Small Business: Canada: Most Popular Articles
These articles are the most popular over the last month.
Executive Summary Example
Writing an executive summary for your business plan? Here’s an executive summary example that you can use as a model.
Writing an executive summary for your business plan? Here’s an executive summary example that you can use as a model.
8 Rules of Customer Service
Good customer service is the lifeblood of any business. You can bring in as many new customers as you want, but unless you can get some of those customers to come back, your business won’t be profitable for long. These 8 simple rules will ensure that your business becomes known for its good customer service and allow you to reap the benefits that good customer service provides.
Good customer service is the lifeblood of any business. You can bring in as many new customers as you want, but unless you can get some of those customers to come back, your business won’t be profitable for long. These 8 simple rules will ensure that your business becomes known for its good customer service and allow you to reap the benefits that good customer service provides.
Writing Executive Summary
The executive summary will be the first thing the readers of the business plan read. If your business plan’s executive summary is poorly written, it will also be the last, as they set the rest of your business plan aside unread! Here’s how to write an executive summary that will get the rest of your business plan read.
The executive summary will be the first thing the readers of the business plan read. If your business plan’s executive summary is poorly written, it will also be the last, as they set the rest of your business plan aside unread! Here’s how to write an executive summary that will get the rest of your business plan read.
Business Plan Outline
Writing a business plan? This business plan outline has an explanation of each section to help you write a business plan and links to articles detailing how to write each business plan section.
Writing a business plan? This business plan outline has an explanation of each section to help you write a business plan and links to articles detailing how to write each business plan section.
Leadership Definition
This leadership definition includes a brief explanation of the main leadership skills and a discussion of how leadership applies to business.
This leadership definition includes a brief explanation of the main leadership skills and a discussion of how leadership applies to business.
Time Management Tips
Hone your time management skills with these 11 time management tips. Learn how to come to grips with the time management myth and take control of your time to be more organized and productive.
Hone your time management skills with these 11 time management tips. Learn how to come to grips with the time management myth and take control of your time to be more organized and productive.
Sample Invoice
Once you've sold the product or provided the service, it's invoice time. Here's what information has to be on your invoice and a sample invoice that you can use as an invoice template.
Once you've sold the product or provided the service, it's invoice time. Here's what information has to be on your invoice and a sample invoice that you can use as an invoice template.
Good Customer Service
Want to provide good customer service? The first secret of good customer service is how to build business to customer loyalty.
Want to provide good customer service? The first secret of good customer service is how to build business to customer loyalty.
Executive Summary
What is an executive summary? This executive summary definition includes information on writing a business plan executive summary and a link to an executive summary example.
What is an executive summary? This executive summary definition includes information on writing a business plan executive summary and a link to an executive summary example.
Customer Service Definition
A definition of customer service and customer service resources for small business owners.
A definition of customer service and customer service resources for small business owners.
Business Opportunities 2009
What are the best business opportunities of 2009? Those business opportunities that focus on supplying consumer necessities and, of course, those business opportunities that meet the needs of particular niches. Here are my predictions for the best business opportunities for 2009.
What are the best business opportunities of 2009? Those business opportunities that focus on supplying consumer necessities and, of course, those business opportunities that meet the needs of particular niches. Here are my predictions for the best business opportunities for 2009.
Digital Voice Recorders
Looking for a digital voice recorder? Get organized and record and transfer information to your PC with ease with these top digital voice recorders.
Looking for a digital voice recorder? Get organized and record and transfer information to your PC with ease with these top digital voice recorders.
Vision Statement Definition
What is a vision statement and how do you get started creating a vision statement? This vision statement definition includes tips for crafting one and an example of a vision statement.
What is a vision statement and how do you get started creating a vision statement? This vision statement definition includes tips for crafting one and an example of a vision statement.
Target Marketing
What is target marketing? This target marketing definition explains and outlines the basics of market segmentation.
What is target marketing? This target marketing definition explains and outlines the basics of market segmentation.
Cold Calling Tips
Does the thought of cold calling leave you cold? Cold calling is an effective sales tactic if it's done properly. These cold calling tips will help you make cold calling a more successful experience.
Does the thought of cold calling leave you cold? Cold calling is an effective sales tactic if it's done properly. These cold calling tips will help you make cold calling a more successful experience.
Sample Business Invitation
Feel free to customize this sample business invitation letter and use it to invite people to serve on your own small business advisory board.
Feel free to customize this sample business invitation letter and use it to invite people to serve on your own small business advisory board.
Financial Plan
How to write the financial plan section of the business plan, with instructions for writing each of the three financial statements needed for this part of the business plan, the income statement, cash flow projection and balance sheet.
How to write the financial plan section of the business plan, with instructions for writing each of the three financial statements needed for this part of the business plan, the income statement, cash flow projection and balance sheet.
Mission Statement Definition
What is a mission statement and how does a mission statement differ from a vision statement? This mission statement definition also includes several mission statement samples.
What is a mission statement and how does a mission statement differ from a vision statement? This mission statement definition also includes several mission statement samples.
7 Inexpensive Business Ideas
Want to start a business but don’t have a lot of money to invest or time to invest in developing specialized skills? Then you’ll want to have a look at this list of business ideas for profitable businesses you can start inexpensively and quickly. And all of these business ideas will work as home-based businesses, too.
Want to start a business but don’t have a lot of money to invest or time to invest in developing specialized skills? Then you’ll want to have a look at this list of business ideas for profitable businesses you can start inexpensively and quickly. And all of these business ideas will work as home-based businesses, too.
Business Promotion
Business promotion doesn't have to be expensive to be effective. Get the word out about your business with these ten business promotion techniques that are effective and inexpensive. This first page of this 5 part article tells how to be sure every piece of paper your business sends out is a business promotion tool.
