Getting Started

Key Takeaways Lucrative Opportunity: Car rental franchises present an appealing business venture amid the growing demand for flexible transportation options in the booming travel industry. Franchise Structure: Entrepreneurs benefit from a proven franchise model that includes brand recognition, operational support, and training, which are vital for success. Financial Independence: Owning a car rental franchise can lead to financial freedom, with established brands potentially generating higher revenue due to customer trust. Market Competition: The car rental industry is competitive, requiring franchisees to differentiate their services through innovative offerings an…

When searching for the best payroll software for your business, you need to contemplate various factors such as features, usability, and compliance. For instance, Gusto offers thorough payroll and HR integration, whereas Square Payroll is cost-effective for smaller firms. It’s crucial to identify what suits your specific needs and budget. Grasping these options can greatly improve your payroll process, but how do you determine which one aligns perfectly with your business goals? Key Takeaways Gusto offers comprehensive payroll and HR solutions, starting at $49/month plus $6/employee, ideal for small to medium-sized businesses. Square Payroll is the most affordable choic…

Lenovo has unveiled a new lineup of AI-powered desktop PCs and business monitors aimed at boosting workplace productivity, multitasking, and scalability across industries. The announcement, made on May 14, 2025, introduces the ThinkCentre M Series Gen 6 desktops and ThinkVision T Series Gen 40 monitors—both built to meet the increasing demand for AI-ready computing environments. The ThinkCentre M Series Gen 6 includes towers, compact desktops, and all-in-one (AIO) systems designed to deliver scalable power and enterprise-level security for businesses of all sizes. Each desktop is engineered to support AI workloads such as model training, data analysis, and 3D visualizati…

At Dreamforce, Slack unveiled transformative updates designed to reshape how teams communicate and collaborate. This latest integration of artificial intelligence within Slack aims to streamline workflows and enhance productivity, particularly for small businesses navigating the complexities of remote work. By shifting Slack into what it calls an “agentic operating system,” users can now interact with their customer relationship management (CRM) data—like Salesforce information or Tableau dashboards—through natural language. This streamlining of operations could alleviate the issues many small businesses face with fragmented tools and siloed information. Instead of toggl…

Key Takeaways Growing Demand: The nail care industry is experiencing increased consumer interest, making nail salon franchises a lucrative opportunity for entrepreneurs.Proven Business Model: Investing in a franchise provides access to a tested business strategy, reducing risks associated with starting a new venture.Brand Recognition: Owning a nail salon franchise allows you to leverage an established brand, facilitating customer acquisition and retention from day one.Initial Investment Considerations: Potential franchisees should assess startup costs and financial requirements, which can vary significantly among different franchises.Location Analysis: Thoroughly resear…

In an era where data is the lifeblood of decision-making, Workday is stepping up to empower small businesses with innovative tools and partnerships. Recently announced during Workday Rising EMEA in Barcelona, the launch of a global developer network and a collaboration with Google Cloud’s BigQuery is set to transform how small businesses can access and leverage AI technologies. Workday, a recognized leader in enterprise AI solutions that streamline HR and financial management, aims to democratize access to artificial intelligence with its new initiatives. “With the launch of our global developer network and Google BigQuery joining Workday Data Cloud, we’re opening our ec…

When managing inventory, choosing the right stock management company is essential for efficiency. Companies like Oracle Fusion Cloud and Unleashed Software provide robust solutions with features such as real-time tracking and automated replenishment. Other notable options include Zoho Inventory and Fishbowl, which cater to various business sizes. Comprehending the strengths of each platform can help you streamline your processes and improve customer satisfaction. Let’s explore these top contenders and their unique offerings. Key Takeaways Oracle Fusion Cloud Inventory offers real-time visibility and integrates with procurement and order management for optimized invent…

