the most valuable business tools the Internet has yet provided.
Choosing a Business Location
There are many factors to consider in choosing the location for your business. In addition to cost, you must consider whether your location is important to your customers, your employees, and even potential investors. Each of these groups has different concerns about the location: convenience, safety, prestige, traffic, and more. Determine your priorities, keep an open mind about your options, do your research, and get ready to make one of the most important decisions about your business.
There are many factors to consider in choosing the location for your business. In addition to cost, you must consider whether your location is important to your customers, your employees, and even potential investors. Each of these groups has different concerns about the location: convenience, safety, prestige, traffic, and more. Determine your priorities, keep an open mind about your options, do your research, and get ready to make one of the most important decisions about your business.
Brian Scudamore 1-800-GOT-JUNK
Brian Scudamore started his company 1-800-GOT-JUNK? in 1989 straight out of high school with $700 and a beat-up old pick-up truck. Today they have 95 franchise partners across North America with a true national presence — they are in 47 of North America's top 50 cities. 1-800-GOT-JUNK? will do about $32 Million in 2004 — not a bad return on a $700.00 investment!
Brian Scudamore started his company 1-800-GOT-JUNK? in 1989 straight out of high school with $700 and a beat-up old pick-up truck. Today they have 95 franchise partners across North America with a true national presence — they are in 47 of North America's top 50 cities. 1-800-GOT-JUNK? will do about $32 Million in 2004 — not a bad return on a $700.00 investment!
Startup Business Financing
We'd all love to have a few million dollars to start our business, but the reality is that for most entrepreneurs, you have to prove your concept first before anyone will put up that kind of money. But most businesses require some sort of initial capital for things like inventory, marketing, physical facilities, etc. If you don't have the money yourself that you need to open your doors for business, here are some options to explore.
We'd all love to have a few million dollars to start our business, but the reality is that for most entrepreneurs, you have to prove your concept first before anyone will put up that kind of money. But most businesses require some sort of initial capital for things like inventory, marketing, physical facilities, etc. If you don't have the money yourself that you need to open your doors for business, here are some options to explore.
Richard Branson
In a recent poll, About.com readers selected Oprah Winfrey as the Most Admired Entrepreneur. While perhaps less well known outside of his homeland of England, Richard Branson wins the Editor's Choice for Most Admired Entrepreneur. Learn about this British firebrand who has succeeded perhaps most of all at "engineering a breathtaking life for himself".
In a recent poll, About.com readers selected Oprah Winfrey as the Most Admired Entrepreneur. While perhaps less well known outside of his homeland of England, Richard Branson wins the Editor's Choice for Most Admired Entrepreneur. Learn about this British firebrand who has succeeded perhaps most of all at "engineering a breathtaking life for himself".
The Income Statement
Like a balance statement, an income statement is a means for measuring a company’s financial performance. Some of the ratios discussed draw data from both the income statement and the balance sheet.
Like a balance statement, an income statement is a means for measuring a company’s financial performance. Some of the ratios discussed draw data from both the income statement and the balance sheet.
Howard Hughes
Howard Hughes was once the most talked-about entrepreneur in the world - legendary for both his bold business tactics and his outlandish personal life. The recent popular movie "The Aviator" has prompted a new interest in this fascinating entrepreneur.
Howard Hughes was once the most talked-about entrepreneur in the world - legendary for both his bold business tactics and his outlandish personal life. The recent popular movie "The Aviator" has prompted a new interest in this fascinating entrepreneur.
The Balance Sheet
The information provided here allows you to calculate several financial ratios that measure company performance. Additionally, current balance sheets should always present data from at least one previous period, so you can compare how financial performance has changed.
The information provided here allows you to calculate several financial ratios that measure company performance. Additionally, current balance sheets should always present data from at least one previous period, so you can compare how financial performance has changed.
4 Elements of a Successful,...
By capturing your visitors’ names, growing your list of email addresses and sending relevant, responsible email to your customers and prospects, you are building a relationship with them. In any business, the relationship is the intangible, powerful force that creates loyal, repeat customers.
By capturing your visitors’ names, growing your list of email addresses and sending relevant, responsible email to your customers and prospects, you are building a relationship with them. In any business, the relationship is the intangible, powerful force that creates loyal, repeat customers.
Debt Financing
Debt is borrowing money from an outside source with the promise to return the principal, in addition to an agreed-upon level of interest. Although the term tends to have a negative connotation, startup companies often turn to debt to finance their operations. In fact, even the healthiest of corporate balance sheets will include some level of debt. The most popular source for debt financing is the bank, but debt can also be issued by a private company or even a friend or family member.
Debt is borrowing money from an outside source with the promise to return the principal, in addition to an agreed-upon level of interest. Although the term tends to have a negative connotation, startup companies often turn to debt to finance their operations. In fact, even the healthiest of corporate balance sheets will include some level of debt. The most popular source for debt financing is the bank, but debt can also be issued by a private company or even a friend or family member.
SWOT Analysis
Nearly any company or individual can benefit from utilizing a SWOT analysis. If nothing else, you will likely come away with some newfound insights and valuable data that should help in solidifying your next step. And in many cases, a look behind the curtain may fundamentally alter how you perceive the situation.
Nearly any company or individual can benefit from utilizing a SWOT analysis. If nothing else, you will likely come away with some newfound insights and valuable data that should help in solidifying your next step. And in many cases, a look behind the curtain may fundamentally alter how you perceive the situation.
Bill Gates
Microsoft Corp. co-founder Bill Gates is perhaps the most famous entrepreneur of this era. He had the vision to predict the evolving importance of the personal computer. This allowed him to top Forbes magazine’s list of the world’s wealthiest individuals, with a 2006 estimated net worth of $50 billion.
Microsoft Corp. co-founder Bill Gates is perhaps the most famous entrepreneur of this era. He had the vision to predict the evolving importance of the personal computer. This allowed him to top Forbes magazine’s list of the world’s wealthiest individuals, with a 2006 estimated net worth of $50 billion.
Implementation Plan
Even the most well-thought-out business plan is just a stack of paper if it isn’t coupled with a plan for implementation. This is the portion of the business plan where you’ll clarify objectives, assign tasks with deadlines, and chart your progress in reaching goals and milestones. Here are some guidelines for successful business plan implementation.