Business promotion doesn't have to be expensive to be effective. Get the word out about your business with these ten business promotion techniques that are effective and inexpensive. This first page of this 5 part article tells how to be sure every piece of paper your business sends out is a business promotion tool.
Business Plan Market Analysis
Need to know how to write a business plan? These instructions explain how to define your target market and write the Market Analysis section of the business plan, with guiding questions to make writing a business plan easier.
Need to know how to write a business plan? These instructions explain how to define your target market and write the Market Analysis section of the business plan, with guiding questions to make writing a business plan easier.
Mastering Your Filing System
Learn how to set up a filing system that helps you work swiftly and efficiently with these filing tips and tricks.
Learn how to set up a filing system that helps you work swiftly and efficiently with these filing tips and tricks.
Phone Answering Tips
How you answer the phone says a great deal about your business. Use these telephone answering tips to ensure that callers know they're dealing with a winning business.
How you answer the phone says a great deal about your business. Use these telephone answering tips to ensure that callers know they're dealing with a winning business.
Sample Vision Statements
Looking for sample vision statements? Here’s a page of sample vision statements to inspire you.
Looking for sample vision statements? Here’s a page of sample vision statements to inspire you.
6 Ways to Increase Sales
Shifting your sales focus to enticing your current customers can make increasing your sales easier – and best of all, build the customer loyalty that results in repeat sales. Learn how with these six sure ways to increase sales.
Shifting your sales focus to enticing your current customers can make increasing your sales easier – and best of all, build the customer loyalty that results in repeat sales. Learn how with these six sure ways to increase sales.
Customer Service Tips
The big money isn't as much in winning customers as in keeping customers - and the key to keeping customers is the level of customer service you provide. Liz Tahir presents ten customer service tips that will keep them coming back.
The big money isn't as much in winning customers as in keeping customers - and the key to keeping customers is the level of customer service you provide. Liz Tahir presents ten customer service tips that will keep them coming back.
Home Business Opportunities
Are you one of the many people searching for a hot home business opportunity? Then this list of the best home business opportunities may be just what you're looking for. These home business opportunities are the best because of their potential right now and because there's only going to be a growing demand for these products and services in the future.
Are you one of the many people searching for a hot home business opportunity? Then this list of the best home business opportunities may be just what you're looking for. These home business opportunities are the best because of their potential right now and because there's only going to be a growing demand for these products and services in the future.
3 Ratios for Health
How healthy is your business? Some basic ratio analysis will tell the story. Calculating these three financial ratios will let you check your business’s current temperature, diagnose potential problems, and see if your business is doing better or worse over time.
How healthy is your business? Some basic ratio analysis will tell the story. Calculating these three financial ratios will let you check your business’s current temperature, diagnose potential problems, and see if your business is doing better or worse over time.
Cash Flow Analysis Definition
A definition of cash flow and an explanation of cash flow analysis for small business owners.
A definition of cash flow and an explanation of cash flow analysis for small business owners.
17 Advertising Ideas
Word-of-mouth is great small business advertising but it's slow. These seventeen advertising ideas - both the tried and true and advertising ideas you may not have tried yet - will let you grow your customer base much more quickly.
Word-of-mouth is great small business advertising but it's slow. These seventeen advertising ideas - both the tried and true and advertising ideas you may not have tried yet - will let you grow your customer base much more quickly.
Marketing Plan
Developing a marketing plan? Learn how to put together a marketing plan step by step, starting with developing a Unique Selling Proposition for your products or services. The marketing plan also covers pricing strategy, your sales distribution plan and your advertising and promotions plan.
Developing a marketing plan? Learn how to put together a marketing plan step by step, starting with developing a Unique Selling Proposition for your products or services. The marketing plan also covers pricing strategy, your sales distribution plan and your advertising and promotions plan.
Find Your Target Market
The first step of an effective marketing strategy is to find and sell to your target market. Marilyn Guille explains how to identify your target market and how to zero in on your target market by using market segmentation.
The first step of an effective marketing strategy is to find and sell to your target market. Marilyn Guille explains how to identify your target market and how to zero in on your target market by using market segmentation.
Sales Forecasting
Sales forecasting is especially difficult when you don’t have any previous sales history to guide you, as is the case when you’re working on preparing cash flow projections as part of writing a business plan. Here, Terry Elliott provides a detailed explanation of how to use three methods of sales forecasting.
Sales forecasting is especially difficult when you don’t have any previous sales history to guide you, as is the case when you’re working on preparing cash flow projections as part of writing a business plan. Here, Terry Elliott provides a detailed explanation of how to use three methods of sales forecasting.
5 Leadership Keys
Without leadership, the ship that is your small business will aimlessly circle and eventually run out of power or run aground. These five keys of leadership will help you transform yourself into a leader.
Without leadership, the ship that is your small business will aimlessly circle and eventually run out of power or run aground. These five keys of leadership will help you transform yourself into a leader.
Create a Business Name
Choosing a business name is one of the most important things you’ll do during the process of starting a business. These five rules for choosing a business name will help you create a business name that’s easy for your customers to remember and good for business promotion too.
Choosing a business name is one of the most important things you’ll do during the process of starting a business. These five rules for choosing a business name will help you create a business name that’s easy for your customers to remember and good for business promotion too.
Shiny Customer Service
Providing customer service that outshines the customer service your competitors offer can give your business a powerful edge. Here are four ways to provide customer service that shines - and will keep your customers coming back.
Providing customer service that outshines the customer service your competitors offer can give your business a powerful edge. Here are four ways to provide customer service that shines - and will keep your customers coming back.
Buying a Digital Recorder
Thinking of buying a digital voice recorder? Here are the features to look for to help you choose the digital voice recorder that's best for your business needs.
Thinking of buying a digital voice recorder? Here are the features to look for to help you choose the digital voice recorder that's best for your business needs.
