Extra Commentary

Saving for Retirement on a Variable Income

Posted October 12, 2009 - 08:41 by Nora Dunn

Small Business Resource Center, Extra Commentary

retirement jar

How do you save for retirement when you have a variable income? One month, your income may not be enough to float your business expenses, much less the mortgage and personal living expenses. Other months, you might make enough to cover off six months of expenses. So not only is basic budgeting a different story when you have a variable income, but so is saving for retirement.

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Small Business Profile: Stefanie Michaels (Adventure Girl)

Posted October 7, 2009 - 18:43 by Linsey Knerl

Small Business Resource Center, Extra Commentary

Former swimwear model Stefanie Michaels, known to her fans as “Adventure Girl”, is the ultimate travel expert. Millions of fans visit AdventureGirl.com to follow Stefanie as she participated in the Iditarod and took flight in a Zero-G plane ride with Buzz Aldrin. We interviewed Stefanie to get her insights on small business travel, staying connected, and American Express.

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How and Why a Business Plan Can Make a Difference

Posted October 7, 2009 - 18:41 by Nora Dunn

Small Business Resource Center, Extra Commentary

business plan

We have all heard that the business plan is the foundation for every business, and we may try to do one by going through the motions. But until we truly embrace the business plan as our roadmap to entrepreneurial success, we may flounder in a sea of incompetence. Having this roadmap keeps your goals aligned with your progress.

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When to Outsource for Your Small Business

Posted September 17, 2009 - 18:38 by Nora Dunn

Small Business Resource Center, Extra Commentary

network

As a business owner—the king (or queen) of your castle, the master of your domain, and the ruler of all things to do with your company—you have it all. You also do it all, and sometimes you also try to be "it all" to everybody too. But the big bucks are made not on one person’s efforts alone, but the efforts of many. Today we will look at the inherent characteristics of outsourcing.

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How to Use Vendor-Managed Inventory Programs

Posted September 2, 2009 - 18:34 by Julie Rains

Small Business Resource Center, Extra Commentary

warehouse inventory

A well-run vendor-managed inventory (VMI) program could allow your business to speed up its cash flow by more closely matching your cash outlay for inventory with your cash inflows from sales and other income-generating activities.

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9 Tips for Working With a Virtual Assistant

Posted August 19, 2009 - 18:32 by Greg Go

Small Business Resource Center, Extra Commentary

business woman on phone and computer

Working with a remote employee is a unique situation and requires special handling. Here are 9 tips for working with your virtual assistant.

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Where is the Business Going? Succession Planning Points for Consideration

Posted August 1, 2009 - 18:27 by Nora Dunn

Small Business Resource Center, Extra Commentary

business man looking ahead

When I was a practicing financial planner, I was shocked at the number of small business clients who did nothing but blink their eyes in response to my line of questions about their business succession plan. These are people who poured years of blood, sweat, and tears into their businesses, making it a corner piece in their lives. With so much invested, they had little to no thought towards how the business would evolve with them. Here are some points for consideration in developing your own business succession plan.

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When and How to Offer Discounts for Early Payment

Posted August 1, 2009 - 18:18 by Julie Rains

Small Business Resource Center, Extra Commentary

paid stamp

Offering discounts for cash, upfront and early payment can be an integral part of a comprehensive business management strategy, not just the domain of the accounts receivable department. To find creative ways of getting paid earlier than the standard net 30, I spoke with two business owners who are taking proactive stances to cash-flow management.

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To Payroll or Not: Hiring Contract vs. Salary Employees

Posted July 31, 2009 - 19:19 by Nora Dunn

Small Business Resource Center, Extra Commentary

You have some projects coming down the pipe that you need additional staff for. What do you do: offer your potential new team player an independent contract or full-time salary position?

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AMEX Small Business Profile: Stacy Debroff, MomCentral.com

Posted July 30, 2009 - 18:12 by Linsey Knerl

Small Business Resource Center, Extra Commentary

We caught up with Stacy recently to get the inside scoop on her unique success story.

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