Even the most well-thought-out business plan is just a stack of paper if it isn’t coupled with a plan for implementation. This is the portion of the business plan where you’ll clarify objectives, assign tasks with deadlines, and chart your progress in reaching goals and milestones. Here are some guidelines for successful business plan implementation.
Choosing an MLM Opportunity
There are a few network marketing opportunities that are just scams. There are far more that may be well-intentioned, but have a poor track record, for any number of reasons. So how do you separate the wheat from the chaff? Here are ten tips to help you pick the right network marketing opportunity for you.
There are a few network marketing opportunities that are just scams. There are far more that may be well-intentioned, but have a poor track record, for any number of reasons. So how do you separate the wheat from the chaff? Here are ten tips to help you pick the right network marketing opportunity for you.
How to Check Out an MLM
If you're considering an MLM (multi-level marketing), CDM (consumer direct marketing), or network marketing opportunity, ask these seven questions to determine whether that "income opportunity" is worth your while (and your money).
If you're considering an MLM (multi-level marketing), CDM (consumer direct marketing), or network marketing opportunity, ask these seven questions to determine whether that "income opportunity" is worth your while (and your money).
Create Your Own Summer Job
Summer's here, and opportunities for quick money abound. If you're a recent graduate, a teacher or student off for the summer, or anyone else looking for some quick cash, summer's a great time to start a business. With a little money, some hard work, and a lot of entrepreneurial spirit, you can start turning a profit immediately. And all of these ideas are things you can still walk away from in September if you want to.
Summer's here, and opportunities for quick money abound. If you're a recent graduate, a teacher or student off for the summer, or anyone else looking for some quick cash, summer's a great time to start a business. With a little money, some hard work, and a lot of entrepreneurial spirit, you can start turning a profit immediately. And all of these ideas are things you can still walk away from in September if you want to.
Adam Osborne
Adam Osborne was an American entrepreneur who was most famously known for the first portable computer, but also was a British author and a book and software publisher. He made a successful move into publishing computer books.
Adam Osborne was an American entrepreneur who was most famously known for the first portable computer, but also was a British author and a book and software publisher. He made a successful move into publishing computer books.
Finding Your Niche
The ability to clearly differentiate yourself from your competition is the key to long-term survival as an entrepreneur. Otherwise you end up competing on price, and that's hard to do against larger competitors. In this excerpt from his book, "The Engine of America", former SBA Administrator Hector Barreto offers his tips and some case studies on finding your niche.
The ability to clearly differentiate yourself from your competition is the key to long-term survival as an entrepreneur. Otherwise you end up competing on price, and that's hard to do against larger competitors. In this excerpt from his book, "The Engine of America", former SBA Administrator Hector Barreto offers his tips and some case studies on finding your niche.
Entrepreneurs - HowTos
An index of HowTos for the Entrepreneurs guide site.
An index of HowTos for the Entrepreneurs guide site.
Planning Your Exit Strategy
The final portion of your business plan outlines your exit strategy. It may seem odd to develop a strategy this soon to leave your business, but potential investors will want to know your long-term plans. Your exit plans need to be clear in your own mind because they will dictate how you operate the company.
The final portion of your business plan outlines your exit strategy. It may seem odd to develop a strategy this soon to leave your business, but potential investors will want to know your long-term plans. Your exit plans need to be clear in your own mind because they will dictate how you operate the company.
Management and HR Plan
Your business plan should include a description of your organizational structure, including your management and human resources capabilities, philosophy and needs, the number of employees you intend to hire, how you will manage them and your estimated personnel costs.
Your business plan should include a description of your organizational structure, including your management and human resources capabilities, philosophy and needs, the number of employees you intend to hire, how you will manage them and your estimated personnel costs.
Anita Roddick
Anita Roddick was founder of The Body Shop, a store that purchases outstanding natural ingredients for a line of cosmetics, helping the disadvantaged communities generate income and providing women with superb cosmetics.
Anita Roddick was founder of The Body Shop, a store that purchases outstanding natural ingredients for a line of cosmetics, helping the disadvantaged communities generate income and providing women with superb cosmetics.
Memorable Networking Questions
Networking is less about meeting new people than having them remember you after the fact. So how do get someone to remember you from the other ten people he met that very same night? Try these three simple questions to make a lasting impression.
Networking is less about meeting new people than having them remember you after the fact. So how do get someone to remember you from the other ten people he met that very same night? Try these three simple questions to make a lasting impression.
Endless Referrals
Learn how to develop profitable, win/win relationships that keep your pipeline filled.
Learn how to develop profitable, win/win relationships that keep your pipeline filled.
Market Analysis
You may possess all the confidence in the world that yours is a perfect product with a clearly defined customer base. If that’s the case, you’ll need to figure out how you’re going to get your product into the hands of those customers. That’s where the marketing analysis section of your business plan comes into play.
You may possess all the confidence in the world that yours is a perfect product with a clearly defined customer base. If that’s the case, you’ll need to figure out how you’re going to get your product into the hands of those customers. That’s where the marketing analysis section of your business plan comes into play.
Swinging for the Fences
Are you a Hank Aaron or a Ty Cobb? A Barry Bonds or a Hugh Duffy? Do you consistently get on base or do you swing for the fences? The answer will tell you a lot about whether entrepreneurship is right for you, and if so, what style will best suit you. Understanding your attitude towards risk and reward is essential for a happy life as an entrepreneur.
Are you a Hank Aaron or a Ty Cobb? A Barry Bonds or a Hugh Duffy? Do you consistently get on base or do you swing for the fences? The answer will tell you a lot about whether entrepreneurship is right for you, and if so, what style will best suit you. Understanding your attitude towards risk and reward is essential for a happy life as an entrepreneur.
Your First Business Tax Return
It’s your first year in business, and tax time has arrived. How does the new business owner prepare for getting those returns filed accurately, timely and achieving the most favorable results for the business?
It’s your first year in business, and tax time has arrived. How does the new business owner prepare for getting those returns filed accurately, timely and achieving the most favorable results for the business?
Juggling Income Streams
I made a pretty long list of personal New Year's resolutions for 2003 - lose weight, be more thoughtful, spend more time with family, exercise more, stop procrastinating, etc. - a pretty typical list. But when it came down to my business, I found that I was pretty quickly able to boil it down to just one, and that was to try to somehow find the right balance in the paradox between finding and maintaining focus vs. generating multiple income streams.