Breakeven Analysis Definition
Definition of business term breakeven analysis and how to do a breakeven analysis to determine pricing.
Definition of business term breakeven analysis and how to do a breakeven analysis to determine pricing.
Christmas Window Display
An attractive Christmas window display can be a real customer draw, luring customers into your store who might not have stopped otherwise – customers who are in a festive, spending mood. Use these five Christmas window display tips to create your own Christmas window display.
An attractive Christmas window display can be a real customer draw, luring customers into your store who might not have stopped otherwise – customers who are in a festive, spending mood. Use these five Christmas window display tips to create your own Christmas window display.
Niche Market Definition
Definition of term niche market and an explanation of how to capitalize on a niche market for small business owners.
Definition of term niche market and an explanation of how to capitalize on a niche market for small business owners.
Business Ideas
Sometimes the hardest part of starting a business is coming up with a business idea. Follow the links on this page to find small business ideas and home based ideas that will get you over the business ideas hurdle and onto actually starting your new business.
Sometimes the hardest part of starting a business is coming up with a business idea. Follow the links on this page to find small business ideas and home based ideas that will get you over the business ideas hurdle and onto actually starting your new business.
Marketing Strategy
How to kickstart your sales and marketing by creating an effective sales and marketing strategy.
How to kickstart your sales and marketing by creating an effective sales and marketing strategy.
Choosing A Type of Business
If you want to start a business, there's a world of bewildering possibilities out there. This five-step plan will lead you through the decision making process for figuring out what type of business you truly want to start.
If you want to start a business, there's a world of bewildering possibilities out there. This five-step plan will lead you through the decision making process for figuring out what type of business you truly want to start.
Accounting Software
These top selling accounting software programs for small business simplify your small business accounting tasks, and provide all the reports and tools you need to effectively use your financial data.
These top selling accounting software programs for small business simplify your small business accounting tasks, and provide all the reports and tools you need to effectively use your financial data.
Write a Vision Statement
A vision statement is your ticket to success as the vision statement provides the inspiration for both your daily operations and your strategic decisions. Here's how to write a vision statement in three easy steps.
A vision statement is your ticket to success as the vision statement provides the inspiration for both your daily operations and your strategic decisions. Here's how to write a vision statement in three easy steps.
How To Get A Business Loan
Looking for a small business loan? Increase your chances of securing a small business loan by having these documents ready to go with your business loan application.
Looking for a small business loan? Increase your chances of securing a small business loan by having these documents ready to go with your business loan application.
PowerPoint Presentations
Is giving PowerPoint presentations part of your job or business? Learn how to give effective PowerPoint presentations with these PowerPoint presentation tips.
Is giving PowerPoint presentations part of your job or business? Learn how to give effective PowerPoint presentations with these PowerPoint presentation tips.
Business Christmas Cards
Not only are Christmas cards a tradition, but sending a business Christmas card lets your clients and/or customers know that they are important to you. Here are the ins and outs of choosing and sending business Christmas cards, including what kinds of cards to send and how to properly address business Christmas cards.
Not only are Christmas cards a tradition, but sending a business Christmas card lets your clients and/or customers know that they are important to you. Here are the ins and outs of choosing and sending business Christmas cards, including what kinds of cards to send and how to properly address business Christmas cards.
Marketing Definition
What is marketing? This marketing definition explains and outlines the marketing basics that are the key components of a marketing plan for any business.
What is marketing? This marketing definition explains and outlines the marketing basics that are the key components of a marketing plan for any business.
Starting a Business Steps
Starting a business in Canada? Use this guide to the steps you need to follow when starting a business in Canada to find the information you need and to be sure you don't overlook anything you need to do when starting a business.
Starting a business in Canada? Use this guide to the steps you need to follow when starting a business in Canada to find the information you need and to be sure you don't overlook anything you need to do when starting a business.
Selling on eBay
Becoming an eBay seller lets you get into e-commerce without having to go through the trouble and expense of setting up an e-commerce site of your own. These seven eBay selling tips will help you get started selling on eBay successfully and get on your way to becoming an eBay PowerSeller.
Becoming an eBay seller lets you get into e-commerce without having to go through the trouble and expense of setting up an e-commerce site of your own. These seven eBay selling tips will help you get started selling on eBay successfully and get on your way to becoming an eBay PowerSeller.
Should You Incorporate?
Many small businesses think of incorporating, but there are incorporation advantages and disadvantages. Here's an outline of the advantages of incorporating your small business.
Many small businesses think of incorporating, but there are incorporation advantages and disadvantages. Here's an outline of the advantages of incorporating your small business.
Operating Plan
This part of the Writing A Business Plan article series explains how to write the operating plan section of the business plan. Learn how to describe your business' stage of development and production process in the business plan.
This part of the Writing A Business Plan article series explains how to write the operating plan section of the business plan. Learn how to describe your business' stage of development and production process in the business plan.
Business Registration Ontario
A business registration guide for registering a sole proprietorship, partnership or corporation in Ontario, Canada.
A business registration guide for registering a sole proprietorship, partnership or corporation in Ontario, Canada.
Buying a Multifunction Printer
Thinking of buying a multifunction printer for your small or home office? Here are the multifunction printer features to look for to help you choose the multifunction printer that's best for your business.
Thinking of buying a multifunction printer for your small or home office? Here are the multifunction printer features to look for to help you choose the multifunction printer that's best for your business.
CRM Definition
A definition of customer relationship management (CRM) and an explanation of CRM processes for small business owners.
A definition of customer relationship management (CRM) and an explanation of CRM processes for small business owners.
Write a Mission Statement
The mission statement articulates the company's purpose. It announces to the world at large why your company exists. Here's how to write a mission statement and some sample mission statements.
The mission statement articulates the company's purpose. It announces to the world at large why your company exists. Here's how to write a mission statement and some sample mission statements.
