Ask SmallBizClub

Is an online vendor directory a good marketing tool and what questions should I ask a representative to find out more information?

Of course, there is no silver bullet to a successful marketing campaign. Whether via print, coupons, business website, or other form of advertising, a business must be aggressive and break through the advertising clutter to attract the customers’ attention.

I am the owner of a single-member LLC small business and would like to know what I can write off on my taxes this year?

Tax & Accounting | Rick Gossett

Where can I find a basic policy for the use of personal cell phones by employees on company time?

Technology | Ed Fox

A well-conceived document will, however, be relatively easy to modify, allowing you to add and delete sections as appropriate. Due to the complexity of labor laws and the potential for liability in such areas as discrimination and confidentiality, we recommend that all employee handbooks and personnel policy statements be reviewed by a qualified labor lawyer.

How soon can I start using a trademark?

Legal | Bill Wortman

Trademark registration. We do not know what you are attempting to trademark, but trademark protection is generally available for business names (entity, product, domain, etc), logos, slogans and some design elements; however, trademark protection is only granted when the names, logos, slogans and design elements identify the source of the goods or services and distinguish them from the competition.

What info can you provide on how to set up and manage an Advisory Board?

Starting a Business | Rick Gossett

The setup and management of an Advisory Board will depend on the objectives and goals you have and what you can afford to spend on a Board. Advisory Boards and Committees are often utilized by large companies; however, in some cases, more professional experience can also provide business ideas and help a small company to be successful.

How can I do a background check on an individual, to see if they have a criminal record?

Human Resources | Bill Wortman

We assume that you are an employer seeking to do a background check on an employment applicant and we have provided information, considerations, and resources below. However, if you want to do a general criminal background check on an individual, you can use state and other online resources like the following examples…

Would our home owners insurance cover the entire inventory for our home-based business, or do we need additional insurance?

Risk | Bill Wortman

In our experience, it is unlikely that your existing homeowner’s insurance policy covers any of your business assets or liabilities, particularly significant amounts. You would have to consult your homeowner’s insurance agent to determine if your business assets are currently covered under homeowner’s policy or if they can be covered with a form of policy Addendum or Rider.

How do I increase profits for my restaurant/catering business during a down economy?

Marketing | Ed Fox

Increasing profits in a recession: We have provided marketing considerations and resources below; however, increasing profits can also involve menu pricing, cost controls, staffing levels, and other measures.

I am the owner of a single-member LLC small business and would like to know what I can write off on my taxes this year?

Tax & Accounting | Rick Gossett

An LLC is unique in that it can be taxed as a disregarded entity, partnership, C Corp or an S Corp. A single member or owner LLC can be taxed as a disregarded entity, C Corp or S corp. A multi-member or owner LLC can be taxed as a partnership, C Corp or S corp. Unless an LLC elects corporate tax classification by filing Federal Form 8832 (C Corp) or Federal Form 2553 (S Corp) with the IRS when it is formed, a single member or owner LLC is taxed as a disregarded entity and a multiple member or owner LLC is taxed as a partnership.

I’m thinking about hiring my first employee. What should I do?

Starting a Business | Rick Gossett

When growing a business, entrepreneurs typically reach a point in the process where they must consider the prospect of adding staff. There are several important things to consider when hiring employees, which include: labor laws, compensation structure, fringe benefit programs, and workers’ compensation.