Business Ideas and Inspiration

The H-1B visa is a non-immigrant visa category in the United States, allowing U.S. employers to hire foreign workers in specialty occupations temporarily. These occupations typically require specialized knowledge and skills, often in fields such as technology, science, engineering, mathematics, and other related areas. Here, we’ll go over what is an H1B visa and all of the H-1B visa guidelines that small business owners should know before utilizing this option. Understanding the H1B Visa The H-1B visa is a nonimmigrant visa category established by the United States to allow U.S. employers to employ foreign workers in specialty occupations. These occupations typically req…

Understanding the cost of goods sold (COGS) is essential for businesses. It plays a significant role in decisions related to inventory, pricing, and more. But what does it really mean? This article explains what COGS is, how to calculate it, and other important information you should be aware of. What is Cost of Goods Sold? Cost of Goods Sold (COGS) is a critical financial metric for businesses. It directly reflects the cost of producing the goods or services a company sells. Here is an expanded explanation: Definition: The cost of goods sold (COGS) refers to the direct expenses incurred in the production of goods that a company sells. This encompasses the costs of …

Event organizers are in high demand as more and more people want to celebrate life’s special moments. The planning process for an event can be a challenge, but with careful organization, a good event planning checklist, and a few key event planning tips, you can pull off a spectacular event that your guests will never forget. Amazing Event Planning Tips There’s a lot that goes into event planning. Anything from choosing the right space to arranging food and beverages needs to be considered. Additionally, everything needs to go off without a hitch if your event is to be a success. That being said, you can get caught up in the fine details and stress yourself out if you’r…

Whether you’re a musician looking for more control over the publication of your art or an entrepreneur who enjoys working with talent, you can get any small music business ideas off the ground by starting your own record label. And it’s easier than you might think. Read on for everything you need to start your own independent record label. What is a Record Label? A record label is a brand that represents the music of one or more artists. It conducts the business of music, including signing contracts with and promoting musicians, as well as recording, publishing, and distributing their music in physical and electronic formats. While all of these functions are typically c…

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 …

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…

Kapwing has released a study analyzing the best times to post on TikTok, based on data from 15,000 of the most-viewed videos as of December 2024. The study, which examined engagement patterns across 129 hashtags and 11 content categories, provides insights into when creators should post to maximize visibility on the platform. The study found that mornings consistently yielded the highest engagement rates across most time zones, contradicting the common assumption that evenings are the best time to post. “The general findings that mornings were recommended across almost all time zones is interesting,” Kapwing noted. “We think the assumption is to post later in the day wh…

Poshmark has announced the launch of Smart List AI, an artificial intelligence-driven feature designed to simplify and enhance the resale experience for sellers. Set to debut for iOS users in the U.S. and Canada in February 2025, Smart List AI aims to automate listing creation, reducing the time and effort required to sell items on the platform. Smart List AI allows sellers to generate detailed and compelling listings using a single photo, leveraging AI to optimize descriptions and product details. “The introduction of Smart List AI marks a pivotal step in Poshmark’s journey to develop new and practical opportunities for AI to reimagine the secondhand shopping experienc…

Games can help entrepreneurs hone various skills. For example, some games give you access to resources that you must use wisely — similar to how you must manage resources in business. If you’re looking for a resource management game to sharpen your skills in this area, read on for a guide. What is a Resource Management Game? A resource management game is one where the player is given a finite amount of necessary items that they must allocate wisely. For example, How Resource Management Games Could Help You in Business Resource management games aren’t just for fun. Here are some ways they may support your business: Sharpen management skills: Business owners need to get…

This is the ultimate guide to creating a comprehensive and effective plan to start a business. In today’s dynamic business landscape, having a well-crafted business plan is an important first step to securing funding, attracting partners, and navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship. This guide has been designed to help you create a winning plan that stands out in the ever-evolving marketplace. Using real-world examples and a free downloadable template, it will walk you through each step of the process. Whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur or launching your very first startup, the guide will give you the insights, tools, and confidence you need to create a solid …

When composing professional emails, it’s essential to create a positive impression right from the beginning. This involves dedicating time to developing a well-structured message that is clear, concise, and courteous. Let’s first look at 11 different examples of email greetings based on different situations, followed by some helpful tips and FAQs. Before long, you’ll write emails that help you make the best possible impression from the opening line! Email Greetings Examples The following greetings examples illustrate formal and cold email greetings, follow-up email greetings, and more. Formal Email Greeting Formal email greetings are the most common type. They can be u…

Running a business can be a challenging endeavor, and it requires careful attention to various aspects to ensure success. One critical aspect that often goes overlooked is the cleanliness of the business premises. Maintaining a clean and hygienic environment is not only important for the health and well-being of employees and customers, but it also enhances the overall appearance of the business, creating a positive impression. Janitorial supplies are essential items used to maintain the cleanliness and hygiene of your business premises. They include cleaning products like disinfectants, detergents, and sprays, as well as cleaning tools such as mops, brooms, and vacuum c…

Wix just introduced Business Launcher, an AI-powered tool designed to help users transform their skills and experiences into fully developed business ventures. The tool provides a structured, end-to-end approach to business creation, offering personalized recommendations, strategic planning, and essential tools to build an online presence. Business Launcher begins by gathering user input through a brief questionnaire or by analyzing an uploaded resume. The AI then compiles a detailed profile based on work experience, education, skills, and personal interests. Users outline their goals, whether they are exploring a side hustle, a new career path, or a full-time business o…

