Getting Started

You’ve likely heard about holiday pay in employee compensation. Employees receive extra pay when they take paid time off for holidays. Understanding this concept can be immensely important as you prepare your business for the holidays or begin hiring for the first time. In this article, we’ll break down what holiday pay entails and whether it should be on your list of employee benefits. What is Holiday Pay? Holiday pay is a part of employee compensation, typically extra wages given during holidays. In the U.S., it stems from both federal laws and industry norms. Federal guidelines set the foundation, while industries often add their own practices, ensuring workers are r…

Indiegogo is a crowdfunding platform that enables users to gather funds for an idea, a start-up business, or a charitable cause. This method of fundraising is particularly beneficial for small businesses seeking additional financial support to grow, purchase equipment, or develop a new product concept. Unlike traditional funding, Indiegogo is risk-free compared to seeking bank loans and circumvents application and approval stages. Indiegogo has helped bring more than 800,000 innovative ideas to life thanks to its more than 9 million strong backers, representing 235 countries and territories. The popular crowdfunding platform has some fifteen million people visiting the …

Invoice financing, also known as accounts receivable financing, is a financial solution where businesses use their unpaid invoices as collateral to obtain immediate working capital from lenders or financing companies. Instead of waiting for customers to pay invoices, businesses can access a significant portion of the invoice value upfront, which helps improve cash flow and allows them to meet immediate financial obligations or invest in growth opportunities. What is Invoice Financing? Invoice financing is a form of short-term borrowing that enables businesses to unlock the value of their accounts receivable by selling unpaid invoices to a third-party financing company a…

Kickstarter is a way to fund a creative project. Its mission is to bring these types of campaigns to life and create a project with a funding goal and project deadline. Then Kickstarter backers can pledge cash. Essentially, this is a crowdfunding platform designed for entrepreneurs seeking alternative sources of funding. You will need to complete several steps, and there are payment processing fees associated with the funds raised. What Is Kickstarter? There are lots of different sites that raise funds. Kickstarter is different from other crowdfunding platforms. This one is dedicated to supporting the creative ecosystem. They are a community of people like poets, painte…

Let’s start with a different question… What is cybersecurity? It’s one that a lot of small businesses need to ask today. And the answers need to include information on phishing. What it is, what to do about it, and how it can affect your enterprise if you don’t do anything. What is phishing? Phishing attacks are designed to trick you into giving up sensitive information. Cybercriminals use phishing emails to pose as credible institutions. They want personal details and to steal credit card information, or to install malware on a computer. A targeted attack can include malicious web links to fake websites. A phishing attack is one of the cybersecurity terms you should k…

What is Rumble? Simply put, Rumble is a place for uploading videos and sharing them. In that way, it’s like YouTube, another site where you can upload and share videos on YouTube. If you’re really good at that, you can become one of the top YouTube influencers (check out Top YouTube Influencers and make money (How Much Money Do YouTubers Make?). You can make money on Rumble, too. Is it an easier platform for earning money? Can you make more money? Let’s explore. The Rumble Video Hosting Website Since its establishment by technology enthusiast and entrepreneur Chris Pavlovski, Rumble has aimed to provide an alternative platform for video content creators. Over the year…

The latest social media products use audio to communicate. Like audio messaging and conversation rooms. That’s the quick definition of social audio. This is a great new way for small businesses to engage new prospects and develop a brand. Consumers expect the human element when they interact with a small business. And the pandemic has forced these platforms to become the new normal. Here’s what you need to know about this latest social media innovation. What are Social Audio Platforms? Social audio integrates social media by adding premium audio experiences. Some of the social media sites that have launched have a built-in audience already. Big players have jumped on …

There are so many options available for entrepreneurs and professionals to create their own business cards it can be hard to know where to begin. Where is the best place to get business cards? What design best suits your brand? What is the best font for business cards? The Best Font for Business Cards: Our Recommendations Sans Serif Fonts: Known for their clean lines and modern appearance, sans serif fonts like Myriad Pro and Futura offer readability and versatility, making them excellent choices for business cards. Serif Fonts: For a touch of elegance and professionalism, serif fonts like Trajan and Baskerville PT are great options. They add a classic flair that can se…