In a world where customer expectations are rapidly evolving, small business owners face immense pressure to provide exceptional customer experiences (CX). A new report from Zendesk, the 2026 Customer Experience Trends report, reveals how the concept of “contextual intelligence” is set to redefine customer service standards by 2026. Here’s what small business owners need to know about this paradigm shift. The report finds that consumers now demand immediate solutions, personalized interactions, and transparency in AI-driven support. Tom Eggemeier, CEO of Zendesk, emphasizes, “AI is not the differentiator anymore. How intelligently you apply it is.” With 85% of CX leaders …

A high-profile mortgage and loan fraud scheme has drawn attention, leading to the sentencing of a California man who exploited vulnerable clients and government programs to enrich himself. Steven Tetsuya Morizono, also known as Jeff Lucian, received a 121-month prison sentence for his role in a crime that spanned several years and affected numerous victims. This significant ruling not only emphasizes the consequences of fraud but also serves as a warning to business owners about the potential pitfalls of unethical practices in the industry. Morizono’s operation, which he led through his company Jeff Funding, employed an array of deceptive practices. According to U.S. Att…

Salesforce has introduced Agentforce for Financial Services, a new offering that delivers pre-built, role-based AI agents to help financial institutions automate front-office operations and maintain regulatory compliance amid workforce challenges and rising customer expectations. Announced May 21, 2025, Agentforce is designed to support financial advisors, bankers, insurers, and loan officers by reducing the time spent on administrative work and enabling more direct client engagement. Operating within the Financial Services Cloud, Agentforce uses industry-specific data, workflows, and compliance controls to automate tasks while adhering to firm standards and regulatory r…

Verizon Business has introduced My Biz Plan, a new customizable wireless offering for small and midsized business (SMB) customers, now available nationwide. The new plan allows business owners to tailor wireless services based on their needs, marking a shift away from traditional carrier packages. Unlike the “good, better, best” options often offered by wireless carriers, My Biz Plan provides a single base plan with unlimited calling, data, and texting. Customers can then add business-specific features such as international connectivity and productivity tools, and make adjustments as needs change. Verizon highlights this plan as a flexible solution designed to offer more…

Key Takeaways Emphasize Team Morale: In-office events serve to boost team morale and strengthen the bonds among colleagues, creating a positive workplace culture. Diverse Event Ideas: Incorporate various activities such as team-building exercises, workshops, and themed parties to cater to different interests and promote collaboration. Engaging Workshops: Facilitate professional development through workshops on essential skills like leadership and communication, enhancing both personal growth and team dynamics. Volunteer Opportunities: Organizing community service projects not only builds team spirit but also enhances your brand’s reputation, connecting employees to …

Corporate strategic planning is a vital process for any organization. It helps you set long-term goals and align resources effectively. This planning not only preserves your competitive edge but likewise improves team collaboration. By evaluating both internal and external factors, you can adapt to market changes and boost performance. Comprehending its significance can lead to sustained success. Nevertheless, knowing the key components and stages of this planning is fundamental to fully grasp its impact on your organization. Key Takeaways Corporate strategic planning defines and aligns long-term organizational goals to enhance focus and direction across teams. It ens…

Preboarding is the vital phase that takes place after you accept a job offer but before your first day. This process is designed to engage you and prepare you for your new role, helping you acclimate to the company culture. It’s important since effective preboarding can improve retention rates and promote stronger team dynamics. Comprehending its key components can set the foundation for your success, so let’s explore how to make the most of this important time. Key Takeaways Boarding refers to the process of integrating new employees into an organization, ensuring they understand their roles and company culture. Effective boarding enhances employee engagement, reduci…

Venmo, the popular payment app, has unveiled a new rewards program known as Venmo Stash, aiming to redefine how users benefit from their spending habits. This innovative initiative is particularly relevant for small business owners who are looking to tap into digital payment trends and maximize their customer relationships. Venmo Stash encourages users to engage more deeply with the platform, offering cash back rewards that grow in proportion to their spending and engagement. The program is beneficial not just for individual users, but for small businesses that incorporate Venmo into their payment systems. One of the standout features of Venmo Stash is its simplicity an…