Management Plan
Writing a business plan? Here's how to describe your internal management team, your external management resources and your human resources needs in the management plan section of the business plan.
Writing a business plan? Here's how to describe your internal management team, your external management resources and your human resources needs in the management plan section of the business plan.
Color Laser Printers
Laser printer quality gives your business documents the professional edge so why limit the effect to black and white? With these top color laser printers you'll be able to produce sharp, colorful brochures, diagrams, stationery, and invoices in house - at an affordable price. Here are my choices for the best color laser printers for small businesses.
Laser printer quality gives your business documents the professional edge so why limit the effect to black and white? With these top color laser printers you'll be able to produce sharp, colorful brochures, diagrams, stationery, and invoices in house - at an affordable price. Here are my choices for the best color laser printers for small businesses.
Buying An LCD Projector
Thinking of buying an LCD projector? Here are the LCD projector features to look for to help you choose the LCD projector that's best for your business needs.
Thinking of buying an LCD projector? Here are the LCD projector features to look for to help you choose the LCD projector that's best for your business needs.
Multifunction Laser Printers
Looking for a multifunction laser printer? Here are the best multifunction laser printers for small businesses and home offices. If you don't need to print in color, and still want to save space and dollars by combining fax, printing, scanning, and copying functions in one machine, black and white laser printers can be a great choice.
Looking for a multifunction laser printer? Here are the best multifunction laser printers for small businesses and home offices. If you don't need to print in color, and still want to save space and dollars by combining fax, printing, scanning, and copying functions in one machine, black and white laser printers can be a great choice.
Computer File Management
Thought file management was just for paper files? Think again. It’s just as important to keep the files on your computer organized and up-to-date. Keep your computer files accessible with these file management tips.
Thought file management was just for paper files? Think again. It’s just as important to keep the files on your computer organized and up-to-date. Keep your computer files accessible with these file management tips.
Budget Definition
A definition of the term budget, different types of budgets and how planning a budget applies to businesses.
A definition of the term budget, different types of budgets and how planning a budget applies to businesses.
Business Plan Definition
Definition of the term business plan and business plan resources for small business owners.
Definition of the term business plan and business plan resources for small business owners.
Speech Exercise 5
A speech exercise designed to help you eliminate buzzwords from your speech.
A speech exercise designed to help you eliminate buzzwords from your speech.
5 Types of Customers
Focusing on getting new customers to increase sales isn't the best way to improve your business's bottom line. Focusing on the 20 percent of your loyal customers can be much more profitable. Mark Hunter explains what the five types of customers are and how to turn more of them into loyal customers.
Focusing on getting new customers to increase sales isn't the best way to improve your business's bottom line. Focusing on the 20 percent of your loyal customers can be much more profitable. Mark Hunter explains what the five types of customers are and how to turn more of them into loyal customers.
Forms of Business Ownership
Sole proprietorship, partnership, corporation, cooperative - which form of business ownership should you choose? This page of the guide to the forms of business ownership in Canada outlines the disadvantages and advantages of the sole proprietorship.
Sole proprietorship, partnership, corporation, cooperative - which form of business ownership should you choose? This page of the guide to the forms of business ownership in Canada outlines the disadvantages and advantages of the sole proprietorship.
Marketing Plan Definition
What's a marketing plan and what's the difference between a marketing plan and a marketing strategy? This marketing plan definition explains and presents marketing plan resources.
What's a marketing plan and what's the difference between a marketing plan and a marketing strategy? This marketing plan definition explains and presents marketing plan resources.
Lightweight LCD Projectors
Can a lightweight portable projector still provide the presentation quality needed for boardrooms, classrooms and home theaters? Here are the best portable LCD projectors and DLP projectors. All weigh less than 7 pounds, but are still packed with features to make any presentation shine.
Can a lightweight portable projector still provide the presentation quality needed for boardrooms, classrooms and home theaters? Here are the best portable LCD projectors and DLP projectors. All weigh less than 7 pounds, but are still packed with features to make any presentation shine.
Time Management Definition
A definition of time management, personal time management and a list of time management skills that need to be mastered for effective time management.
A definition of time management, personal time management and a list of time management skills that need to be mastered for effective time management.
Starting A Small Business
Thinking of starting a small business? This four part article lays out three basic questions to ask yourself before you start your own business, the abilities you need to succeed and how to avoid failure.
Thinking of starting a small business? This four part article lays out three basic questions to ask yourself before you start your own business, the abilities you need to succeed and how to avoid failure.
7 Sources of Business Ideas
Business ideas are all around you. But where do you find business ideas? And how do you discover the business idea that's best suited to your skills and desires? These seven sources of business ideas will get you thinking like an entrepreneur.
Business ideas are all around you. But where do you find business ideas? And how do you discover the business idea that's best suited to your skills and desires? These seven sources of business ideas will get you thinking like an entrepreneur.
Business Start Up Money
How are you going to get the business start up money you need to take your new business from idea to success? This rundown of where to look for the start up money you need and the most popular sources of business start up money, including sources of business start up loans, will help.
How are you going to get the business start up money you need to take your new business from idea to success? This rundown of where to look for the start up money you need and the most popular sources of business start up money, including sources of business start up loans, will help.
Accrual Basis Accounting
A definition of accrual basis accounting and an explanation of how accrual basis accounting and cash basis accounting differ.
A definition of accrual basis accounting and an explanation of how accrual basis accounting and cash basis accounting differ.
Buying A Franchise
Becoming a franchisee can be a shortcut to success when you're starting a business. But what are the advantages of buying a franchise? What are the disadvantages? What can you expect once you've expressed an interest in buying a particular franchise? If you're thinking of buying a franchise, you'll want to read this first.