I made a pretty long list of personal New Year's resolutions for 2003 - lose weight, be more thoughtful, spend more time with family, exercise more, stop procrastinating, etc. - a pretty typical list. But when it came down to my business, I found that I was pretty quickly able to boil it down to just one, and that was to try to somehow find the right balance in the paradox between finding and maintaining focus vs. generating multiple income streams.
Top 10 Tips for Outsourcing...
Entrepreneurs and small businesspeople are always looking for creative ways to accomplish more of their business goals for less money. One strategy that can help you save time, money and frustration as you start and build your business is to outsource as much work as possible to skilled, but cost-effective, external service providers.
Entrepreneurs and small businesspeople are always looking for creative ways to accomplish more of their business goals for less money. One strategy that can help you save time, money and frustration as you start and build your business is to outsource as much work as possible to skilled, but cost-effective, external service providers.
Preparing Financial Statements
Business owners who present their financial statements to a lender will usually present a full set of financial statements to the lender. These include a recent balance sheet, a profit and loss statement, a statement of cash flows, and notes to the financial statements. The statements, prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, usually give a realistic picture of the business activity for the period in question.
Business owners who present their financial statements to a lender will usually present a full set of financial statements to the lender. These include a recent balance sheet, a profit and loss statement, a statement of cash flows, and notes to the financial statements. The statements, prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, usually give a realistic picture of the business activity for the period in question.
Niche Marketing
Occupying a niche means you won't be competing with a lot of similar businesses solely on price. And because you will be selling products and services that are customized to the specific needs and predispositions of a select group of people, you can often charge more. Your products and services serve a market that can't easily find alternatives.
Occupying a niche means you won't be competing with a lot of similar businesses solely on price. And because you will be selling products and services that are customized to the specific needs and predispositions of a select group of people, you can often charge more. Your products and services serve a market that can't easily find alternatives.
The Value of a Business Mentor
Your friends and family, the Web, periodicals, and even casual acquaintances can provide you with a steady daily flow of information regarding news, industry developments, and opportunities. Industry analysts, consultants, employees, and good networking contacts can share their expert knowledge with you regarding particular situations and needs you may encounter. But only a mentor can truly share wisdom with you on an ongoing basis.
Your friends and family, the Web, periodicals, and even casual acquaintances can provide you with a steady daily flow of information regarding news, industry developments, and opportunities. Industry analysts, consultants, employees, and good networking contacts can share their expert knowledge with you regarding particular situations and needs you may encounter. But only a mentor can truly share wisdom with you on an ongoing basis.
Before You Apply for a Loan
A bank or government agency (such as the U.S. Small Business Administration) are two common sources of funding for your startup venture. If you go that route, here’s a checklist of the things you’ll need to do and think about to prepare for the application process.
A bank or government agency (such as the U.S. Small Business Administration) are two common sources of funding for your startup venture. If you go that route, here’s a checklist of the things you’ll need to do and think about to prepare for the application process.
Lessons from Network Marketing
In 2000, 55% of American adults reported having, at some time, purchased goods or services from a direct selling representative. Although the industry has a high turnover rate among reps, the practices of those who are successful at it provide lessons for all of us, regardless of our business. See what the top network marketers can teach you about your business.
In 2000, 55% of American adults reported having, at some time, purchased goods or services from a direct selling representative. Although the industry has a high turnover rate among reps, the practices of those who are successful at it provide lessons for all of us, regardless of our business. See what the top network marketers can teach you about your business.
\$20 a Year Domain & Hosting
Don't pay $5, $10, $15 a month for hosting and $30 a year for a domain just to host a simple 5-page website! Learn how to create and host a website with your own domain and no ads for around $20 a year.
Don't pay $5, $10, $15 a month for hosting and $30 a year for a domain just to host a simple 5-page website! Learn how to create and host a website with your own domain and no ads for around $20 a year.
Effective Networking for Busy
With all the demands on our time made by our business, professional and personal lives, it is tempting to assign a lower priority to networking as an activity designed to meet new people. After all, we have so many commitments at the office and at home -- to colleagues, family and friends – that it is difficult to set aside extra time to bring even more people into our lives.
With all the demands on our time made by our business, professional and personal lives, it is tempting to assign a lower priority to networking as an activity designed to meet new people. After all, we have so many commitments at the office and at home -- to colleagues, family and friends – that it is difficult to set aside extra time to bring even more people into our lives.
Growing Pains
When an organization has not been fully successful in developing the internal systems it needs at a given stage of growth, it begins to experience “growing pains.” Growing pains are symptoms that an organization needs to make a transition. This article examines in detail the most common organizational growing pains.
When an organization has not been fully successful in developing the internal systems it needs at a given stage of growth, it begins to experience “growing pains.” Growing pains are symptoms that an organization needs to make a transition. This article examines in detail the most common organizational growing pains.
Three Ways to Growth
With all of the latest and greatest concepts, seminars, webcasts, and "How-To" books vying for your attention, you would think that growing your business was as complicated as building the space shuttle. The fact is, there are only three ways to expand business.
With all of the latest and greatest concepts, seminars, webcasts, and "How-To" books vying for your attention, you would think that growing your business was as complicated as building the space shuttle. The fact is, there are only three ways to expand business.
Growth Strategy
Potential investors who read your business plan will want to know how you plan to grow your business once it is off the ground. This entails more than just demonstrating how your revenue will grow. The growth strategy section of your business plan is about proving to others that you have a plan for bringing your product to new customers and new markets, and perhaps even introducing new products.
Potential investors who read your business plan will want to know how you plan to grow your business once it is off the ground. This entails more than just demonstrating how your revenue will grow. The growth strategy section of your business plan is about proving to others that you have a plan for bringing your product to new customers and new markets, and perhaps even introducing new products.
How to Profit From Networking
Sales are frequently developed through the relationships we have created with other people. Networking functions provide the opportunity to expand our contact list, particularly when we create and nurture quality relationships. Here are five strategies to make networking profitable.
Sales are frequently developed through the relationships we have created with other people. Networking functions provide the opportunity to expand our contact list, particularly when we create and nurture quality relationships. Here are five strategies to make networking profitable.
Speak to the World Without ...
We speak to the world without saying a word through non-verbal communication. Almost every facet of our personality is revealed through our appearance, body language, gestures, facials expressions, demeanor, posture and movements.
We speak to the world without saying a word through non-verbal communication. Almost every facet of our personality is revealed through our appearance, body language, gestures, facials expressions, demeanor, posture and movements.
