Growth Tips for Businesses

For Online Sellers: What Sells in the Summer Time?

By Outright | Jun 13, 2013

A question I get every year about this time is, “What sells in the summer time?” While there is no definitive answer to that question, you can be assured people don’t stop buying stuff online; they just buy different stuff than at other times of year.

Tax on Gifts?

By Matt Tarkenton | Jun 13, 2013

A personal gift is not includible in the gross income of the recipient, or donee, of the gift; however, gifts exceeding the annual exclusion for gifts ($14,000 in 2013) may be subject to gift tax, which is the responsibility of the maker, or donor, of the gift. Whether a gift is subject to gift tax will depend on the donor’s total lifetime gifts.

The 3 Best Ways to Manage Change on LinkedIn

By JD Gershbein | Jun 13, 2013

LinkedIn is by no means a static social networking site. It changes, seemingly on the hour, presenting users with new challenges in navigation, negotiation and real world application. Social business moves a light-year per second.

Milking the Business

By Ted Jenkin | Jun 13, 2013

If you have worked for a corporation for a few years before you start your own venture, you need to really prepare for the first time of not having a paycheck every two weeks. While you hear stories about all the personal things that your business can pay for through the company, milking your company can be a very big problem.

Information is Even More Critical

By Jerry Osteryoung | Jun 13, 2013

To deal with a constantly evolving environment, communication—both incoming and outgoing—is more important than ever. You need to be sure you are communicating to your customers and are taking in new information about the economy and your industry, all at breakneck speeds.

When Should You Fire an Employee

By Matt Tarkenton | Jun 13, 2013

As a small business owner, you can’t afford to take risks when it comes to hiring the right employees. Sometimes, however, you make a mistake and you hire someone who you shouldn’t have. When is it time to fire this employee?

How to Retain Employees

By Angela Cordle | Jun 13, 2013

High turnover is not uncommon in small business, but it is expensive. Most small businesses cannot afford to constantly hire and let go of employees. Having a dedicated staff is one aspect of a successful company that should not be overlooked.

4 Ways to Make Your Employees Happy

By Angela Cordle | Jun 13, 2013

One way to grow your business, apart from having a great product or service, is to have employees who love working for you. While you might not be able to offer the same benefits package as most large corporations, there are more slick ways you can go about seeking your employees’ favor without breaking into the budget.

Managing in Cyberspace

By Matt Tarkenton | Jun 13, 2013

In today’s work environment, it has become a necessity for many businesses to hire employees or independent contractors who take care of their work out of office. Here are a few keys to help employers manage their out-of-office employees effectively.

Don’t Miss These Small Business Tax Deductions

By Rick Gossett | Jun 13, 2013

For any small business, it is critical to be aware of available tax deductions in order maximize profit. Surprisingly, many businesses fail to realize some of the deductions that apply to their business. Here is a list of tax deductions shared by the US Small Business Administration that you should be aware of as a small business owner.