Blog

Unlike full-time employment, many small business owners do not have the luxury of calling in sick as their business operations depend on their presence. Some emergency planning ahead of time will ease the anxiety when life happens and you need time off work. 1. Have someone (or several people) who you can rely on to […]

Getting involved in the community can be a win-win situation in business. You showcase your business as being “socially aware” and you feel good about it. The most important thing for a business to remember is that most customers buy from people they know, like and trust. Creating a “community” and interacting with that community […]

Few businesses are lucky to be so unique that media naturally gravitate to them on a regular basis. For the rest of us, it requires a bit more knowledge and skill to practice good media relations. The CNW Group recently hosted a panel in Toronto with three online experts. They provided some valuable tips on […]

Human resources is part of the larger business strategy in a small business. Recruitment and employee training has to fit in with the business culture. There are several points to consider while deciding on the HR strategy for your business. 1. RecruitmentKnow what you are hiring for. Use lots of behavioural interviewing questions – otherwise […]

Strategic alliances can lead to business growth when business owners rally to achieve a mutually beneficial outcome.  One recent tourism industry success story is of sixteen operators downtown Nanaimo that came together under the banner of the Painted Turtle Guesthouse’s ‘Stay & Save’ program to increase overall visitor numbers, increase local visitor spending, and increase […]

Word of mouth marketing is a true grass roots and organic form of marketing, based on our natural desire to share our experiences with family, friends, and colleagues. If we have a great experience we are proud to share the information and promote that business to an average of 9 people. Do you know how […]

Music is one of the truly universal things that make people feel good all over the world. It also sells – ideas, services, products. The value of music to business owners is obvious and, in some cases, integral to their success. Imagine a dance club or an aerobics program without music. In restaurants, music helps […]

Have you noticed how many vehicles have vinyl letters on their rear window or bumper? For small businesses, this has been a great way for them to get exposure wherever they go. For as low as $50, your website address can become a moving billboard. It’s funny when you see beat-up vans or trucks with […]

Fact: Networking is essential to the growth of our business. OK, we agree with this fact but how do we connect with the ‘right’ people? Since many decision makers rarely attend local networking events, how do we build rapport with them if they’re not there? You can keep attending the many events around town, sampling […]

If you have ever been asked to speak in front of a group, you likely know the fear that experience can bring on.  Whether public speaking or making a presentation, you want to craft a meaningful message and deliver it to create results for your audience. Here are some strategies and tips for a powerful […]