Operations Strategy
A business plan should include an assessment of your production and operations strategy. Operations have a steep learning curve, but many successful companies, such as Wal-Mart, have grown by leveraging their operational infrastructure.
A business plan should include an assessment of your production and operations strategy. Operations have a steep learning curve, but many successful companies, such as Wal-Mart, have grown by leveraging their operational infrastructure.
Guy Kawasaki: The Art of the S
I had the privilege of attending a presentation by Guy Kawasaki on his latest book, "The Art of the Start". He's a tremendously entertaining speaker - funny, irreverent, and above all, insightful. He built his presentation around his top ten tips for anyone starting anything - entrepreneurs, intrapreneurs, non-profit ventures. I share them with you here, along with a few of his choice quips that you won't find in the book.
I had the privilege of attending a presentation by Guy Kawasaki on his latest book, "The Art of the Start". He's a tremendously entertaining speaker - funny, irreverent, and above all, insightful. He built his presentation around his top ten tips for anyone starting anything - entrepreneurs, intrapreneurs, non-profit ventures. I share them with you here, along with a few of his choice quips that you won't find in the book.
Cash (Flow) Really Is King
One of the most important lessons entrepreneurs have to learn, often painfully, is that cash really is king. I'm not talking about paper money -- I'm talking about cash flow. Simply put, it doesn't matter how much money is coming in the future if you don't have enough money to get from here to there.
One of the most important lessons entrepreneurs have to learn, often painfully, is that cash really is king. I'm not talking about paper money -- I'm talking about cash flow. Simply put, it doesn't matter how much money is coming in the future if you don't have enough money to get from here to there.
Choosing a Business Mentor
Now that you've decided you want a business mentor and understand the value of having one, how do you go about finding the right one? It all depends on how selective you want to be. A number of Web sites and organizations offer free mentoring. Some will offer a great deal of information about your potential mentors, while others simply match you with whoever is available. Once you have someone, in mind, remember, you're asking for a lot — show them you're serious and will respect their time.
Now that you've decided you want a business mentor and understand the value of having one, how do you go about finding the right one? It all depends on how selective you want to be. A number of Web sites and organizations offer free mentoring. Some will offer a great deal of information about your potential mentors, while others simply match you with whoever is available. Once you have someone, in mind, remember, you're asking for a lot — show them you're serious and will respect their time.
Using Financial Statements
A financial statement is more than just a snapshot of your business’ health that you provide to shareholders or potential investors: It’s also a powerful diagnostic tool business owners can use to evaluate their firm’s strengths and weaknesses and chart the way forward.
A financial statement is more than just a snapshot of your business’ health that you provide to shareholders or potential investors: It’s also a powerful diagnostic tool business owners can use to evaluate their firm’s strengths and weaknesses and chart the way forward.
Is Your Domain Name Hurting...
Choosing a domain name is an important part of the overall marketing process and should not be taken lightly. Make sure your domain name represents your company, product and image, and you'll be setting a great foundation for future sales.
Choosing a domain name is an important part of the overall marketing process and should not be taken lightly. Make sure your domain name represents your company, product and image, and you'll be setting a great foundation for future sales.
Using a Private Mailbox
If you office from home, you may want to consider using a private mailbox. And while most people may think of going to the post office for a post office box, using a private mailbox provider offers additional advantages for small business.
If you office from home, you may want to consider using a private mailbox. And while most people may think of going to the post office for a post office box, using a private mailbox provider offers additional advantages for small business.
Business Startup Idea: Home Ca
Home Caregivers are number 7 on the US Labor Department's list of fastest growing jobs from 2000 to 2010 and the only non-computer related job in the top 10 on that list. According to analysis by SeniorMag.com, this should peak at about 2007 and still continue to grow in large numbers through 2015. Caregivers supply personal needs to seniors in their homes including help with bathing and dressing, light housework, some cooking, transportation needs to doctors, stores, church and more.
Home Caregivers are number 7 on the US Labor Department's list of fastest growing jobs from 2000 to 2010 and the only non-computer related job in the top 10 on that list. According to analysis by SeniorMag.com, this should peak at about 2007 and still continue to grow in large numbers through 2015. Caregivers supply personal needs to seniors in their homes including help with bathing and dressing, light housework, some cooking, transportation needs to doctors, stores, church and more.
Why Business Plans Don't Ge...
Your business plan is very often the first impression potential investors get about your venture. But even if you have a great product, team, and customers, it could also be the last impression the investor gets if you make any of these avoidable mistakes.
Your business plan is very often the first impression potential investors get about your venture. But even if you have a great product, team, and customers, it could also be the last impression the investor gets if you make any of these avoidable mistakes.
Marketing in Online Networks
While virtual networks may not reach the massive numbers that advertising or national publicity does, it’s very effective in reaching highly qualified prospective customers, establishing perceived Competence with them, and reinforcing your brand. Online networks are also a powerful tool for market research, and can even help you get national publicity down the road.
While virtual networks may not reach the massive numbers that advertising or national publicity does, it’s very effective in reaching highly qualified prospective customers, establishing perceived Competence with them, and reinforcing your brand. Online networks are also a powerful tool for market research, and can even help you get national publicity down the road.
Working with a Business Mentor
Once you have chosen your mentor, the fun has just begun! A great mentor will become not only your advisor, but likely your friend and confidante, as well. That doesn't happen instantly, though. Building trust and personal interest takes time. You set the tone at the outset of the relationship by demonstrating your commitment to the process. How, then, can you best establish the base on which to build a solid mentoring relationship?
Once you have chosen your mentor, the fun has just begun! A great mentor will become not only your advisor, but likely your friend and confidante, as well. That doesn't happen instantly, though. Building trust and personal interest takes time. You set the tone at the outset of the relationship by demonstrating your commitment to the process. How, then, can you best establish the base on which to build a solid mentoring relationship?
Selling to Big Companies
Selling to the C-Level is the surest way to shorten your sales cycle and reduce your cost of sale. Getting in to see senior executives can be tough, but by following these guidelines you'll be welcomed with open arms.
Selling to the C-Level is the surest way to shorten your sales cycle and reduce your cost of sale. Getting in to see senior executives can be tough, but by following these guidelines you'll be welcomed with open arms.
