Small Business: Canada: Most Popular Articles
These articles are the most popular over the last month.
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.
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Financial Plan
How to do cash flow projections for the Financial Plan section of the business plan, including a cash flow projections template.
How to do cash flow projections for the Financial Plan section of the business plan, including a cash flow projections template.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Brochure Business Cards
The problem with ordinary business cards is that they have no call to action. With one clever foldover, the brochure business card solves this problem and gives you the space to explain why he or she should call, too. Here's what you need to know about designing your own brochure business cards.
The problem with ordinary business cards is that they have no call to action. With one clever foldover, the brochure business card solves this problem and gives you the space to explain why he or she should call, too. Here's what you need to know about designing your own brochure business cards.
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.
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 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.
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.
7 Inexpensive Business Ideas
More inexpensive business ideas for people who want to start a business but don’t have a lot of money to invest or time to invest in developing specialized skills. All of these business ideas are ideas for profitable businesses you can start inexpensively and quickly. And all of them will work as home-based businesses, too.
More inexpensive business ideas for people who want to start a business but don’t have a lot of money to invest or time to invest in developing specialized skills. All of these business ideas are ideas for profitable businesses you can start inexpensively and quickly. And all of them will work as home-based businesses, too.
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.
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.
Multifunction Laser Printers
Looking for a multifunction printer? Here are the best multifunction black and white laser printers for small businesses and home offices.
Looking for a multifunction printer? Here are the best multifunction black and white laser printers for small businesses and home offices.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Starting A Business Tips
Thinking of starting a business but worried about failure? Learn how to start a business that will succeed and thrive with these top ten pieces of start up business advice from Susan Ward.
Thinking of starting a business but worried about failure? Learn how to start a business that will succeed and thrive with these top ten pieces of start up business advice from Susan Ward.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 Card as Marketing
When it comes to business cards, out of sight is out of mind. Learn how to turn your business card into a visible marketing vehicle so your business card doesn't end up just sitting in a drawer gathering dust.
When it comes to business cards, out of sight is out of mind. Learn how to turn your business card into a visible marketing vehicle so your business card doesn't end up just sitting in a drawer gathering dust.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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?
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.
Quick Cash Flow Management
Cash flow is truly the lifeblood of any small business. So when tight credit starts choking your cash flow, it's important that you act right away to remove the blockage and get your business' cash flow flowing again. Here are five quick things you can do to improve your small business' cash flow.
Cash flow is truly the lifeblood of any small business. So when tight credit starts choking your cash flow, it's important that you act right away to remove the blockage and get your business' cash flow flowing again. Here are five quick things you can do to improve your small business' cash flow.
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.
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.
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.
Finding Angel Investor
Finding an angel investor is not a particularly easy task, but the effort will really pay off when you find the angel investor who is willing to invest in your business. These tips will help you find the angel investor you’re looking for.
Finding an angel investor is not a particularly easy task, but the effort will really pay off when you find the angel investor who is willing to invest in your business. These tips will help you find the angel investor you’re looking for.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Organize Your Office
You can have the most attractive, up-to-date office design available and still not be able to accomplish what you need to do unless you organize your office. These 12 steps to organize your office will show you how to organize your desk and your office space so that you have an office design you can both appreciate and work in.
You can have the most attractive, up-to-date office design available and still not be able to accomplish what you need to do unless you organize your office. These 12 steps to organize your office will show you how to organize your desk and your office space so that you have an office design you can both appreciate and work in.
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.
Filing Tips
Do you hate filing? These filing tips for cutting down on the time you have to spend filing include how to use a two-stage filing system and how to use filing by group to speed up the filing process.
Do you hate filing? These filing tips for cutting down on the time you have to spend filing include how to use a two-stage filing system and how to use filing by group to speed up the filing process.
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.
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.
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.
Document Management
You can put the basics of a document management system in place without purchasing any special software or going through wholesale document imaging. Your document management system doesn’t have to be complex; you just have to invest some time in planning and implementing it. Here’s how to create and implement a document management plan for small business.
You can put the basics of a document management system in place without purchasing any special software or going through wholesale document imaging. Your document management system doesn’t have to be complex; you just have to invest some time in planning and implementing it. Here’s how to create and implement a document management plan for small business.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Tips for Inbound Phone Calls
Inbound phone calls can eat up a lot of time and seriously decrease your productivity by pulling you away from other tasks. Save time and increase your productivity with these time management tips for handling inbound phone calls.
Inbound phone calls can eat up a lot of time and seriously decrease your productivity by pulling you away from other tasks. Save time and increase your productivity with these time management tips for handling inbound phone calls.
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 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.
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.
Choosing a Business Name
When choosing a business name, there are two things to consider; the business name’s marketing potential and its legal elements. This page explains how to choose the right business name for your new business for those starting small businesses in Canada.
When choosing a business name, there are two things to consider; the business name’s marketing potential and its legal elements. This page explains how to choose the right business name for your new business for those starting small businesses in Canada.
Writing the Sales Letter
Sales letters can be extremely powerful; marketing studies show that they outperform other direct mail formats such as brochures and postcards. Here’s how to write a sales letter that will wow your readers and persuade them to buy your product or service.
Sales letters can be extremely powerful; marketing studies show that they outperform other direct mail formats such as brochures and postcards. Here’s how to write a sales letter that will wow your readers and persuade them to buy your product or service.
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.
GST Definition
Definition of terms GST (Goods and Services Tax) and HST and how the GST and HST apply to Canadian small businesses.
Definition of terms GST (Goods and Services Tax) and HST and how the GST and HST apply to Canadian small businesses.
Accounts Payable Definition
A definition of the accounting term accounts payable and how accounts payable applies to small businesses.
A definition of the accounting term accounts payable and how accounts payable applies to small businesses.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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.
Business Opportunities 2007
The best business opportunities of 2007 are those opportunities that meet people’s needs on one end of the scale or the other - indulgence versus health. Here are my predictions for the best business opportunities for 2007, business opportunities with the best profit potential.
The best business opportunities of 2007 are those opportunities that meet people’s needs on one end of the scale or the other - indulgence versus health. Here are my predictions for the best business opportunities for 2007, business opportunities with the best profit potential.
Business Success Lesson 5
Your level of self confidence directly affects your selling skills. Use these techniques to improve your self confidence and get ready to sell.
Your level of self confidence directly affects your selling skills. Use these techniques to improve your self confidence and get ready to sell.
Business Loans for Women
Are you a Canadian woman looking for a small business loan? That's the focus of this article - small business loans and business assistance that is only available to women. See if you fit the criteria for any of these women's small business loan programs.
Are you a Canadian woman looking for a small business loan? That's the focus of this article - small business loans and business assistance that is only available to women. See if you fit the criteria for any of these women's small business loan programs.
Canadian Income Tax FAQs
These Canadian income tax FAQs for small businesses provides answers to common small business tax questions such as how to report business income, how to claim business expenses and what happens if you can't pay the income tax you owe.
These Canadian income tax FAQs for small businesses provides answers to common small business tax questions such as how to report business income, how to claim business expenses and what happens if you can't pay the income tax you owe.
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.