Small Business: Canada: Most Popular Articles
These articles are the most popular over the last month.
8 Rules of Customer Service
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.
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.
Vision Statement Definition
What is a vision statement and how do you get started creating a vision statement? Learn what and how here.
What is a vision statement and how do you get started creating a vision statement? Learn what and how here.
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.
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.
6 Ways to Increase Sales
Shifting your sales focus can make increasing your sales easier - and build the customer loyalty that results in repeat sales. Learn how with these six sure ways to increase sales.
Shifting your sales focus can make increasing your sales easier - and build the customer loyalty that results in repeat sales. Learn how with these six sure ways to increase sales.
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.
Business Opportunities 2012
Worried that 2012 is a bad time to start a business because of the world's economic woes? Even during the Great Depression, some people made money. Here are my predictions for the best business opportunities for 2012.
Worried that 2012 is a bad time to start a business because of the world's economic woes? Even during the Great Depression, some people made money. Here are my predictions for the best business opportunities for 2012.
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 with GST and PST that you can use as an invoice template for your Canadian small business.
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 with GST and PST that you can use as an invoice template for your Canadian small business.
Home Business Opportunities
Searching for a hot home business opportunity? These are what I think are the best home business opportunities because of their current and future potential.
Searching for a hot home business opportunity? These are what I think are the best home business opportunities because of their current and future potential.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Sample Business Invitation
A sample business invitation letter that your small business can use to invite people to serve on your own advisory board.
A sample business invitation letter that your small business can use to invite people to serve on your own advisory board.
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.
Phone Answering Tips
How you answer the phone says a great deal about your business. Here's how to do it properly.
How you answer the phone says a great deal about your business. Here's how to do it properly.
Leadership Definition
This leadership definition includes musings on the main leadership skills and how leadership applies to business. Are the terms leadership and management interchangeable?
This leadership definition includes musings on the main leadership skills and how leadership applies to business. Are the terms leadership and management interchangeable?
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
Digital Voice Recorders
Looking for a digital voice recorder? Record and transfer audio information to your PC with ease with these top digital voice recorders.
Looking for a digital voice recorder? Record and transfer audio information to your PC with ease with these top digital voice recorders.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Starting a Business Steps
Starting a business in Canada? Use this guide to the steps you need to follow 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 to find the information you need and to be sure you don't overlook anything you need to do when starting a business.
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
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.
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.
Venture Capitalist Definition
Definition of the term venture capitalist and an explanation of the difference between venture capitalists and angel investors.
Definition of the term venture capitalist and an explanation of the difference between venture capitalists and angel investors.
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.
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.
Unique Business Ideas
The unique business ideas in this collection range from dealing with head lice through doing strange things with road kill, but they all have one thing in common; all of these unique business ideas are real businesses that make money, and some of them have been established for years.
The unique business ideas in this collection range from dealing with head lice through doing strange things with road kill, but they all have one thing in common; all of these unique business ideas are real businesses that make money, and some of them have been established for years.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
6 Simple Marketing Strategies
Marketing is a process, not an event. It involves planning marketing goals and implementing marketing strategies to achieve them. Placing a few ads is never going to draw the kind of business a small business needs to be successful. Here are five simple marketing strategies you can use to increase your customers and sales.
Marketing is a process, not an event. It involves planning marketing goals and implementing marketing strategies to achieve them. Placing a few ads is never going to draw the kind of business a small business needs to be successful. Here are five simple marketing strategies you can use to increase your customers and sales.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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? 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? If you're thinking of buying a franchise, you'll want to read this first.
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.
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 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.
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.
Canadian Tax Refund
How long does a tax refund take after you file Canadian income tax? This Canadian income tax refund FAQ has the answer.
How long does a tax refund take after you file Canadian income tax? This Canadian income tax refund FAQ has the answer.