The "Defendable Swag"
There is a fundamental flaw in the thinking process of many entrepreneurs out there in the midst of building their companies and seeking angel or venture capitalist investment: simply put, their market projections cannot be defended. The total available market (TAM), around which the typical entrepreneur plans to build their pro forma business model, is often defined by figures pulled from some random analyst report off the Internet.
There is a fundamental flaw in the thinking process of many entrepreneurs out there in the midst of building their companies and seeking angel or venture capitalist investment: simply put, their market projections cannot be defended. The total available market (TAM), around which the typical entrepreneur plans to build their pro forma business model, is often defined by figures pulled from some random analyst report off the Internet.
Being Memorable
Have you ever attended a networking event, collected a bunch of business cards, and when you go through them the next day, you can't remember who many of them are? Well, you certainly don't want to be one of those that other people can't remember, do you? Here are five tips on how to make yourself memorable when meeting other people.
Have you ever attended a networking event, collected a bunch of business cards, and when you go through them the next day, you can't remember who many of them are? Well, you certainly don't want to be one of those that other people can't remember, do you? Here are five tips on how to make yourself memorable when meeting other people.
First Time Manager
Many entrepreneurs end up also being first-time managers once they start hiring employees. If you're facing "being the boss" for the first time, here are some tips to help you get started.
Many entrepreneurs end up also being first-time managers once they start hiring employees. If you're facing "being the boss" for the first time, here are some tips to help you get started.
Intrapreneur or Entrepreneur?
Intrapreneurs, by definition, embody the same characteristics as the Entrepreneur, conviction, passion, and drive. The more the Intrapreneur expresses himself, the more the company is forced to confront its own effectiveness. If the company is supportive, the Intrapreneur succeeds. When the organization is not, the Intrapreneur usually fails or leaves to start a new company.
Intrapreneurs, by definition, embody the same characteristics as the Entrepreneur, conviction, passion, and drive. The more the Intrapreneur expresses himself, the more the company is forced to confront its own effectiveness. If the company is supportive, the Intrapreneur succeeds. When the organization is not, the Intrapreneur usually fails or leaves to start a new company.
Company History
The business plan background, which follows the executive summary, should detail your company’s history. This part will vary, depending on how developed your business is. Overall, this section of your business plan should give an interested investor a better idea of who you are and how this business idea came about.
The business plan background, which follows the executive summary, should detail your company’s history. This part will vary, depending on how developed your business is. Overall, this section of your business plan should give an interested investor a better idea of who you are and how this business idea came about.
How to Land Your First Client
Consulting is a big—and growing—business. The market for consulting services is estimated to be between $130B and $150B annually, and professional consultants are among the highest paid workers, earning more than many doctors, lawyers and other professionals. So how do your break into consulting?
Consulting is a big—and growing—business. The market for consulting services is estimated to be between $130B and $150B annually, and professional consultants are among the highest paid workers, earning more than many doctors, lawyers and other professionals. So how do your break into consulting?
Harvey Mackay
Harvey Mackay is the author of five business bestsellers, a nationally syndicated columnist, and one of America's most popular business speakers. He is also Chairman and CEO of Mackay Envelope Corporation, which he founded at age 26, and which now employees over 500 people and does $85 million a year in revenue.
Harvey Mackay is the author of five business bestsellers, a nationally syndicated columnist, and one of America's most popular business speakers. He is also Chairman and CEO of Mackay Envelope Corporation, which he founded at age 26, and which now employees over 500 people and does $85 million a year in revenue.
Choosing the Right CPA
CPAs are more than just individuals who do your yearly taxes. They can advise you on a long list of other services, which may include advice on your accounting system, financial, retirement, estate and tax planning. CPAs are part of a business owner's professional team along with a banker and a lawyer.
CPAs are more than just individuals who do your yearly taxes. They can advise you on a long list of other services, which may include advice on your accounting system, financial, retirement, estate and tax planning. CPAs are part of a business owner's professional team along with a banker and a lawyer.
Business Licenses and Permits
You’ve made the decision to start your own business. But before you open your doors or make your first sale, you’ll need to make sure everything’s legal. This means obtaining the proper business licenses and permits. These vary by city, state and country, as well as according to the type of company you’re operating.
You’ve made the decision to start your own business. But before you open your doors or make your first sale, you’ll need to make sure everything’s legal. This means obtaining the proper business licenses and permits. These vary by city, state and country, as well as according to the type of company you’re operating.
Buying a Business
While there are no guarantees in business and the risks must always be managed, buying an established business clearly offers significant advantages worth considering if you want to own your own business. In order to buy the right business or franchise, you need to investigate its historical performance, operations, current status, staff and management, competition, industry and its future potential, all of which is so much easier to do with an existing business.
While there are no guarantees in business and the risks must always be managed, buying an established business clearly offers significant advantages worth considering if you want to own your own business. In order to buy the right business or franchise, you need to investigate its historical performance, operations, current status, staff and management, competition, industry and its future potential, all of which is so much easier to do with an existing business.
Deal Structure
If you plan to make the rounds of venture capital firms or approach potential angel investors, you need to keep the lender’s interests firmly in mind. Simply put, these institutions or individuals want to protect their investment and generate a high return. With that in mind, here are some things to remember when structuring an investment deal.
If you plan to make the rounds of venture capital firms or approach potential angel investors, you need to keep the lender’s interests firmly in mind. Simply put, these institutions or individuals want to protect their investment and generate a high return. With that in mind, here are some things to remember when structuring an investment deal.
Building Business Credit
Bank loans and personal capital are common ways of securing funds or developing business credit in the early stages, but your vendors are another possibility, and can offer reasonable terms.
Bank loans and personal capital are common ways of securing funds or developing business credit in the early stages, but your vendors are another possibility, and can offer reasonable terms.
David Allen Interview
Meet David Allen, the man Fast Company Magazine called "one of the world's most influential thinkers on productivity". He has coached top executives at Microsoft, New York Life, the World Bank, U.S. Navy, and more. He now travels the world speaking, coaching, and teaching public seminars on productivity.
Meet David Allen, the man Fast Company Magazine called "one of the world's most influential thinkers on productivity". He has coached top executives at Microsoft, New York Life, the World Bank, U.S. Navy, and more. He now travels the world speaking, coaching, and teaching public seminars on productivity.
The Power of Follow Up
You can easily differentiate yourself from your competition by making the effort to follow-up with your prospects and customers. Don’t take it for granted that they will call you. Be proactive and contact them.
