Smart Answers for Entrepreneurs

July 21, 2008

Best Practices from the Best Employers

What makes these the top small companies to work for? Their No. 1 priority is good communication as part of management strategy.

July 14, 2008

Learning to Delegate to Employees

The first person you have to convince that your small business can run without you is you.

July 09, 2008

Nurturing a Healthy Investment Community

It'll be hard to replicate Silicon Valley, but there are ways to encourage VCs and angel investors to invest more in the businesses in your area.

July 07, 2008

Turning a Hobby into a Business

It's important to start your new venture with all your ducks in a row. You'll save time and money down the road.

July 02, 2008

Rising Health-Care Costs Hurt Small Biz

A survey of some 4,000 self-employed individuals and business owners with 10 or fewer employees finds most can't afford to offer health insurance to employees.

June 30, 2008

No Federal Grant for Disabled Entrepreneurs

The SBA offers a variety of loan guarantee programs, and your startup might be a candidate for government contracting work.

June 25, 2008

Resolving a Conflict of Interest

Lawyers explain the steps to take if your business partner violates his or her obligations to the business.

June 23, 2008

When You Can't Advertise for Investors

Even a privately owned company can appeal for funds to so-called angel investors or venture capitalists. Get legal advice on how to do so.

June 18, 2008

Is Liability Insurance a Must to Go Global?

When you're shopping for product liability insurance, make sure your policy covers lawsuits filed in foreign countries, not just U.S. courts.

June 16, 2008

Demystifying Web 2.0

Richard J. Goossen shows how entrepreneurs can make the most of Web 2.0.

June 11, 2008

Starting a Startup

Think you've got what it takes to start your own business? Here's some advice to make sure you're heading in the right direction.

June 04, 2008

When a Business Partnership Goes Wrong

If the business is failing and your working relationship sours, there are steps you can take to either mend fences with your partners or dissolve the partnership.

June 02, 2008

Life After Entrepreneurship

The self-employed are not eligible for unemployment benefits, but there are some ways to capitalize on those unique skills you've amassed.

May 28, 2008

Bankruptcy and Small Business Loans

You're unlikely to get an SBA government-guaranteed loan if you already have too much debt, but there are ways to improve your chances.

May 21, 2008

Getting Reluctant Investors to Say Yes

When you raise capital for a startup, you risk rejection. But you can improve your chances, even if you don't have much of a track record.

May 19, 2008

Dissed Online? How to Fix Your Brand's Rep

Today's consumers don't hesitate to post their comments, good and bad, on the Internet. Here are some tips for damage control.

May 14, 2008

Three Easy Ways to Cut Costs

Start by taking a fresh inventory of your fixed assets. Then try to use more e-mail and less gasoline. Here are some tips to get started.

May 12, 2008

Getting Your Share of Rebate Spending

How can you convince your customers to spend some of their "federal economic stimulus" money at your small business?.

May 07, 2008

Employers Can't Ignore Workplace Bullies

A recent court ruling has implications for business. Adopting an anti-bullying policy can improve morale and help avoid legal trouble.

April 30, 2008

A Better Way to Handle Layoffs

To ensure objectivity and avoid wrongful termination suits, employers must have a valid reason and document it before approaching employees.

April 28, 2008

Attracting Publicity for Your Business

Get to know the publications that are most likely to write about you or your company. Then position yourself as an expert with something new to say.

April 23, 2008

Small Employers Cope with Immigration Crackdowns

Immigration attorney Bill Flynn talks about how small business owners can comply with the new reality of tougher enforcement.

April 21, 2008

How to Set Up an Incentive Program

A program that rewards staffers for new ideas can boost your business, but it's important to make it as transparent as possible.

April 16, 2008

Figuring What Your Company Is Worth

Appraiser Bruce B. Bingham explains what a valuation measures, how much it costs, and why your business might benefit from one.

April 14, 2008

Why Loan Scams Are Increasing

Scammers are taking advantage of the credit crunch to entice small business owners with fake loans. Here's how to identify the warning signs.