Are you curious about what the qualified business income deduction (QBI) is and whether or not you can take advantage of it? If so, this article will provide an in-depth overview of the QBI deduction and answer the fundamental question: “Can I claim it?” Given its complicated nature, understanding how to maximize your tax deductions on business income with the QBI deduction should be a top priority for anyone who is self-employed. Learn all about it here, from what qualifies as eligible business income to when you can use this deduction and more. Let’s dive in! What is the Qualified Business Income Deduction? The Qualified Business Income Deduction (QBI) is a recently …

VRBO is an online marketplace specializing in different rentals. Vrbo vacation rentals have been around since 1995. These vacation rental properties can be found in 190 different countries with over 2 million properties. What does Vrbo stand for? Vacation rental by owner. Some of the owners on this site use a property manager to look after their rental property. You can stay in a standard hotel and or other hotel rooms too. What Is Vrbo? VRBO is a specialized online platform for booking private vacation properties. Focused on offering entire homes without shared spaces, unlike competitors such as Airbnb, VRBO provides travelers with privacy and the comforts of home in v…

Wellness Wednesday is a popular weekly topic on social media. And it can impact workplaces as well. If you own a business, this concept may provide benefits for you and your team. Here’s a guide to observing this weekly tradition. What Exactly is Wellness Wednesday? Wellness Wednesday is not an officially regulated activity. Rather, many businesses and organizations use the term independently to promote a healthy lifestyle in their own way. The term gained popularity in the early days of social media, as brands shared tips and tricks under the #WellnessWednesday hashtag. But today, many workplaces use it to promote well-being among employees. Potential Topics for Welln…

What is WordPress? WordPress powers businesses all over the world. It is one of the most popular website building platforms, and it allows you to create a website or blog from scratch or improve an existing website. There are many notable brands, celebrities and companies that use it too. This article discusses what WordPress is and how it can benefit your business. By the end of this post, you should definitely know the answer to the question, “What is WordPress?” What is a WordPress Website? If you ever did an internet search for “What is WordPress?” you’d likely find out more than 1 in 4 websites use the website platform to power their own website (by the way, the te…

Understanding a zoning variance begins with familiarizing oneself with zoning ordinances. These ordinances delineate how properties are utilized in specific areas. When effectively implemented, they ensure functions such as maintaining residential zones free from industrial influences. They also specify land uses for agricultural, commercial, and other purposes. While a city council sets the usage rules through ordinances, a zoning variance acts as an exception, awarded on an individual basis What Is a Zoning Variance? A zoning variance is a formal exception to the rules set by local zoning ordinances. Essentially, it’s a permit that allows property owners to use their…

In most cases, you have to be invited to a Franchise Discovery Day. And, if you are invited to attend a discovery day, get ready. Things are about to get serious. You are about to enter an exciting step in your goal to become a franchise owner. By the time franchise discovery day rolls around, you have pretty much decided which franchise opportunity you are going to focus all of your energy on. Once you’ve done that, you’re a lot closer to franchise ownership. What is Franchise Discovery Day? Franchise Discovery Day is a planned event at a franchisor’s headquarters, limited to “qualified” candidates for franchise ownership. Discovery day is the day that you as the prosp…

Search Engine Optimization (SEO) is one of the most critical aspects of digital marketing, and it continues to evolve each year. For small businesses, keeping up with these changes is essential to maintaining online visibility, attracting new customers, and staying ahead of the competition. In 2025, SEO is more dynamic than ever, with AI-driven search results, voice search optimization, user experience (UX) enhancements, and evolving Google algorithms shaping the digital landscape. If you run a small business, understanding and implementing the latest SEO strategies can significantly impact your online growth. This article will explore what your small business needs to k…

Call centers are important to small businesses because they are a point of contact for customers. A small business gets a more professional image when they use one of these business services. These outbound services also allow a business to expand. There are even options for an in-house call center. This blog will walk you through all of your options for call center services and answer important questions. You’ll know what to look for and even the names of some of the industry leaders when you’re done. If you’re considering starting one of these businesses, call center services do pay off. In fact, the industry is projected to be worth $21.8 billion in the near future. …

Although digital has taken over, having high-quality printed materials for your business remains important. Printing services can provide immense value for your brand when it comes to making a lasting impression and connecting with your customers. Printed materials can be a major differentiator for your business, and that’s why we’re going through everything you need to know about business print services and where to obtain printing services. The Importance of Print Services for Businesses Printed materials such as business cards, brochures, photo books, yard signs, and more can all be valuable tools for creating brand awareness. Printing services can also be used for…