You can easily differentiate yourself from your competition by making the effort to follow-up with your prospects and customers. Don’t take it for granted that they will call you. Be proactive and contact them.
David Ferdman Interview
Founded in January 2000, CyrusOne has garnered major attention both in the IT outsourcing industry and in the business community. Their infrastructure has allowed them to offer the industry’s first 100% uptime guarantee, and has won them numerous contracts and awards for high-security, mission-critical applications. What has earned them so much respect, though, both locally and nationally, is their ability to completely defy the tech downturn, showing continuous growth quarter after quarter.
Founded in January 2000, CyrusOne has garnered major attention both in the IT outsourcing industry and in the business community. Their infrastructure has allowed them to offer the industry’s first 100% uptime guarantee, and has won them numerous contracts and awards for high-security, mission-critical applications. What has earned them so much respect, though, both locally and nationally, is their ability to completely defy the tech downturn, showing continuous growth quarter after quarter.
Jason Alba Interview
Jason Alba is CEO of JibberJobber, which he describes as “your Personal Relationship Manager for your career.” JibberJobber grew out of his frustration in finding adequate tools to help him manage his job search. He has also become a strong advocate of both personal branding and social networking, both for job seekers and entrepreneurs. He is author of "I’m on LinkedIn – Now What??" and "I’m on Facebook – Now What??" and maintains several popular blogs to help promote his business.
Jason Alba is CEO of JibberJobber, which he describes as “your Personal Relationship Manager for your career.” JibberJobber grew out of his frustration in finding adequate tools to help him manage his job search. He has also become a strong advocate of both personal branding and social networking, both for job seekers and entrepreneurs. He is author of "I’m on LinkedIn – Now What??" and "I’m on Facebook – Now What??" and maintains several popular blogs to help promote his business.
Trademarks 101
Trademarks are a way of registering a brand name for a product, service or company. This helps protect consumers by preventing brand confusion and companies by preventing competitors from attracting your rightful customers by using a similar brand name. Learn more about what qualifies, what doesn't, and how to file one.
Trademarks are a way of registering a brand name for a product, service or company. This helps protect consumers by preventing brand confusion and companies by preventing competitors from attracting your rightful customers by using a similar brand name. Learn more about what qualifies, what doesn't, and how to file one.
Creating Joint Ventures
The old saying, "If you can't beat 'em, join 'em", takes on a whole new meaning these days. The seemingly radical idea from cooperative game theory flies in the face of conventional competitive strategy. For entrepreneurs, joint venturing with seemingly competitors can mean bringing new products to a larger market faster. Learn how to enjoy a smaller piece of a larger pie.
The old saying, "If you can't beat 'em, join 'em", takes on a whole new meaning these days. The seemingly radical idea from cooperative game theory flies in the face of conventional competitive strategy. For entrepreneurs, joint venturing with seemingly competitors can mean bringing new products to a larger market faster. Learn how to enjoy a smaller piece of a larger pie.
Christopher Knight
An interview with Christopher Knight, founder of EzineArticles.com and several other successful Internet businesses, shares his entrepreneurial experience and advice for new and future entrepreneurs.
An interview with Christopher Knight, founder of EzineArticles.com and several other successful Internet businesses, shares his entrepreneurial experience and advice for new and future entrepreneurs.
Hiring Freelancers
As your business grows, you will increasingly need to hire people to duplicate your skills, as well as bring in complementary skills that you and your current team don't possess. For growing businesses, hiring freelancers is an attractive alternative to hiring full-time employees, especially in the areas not directly related to your core business.
As your business grows, you will increasingly need to hire people to duplicate your skills, as well as bring in complementary skills that you and your current team don't possess. For growing businesses, hiring freelancers is an attractive alternative to hiring full-time employees, especially in the areas not directly related to your core business.
Intellectual Property 101
Not every successful business is built around an original idea, and not every good idea ends up with a business built around it. But when you do have an innovative idea, patents, trademarks, servicemarks and copyright protect your idea and give you time to develop it into a business.
Not every successful business is built around an original idea, and not every good idea ends up with a business built around it. But when you do have an innovative idea, patents, trademarks, servicemarks and copyright protect your idea and give you time to develop it into a business.
Online Privacy Protection Act
July 1, 2004, the California Online Privacy Protection Act of 2003 goes into effect, with far-reaching implications, particularly for operators of small commercial web sites. While the provisions of the act outline excellent privacy practices for e-commerce sites, the fact that a state can pass a law affecting any web site doing business with customers in that state is a devastating precedent that could potentially mean dramatic increases in the cost of doing business online.
July 1, 2004, the California Online Privacy Protection Act of 2003 goes into effect, with far-reaching implications, particularly for operators of small commercial web sites. While the provisions of the act outline excellent privacy practices for e-commerce sites, the fact that a state can pass a law affecting any web site doing business with customers in that state is a devastating precedent that could potentially mean dramatic increases in the cost of doing business online.
Online Business Networking ...
Developing and maintaining a good reputation is essential for any networking, but especially for online networking. It takes time to develop a solid reputation, but only an instant to lose it, so you must take care in how you participate in networking communities. Developing a systematic approach to how you initiate your participation is one way to consistently create a good first impression.
Developing and maintaining a good reputation is essential for any networking, but especially for online networking. It takes time to develop a solid reputation, but only an instant to lose it, so you must take care in how you participate in networking communities. Developing a systematic approach to how you initiate your participation is one way to consistently create a good first impression.
Tim Ferriss Interview
In a digital world, it's possible to design luxury lifestyles in the here-and-now without waiting for retirement. Tim Ferriss explores extremes of creating time and mobility, including: how to check e-mail twice a day...or once per week; the end of time management and the birth of "selective ignorance"; how to travel the world without your boss (or customers) ever knowing.
In a digital world, it's possible to design luxury lifestyles in the here-and-now without waiting for retirement. Tim Ferriss explores extremes of creating time and mobility, including: how to check e-mail twice a day...or once per week; the end of time management and the birth of "selective ignorance"; how to travel the world without your boss (or customers) ever knowing.
Do Business With The U.S. G...
The U.S. Government is the world's largest customer, and they routinely do business with small businesses. You just have to follow proper procedure (of course!).
The U.S. Government is the world's largest customer, and they routinely do business with small businesses. You just have to follow proper procedure (of course!).
Developing a Reputation - Be Dependable
Reputation is a consultant's most important asset. Part Five in the series discusses the importance of being dependable and reliable and provides some simple tips on how to stand out above the crowd in that regard.
