In a world where every business is screaming for attention like toddlers in a candy store, standing out in a crowded market can feel like trying to find a vegan at a barbecue joint: Frustrating.

As a small business owner, you’ve probably spent many days and nights and weekends banging your head against the wall, wondering how the heck you can elbow your way to the front of the line. You’ve probably tried all of the more “traditional” tactics…so why not give some unconventional strategies a whirl?

Host Unique Events: Say Sayonara to the stale snooze-fest that’s (often) found at traditional networking or company events, and do something that will leave a lasting impression. Whether it's a themed party, a pop-up shop with interactive elements, an interactive scavenger hunt through your town streets, or a guerrilla marketing stunt, think outside the box to create memorable experiences for your audience.

Leverage User-Generated Content: Turn your...

In today's fast-paced business landscape, small businesses need every tool in their arsenal to stay competitive. Enter artificial intelligence (AI)—a game-changer no longer reserved for tech giants. In this post, we'll explore practical ways small businesses can leverage AI to streamline operations and drive growth.

Chatbots for Customer Support:

Picture this: Your inbox is flooded with customer queries, and your phone is ringing off the hook. Sound familiar? Say hello to your new best friend – chatbots. These nifty AI-powered assistants can handle customer inquiries round the clock, providing instant responses and freeing up your time for more pressing matters.

Try these:

• ManyChat
• Chatfuel
• Drift
• Zendesk Chat

Personalized Marketing Campaigns:

Gone are the days of one-size-fits-all marketing. With AI, you can analyze customer data to create hyper-targeted marketing campaigns that speak directly to your audience's interests and preferences. From personalized...

Did you know that approximately 20% of small businesses don't make it past their first year? Yep, you heard that right. And by the time we hit the five-year mark, that number skyrockets to a staggering 50%. Now, those stats might sound a bit doom and gloom, but fear not! Today, we're going to take a look at 15 common reasons why small businesses hit the skids – and, more importantly, how you can steer clear of these pitfalls.

Lack of Planning: Alright, let's start with the basics. Failing to plan is planning to fail, as the old saying goes. Before diving headfirst into the entrepreneurial pool, take the time to craft a solid business plan. 

Tip: Don't just scribble down a rough outline and call it a day. Take the time to dig deep into every aspect of your business – from your target market to your financial projections. Think of your business plan as your GPS; the more detailed it is, the smoother your journey will be. 

Insufficient Capital: Money...

Thinking about starting your own business? Or maybe buying one? 

We say go for it! 

We think everyone should own some type of business. It’s great for extra cash flow and financial security and gives you the opportunity to flex your entrepreneurial skills.

But, as thrilling as it is to be your own boss, let's not sugarcoat it – being a business owner also comes with its fair share of challenges.

In the list below, we’ve compiled ten reasons why being a small biz owner is difficult and tips to overcome them. 

The Hardest Things About Being a Small Business Owner:

Financial Uncertainty: Cash flow can feel like a rollercoaster ride, with peaks and valleys that keep you on edge.

Tip: Create a detailed budget, keep track of expenses religiously, and consider diversifying your revenue streams to mitigate financial risks.

Wearing Many Hats: As a small business owner, you're the CEO, accountant, marketer, customer service rep – you name it!

Tip:...

Dreaming of breaking free from the nine-to-five grind and charting your own path as an entrepreneur? You're not alone. But before you dive headfirst into the world of startups, consider this: purchasing an existing small business might just be the shortcut to success you've been searching for. In this guide, we'll explore why buying beats starting and provide you with a handy checklist to determine if you're ready to take the plunge into small business ownership.

Why Buy Instead of Start?

Seize the Baby Boomer Bonanza:

With Baby Boomers retiring en masse, a massive wave of businesses is hitting the market, many without a clear succession plan in place. This presents a golden opportunity for aspiring entrepreneurs to step in and take the reins of a thriving enterprise without the hassle of building from scratch.

Built-In Infrastructure:

Unlike starting a business from the ground up, purchasing an existing business means inheriting a fully operational infrastructure. From established...

