Getting Started

To excel in sales skills training, you need to master five fundamental techniques that can markedly improve your effectiveness. Comprehending product benefits and customer needs is vital, as is developing active listening and empathy to build trust. Furthermore, you must emphasize adaptability in a dynamic market and focus on cultivating strong relationships for long-term engagement. Finally, incorporating effective communication and negotiation strategies will further raise your performance. Discover how each technique can transform your approach. Key Takeaways Focus on understanding product features and customer benefits to tailor sales pitches effectively. Develop …

As the digital landscape evolves, Cisco is stepping up to empower its partners, particularly small businesses, with the new Cisco 360 Partner Program set to launch on January 25, 2026. This program is designed to enhance customer value and profitability, making it an exciting opportunity for small business owners eager to leverage new technologies, particularly in the realm of artificial intelligence (AI). At the recent Cisco Partner Summit in San Diego, executives revealed how the Cisco 360 Partner Program seeks to transform the way partners can engage with customers and gain financial rewards. Over 20 years in the making, it is not just about recognition; it’s about eq…

When you’re looking to purchase craft supplies online, several retailers stand out for their extensive offerings and unique features. Amazon is known for its vast selection and prompt shipping, whereas Michaels frequently provides seasonal items and discounts. Joann specializes in fabric, and Hobby Lobby features a wide array of materials with regular sales. Etsy connects you with handmade supplies from small businesses. Other notable options include Blick Art Materials and Walmart. Each store has its strengths, making your choice important for your crafting needs. Key Takeaways Amazon offers a vast selection of craft supplies with fast shipping options for Prime memb…

In an age where remote work and cyber threats are increasingly prevalent, small business owners face a daunting task: how to manage and secure their IT infrastructure efficiently. Intel’s latest innovation—Intel vPro® Fleet Services—aims to revolutionize this landscape by providing a cloud-based management solution through Microsoft Intune, making it easier for businesses to tackle IT challenges head-on. Intel vPro Fleet Services marks a significant development in device management, integrating silicon-based fleet management directly within the Intune platform. This advancement simplifies remote management, allowing IT teams to monitor, secure, and address challenges wit…

In regards to employee training and development, implementing effective strategies is essential for organizational success. Start by identifying your training needs through skills gap analyses and engaging with staff to understand their performance. Setting realistic goals helps in measuring progress, whereas diverse training methods cater to different learning styles. Regularly evaluating and adjusting your strategies can lead to continuous improvement. These foundational steps pave the way for a robust training program that adapts to evolving market demands. What’s next? Key Takeaways Conduct regular skills gap analyses to align training with current and future organi…

Cisco recently unveiled its latest innovation, Cisco IQ, at the Cisco Partner Summit held in San Diego, aiming to revolutionize how businesses manage their technology investments. In an age where operational agility is paramount, Cisco IQ promises to deliver real-time insights and streamline operations, addressing the urgent needs of small business owners navigating an increasingly complex digital landscape. With technology challenges on the rise, Cisco IQ emerges as a comprehensive solution, combining real-time insights, on-demand assessments, and personalized learning into a single AI-powered interface. Liz Centoni, Executive Vice President and Chief Customer Experienc…

As small business owners, we often wear more hats than we can count — designer, marketer, accountant, customer service rep, and everything in between. Balancing creativity with the demands of running a business can feel like walking a tightrope without a net. I know that feeling firsthand, and it’s one reason I was drawn to my recent conversation with Amanda Stewart, the founder of Mochi Kids. Amanda has built her brand from a handful of handmade T-shirts into a beloved children’s clothing company known for its minimalist design and inclusive themes — all while managing operations, production, and marketing largely on her own. During our discussion at Adobe MAX 2025, Ama…

Identifying the owners, or shareholders, of a corporation is essential for comprehending its governance and structure. You can start by examining the stock ledger, which records all issued shares and their holders. For publicly traded companies, annual reports and proxy statements filed with the SEC reveal significant shareholders, typically those owning over 5% of shares. These documents not just show ownership distribution but additionally highlight voting rights and corporate governance. So, how do these elements connect to shareholder rights? Key Takeaways Review the corporation’s stock ledger to see a record of all issued shares and their respective owners. Check…

