Family businesses account for two-thirds of all companies worldwide and create 50 to 80 percent of jobs in most countries, according to the Family Firm Institute, a global association of family-business professionals. This isn’t just good for the economy. Family founders stand to benefit from a ready-made team of loyal, dedicated relatives, a pool of […]
Many companies invest heavily to perfect their product development process, hoping the result will entice customers to buy. But most entrepreneurs overlook market trends that could attract more customers and sustain their sales. When it comes to business, it’s all about making data-driven decisions and implementing the right strategies to increase your growth rate. First, you must validate your ideas and […]
Summer is here which means warmer weather, plenty of pool time, vacations, and, for many promotional products distributors, the dreaded “slow season.” In fact, if you ask any distributor in the industry to pinpoint their least effective selling months, they will likely identify July and August as the culprits. Read more
Mobile marketing is the “in” thing, and more and more companies are taking advantage. If your brand isn’t one of them, you need to get on the bandwagon soon — or you’ll be left far behind your competitors. Here are seven reasons why marketing managers and CMOs must make mobile marketing a priority. Read more
It never ceases to amaze me how much time people waste searching endlessly for magic shortcuts to entrepreneurial success and fulfillment when the only real path is staring them right in the face: real entrepreneurs who start real businesses that employ real people who provide real products and services to real customers. Yes, I know […]
In my angel investor mode, I often find myself flipping to the “management” section of a business plan, even before I read the solution description and opportunity. Imagine my lack of excitement if that section is missing, or it’s basically a list of names and titles that I don’t recognize. To win, you need to […]
One of the simplest and smartest ways to establish a positive business credit history is by using a business credit card. Like a personal credit card, a business credit card offers you a revolving line of credit with a set credit limit. This means that as soon as you pay it off, you can use […]
When you’re launching your business, connecting with customers and refining your product or service are top priorities. But another thing you should consider, which isn’t always top of mind, is your security strategy. It is an integral part of your company’s longevity, and to be the most effective, it should be a part of your […]
It could have been a giant cinderblock. It certainly would have cost less and would have served the same general purpose. Soon to rise in Varansi, India, is a breathtaking structure to house silk artisans. Designed by celebrity architect David Adjaye, the facility will reflect Buddhist-Moghul-Hindu architecture and the values of the area. A 500-year […]
One of my favorite TV shows is Pawn Stars, because it gives you a chance to see the art of deal-making over and over. It also teaches an important lesson for business owners: When you’re thinking of selling your business, know what it is worth. It’s interesting to me that when people come in to […]