Becoming a franchisee can be a shortcut to success when you're starting a business. But what are the advantages of buying a franchise? What are the disadvantages? What can you expect once you've expressed an interest in buying a particular franchise? If you're thinking of buying a franchise, you'll want to read this first.
10 Ways to Green Business
Ten easy-to-implement tips to make your business environmentally friendly, focusing on reducing and reusing.
Ten easy-to-implement tips to make your business environmentally friendly, focusing on reducing and reusing.
Starting a Business Tips
Thinking of starting a business but worried about failure? Learn how to start a business that will succeed and keep thriving with these top ten pieces of advice on starting a business from Susan Ward.
Thinking of starting a business but worried about failure? Learn how to start a business that will succeed and keep thriving with these top ten pieces of advice on starting a business from Susan Ward.
Common GST HST Questions
Do you run a Canadian business? Or are you a non-resident wondering if you need to charge GST when operating in Canada? The answer to your questions about the GST HST may well be in this collection of answers to common GST questions.
Do you run a Canadian business? Or are you a non-resident wondering if you need to charge GST when operating in Canada? The answer to your questions about the GST HST may well be in this collection of answers to common GST questions.
Client Gifts
The best client gifts let your clients know that you appreciate their patronage. These top client gift picks will help cement your business relationships.
The best client gifts let your clients know that you appreciate their patronage. These top client gift picks will help cement your business relationships.
Speech Lesson 1
The first speech lesson of the Speak For Success course deals with the speech problem of sloppy enunciation. Use this information and related speech exercises to speak more clearly and make a better impression on your listeners.
The first speech lesson of the Speak For Success course deals with the speech problem of sloppy enunciation. Use this information and related speech exercises to speak more clearly and make a better impression on your listeners.
Best Green Business Ideas
Starting a green business has two advantages; you will be starting a business targeting a growing market and starting a green business can be particularly satisfying as you get to make your own contribution to making the world a better place. Here are what I think are the best green business ideas.
Starting a green business has two advantages; you will be starting a business targeting a growing market and starting a green business can be particularly satisfying as you get to make your own contribution to making the world a better place. Here are what I think are the best green business ideas.
Capital Investment
Two definitions of capital investment and how capital investment applies to small businesses.
Two definitions of capital investment and how capital investment applies to small businesses.
Business Ideas for Tough Times
Small businesses do not suffer equally in tough economic times; while some will be hit severely, others will only take a light tap and still others will actually prosper. Here are the best small business ideas for small businesses to start or invest in in tough economic times.
Small businesses do not suffer equally in tough economic times; while some will be hit severely, others will only take a light tap and still others will actually prosper. Here are the best small business ideas for small businesses to start or invest in in tough economic times.
Company Christmas Party Ideas
Looking for company Christmas party ideas? Make your company Christmas party an event that staff want to attend rather than avoid with these ideas for hosting a successful company Christmas party.
Looking for company Christmas party ideas? Make your company Christmas party an event that staff want to attend rather than avoid with these ideas for hosting a successful company Christmas party.
10 Steps to Exporting
International marketing is not the same as domestic marketing. These marketing strategies will help you successfully enter the international market and export your goods and/or services.
International marketing is not the same as domestic marketing. These marketing strategies will help you successfully enter the international market and export your goods and/or services.
Multifunction Printers
Multifunction printers save space and money. These top multifunction inkjet printers that also scan, copy, and fax are ideal for home offices and small businesses looking for quality printing at an affordable price.
Multifunction printers save space and money. These top multifunction inkjet printers that also scan, copy, and fax are ideal for home offices and small businesses looking for quality printing at an affordable price.
GST Registration
This guide to GST in Canada for Canadian small businesses covers GST registration, the small supplier GST exception, Input Tax Credits, GST HST reporting, how GST works, and why you might want to register for the GST even if you don't have to.
This guide to GST in Canada for Canadian small businesses covers GST registration, the small supplier GST exception, Input Tax Credits, GST HST reporting, how GST works, and why you might want to register for the GST even if you don't have to.
Do-It-Yourself Market Research
This guide to do-it-yourself market research explains how to conduct market research, including tips for designing your own market research surveys and market research questionnaires.
This guide to do-it-yourself market research explains how to conduct market research, including tips for designing your own market research surveys and market research questionnaires.
Promotion Definition
A definition of promotion and an explanation of how promotion differs from advertising for small business owners.
A definition of promotion and an explanation of how promotion differs from advertising for small business owners.
Summer Job Businesses
Start your own business this summer, working for yourself rather than working for someone else. While some people are still looking for a summer job, your own business will already be up and running - and making money. Here are the best business ideas for students.
Start your own business this summer, working for yourself rather than working for someone else. While some people are still looking for a summer job, your own business will already be up and running - and making money. Here are the best business ideas for students.
How To Incorporate
An outline of the general steps for incorporation in Canada, explaining how to incorporate your business, from choosing where to incorporate your business through receiving your certificate of incorporation.
An outline of the general steps for incorporation in Canada, explaining how to incorporate your business, from choosing where to incorporate your business through receiving your certificate of incorporation.
Business Registration Canada
Do you need to register a business name? And how do you register a business name? These resources on business registration in Canada include details on how to register a business name in various provinces.
Do you need to register a business name? And how do you register a business name? These resources on business registration in Canada include details on how to register a business name in various provinces.
8 Marketing Strategies
Want to attract new business but have a small marketing budget or none at all? Kelley Robertson presents eight inexpensive marketing strategies that will generate new business leads.
Want to attract new business but have a small marketing budget or none at all? Kelley Robertson presents eight inexpensive marketing strategies that will generate new business leads.
What You Need To Succeed
Anyone can start a business. But not just anyone can start a successful business. Here are the resources you need to start a small business with staying power, from a Type D Personality through start up money.
Anyone can start a business. But not just anyone can start a successful business. Here are the resources you need to start a small business with staying power, from a Type D Personality through start up money.