The attorneys who handled your home sale/purchase or your parents’ estate may not be a good fit for your small business needs. In other words, an attorney who represented you in a personal business matter may not be the attorney who can help you protect your business. Small business owners represent a myriad of companies. In size, a small business may be run by a sole proprietor, be an LLC or corporation, or have several to several dozen employees. Types of businesses run the gamut to include professional services, manufacturing, construction, retail, restaurants and more. Just as diverse are types of the business’s legal matters that require the services of an attorne…

Trying to win in a new market? It’s important you speak your customers’ language – literally. And that’s where hiring professional translation services can make life easier for you. The Importance of Translation Services for Businesses As a business owner aiming to succeed in a global market, overcoming language barriers is pivotal. This is where translation services come into play. They provide a bridge that links your business to diverse cultures and languages. Beyond literal translation, these services account for cultural nuances, colloquialisms, and idioms that contribute to an authentic and relatable brand message. Here are some key reasons why translation servic…

Starting a small business can be exciting and fulfill your entrepreneurial spirit. However, the legal side of things can be daunting for the uninitiated. Don’t fear – there are many ways to get free legal advice for your small business that can help you navigate the complexities of business law. From experienced professionals to online resources, free legal advice is available and tailored to help you get on course with your small business ventures. Let’s dive in! How Can You Legal Advice Free in the US? In the U.S., there are various ways to receive free legal advice or low-cost legal assistance, particularly for issues related to business law, personal law, or other …

When it comes to printing, ink can be a costly expense. That’s why finding a printer with affordable ink is essential for anyone who frequently prints. With so many printer options available, it can be overwhelming to know which one offers the best value. In this article, we will explore which printers have the cheapest ink, helping you find the most cost-effective option for your printing needs. Let’s get started! Which printer is the cheapest to run? The Epson EcoTank ET-2760 is the cheapest printer to run with affordable refillable ink bottles. It costs, on average, 1 cent per color ISO page compared to ink cartridges, which cost about 20 cents. It also includes up to…

Inflation is a significant concern for both economists and policymakers. It has been increasing globally, with no country appearing to be exempt from its impact. So what’s behind this troubling trend, and why does it seem to be getting worse? This article will explore some potential causes of inflation. Let’s get started! What is Causing Inflation? As small business owners, it’s important to stay informed about inflation. After all, higher costs brought on by inflation can have a big impact on your bottom line. As prices for goods and services rise, your costs go up as well. READ MORE: Inflation is a Top Concern for Small Business Owners as Prices Soar So what’s caus…

They call him “the World’s #1 Small Business Guru” — the entrepreneurial and small business thought leader who has impacted the lives of millions of small business owners and hundreds of thousands of companies worldwide for over 40 years. On the Small Business Radio Show this week, I talked with the legendary Michael E. Gerber who is a celebrated entrepreneur, author, and business coach renowned for his groundbreaking book, “The E Myth: Why Most Businesses Don’t Work and What to Do About It” (1988). With a career spanning several decades, he has transformed the way small businesses operate by emphasizing the importance of effective systems and strategic planning. Gerber’…

Key Takeaways Burnout Risks: Constant work without breaks can lead to serious burnout, negatively affecting productivity and overall business health. Financial Constraints: Many small business owners feel they can’t afford to take holidays due to ongoing financial pressures and fear of income loss. Customer Retention Concerns: The worry of losing customers or disrupting service leads small business owners to prioritize work over personal time off. Workplace Culture Impact: A culture that emphasizes constant availability can make taking holidays seem like a weakness, perpetuating the cycle of overwork. Health Implications: Neglecting personal time can lead to both m…

When first starting a business, many entrepreneurs begin using a personal credit card for expenses. It’s the path of least resistance. However, once the business starts to thrive, you will garner tangible benefits from using a good business credit card — i.e., a credit card in your business name that is used strictly for business purposes. Here are the advantages that a business credit card can offer your business to help it grow and be profitable: Expands Your Overall Available Credit Establishes Business Credit History Access to Other Financial Products to Fuel Growth Maintains Separation of Business and Personal Expenses Saves Times through Technology Allows You to…