Expenses Archives

The Danger of Being Undercapitalized

By Ted Jenkin | May 7, 2013

It’s always exciting to think about the idea of having your own new start up. You hear about stories where entrepreneurs started with just $300 and a cardboard box and then turned their business into millions. In reality, having worked with many types of business owners, the first mistake made by most is simply not having enough capital or access to capital while growing your business.

Contractors Must Really Be Independent

By Dave Berkus | May 7, 2013

How many of us have “hired” independent contractors over the years, a bit worried over the gray area between employee and contractor as defined by the IRS? I’ve experienced the results of a wrong decision, and the IRS and state agencies are not forgiving in their pursuit of penalties, interest, and (most damaging) assessing a company with both employer and employee taxes when reclassifying the person as an employee.

Be Greener on Earth Day 2013

By Fran Tarkenton | Apr 19, 2013

Today is Earth Day 2013, and it’s a time for business owners to think about their green initiatives and the things they can do to be more green. Office Depot surveyed 1,000 small and medium-sized business about their environmental consciousness, and they had some really interesting results. I want to share some of the highlights—maybe they’ll help your thinking about these questions.

What is the Cost of Employee Turnover?

By Angela Cordle | Mar 22, 2013

Employee turnover is more costly than you think. Every businessman knows at some level that it’s easier for them if they can manage to keep their current employees than to need to find replacements. However, the cost of staff turnover is surprisingly high, and many small business owners don’t fully realize just how expensive it is to replace an employee.

Marketing Help from Your Vendors

By Will Adams | Dec 21, 2012

You need every marketing edge you can get. An oft-overlooked opportunity is using your vendors to fuel business growth. While you’re already getting services of course, you can get more if you’re willing to pay more and incentivize your vendors to help you.

The Marketing Plan: Essential Elements

By Will Adams | Dec 21, 2012

Have you thought about your marketing plan? To compete in a crowded marketplace, you have to go in with a plan that you’ve thought about and put together carefully and intentionally. No matter what stage your business is at, you should have a plan for your marketing efforts.

How Much Should You Pay Your Accountant?

By Rick Gossett | Dec 20, 2012

Finding the right accountant for your business, but so is making sure you pay the right amount. You don’t want to overpay, but your accountant also needs to hit his or her own income targets. Depending on your business situation and accounting needs, there are several arrangements to choose from.

Why Cloud Technology?

By Bill Wortman | Dec 20, 2012

There’s a good chance you’ve used cloud technology without even realizing it. Understanding cloud technology will help you make an informed decision on whether this rapidly growing field can work for you. This guide presents both the pros and the cons of taking your business into “the cloud.”

Why People Don’t Seek Legal Counsel

By Jason White | Dec 18, 2012

Many people who are in a situation where they could really use legal counsel choose not to get it. There are a number of reasons for this, including personality, intimidation, and cost concerns. Managing these issues will help you determine whether you need to seek outside help.

Setting Expectations with Your Attorney

By Jason White | Dec 18, 2012

When you hire an attorney, you need to make sure that everyone involved understands how fees will be handled. You have to manage expectations so that there are no surprises for anyone. It can be an expensive service, so know what you’re getting and what you’re paying for it.