Buying A Color Printer
Thinking of buying a color printer? Here are the color printer features you should consider to help you decide which color printer to buy, including whether you should buy an inkjet or a laser printer.
Thinking of buying a color printer? Here are the color printer features you should consider to help you decide which color printer to buy, including whether you should buy an inkjet or a laser printer.
Internet Marketing Campaign
Successful holiday Internet marketing campaigns are within the reach of any business, no matter what your budget. By following these basic marketing plan steps and committing to the follow-through, you can create a cost effective marketing campaign with a substantial return on investment.
Successful holiday Internet marketing campaigns are within the reach of any business, no matter what your budget. By following these basic marketing plan steps and committing to the follow-through, you can create a cost effective marketing campaign with a substantial return on investment.
Business Plan Example
When you want to know how to write a business plan, a business plan example can be a big help. This business plan example is based on a fictional pet care business called Pet Grandma. This is an example of the industry overview section of a business plan.
When you want to know how to write a business plan, a business plan example can be a big help. This business plan example is based on a fictional pet care business called Pet Grandma. This is an example of the industry overview section of a business plan.
Start a Home-Based Business
How do you start a home-based business that will succeed? The secret of success is not to stop halfway through the business selection process as so many people do. Follow these six steps to start a home-based business that will succeed rather than just being a drain of your time and money.
How do you start a home-based business that will succeed? The secret of success is not to stop halfway through the business selection process as so many people do. Follow these six steps to start a home-based business that will succeed rather than just being a drain of your time and money.
Green Marketing
What is green marketing? This green marketing definition includes an introduction to the key issues and general trends in green marketing, such as greenwashing.
What is green marketing? This green marketing definition includes an introduction to the key issues and general trends in green marketing, such as greenwashing.
Incentive Programs
Have your past sales incentive programs been a disappointment to both you and your salespeople? Here's how to create a sales incentive program that will motivate your salespeople.
Have your past sales incentive programs been a disappointment to both you and your salespeople? Here's how to create a sales incentive program that will motivate your salespeople.
Register Business Name
Do you have to register a business name when you're starting a business? This FAQ has the answer - and explains why you might want to register your business name even if you don't have to.
Do you have to register a business name when you're starting a business? This FAQ has the answer - and explains why you might want to register your business name even if you don't have to.
GST Registration Canada
Although GST registration is mandatory for all businesses in Canada, there are exceptions. Find out who has to register for GST, why voluntary GST registration can be advantageous to your business, how GST in Canada works and what the GST registration process is with these GST HST resources.
Although GST registration is mandatory for all businesses in Canada, there are exceptions. Find out who has to register for GST, why voluntary GST registration can be advantageous to your business, how GST in Canada works and what the GST registration process is with these GST HST resources.
Sole Proprietorship Definition
Definition of the term sole proprietorship and an explanation of the disadvantages and advantages of sole proprietorship for Canadian small business owners.
Definition of the term sole proprietorship and an explanation of the disadvantages and advantages of sole proprietorship for Canadian small business owners.
Time Management Techniques
Wish there were more hours in a day? Feeling frustrated because you're not accomplishing what you want to accomplish? We can accomplish what we want to each day if we put some basic time management principles in place and follow them. Use these five time management techniques consistently and you'll have more time, accomplish more, and feel better.
Wish there were more hours in a day? Feeling frustrated because you're not accomplishing what you want to accomplish? We can accomplish what we want to each day if we put some basic time management principles in place and follow them. Use these five time management techniques consistently and you'll have more time, accomplish more, and feel better.
Organize Your Life
Just plain busy or super busy - learn how to organize your life with these tips to help you organize your life and restore your sanity.
Just plain busy or super busy - learn how to organize your life with these tips to help you organize your life and restore your sanity.
Goal Setting
This goal setting definition includes a brief explanation of goal setting techniques to help you actually accomplish the goals that you set.
This goal setting definition includes a brief explanation of goal setting techniques to help you actually accomplish the goals that you set.
Preventing Identity Theft
With identity theft becoming rampant, businesses can no longer afford to be lax about protecting our customers’ personal information – and our own. Here are ten ways to prevent identity theft that you can put into operation right now.
With identity theft becoming rampant, businesses can no longer afford to be lax about protecting our customers’ personal information – and our own. Here are ten ways to prevent identity theft that you can put into operation right now.
Good Office Management
Don’t let chaos get the best of your small business. Once you start applying these seven principles of good office management, you’ll be amazed at the difference good office management makes – and how much more business you do.
Don’t let chaos get the best of your small business. Once you start applying these seven principles of good office management, you’ll be amazed at the difference good office management makes – and how much more business you do.
31 Ways To Drive Traffic
Want web site traffic to your business web site? Here are 31 ways to drive web site traffic to your business web site.
Want web site traffic to your business web site? Here are 31 ways to drive web site traffic to your business web site.
Business Name Elements
A business name does more than identify your company. It tells customers who you are, what you do, and how you do it. Your business name differentiates you from your peers, peaks customer interest, and invites further investigation - if you do it right. Here’s how to pick the right new business name by applying these six elements.
A business name does more than identify your company. It tells customers who you are, what you do, and how you do it. Your business name differentiates you from your peers, peaks customer interest, and invites further investigation - if you do it right. Here’s how to pick the right new business name by applying these six elements.
GST Registration Process
What's the GST registration process in Canada? This FAQ explains the GST registration process and provides the numbers and/or forms necessary to complete your GST registration.
What's the GST registration process in Canada? This FAQ explains the GST registration process and provides the numbers and/or forms necessary to complete your GST registration.
SME Definition
What is an SME (Small to Medium Enterprise)? That depends on who’s doing the defining, as this SME definition explains.
What is an SME (Small to Medium Enterprise)? That depends on who’s doing the defining, as this SME definition explains.