Today, we're gonna talk about everyone's favorite topic (or least favorite topic, depending on your personality): Networking and Collaboration. It's more than just some fancy corporate talk - these practices - when done right - can be powerful tools to help you unlock new opportunities and reach your goals.

Networking and Collaboration: What's the big deal?

Think of your business as a living ecosystem where teaming up with others can boost your potential. Sure, being independent has its perks, but you can achieve so much more through collaboration. By making connections, working with experts in various fields, and seizing collective opportunities, your business can thrive. This is especially important in a competitive environment where you need every advantage you can get. There's a reason farmers plant corn, beans, and squash together; they're all better for it in the end.

To get you started, we’ve put together a list of 10 suggestions to help you expand your network and...

Welcome to the wild world of remote work, where sweatpants are the new power suits, and your living room doubles as your boardroom. As a small business owner, you've likely found yourself thrust into the remote work revolution—whether you were ready for it or not.

In today’s post, we’re going to take a look at the pros and cons from the employee/employer POV, how to determine IF remote work will work for your company, and how to successfully manage remote employees without losing your mind...or your cool.

The Pros and Cons of Remote Work…if you’re the business owner:

Let's start with the good stuff. Remote work means lower overhead costs, fewer office shenanigans to manage, and the ability to hire talent from across the globe without having to shell out for relocation packages. But it's not all rainbows and Zoom calls. Managing remote teams can feel a bit like herding cats, and there's always the risk of your employees turning into productivity-sucking...

Running a small business is like steering a ship through unpredictable waters. Sometimes, you need extra wind in your sails to reach dry land. That's where business funding comes in.

Even if you don't need money at this very moment, that could quickly change. Here are a few reasons your small business may need funding in the near future: 

• Expansion: Ready to spread your wings? Whether opening a new location or entering new markets, expansion costs money.
• Equipment Upgrades: Outdated tools slowing you down? Investing in the right equipment can supercharge your productivity.
• Inventory Boost: Running low on stock? Having a healthy inventory is crucial for meeting customer demand.
• Marketing Blitz: Launching a new product or service? Effective marketing campaigns often come with a price tag.
• Hiring Talent: Growing businesses need skilled hands. Funding can help attract and retain top-notch talent.
• Technology Overhaul: Staying ahead in the digital game? Upgrading your tech arsenal...

Your business credit score is like the report card for your company's financial health. Unlike your personal credit score, anyone with a few dollars to spend and internet access can get their hands on it. (Competitors, clients, vendors, etc.) That number can be used for good (excellent terms, better approval odds, larger loan amounts) and evil (sky-high interest rates, rejections, and so on). 

Want to crank up that score and unlock more opportunities? Do This, Not That.

Do This: Pay Your Bills on Time, Duh!

It's the kindergarten level of credit management, but you'd be surprised how many businesses trip up here. Timely payments not only keep your credit score happy but also avoid unnecessary stress and late payment fees. Be the kid who finishes their homework before bedtime.

Not That: Neglecting Your Personal Credit Score

Your personal and business credit are like peanut butter and jelly – inseparable. Neglecting one can impact the other. Keep both in check to maintain...

Dealing with supply chain issues can be a real headache. You want the stuff. They have the stuff. But the stuff just isn't making its way from them to you. Or not at the rate you need it to.

Today, let's talk about why these hiccups happen and, more importantly, how to shield your business against them. It's no easy feat, but the end goal is to be able to bounce back from any setbacks and emerge stronger.

Decoding Disruptions and Unraveling Causes

Supply chain hiccups often happen unexpectedly and can be caused by a myriad of factors like natural disasters, politics, economic downturns, health crises, and human error (or incompetence). The impact can be far-reaching, affecting your suppliers, manufacturers, and business.

Want to keep your business safe? Know the things that can mess it up. Once you understand what can go wrong, you can come up with a solid plan to protect it.

Three Tips to Shield Your Business BEFORE the Storm Hits

1. Use Diversification as a Shield: Resist the...