Archives: May 2007

Using the Web to Control Your Global Brand

Posted by: Rod Kurtz on May 31

Thanks to the Internet, companies of all sizes can easily reach consumers in the global marketplace. But even with this powerful tool to aid you, global brands aren't born—they are...

Increasing Web Site Traffic

Posted by: Rod Kurtz on May 30

Simply building your business' Web site doesn't guarantee a steady flow of visitors and users. Following these tips will help make your Web site fresh and engaging, and maximize traffic:...

Should You Pay Points on Mortgage Loans?

Posted by: Rod Kurtz on May 29

In real estate lingo, a point is one percentage point of the overall loan that is paid up-front, typically at the time of closing. For example, if you are borrowing...

Surefire Search Engine Optimization

Posted by: Rod Kurtz on May 28

With so much information available on the Internet, it is increasingly important that your site stand out amidst the clutter. Search-engine optimization (SEO) is critical for getting your Web site...

Improving Your Blog

Posted by: Rod Kurtz on May 24

These days blogging has become an integral part of online business marketing. But many still don't know how to start and maintain an effective blog. Here are some tips that...

Don't Overlook Your Printing Needs

Posted by: Rod Kurtz on May 23

When a new business launches, there are a lot of important decisions to be made. The last thing a new business owner typically thinks about is securing the various graphic...

Metrics for Measuring Ad Campaign Effectiveness

Posted by: Rod Kurtz on May 22

Advertising is not an exact science. There's no precise way to measure the success of an ad campaign. You can't, for example, determine how many sales dollars are generated by...

Patent Protection

Posted by: Rod Kurtz on May 21

This is the third of three tips that explore the types of intellectual property protection that are critical to establishing and protecting your brand in the small business environment. Patents...

Trademark Protection

Posted by: Rod Kurtz on May 20

This is the second of three tips that explore the types of intellectual property protection that are critical to establishing and protecting your brand in the small business environment. Establishing...

Copyright Protection

Posted by: Rod Kurtz on May 17

This is the first of three tips that explore the types of intellectual property protection that are critical to establishing and protecting your brand in the small business environment. A...

Hire Smart

Posted by: Rod Kurtz on May 16

As the boss, you set the tone, and create the atmosphere of your small business. Hiring good people can be one of the best investments you make in achieving your...

How Much Money Can You Make From a Franchise?

Posted by: Rod Kurtz on May 15

If you have asked a franchisor this question, you may not have gotten a straight answer (or any at all). The main reason lies in legalities. The Federal Trade Commission...

Delivering Quality Customer Service

Posted by: Rod Kurtz on May 14

As small businesses grow, owners often find it difficult to efficiently handle customer support and service calls. Yet that is often the service that most affects customer satisfaction and the...

Hire the Best and Delegate

Posted by: Rod Kurtz on May 13

If you would like to work sane hours and have weekends off, you need to hire people who are better than you are in their areas, and be your own...

Stop the Work Pile-Up

Posted by: Rod Kurtz on May 10

In many small businesses, clutter is as much of an office fixture as desks and computers. But it doesn't have to be that way. To stop work pile-up, start by...

Ensuring Data Security

Posted by: Rod Kurtz on May 09

Today's big businesses all feature some of the most advanced data protection software money can buy, often multiple solutions. But as recent events reveal, passwords are and always will be...

How Podcasting Is Used

Posted by: Rod Kurtz on May 08

Currently, most who are familiar with podcasting are technically savvy, but it is clear that podcasting will be more than a passing fad. Many businesses are adopting podcasting and employing...

Copyrights, Trademarks, and Patents, Oh My!

Posted by: Rod Kurtz on May 07

While protecting intellectual property is critical when starting a new company, the differences between copyrights, patents, and trademarks are not always clearly understood by small-business owners, and that can spell...

Choosing the Right Video Security System

Posted by: Rod Kurtz on May 06

When choosing a video security system, too often parts from multiple manufacturers are pieced together, and the system ultimately provides limited functionality. To get the most for your money, look...

A New Look at Video Surveillance

Posted by: Rod Kurtz on May 03

Peace of mind can be elusive in today's business environment. Whether you own a convenience store, a software company, or a restaurant, odds are good that you have considered installing...

Using a Virtual Phone Number to Manage a Mobile Team

Posted by: Rod Kurtz on May 02

Dropped calls or spotty connections on mobile phones are no longer a problem when conducting business. The concept of a mobile workforce is respected and accepted. And now, reaching someone...

Guerrilla Guide to Trade Shows

Posted by: Rod Kurtz on May 01

While strolling through the show, look for an ally. If you can find a suitable partner, offer to split the cost of a booth at the next trade show. Explore...