Business Plan - Industry Part
Writing a business plan? These how to write a business plan instructions focus on writing the Industry section of the business plan, with questions to guide your business plan research.
Writing a business plan? These how to write a business plan instructions focus on writing the Industry section of the business plan, with questions to guide your business plan research.
Entrepreneur Definition
A definition of the term entrepreneur and resources for discovering if you're an entrepreneur.
A definition of the term entrepreneur and resources for discovering if you're an entrepreneur.
Competitive Analysis
Writing a business plan? Preparing to write the Competitive Analysis section of the business plan means finding out about your competitors. Here's how.
Writing a business plan? Preparing to write the Competitive Analysis section of the business plan means finding out about your competitors. Here's how.
Business Valuation Methods
Selling a business? Here is an explanation of the three most common business valuation methods to help you determine how much your business is worth.
Selling a business? Here is an explanation of the three most common business valuation methods to help you determine how much your business is worth.
Quick Business Plan
Maybe you don’t need to work through an entire business plan. You can use this quick-start business plan whether you’re starting a business from scratch or thinking of buying an existing business to see if a business idea is worth pursuing.
Maybe you don’t need to work through an entire business plan. You can use this quick-start business plan whether you’re starting a business from scratch or thinking of buying an existing business to see if a business idea is worth pursuing.
Forms of Business Onwership
What are the forms of business ownership? This forms of business ownership definition includes an explanation of the common forms of business ownership in Canada.
What are the forms of business ownership? This forms of business ownership definition includes an explanation of the common forms of business ownership in Canada.
Negotiation Skills
Learn how to negotiate more effectively with these five negotiation strategies that will help you improve your negotiation skills and drive more dollars to your bottom line.
Learn how to negotiate more effectively with these five negotiation strategies that will help you improve your negotiation skills and drive more dollars to your bottom line.
Customer Service Survey
This short customer service survey questionnaire is designed to provide insight into the transaction between your business's staff and your customers. It's a general customer service survey that you can use to get feedback about face-to-face customer service interactions.
This short customer service survey questionnaire is designed to provide insight into the transaction between your business's staff and your customers. It's a general customer service survey that you can use to get feedback about face-to-face customer service interactions.
Best Business Opportunities
What are the best business opportunities of 2008? Those business opportunities that tap into consumers' green impulses and, of course, those business opportunities that meet the needs of particular niches. Here are my predictions for the best business opportunities for 2008.
What are the best business opportunities of 2008? Those business opportunities that tap into consumers' green impulses and, of course, those business opportunities that meet the needs of particular niches. Here are my predictions for the best business opportunities for 2008.
Find Small Business Grants
Small business grants that can help you start and grow your Canadian small business do exist. Use these five tips to make your search for small business grants in Canada more successful.
Small business grants that can help you start and grow your Canadian small business do exist. Use these five tips to make your search for small business grants in Canada more successful.
How to Calculate GST
How do you calculate the GST when your Canadian business has to charge it? The answer depends on what province you’re in, as you’ll see on this page of the Answers to Common GST Questions.
How do you calculate the GST when your Canadian business has to charge it? The answer depends on what province you’re in, as you’ll see on this page of the Answers to Common GST Questions.
Goal Setting Strategy
Goal setting is just the first step to achievement. Learn how to use a goal setting formula that includes an action plan to set goals that you will actually achieve.
Goal setting is just the first step to achievement. Learn how to use a goal setting formula that includes an action plan to set goals that you will actually achieve.
Fall Small Business Ideas
When we think of seasonal businesses, we tend to think of summer and winter. But fall is a season too and like any other provides plenty of small business opportunities. Here are six small business ideas for profiting from the changes that fall brings to people's lives.
When we think of seasonal businesses, we tend to think of summer and winter. But fall is a season too and like any other provides plenty of small business opportunities. Here are six small business ideas for profiting from the changes that fall brings to people's lives.
eBay Selling Keys
Starting an eBay business is easy, fun and can be done from the comfort of your own home. But what if you want to do more than sell a few items and actually make money on eBay? How do you turn your selling on eBay foray into a successful eBay business? Here’s what I think are the keys to successful eBay selling.
Starting an eBay business is easy, fun and can be done from the comfort of your own home. But what if you want to do more than sell a few items and actually make money on eBay? How do you turn your selling on eBay foray into a successful eBay business? Here’s what I think are the keys to successful eBay selling.
Turnkey Business Definition
Definition of term turnkey business and an explanation of what to look for in a turnkey for small business owners.
Definition of term turnkey business and an explanation of what to look for in a turnkey for small business owners.
Business Registration Alberta
Starting a business in Alberta? This business registration guide explains the process of registering a business in Alberta in detail.
Starting a business in Alberta? This business registration guide explains the process of registering a business in Alberta in detail.
Procurement Definition
What is procurement? This procurement definition for small business owners includes an introduction to the key issues and general trends in procurement, such as green procurement.
What is procurement? This procurement definition for small business owners includes an introduction to the key issues and general trends in procurement, such as green procurement.
7 Presentation Tips
The quality of your sales presentation will often determine whether a prospect buys from you or one of your competitors. So how do you give a presentation that’s compelling enough to motivate people to make that buying decision? These seven presentation tips from Kelley Robertson will show you how to create a sales presentation that will make the sale.
The quality of your sales presentation will often determine whether a prospect buys from you or one of your competitors. So how do you give a presentation that’s compelling enough to motivate people to make that buying decision? These seven presentation tips from Kelley Robertson will show you how to create a sales presentation that will make the sale.
Business Networking Definition
A definition of business networking and on overview of business networking best practices for small business owners.
A definition of business networking and on overview of business networking best practices for small business owners.
Your First Advisory Board M...
A sample Advisory Board meeting agenda that you can use for the first small business Advisory Board meeting, with notes on how to adapt the agenda for future board meetings.
