The U.S. Department of Labor recently announced a proposed rule clarifying the definition of “employee” under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) as it relates to independent contractors.

For eons, it was noticeably clear what an “employee” was. If you have a boss, you are an employee. If you can get fired, you are an employee. The gig economy has grayed the line between independent contractor and in-house staffer. Many successful U.S. corporations hinge their every customer interaction based upon this gray area. Hail a cab lately? I know — you try to avoid the extra dry-cleaning bill!

So, its time our big brother south of The Mason Dixon line tells us which side of this line we are on. Note, if you are reading this south of the 39th parallel, enjoy the weather. In a recent press release, the U.S. Department of Labor proposal aims “to bring clarity and consistency to the determination of who is an independent contractor under the...

Avoiding Business Road Rash

By Luigi Rosabianca of Shield Advisory Group

There is no lack of sporting analogies and Team references to business strategy and success. No “i” in Team; Vince Lombardi quotes in board rooms; sports legend as spokesperson; bla bla bla. Yawn.

One sport is not often seen in ‘Team’ terms. Especially on this side of the Pond. Cycling. I cannot imagine another physical endeavor as physically and emotionally taxing of the human body as a cycling grand tour (Tour de France, Il Giro, la Vuelta)- besides starting one’s own business.

This is where my witty analogy starts to take shape so pay close attention.

There are 8 riders in a cycling Team. Various teams in a road race tend to ride in one tight clump called a peloton so everyone gets the benefit of drafting, except for the guy in the lead, of course. He (or she, as the female tours are gaining popularity) is said to be pulling the pack. The puller...

Private vs Public Approaches to Success

By Luigi Rosabianca of Shield Advisory Group

On July 26, 1775, members of the Second Continental Congress, meeting in Philadelphia, agreed…

That a postmaster General be appointed for the United Colonies, who shall hold his office at Philadelphia, and shall be allowed a salary of 1000 dollars per annum: for himself, and 340 dollars per an: for a secretary and Comptroller, with power to appoint such, and so many deputies as to him may seem proper and necessary. That a line of posts be appointed under the direction of the Postmaster general, from Falmouth in New England to Savannah in Georgia, with as many cross posts as he shall think fit.

This simple statement signaled the birth of the Post Office Department, the predecessor of the U.S. Postal Service. Our Founding Fathers appreciated the need for an expedient mail delivery service for the promotion of business and communications. Over the next century, the U.S. Post Office was...

One Doesn't Go to a Shoemaker to Hem One’s Trousers.

Many small business owners started their companies to pursue their passions: designing jewelry, helping care for people, opening a restaurant, even starting an online store or manufacturing company. Then they start wearing numerous hats: CEO, marketing, product development, supply chain, and sales. Who has time for all this? Moreover, in this current environment, who has the tolerance for in-person, sit-down meetings where an hourglass is turned?

Advisors now, more than ever, need to take a personalized approach to supporting small business owners solve unique problems that hinder growth. Blanket solutions that feign to cure all ails are no longer viable. A bespoke, customized solution is essential.

Shield Advisory Group is keenly positioned to address these varied concerns as they arise.

Shield Advisory Group specializes in getting our clients access to credit and capital at the best rates and terms available.

Our team...