Contractor vs. Employee
Are you an independent contractor or an employee? There’s a big difference when it comes to taxes. This article explains the four-point test the Canada Revenue Agency uses to determine whether a worker is a contractor or an employee and what you can do to clarify your independent contractor status.
Are you an independent contractor or an employee? There’s a big difference when it comes to taxes. This article explains the four-point test the Canada Revenue Agency uses to determine whether a worker is a contractor or an employee and what you can do to clarify your independent contractor status.
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 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.
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.
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.
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. Here is the best accounting software for small businesses.
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. Here is the best accounting software for small businesses.
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.
Multifunction Laser Printers
Looking for a multifunction laser printer? Here are the best choices for small businesses and home offices.
Looking for a multifunction laser printer? Here are the best choices for small businesses and home offices.
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.
Starting a Small Business
Thinking of starting a small business? This four part article lays out the basic questions to ask yourself before starting a small business of your own, the characteristics of an entrepreneur, the abilities you need to succeed and how to avoid failure.
Thinking of starting a small business? This four part article lays out the basic questions to ask yourself before starting a small business of your own, the characteristics of an entrepreneur, the abilities you need to succeed and how to avoid failure.
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.
18 Pet Business Ideas
Looking to start a pet business? Because North Americans are so willing to put their money where their hearts are, a pet business can be a very profitable small business. Here are eighteen pet business ideas that may appeal to you.
Looking to start a pet business? Because North Americans are so willing to put their money where their hearts are, a pet business can be a very profitable small business. Here are eighteen pet business ideas that may appeal to you.
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.
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.
5 Business Leadership Keys
Business leadership is important for small businesses, too. Transform yourself into a leader with these five keys to effective business leadership.
Business leadership is important for small businesses, too. Transform yourself into a leader with these five keys to effective business leadership.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Voice Recording Tools
Need to perform dictation and/or digital transcription? Here are some of the best tools available.
Need to perform dictation and/or digital transcription? Here are some of the best tools available.
5 Steps to Brand Building
The customer experience is the fulfillment of your brand promise, so it can't be left to chance. It has to consistently reinforce the brand promise across every customer touchpoint or the value of the brand itself is at risk. Scott Glatstein presents five easy steps to building a brand and an optimized customer experience.
The customer experience is the fulfillment of your brand promise, so it can't be left to chance. It has to consistently reinforce the brand promise across every customer touchpoint or the value of the brand itself is at risk. Scott Glatstein presents five easy steps to building a brand and an optimized customer experience.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Social Media Definition
What is social media? This social media definition also provides examples and thoughts about why social media is so attractive to businesses.
What is social media? This social media definition also provides examples and thoughts about why social media is so attractive to businesses.
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.
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.
How to Get to Work At Home
Being able to work at home is truly fabulous. If working at home is your dream, here are three ways that you can get to work at home.
Being able to work at home is truly fabulous. If working at home is your dream, here are three ways that you can get to work at home.
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.
Invoice Sample With HST
This invoice sample shows an example of billing for a product with HST being sold by an Ontario business. Feel free to use this as an invoice template for your own small business; just change the HST rate to the HST rate applicable to your province if necessary. Below the invoice sample is an explanation of the information that must be on your invoices.
This invoice sample shows an example of billing for a product with HST being sold by an Ontario business. Feel free to use this as an invoice template for your own small business; just change the HST rate to the HST rate applicable to your province if necessary. Below the invoice sample is an explanation of the information that must be on your invoices.
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.
10 Ways to Green Business
Interested in running a green business? Here are ten easy ways your business can go green.
Interested in running a green business? Here are ten easy ways your business can go green.
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.
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.
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.
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.
How to Get a Patent in Canada
When you invent a process or a product that you feel is worthwhile, you'll want to get a patent for it. Otherwise, your rights to the invention are not protected. This article explains how to get a patent in Canada.
When you invent a process or a product that you feel is worthwhile, you'll want to get a patent for it. Otherwise, your rights to the invention are not protected. This article explains how to get a patent in Canada.