ASUS and AMD jointly introduced the new ASUS Expert P Series commercial PC lineup at the AMD Press Conference during Computex 2025, unveiling a full portfolio of AI-powered desktop, all-in-one, laptop, and mini PC devices designed specifically for small and mid-sized businesses. The lineup includes the ExpertBook P3 laptop series, ExpertCenter P700 and P600 desktops and all-in-ones, and the ExpertCenter PN54 Mini PC—all powered by AMD Ryzen AI 300 Series processors and equipped with Copilot+ capabilities to meet the increasing demands of modern workplaces and AI-driven tasks. “Our partnership with ASUS has been a tremendous success — initially in the consumer and gaming…

When managing inventory, selecting the right tracking program is essential for your business’s efficiency. The top five options—Oracle Fusion Cloud Inventory Management, Cin7, Zoho Inventory, Fishbowl, and Katana—each offer unique features that cater to different needs. For instance, Oracle Fusion shines in real-time visibility, whereas Cin7 automates stock replenishment. Comprehending the strengths of each program can help you make an informed decision. Let’s explore how these systems can optimize your inventory management strategies. Key Takeaways Oracle Fusion Cloud Inventory Management provides real-time visibility and robust demand forecasting, ideal for large en…

The U.S. small business market maintained steady momentum in the first quarter of 2025, according to BizBuySell’s latest Insight Report, with 2,368 businesses sold and a total enterprise value exceeding $2 billion—a 9% increase over Q1 2024. Despite looming uncertainty surrounding new tariffs, deal volume grew 2% quarter-over-quarter, as buyers pursued high-performing businesses and prices climbed 4% to a median sale price of $349,000. Following a dip at the end of 2024, transactions rebounded in January, climbing 4% amid optimism over anticipated tax cuts, lower interest rates, and deregulation. However, policy uncertainty under the new administration soon tempered that…

The onboarding process is essential for integrating new employees into an organization. It involves familiarizing them with the company culture, policies, and their specific roles. This systematic approach includes phases like preboarding and ongoing support, which help new hires adjust more effectively. Comprehending its significance can lead to improved retention and productivity. Nevertheless, what elements make an onboarding program truly effective, and how can organizations innovate their approach to improve the experience? Key Takeaways The onboarding process is a structured approach that helps new employees acclimate to the organization’s culture and policies. …

After spending time at Adobe MAX this year, one announcement stood out for small business owners looking to level up their marketing: the introduction of Adobe Express’s new AI Assistant. I recently sat down with Parimal Deshpande, who leads global product marketing for Adobe Express and Creative Cloud, to unpack what this update really means for entrepreneurs who juggle design, promotion, and operations all at once. Over the past few years, Adobe Express has grown from a simple design app into a complete creative platform for non-designers—people who need professional-looking graphics, ads, and social posts without spending hours learning complicated software. The new A…

Two Florida men have pleaded guilty to federal charges for their roles in a years-long off-the-books payroll scheme that resulted in nearly $10 million in tax losses and enabled the illegal employment of undocumented workers in the construction industry. Michael Mayorga and Francisco Alvarez entered guilty pleas before Magistrate Judge Leslie Hoffman Price of the Middle District of Florida. The pleas must still be accepted by a U.S. district court judge. According to court documents and statements made in court, from 2015 to 2022, Mayorga and Alvarez, along with unnamed co-conspirators, created a network of shell companies through which they operated an unlicensed check…

If you’re looking to streamline your social media strategy, utilizing sample social media calendar templates can be a transformative element. These templates, such as HootSuite’s customizable calendar and HubSpot’s organized solution, provide crucial features that improve your content planning. With options like Content Cal and Smartsheet offering automation and detailed breakdowns, you can enhance your workflow considerably. Explore these tools to find the best fit for your needs and boost your marketing efforts effectively. Key Takeaways HootSuite’s customizable calendar template facilitates planning across multiple platforms, enhancing workflow efficiency for socia…