If you want to close more deals, comprehending effective sales strategies is essential. Start by actively listening to your customers and addressing their specific pain points. Highlight your product’s value with testimonials, and learn how to differentiate yourself from competitors. Use visuals to improve your message and be prepared to overcome objections with empathy. By grasping what motivates your customers, you can encourage decision-making. Explore these seven secrets to boost your sales success. Key Takeaways Actively listen to customers to uncover their true pain points and tailor your approach accordingly. Use empathy to address objections, validating concerns…

At the SAP TechEd 2025 event in Berlin, SAP SE unveiled groundbreaking innovations aimed at empowering developers and revolutionizing the integration of business data and artificial intelligence (AI) into real-world applications. Small business owners should take note: these advancements could provide significant opportunities for growth, efficiency, and innovation. SAP’s new offerings within the SAP Build solution are designed to enhance how developers create and automate applications. The latest features provide the autonomy to leverage popular development environments and tools, which can potentially reduce development time and costs—key considerations for small busin…

Comprehending franchise agreements is vital for anyone considering franchise ownership. These agreements outline the relationship between franchisors and franchisees, detailing rights, obligations, and financial commitments. Familiarizing yourself with different types of agreements, key elements like trademark usage, and important clauses can greatly impact your success. As you explore these aspects, you’ll be better equipped to make informed decisions and manage your investment effectively. What might you overlook that could shape your franchise expedition? Key Takeaways Familiarize yourself with different types of franchise agreements, including single-unit, multi-u…

When you’re looking to stock up on wholesale craft supplies, knowing the right places to shop can make a significant difference. Stores like Michaels Pro and American Crafts offer extensive selections that cater to various crafting needs. If you prefer flexibility with no minimum orders, Gifts Intl might be the right choice for you. Each of these retailers has unique strengths, making it crucial to explore your options. Let’s look at the top stores that can meet your crafting demands effectively. Key Takeaways Michaels Pro enables bulk orders without a wholesale account, providing same-day shipping on a wide range of crafting supplies. American Crafts requires a minim…

In an age where agility and innovation are critical for business survival, the recent advancements from Google showcase how small businesses can leverage AI to enhance their operations. Google’s latest integrations and updates promise to transform workflows, improve efficiency, and elevate creative output. The introduction of the Gemini 2.5 Computer Use model is a game changer for developers working on AI applications. Designed specifically for user interaction, this model allows AI agents to seamlessly navigate websites, fill out forms, and perform other complex tasks. Fast performance and improved accuracy make it a compelling option for businesses looking to optimize …

When managing marketing campaigns, having the right tools is vital for success. There are five fundamental marketing calendar tools that can streamline your processes and improve collaboration. Each tool offers unique features customized to specific marketing needs. For example, Wrike shines in shared team calendars, whereas Klaviyo focuses on email and SMS campaigns. Comprehending these tools can notably impact your marketing strategy, so let’s explore what each one has to offer. Key Takeaways Wrike offers flexible calendar views for identifying key marketing dates, suitable for various types of campaigns, with integration capabilities for team collaboration. Klaviyo…

In a significant announcement for small business owners, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) revealed that it delivered over $6 billion in assistance to disaster survivors during Fiscal Year 2025. This funding, aimed at homeowners, renters, and business owners impacted by disasters like hurricanes and wildfires, represents a pivotal resource for small enterprises striving to recover and rebuild in the face of adversity. U.S. SBA Administrator Kelly Loeffler made the announcement following her disaster visit to Alaska, highlighting the agency’s role as the federal government’s largest disaster lender. “The The President SBA is standing shoulder-to-shoulder with d…

HR Solutions Software is a thorough suite of tools intended to improve various human resource functions, such as recruitment, onboarding, and payroll management. By centralizing employee data and automating processes, it minimizes errors and boosts efficiency. For instance, automated tracking can streamline hiring, whereas data analytics aids in informed decision-making. Comprehending its features and benefits can greatly impact your organization’s productivity and employee engagement. Let’s explore how to select the right software for your needs. Key Takeaways HR Solutions Software streamlines and automates HR functions, enhancing organizational efficiency and reduci…

A business registration address is the official location where your business is registered, and it plays an important role in your overall operations. It’s where legal documents and important communications are sent, ensuring you comply with local regulations. Having a legitimate physical address improves your business’s credibility and professionalism, as well as protecting your privacy. Comprehending the implications of this address is vital for smooth business management, but there’s more to think about regarding maintaining this aspect effectively. Key Takeaways A business registration address is the official location where a business is registered, essential for …