Customer Service Guide
This customer service guide for small business takes a systematic approach to good customer service. The articles here will teach you what good customer service is and give you tools to assess and improve customer service.
This customer service guide for small business takes a systematic approach to good customer service. The articles here will teach you what good customer service is and give you tools to assess and improve customer service.
Asking for Referrals
You can exponentially increase the number of referrals you get, dramatically increasing your client base, by doing one simple thing - asking for referrals. Here are several scripts you can use to ask for referrals and some tips for making asking for referrals easier.
You can exponentially increase the number of referrals you get, dramatically increasing your client base, by doing one simple thing - asking for referrals. Here are several scripts you can use to ask for referrals and some tips for making asking for referrals easier.
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.
How to Help a Customer
A customer or client seeking help is the most common customer service interaction so it's extremely important to get this customer service interaction right. Properly done, a customer seeking help will not only feel that she or he has been treated well but will be more favourably disposed towards buying from your business. Use the following tips for better customer service to educate your staff and evaluate their customer service performance.
A customer or client seeking help is the most common customer service interaction so it's extremely important to get this customer service interaction right. Properly done, a customer seeking help will not only feel that she or he has been treated well but will be more favourably disposed towards buying from your business. Use the following tips for better customer service to educate your staff and evaluate their customer service performance.
Partnership Agreement
Using a written partnership agreement saves personal grief down the road because it allows you and your partner(s) to agree on how you're going to handle particular situations before they arise. Here's what good partnership agreements need to include.
Using a written partnership agreement saves personal grief down the road because it allows you and your partner(s) to agree on how you're going to handle particular situations before they arise. Here's what good partnership agreements need to include.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Simple Invoice
If all you need is a simple invoice, this free invoice template designed for a small business selling products, should fit the bill.
If all you need is a simple invoice, this free invoice template designed for a small business selling products, should fit the bill.
Why You Need A Business Plan
Five reasons for writing a business plan, whether you're just starting a business or running an established business. (Money is only one reason for writing a business plan!)
Five reasons for writing a business plan, whether you're just starting a business or running an established business. (Money is only one reason for writing a business plan!)
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.
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.
Market Research Definition
What is market research? Here’s a market research definition for small business owners and some market research resources.
What is market research? Here’s a market research definition for small business owners and some market research resources.
Trademark Registration
The ins and outs of trademark registration in Canada, including what you can trademark in Canada, the trademark application procedure and how much trademark registration costs.
The ins and outs of trademark registration in Canada, including what you can trademark in Canada, the trademark application procedure and how much trademark registration costs.
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.
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 Opportunities 2011
What are the best business opportunities of 2011? 2011, like 2010, is another year where consumer markets will be dominated by the perceived needs of baby boomers. From travel through medical technology, it's hard to find an industry not impacted by the boomer population bulge. Here are my predictions for the best business opportunities for 2011.
What are the best business opportunities of 2011? 2011, like 2010, is another year where consumer markets will be dominated by the perceived needs of baby boomers. From travel through medical technology, it's hard to find an industry not impacted by the boomer population bulge. Here are my predictions for the best business opportunities for 2011.
Canadian Ecommerce and PST
"If I am making online sales to people in other provinces, do I have to charge and remit other province's
"If I am making online sales to people in other provinces, do I have to charge and remit other province's
Creating an Advisory Board
Advisory boards are a powerful management tool for small businesses. But while creating an advisory board is great in theory, how do you persuade people to serve on your small business advisory board? Here's how to approach prospective board members and write an invitation letter that will bring them aboard.
Advisory boards are a powerful management tool for small businesses. But while creating an advisory board is great in theory, how do you persuade people to serve on your small business advisory board? Here's how to approach prospective board members and write an invitation letter that will bring them aboard.
What are Input Tax Credits?