Music is an indispensable element that elevates the emotional impact of videos. For video producers, finding the right soundtrack can make or break their projects. In this article, we’ll explore 15 valuable resources where you can discover free music for video projects, helping you captivate your audience without breaking the bank. The Importance of Background Music in Video Production Music holds immense significance in video production, particularly on platforms like YouTube. Music should be a big part of your strategy if you’re learning how to use video marketing. Thoughtfully selected music tracks can transform an ordinary YouTube video into a captivating experience,…

Hackers use clickjacking to fool people into downloading malware or revealing confidential information. There’s usually a hidden frame over an innocuous web page. The malicious invisible frame gets activated when users click on the web page. Sensitive data can be stolen and accessed, resulting in reputational and financial harm for small businesses. Additionally, there are penalties associated with data protection laws such as The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). Implementing a content security policy frame offers some effective safeguards. What is Clickjacking? One common clickjacking technique includes the use of a decoy button or link. The user thinks the…

Ever heard the term “recession?” Chances are, your definition is quite different from what economists actually mean when they use the word. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at what a recession is and explore some of the reasons why this economic decline happens. What Does Recession Mean? A recession is a decline in economic activity spread across the economy, lasting more than a few months. Recessions are characterized by a drop in gross domestic product, higher unemployment, and falling prices in financial markets. In the United States, a recession is typically defined as two consecutive quarters of negative economic growth. What Causes a Recession? There isn’…

Starting a new business can come with numerous organizational expenses that can add up quickly. Fortunately, the IRS offers a deduction for startup costs that can help ease the financial burden. In this guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know about startup cost deduction and how to take advantage of it in the future. What is the startup cost deduction? The startup cost deduction is a tax provision that allows entrepreneurs and small business owners to deduct a portion of their startup expenses from their taxable income in the year they begin conducting business. The deduction is intended to help offset the costs involved with starting a business, which can inc…

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…

A confirmation email is useful in various situations. Whether it’s for confirming a restaurant reservation, online or offline events, or other meetings, a confirmation email plays a significant role in the communication strategy. To help you write a thorough confirmation email that includes all the necessary information, you can utilize a confirmation email template. What Is a Confirmation Email? Confirmation emails are used to communicate important information to customers after specific events. There are many types of confirmation emails, including: Restaurant reservation confirmation Order confirmation Webinar confirmation email, including registration confirmation …

Compromised passwords are a leading reason for data breaches. In fact, more than 80% of hacking-related breaches are caused by password-related issues. A strong password policy can help ensure everyone in your business uses strong passwords. So, what is a password policy? How can you create a standard password policy? And what are password policy best practices? Let’s find out below. What Is a Password Policy? A password policy is a set of guidelines to make everyone in a company create a strong password and use them properly to enhance computer security and online security. A standard password policy includes what users need to consider and what they should avoid when…

Starting a business is filled with potential rewards. It gives you the chance to live and work on your own terms, free from bosses or supervisors. Brainstorming and coming up with small business ideas for launching your own enterprise can also provide a sense of meaning and purpose in life. Additionally, it allows you to build a community, create jobs, and make valuable contributions to your local economy. There are a variety of potential small business ideas to explore that could be a right fit for you. A lot of small business ideas will require small funds to start up but will also depend largely on what skills you have as well as your previous knowledge of the busines…

Beginning your journey with Amazon Lending can be a transformative step towards dynamically scaling your small business. With it, you can harness the power and flexibility that comes with partnering with one of the largest e-commerce platforms globally. With “Sell here, borrow here” as your mantra, unlocking the potential of Amazon Lending becomes a breeze. Once you set up a seller’s account with Amazon, you open the gateway to possibly borrowing up to $750,000, providing a substantial financial cushion to innovate, expand, and excel in your entrepreneurial endeavors. This initiative is designed to fuel your business growth, placing the tools for success right at your f…

A growing number of American workers are taking time off for mental and emotional well-being, a practice known as “unhappy leave.” According to a new survey by Sidehustles.com, 60% of employees took unhappy leave in the past year, with support for the policy gaining traction among managers who see it as a tool to improve productivity, job satisfaction, and employee retention. Workers Report Productivity Gains After Unhappy Leave The survey, which included 500 employees and 500 managers, found that employees who take unhappy leave experience significant improvements in their work performance. After stepping away from work for mental health reasons, respondents reported: …

A business email is an incredibly important tool. It helps you keep your personal life separate instead of mixing it all together, and it looks more professional overall. Using business email addresses, you can create a better customer experience for others while also keeping things organized. There are plenty of free business email account options available for you to choose from. In this article, we’ll look at some of the best free business email address options out there and how to get started. How to Create a Business Email Address The steps to create a business email address will vary depending on the email client you are using, but the process tends to be pretty s…

A travel blog is a great way to document your travels, share your experiences, and show the amazing destinations you’re visiting. Becoming a successful travel blogger is all about creating great content for users on a consistent basis. Once you establish a travel blog and a following, you can find ways to monetize it and grow your channel. Let’s go through how to start a travel blog and how to make money blogging. Starting a Travel Blog in 13 Simple Steps Starting your own travel blog isn’t as hard as it might seem. You can create a brand new blog in a few simple steps and optimize for Google search to increase your reach. We’ll go through some of the steps successful tr…