Creating a winning sales strategy is crucial for aligning your sales efforts with your business goals. It starts with defining clear, measurable objectives and identifying your target customers through effective segmentation. By selecting the right selling channels and building a streamlined sales process, you’ll guarantee a steady flow of leads. Monitoring your pipeline health and adjusting your approach based on data-driven insights will keep you agile. But what specific steps can you take to implement this strategy effectively? Key Takeaways Set SMART sales goals that align with business objectives and adjust them based on performance and market changes. Identify a…

Small business owners might feel a twinge of unease as the NFIB Small Business Optimism Index shows a slight decline for October, moving down 0.6 points to 98.2. While this figure remains above the long-term average of 98, it highlights the challenges that businesses face, particularly in navigating labor shortages and fluctuating sales. This ongoing uncertainty necessitates a closer examination of the current landscape. Bill Dunkelberg, NFIB’s Chief Economist, commented on the findings, stating, “Optimism among small businesses declined slightly in October as owners report lower sales and reduced profits.” His insights reveal a significant concern for owners: Despite a …

If you’re exploring franchising opportunities, you’ll find several companies that stand out in the market. From The UPS Store‘s reliable courier services to Chick-fil-A‘s exceptional customer service, each brand offers unique advantages. Other notable options include Papa John’s and McDonald’s, which emphasize quality and innovation. As you consider your investment, it’s essential to weigh these factors carefully. Next, let’s look at the other franchises that could be a great fit for your business ambitions. Key Takeaways The UPS Store: Offers extensive support and a strong community presence, with startup costs ranging from $240,959 to $508,472. Chick-fil-A: Known for …

Starting a product line requires a clear strategy that begins with identifying your target audience. You’ll need to understand their specific needs and challenges. Conducting market research is critical, as it helps reveal gaps in the market and informs your unique selling proposition. By developing a solid marketing strategy and pricing plan, you’ll set the stage for a successful launch. Next, you’ll want to focus on product testing and performance evaluation to guarantee your line meets customer expectations. Key Takeaways Define your target audience by identifying demographics and pain points to tailor your product line effectively. Conduct thorough market research…

Visa and Transcard have unveiled an innovative partnership aimed at revolutionizing the freight and logistics industry through advanced embedded finance solutions. This collaboration will provide small businesses in this sector with a streamlined approach to payments and working capital management, enhancing operational agility. Visa—a global leader in digital payments—has teamed up with Transcard to create a next-generation embedded finance platform. This platform aims to empower freight forwarders and airline carriers using WebCargo by Freightos, a notable digital booking and payments system in the industry. By leveraging Visa’s vast experience in commercial solutions …

In today’s digital world, infographics play an essential role in communicating complex information clearly and efficiently. They combine visuals, data, and concise text to break down intricate topics, making them easier to understand. This visual format not merely improves audience engagement but likewise promotes information retention, which can greatly impact marketing efforts. As you explore further, consider how various types of infographics can serve specific purposes and raise your content strategy effectively. Key Takeaways Infographics simplify complex information, enhancing understanding and retention for audiences in a fast-paced digital environment. Their vis…

Workday, a leader in enterprise AI solutions, has strengthened its offerings significantly by acquiring Sana, a trailblazer in enterprise knowledge tools powered by artificial intelligence. This strategic move aims to redefine the employee experience by integrating Sana’s innovative features directly into Workday’s platform. The goal? To create the “new front door for work,” which small businesses should pay attention to as they seek ways to streamline operations and enhance employee productivity. This acquisition comes at a pivotal time when small businesses increasingly rely on technology to manage their human resources, finances, and operations efficiently. With the c…

As an aspiring entrepreneur, you need to grasp fundamental small business advice that can steer your venture toward success. Staying organized is vital; it involves managing financial records and utilizing project management tools effectively. Furthermore, you must learn to be flexible, adapting to market changes and customer feedback. These foundational steps pave the way for automating tasks and prioritizing customer service, yet there’s more to explore that can enhance your business even further. Key Takeaways Stay organized by maintaining accurate financial records and using project management tools to enhance productivity and collaboration. Be flexible in adaptin…