Reputation is a consultant's most important asset. Part Five in the series discusses the importance of being dependable and reliable and provides some simple tips on how to stand out above the crowd in that regard.
The Intrepid Way
In "The Intrepid Way", author Matthew Chan bypasses the motivational cheerleading of many other multiple income stream books and delivers a practical step-by-step method to create personal financial freedom and time freedom through the creation of passive income streams.
In "The Intrepid Way", author Matthew Chan bypasses the motivational cheerleading of many other multiple income stream books and delivers a practical step-by-step method to create personal financial freedom and time freedom through the creation of passive income streams.
Cynthia Typaldos Interview
Cynthia Typaldos has taken two entrepreneurial ventures, RealCommunities and GolfWeb, from start-up to acquisition and has worked as a product marketing executive at Sun Microsystems and Data General. She is widely recognized as an expert on web collaboration and web communities. Cynthia talks with us about the role of community for entrepreneurs and job seekers in the wake of the dotcom bust, as well as her own experiences as an entrepreneur.
Cynthia Typaldos has taken two entrepreneurial ventures, RealCommunities and GolfWeb, from start-up to acquisition and has worked as a product marketing executive at Sun Microsystems and Data General. She is widely recognized as an expert on web collaboration and web communities. Cynthia talks with us about the role of community for entrepreneurs and job seekers in the wake of the dotcom bust, as well as her own experiences as an entrepreneur.
Business Blogs and #1 Rankings
This is a case study documenting best practices in using a weblog to achieve #1 rankings in Google.
This is a case study documenting best practices in using a weblog to achieve #1 rankings in Google.
Do Entrepreneurs Need Luck?
Just how much of a role does good luck have in entrepreneurial success? And just how much of a role do we play in making our own luck. Alex Rovira and Fernando Trias de Bes, authors of "Good Luck: Create the Conditions for Success in Life & Business", say that there are five things entrepreneur can do to help create their own luck.
Just how much of a role does good luck have in entrepreneurial success? And just how much of a role do we play in making our own luck. Alex Rovira and Fernando Trias de Bes, authors of "Good Luck: Create the Conditions for Success in Life & Business", say that there are five things entrepreneur can do to help create their own luck.
Keeping Up With Technology
If you want to compete in today’s business world, then, it’s important to keep up with technology in order to get the most out of the technology you have, to keep abreast of emerging new technology, and to find the information that will help you make the right buying decisions.
If you want to compete in today’s business world, then, it’s important to keep up with technology in order to get the most out of the technology you have, to keep abreast of emerging new technology, and to find the information that will help you make the right buying decisions.
Outsourcing Order Fulfillment
When your e-commerce business grows to the point where you can no longer package and ship the orders yourself, it's time to consider outsourcing your order fulfillment. Fulfillment warehouses offer small business the opportunity to compete with the "big dogs". See what benefits fulfillment warehouses offer to small business owners, and learn how their individual methods and costs will help you choose one over the other.
When your e-commerce business grows to the point where you can no longer package and ship the orders yourself, it's time to consider outsourcing your order fulfillment. Fulfillment warehouses offer small business the opportunity to compete with the "big dogs". See what benefits fulfillment warehouses offer to small business owners, and learn how their individual methods and costs will help you choose one over the other.
Pocket Full of Business Cards
Timely and consistent follow-up is the key to successful marketing. Meeting someone once is rarely enough to bring you business -- repeated contacts are what do the trick. You always want to follow up with prospective customers, of course, but you should also follow up with potential referral sources.
Timely and consistent follow-up is the key to successful marketing. Meeting someone once is rarely enough to bring you business -- repeated contacts are what do the trick. You always want to follow up with prospective customers, of course, but you should also follow up with potential referral sources.
10 Steps to Improve Your Net
Online networks are the new power lunch tables and the new golf courses for business life in the U.S. In the past ten years, online dating has become mainstream; 40 million Americans use online dating sites. Now, businesspeople are starting to use the same family of technology to find business clients, new partners, and jobs, through virtual contacts they make online.
Online networks are the new power lunch tables and the new golf courses for business life in the U.S. In the past ten years, online dating has become mainstream; 40 million Americans use online dating sites. Now, businesspeople are starting to use the same family of technology to find business clients, new partners, and jobs, through virtual contacts they make online.
Patents 101
Patents are a way of registering an original invention that offers the inventor protection from imitators for a limited period of time. Learn more about what qualifies, what doesn't, and how to file one.
Patents are a way of registering an original invention that offers the inventor protection from imitators for a limited period of time. Learn more about what qualifies, what doesn't, and how to file one.
Developing a Reputation - A Consultant's Most Important Asset
Reputation is a consultant's most important asset. It drives the most effective form of marketing there is -- word-of-mouth. But how do you build a reputation before you have referenceable customers? This feature covers five major techniques for building reputation, most of which don't cost a dime, only time.
Reputation is a consultant's most important asset. It drives the most effective form of marketing there is -- word-of-mouth. But how do you build a reputation before you have referenceable customers? This feature covers five major techniques for building reputation, most of which don't cost a dime, only time.
Survival Strategy
A strong business is one that can ride out the tough times. Your business plan should be able to account for a soft economy or an industry slump and should have the built-in flexibility you’ll need in order to react quickly and nimbly in the face of change. Take these business survival measures to insulate your company in the event of an unexpected downturn.
A strong business is one that can ride out the tough times. Your business plan should be able to account for a soft economy or an industry slump and should have the built-in flexibility you’ll need in order to react quickly and nimbly in the face of change. Take these business survival measures to insulate your company in the event of an unexpected downturn.
The Innovator's Dilemma
That great idea that you based your business on has been incredibly successful, but is also starting to become mainstream. You know you need something new to maintain the competitive edge, but your company's branding and even your personal identity are tied up in that first innovation. So what do you do? Welcome to the innovator's dilemma.
That great idea that you based your business on has been incredibly successful, but is also starting to become mainstream. You know you need something new to maintain the competitive edge, but your company's branding and even your personal identity are tied up in that first innovation. So what do you do? Welcome to the innovator's dilemma.
Go-to-Market Strategy Books
Nearing go-to-market time? The marketing strategy required to promote a brand new product is substantially different from promoting an established product. Get advice from some of the top thinkers to plan your go-to-market strategy.