A sample Advisory Board meeting agenda that you can use for the first small business Advisory Board meeting, with notes on how to adapt the agenda for future board meetings.
Business Registration Quebec
An explanation of the procedure of business registration in Quebec, including whether or not a business needs to be registered and how to register a sole proprietorship, partnership or corporation.
An explanation of the procedure of business registration in Quebec, including whether or not a business needs to be registered and how to register a sole proprietorship, partnership or corporation.
Business Success Lesson 2
Increase your business success ten fold by learning how to set specific goals and using specific goals when goal setting.
Increase your business success ten fold by learning how to set specific goals and using specific goals when goal setting.
Business Terms
This business terms glossary has business term definitions and resources for selected business terms.
This business terms glossary has business term definitions and resources for selected business terms.
Small Business Grants
What small business grants are available in Canada? And what do you have to be or do to get one? See if you fit the criteria for any of these Canadian small business grants.
What small business grants are available in Canada? And what do you have to be or do to get one? See if you fit the criteria for any of these Canadian small business grants.
Cash Flow Management
A definition of cash flow management and cash flow management resources for small business owners.
A definition of cash flow management and cash flow management resources for small business owners.
Starting a Business Quiz - Entrepreneur Quiz - Question 1
Is starting a business right for you? Find out if you're ready to be an entrepreneur with this atarting a business quiz.
Is starting a business right for you? Find out if you're ready to be an entrepreneur with this atarting a business quiz.
Branding Basics
A great logo and tag line are key to creating the kind of branding that lets your company occupy the beach front property in the minds of your customers. Here Karen Saunders provides logo design and tag line tips for effective branding.
A great logo and tag line are key to creating the kind of branding that lets your company occupy the beach front property in the minds of your customers. Here Karen Saunders provides logo design and tag line tips for effective branding.
Increasing Existing Sales
Increasing your sales in your existing market is a business growth strategy that any small business can use and is one of the easiest growth strategies to implement. Use these tips to start increasing your sales.
Increasing your sales in your existing market is a business growth strategy that any small business can use and is one of the easiest growth strategies to implement. Use these tips to start increasing your sales.
Joint Venture Advantages
Properly chosen and implemented, joint ventures can be a great way for your small business to get in on opportunities (and profits) that otherwise you would miss out on. Learn why joint ventures are the best kind of partnerships and how you can start using joint ventures to grow your business.
Properly chosen and implemented, joint ventures can be a great way for your small business to get in on opportunities (and profits) that otherwise you would miss out on. Learn why joint ventures are the best kind of partnerships and how you can start using joint ventures to grow your business.
Personality Types
A lighthearted look at how we sometimes sabotage our time management efforts, using fictional time management personality types. Which time management type are you?
A lighthearted look at how we sometimes sabotage our time management efforts, using fictional time management personality types. Which time management type are you?
Getting a Business Number
Does your Canadian business need a Business Number? And how do you get a Business Number if you need one? This entry in the Starting a Business FAQ explains who needs a Business Number and how to register for one if you do.
Does your Canadian business need a Business Number? And how do you get a Business Number if you need one? This entry in the Starting a Business FAQ explains who needs a Business Number and how to register for one if you do.
Time Management System
Frustrated with your time management attempts? Then don't just track time; categorize it. Learn the secret to effective time management with this time management system.
Frustrated with your time management attempts? Then don't just track time; categorize it. Learn the secret to effective time management with this time management system.
Home Business Tax Deductions
One of the advantages of running a home based business is that there are additional income tax deductions that you can claim. How many of these home based business deductions apply to your Canadian home based business?
One of the advantages of running a home based business is that there are additional income tax deductions that you can claim. How many of these home based business deductions apply to your Canadian home based business?
The PST (RST) for Small Bus...
Do you have to charge PST or RST on the products and/or services your small business offers? This PST overview explains how provincial sales taxes apply to small businesses in different Canadian provinces and what each province's provincial sales tax rates are.
Do you have to charge PST or RST on the products and/or services your small business offers? This PST overview explains how provincial sales taxes apply to small businesses in different Canadian provinces and what each province's provincial sales tax rates are.
How to Register a Business
How do you register a business in Canada? This FAQ tells how to register a business in Ontario and other provinces and outlines the basic process to register a business.
How do you register a business in Canada? This FAQ tells how to register a business in Ontario and other provinces and outlines the basic process to register a business.
Phone Greetings
Telephone greetings are critical for businesses because prospects are deciding whether or not to do business with you. Yet many companies convolute the telephone greeting to the point that employees hate saying it and customers and prospects dread listening to it. When it comes to phone greetings, there is power in simplicity. Here are the three keys to business phone greeting success.
Telephone greetings are critical for businesses because prospects are deciding whether or not to do business with you. Yet many companies convolute the telephone greeting to the point that employees hate saying it and customers and prospects dread listening to it. When it comes to phone greetings, there is power in simplicity. Here are the three keys to business phone greeting success.
Business Success Lesson 1
The first week of the Small Business Success Program is about tracking your daily activities to establish a benchmark for the business success program.
The first week of the Small Business Success Program is about tracking your daily activities to establish a benchmark for the business success program.
Color Laser Multifunctions
Owning a color laser multifunction printer has long been only a dream for small and home businesses. Who could afford it? But now most small businesses can afford a color laser printer and enjoy the convenience of being able to produce quality marketing materials and business documents in full living color without having to visit the local copy shop. Here are the best color laser multifunction printers for small businesses.
Owning a color laser multifunction printer has long been only a dream for small and home businesses. Who could afford it? But now most small businesses can afford a color laser printer and enjoy the convenience of being able to produce quality marketing materials and business documents in full living color without having to visit the local copy shop. Here are the best color laser multifunction printers for small businesses.