This page of the Answers to Common GST Questions explains what Input Tax Credits are and how to use Input Tax Credits to get back the GST you’ve paid out if you are operating a Canadian business and a GST registrant.
This page of the Answers to Common GST Questions explains what Input Tax Credits are and how to use Input Tax Credits to get back the GST you’ve paid out if you are operating a Canadian business and a GST registrant.
5 Business Tax Myths
When it comes to business taxes, ignorance is definitely not bliss; if you're not aware of the ins and outs of business taxes, and don't comply fully with the business tax rules, you can end up facing costly penalties. Here are five of the most common business tax myths and the truth about business tax deductions.
When it comes to business taxes, ignorance is definitely not bliss; if you're not aware of the ins and outs of business taxes, and don't comply fully with the business tax rules, you can end up facing costly penalties. Here are five of the most common business tax myths and the truth about business tax deductions.
Incorporation in Canada FAQs
Have a question about incorporation in Canada? Find the answer in these incorporation in Canada FAQs from the difference between federal and provincial incorporation through how to incorporate.
Have a question about incorporation in Canada? Find the answer in these incorporation in Canada FAQs from the difference between federal and provincial incorporation through how to incorporate.
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.
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.
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.
Before You Buy a Printer
Thinking of buying a printer? Find out what you need to know before you buy.
Thinking of buying a printer? Find out what you need to know before you buy.
Color Laser Printers
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.
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.
Speech Lesson 4
The fourth speech lesson of the Speak For Success course deals with the speech problem of pace. The information and related speech exercises in this lesson will help you slow down your speech and make it easier for your listeners to understand you.
The fourth speech lesson of the Speak For Success course deals with the speech problem of pace. The information and related speech exercises in this lesson will help you slow down your speech and make it easier for your listeners to understand you.
The Client Relationship
Have you ever run into problems that resulted in a tense relationship between you and a client? Marshall Zierkel presents five lessons about client relationship management that will help you minimize conflict as it arises and add value to you in your clients’ eyes.
Have you ever run into problems that resulted in a tense relationship between you and a client? Marshall Zierkel presents five lessons about client relationship management that will help you minimize conflict as it arises and add value to you in your clients’ eyes.
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.
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.
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.
Leverage Definition
Definition of term leverage and how leverage applies to small businesses.
Definition of term leverage and how leverage applies to small businesses.
Business Registration BC
Need to know the business name registration procedure for BC? This business registration BC guide explains how to register a sole proprietorship, partnership or corporation in BC (British Columbia), Canada.
Need to know the business name registration procedure for BC? This business registration BC guide explains how to register a sole proprietorship, partnership or corporation in BC (British Columbia), Canada.
Get Into Big Box Retailers
Ever wonder how your company might become a Wal-Mart supplier or dream about getting your products onto a big box retailer’s shelves? This article explains the procedure for becoming a Wal-Mart, Home Depot or Costco supplier and gives tips for making your company and products more appealing to big box retailers.
Ever wonder how your company might become a Wal-Mart supplier or dream about getting your products onto a big box retailer’s shelves? This article explains the procedure for becoming a Wal-Mart, Home Depot or Costco supplier and gives tips for making your company and products more appealing to big box retailers.
Multifunction Printers
These top multifunction inkjet printers are ideal for home offices and small businesses.
These top multifunction inkjet printers are ideal for home offices and small businesses.
Handling Receipts
These four tips for handling receipts will make it easier for you to always find the receipt you want and keep your business receipts organized.
These four tips for handling receipts will make it easier for you to always find the receipt you want and keep your business receipts organized.
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.
Corporate Tax Advantages
The Canadian-controlled private corporation, has a lot of corporate tax advantages over the other types of corporations in Canada. Here's a primer on the corporate tax advantages that Canadian-controlled private corporations enjoy.
The Canadian-controlled private corporation, has a lot of corporate tax advantages over the other types of corporations in Canada. Here's a primer on the corporate tax advantages that Canadian-controlled private corporations enjoy.