Nearing go-to-market time? The marketing strategy required to promote a brand new product is substantially different from promoting an established product. Get advice from some of the top thinkers to plan your go-to-market strategy.
What Warren Buffett Looks For
What's the number-one attribute Warren Buffet, arguably one of the most successful investors in the world, looks for in a company? "Sustainable competitive advantage," he told an interviewer. If one of the most successful businessmen of today puts this at the top of his list, you should too.
What's the number-one attribute Warren Buffet, arguably one of the most successful investors in the world, looks for in a company? "Sustainable competitive advantage," he told an interviewer. If one of the most successful businessmen of today puts this at the top of his list, you should too.
Making Time for Marketing
There are many ways to include marketing activities in your busy life, instead of wishing you had more time for marketing. Make marketing a part of the time you are already spending.
There are many ways to include marketing activities in your busy life, instead of wishing you had more time for marketing. Make marketing a part of the time you are already spending.
Top Print Magazines for Entrepreneurs
Some entrepreneurs are in it for fame & fortune, but others are in it to make life better for themselves, their families, their communities, and the entire world. These books will inspire you to find new ways of defining success, profound reasons for generating wealth, and keep your priorities straight as you follow your entrepreneurial path.
Some entrepreneurs are in it for fame & fortune, but others are in it to make life better for themselves, their families, their communities, and the entire world. These books will inspire you to find new ways of defining success, profound reasons for generating wealth, and keep your priorities straight as you follow your entrepreneurial path.
Ignore That Pie in the Sky
A question often asked of entrepreneurs is ‘How big is your market?’ Whether you are trying to raise capital through equity investment, or building a business plan and sales strategy for an already established company, this question is one of the most important you can ask yourself – and the answer is one of the most difficult to base in reality.
A question often asked of entrepreneurs is ‘How big is your market?’ Whether you are trying to raise capital through equity investment, or building a business plan and sales strategy for an already established company, this question is one of the most important you can ask yourself – and the answer is one of the most difficult to base in reality.
Presentation Tip: Making St...
The use of statistics in a presentation is a double-edged sword. When used appropriately, statistics can make a presentation more credible, more persuasive and more authoritative. Used inappropriately, they can make the presentation less interesting, less effective and less audience-centered. Here are some tips on how to make statistics work for you rather than against you.
The use of statistics in a presentation is a double-edged sword. When used appropriately, statistics can make a presentation more credible, more persuasive and more authoritative. Used inappropriately, they can make the presentation less interesting, less effective and less audience-centered. Here are some tips on how to make statistics work for you rather than against you.
Working at Home
You work from home. Congratulations, you’re on the cutting edge of a growing segment of professionals and entrepreneurs. Telecommuting and working from home have some obvious advantages: you get to spend more time with your family, you avoid expensive, frustrating and time-burgling commutes and you get to make sales calls in your bathrobe. If you’re new to or are considering telecommuting or working from home, here are some ideas to help you get off to a good start.
You work from home. Congratulations, you’re on the cutting edge of a growing segment of professionals and entrepreneurs. Telecommuting and working from home have some obvious advantages: you get to spend more time with your family, you avoid expensive, frustrating and time-burgling commutes and you get to make sales calls in your bathrobe. If you’re new to or are considering telecommuting or working from home, here are some ideas to help you get off to a good start.
Entrepreneurs - Profiles
An index of Profiles for the Entrepreneurs guide site.
An index of Profiles for the Entrepreneurs guide site.
Letters to the Editor
Looking for an easy way to rack up PR points for yourself? With a letter to the editor, in only a few words, you can establish yourself an expert in the subject covered in the related story.
Looking for an easy way to rack up PR points for yourself? With a letter to the editor, in only a few words, you can establish yourself an expert in the subject covered in the related story.
Web Statistics and Analytics
Tracking the visitors to your site is an essential part of any online business. Simply knowing how many visitors you are getting is justification enough to have some kind of statistics tracking capability. But, you will want to know more about your visitors and their behavior for the success of your ebusiness.
Tracking the visitors to your site is an essential part of any online business. Simply knowing how many visitors you are getting is justification enough to have some kind of statistics tracking capability. But, you will want to know more about your visitors and their behavior for the success of your ebusiness.
articlemarketing
Christopher Knight of EzineArticles.com shares his best advice on how entrepreneurs can use article marketing to grow their business and enhance their reputation.
Christopher Knight of EzineArticles.com shares his best advice on how entrepreneurs can use article marketing to grow their business and enhance their reputation.
Entrepreneurs - Articles
An index of Articles for the Entrepreneurs guide site.
An index of Articles for the Entrepreneurs guide site.
Due Diligence Is No Mystery
When getting funded, the due diligence process can be excruciating for the business. But if you know what to expect, it will be far less painful. Venture capitalist Ziad Abdelnour of Blackhawk Partners recently sent the following letter out to his list explaining their due diligence process in more detail. While each investment group may have its own variations, this offers tremendous insight from an investor's perspective.
When getting funded, the due diligence process can be excruciating for the business. But if you know what to expect, it will be far less painful. Venture capitalist Ziad Abdelnour of Blackhawk Partners recently sent the following letter out to his list explaining their due diligence process in more detail. While each investment group may have its own variations, this offers tremendous insight from an investor's perspective.
Carnival of Entrepreneurship
The Carnival of Entrepreneurship is a traveling weekly blog carnival featuring the best of the entrepreneurial blogosphere. Read past carnivals, submit for the current carnival, or sign up to host a future carnival edition.
The Carnival of Entrepreneurship is a traveling weekly blog carnival featuring the best of the entrepreneurial blogosphere. Read past carnivals, submit for the current carnival, or sign up to host a future carnival edition.
Resource Planning
Identifying business resources you will bring to the venture and those you’ll need to acquire in order to start operating, such as staff, equipment and the cash to finance these necessities is another key element of the business plan.
Identifying business resources you will bring to the venture and those you’ll need to acquire in order to start operating, such as staff, equipment and the cash to finance these necessities is another key element of the business plan.
Law of Giving and Receiving
In this excerpt from the newly updated Endless Referrals: Network Your Everyday Contacts Into Sales, Bob Burg explains how giving a great use value for a small cash value is the fundamental key to creating wealth for yourself.
In this excerpt from the newly updated Endless Referrals: Network Your Everyday Contacts Into Sales, Bob Burg explains how giving a great use value for a small cash value is the fundamental key to creating wealth for yourself.