SBA Zero Fee Loans for Small Businesses

Effective Oct. 1, small businesses seeking loans of $150,000 or less can do so without paying loan fees, according to Jeanne Hulit, acting administrator of the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA).

“This is good news for a number of reasons,” Hulit said when she made the announcement. She says new startups and entrepreneurs in underserved communities tend to be served by lower-dollar loans, including women, minorities, veterans and others. “In fact, according to the Urban Institute, SBA loans are 3 to 5 times more likely to go to women and minority-owned businesses than conventional loans,” she says.

Hulit cited a number of SBA programs that have expanded recently:

• Microlending. SBA supported more than $49 million in lending to more than 4,600 small businesses in fiscal year (FY) 2013, which ended Oct. 1, 2013. Since President Obama took office, SBA has supported more than $126 billion in lending to more than 260,000 small businesses and entrepreneurs, including $30 billion in loans in FY 2011, in FY 2012, and $29 billion in 2013.
• Smaller dollar loan programs. Hulit says these have been “streamlined and simplified.” SBA reduced paperwork for its Small Loan Advantage (SLA) program, designed to expand access to its 7(a) product for loans under $350,000.” She claims a more than 300 percent increase in SLA loans and 700 percent increase in the number of lenders using the program.

© 2013 Florida Realtors®

Florida Ranks High on Business Climate

The 2013 Business Facilities Rankings Report, ranks Florida as No. 2 to Texas as having the best business climate. While there is not a lot of difference in many of the finishers, Texas is the clear leader in some categories.

However, Florida ranked No. 5 in the business tax environment. Texas is just No. 9. Florida also is No. 4 in workforce training, dominated by Southeastern states.

Business Facilities is a media company specializing in site selection.

“Texas was the first state in the U.S. to bounce back to pre-recession employment levels in 2011 while most of the rest of the country was still digging out of a deep economic trench,” the report stated. Texas has become a global leader in semiconductors and a rising star in bioscience “supported by a world class university system,” the report noted.

But Georgia is no slouch either, finishing No. 5 in economic growth potential, one spot ahead of Florida. In this category, energy is a huge factor. The oil boom puts North Dakota at No. 1.

Florida ranked No. 4 in aerospace/defense and No. 6 in biotechnology employment.

It’s disappointing, however, that Florida has not done more in the alternative energy field. Yes, the Sunshine State has plenty of clouds during its subtropical summers. In fact, JEA says the best month for its solar energy facility is January.

Florida is trailing states like Washington and Oregon in renewable energy. Solar energy is growing fast, gaining in economic competitiveness. Also, despite its long growing season, Florida is tied for No. 7 in cellulosic ethanol production. Alabama is No. 1 and Georgia is No. 3.

Another key to state economies is taking care of infrastructure – the roads, bridges and utility systems that must be in place. Here, too, Florida is No. 2 to the leader in Texas.

This metric was carefully measured to include items such as the percentage of bridges and roads in poor condition and estimated 20-year drinking water needs.

Copyright © 2013 ProQuest Information and Learning Company; Florida Times Union

Lawn/Landscaping Businesses For Sale in Sarasota, Florida

Selling Broker/Agent: Ian Harding, (941) 725-1468 ian.harding@kw.com

Listing No.	Location	Category Detail	Price	Down	Adj Net	Sales
BBF-84301073	Sarasota, Florida USA	Lawn/Landscaping|Tree Service	595,000	345,000	252,215	994,979

Dominant Tree Service business on Gulf Coast. Turn Key. Owner has built business on customer service Guaranteed. Safety, timeliness and attention to detail separates this company from it's competition. With some 550 clients, recurring and future profits is a given. The equip. list is extensive...Assumable Equip.notes payable are $92,000. Commercial work accounts for 90% of revenues. Association memberships and ISA certified Arborists on staff. Option for owner to stay.

BBF-95108001

Manatee, Florida USA

Lawn/Landscaping|Lawn Biz Landscaping

465,000

465,000

70,121

375,000

Great established 32 year old landscaping and nursery company. Complete landscape, design and installation business. Works with custom home builders, and individual homeowners to design and install high quality landscapes. Well established, flourishing inventory with option to buy nursery acreage or lease property. Lots of growth opportunity ++++(Irrigation, sod, maintenance and lighting)

BBF-84310057

Sarasota, Florida USA

Lawn/Landscaping|Lawn Biz Residential

360,000

180,000

195,304

601,870

A complete lawn care opportunity; mowing, mulch, maintain/trim/replace shrubs & plants, has their own nursery. Chemical application portion of this business not for sale at this price, financials + FF&E have been adjusted in "other" shown below. Over 130 accounts, mostly residential, many very large properties/estates. Facilities; Protected nursery area, covered storage space with sheds, office, large open field. REQUIRED: FINANCIAL STATEMENT, BUYER PROFILE, CURRENT CREDIT REPORT BEFORE SHOWING.

BBF-90406426

Sarasota, Florida USA

Lawn/Landscaping|Lawn Biz Residential

249,000

249,000

123,105

298,032

This is a full-service lawn/landscaping company that services commercial (30%) and residential (70%) high-end clients in SW Florida. $85,000 of equipment is included in this price. The base monthly billing is $17,000+ a month plus extras. Seller works about 10 hours a week and does not do any of the physical labor. Experienced crew. The company is priced to sell. Excellent business for an E-2 Visa Buyer. Financial statement and background information must be provided before any information is released.

BBF-82682027

Sarasota, Florida USA

Lawn/Landscaping|Lawn Biz Landscaping

200,000

200,000

84,155

345,000

23 YEARS OWNED WITH MANY REPEAT AND LONG TERM COMMERCIAL AND RESIDENTIAL CUSTOMERS. IRRIGATION INSTALLATION AND REPAIRS, LANDSCAPING,LAWN AND GARDEN MAINTENANCE ,TREE AND SHRUB TRIMMING. COMPANY IS A FULL SERVICE OPERATION . SITUATED IN AN AFFLUENT AREA OF SOUTH WEST FLORIDA CLOSE TO BEAUTIFUL GULF BEACHES. BUYERS SHOULD HAVE KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE OF LANDSCAPING AND MAINTENANCE ETC BEFORE APPLYING. . OWNER AND WIFE PREPARED TO CONTINUE MANAGING AND WORKING AT TERMS TO BE AGREED.

BBF-95313028

Manatee, Florida USA

Lawn/Landscaping|Lawn Biz Residential

195,000

195,000

81,316

241,509

This will qualify for an E2 visa. Over 200 accounts, mostly residential and most accounts are over 10 years old. Over 80% of accounts within 5 miles. Basic billing is $15k per month with over $3k per month of extra billings monthly. Price includes Truck, Trailers, commercial mowers and all necessary equipment. Equipment is well maintained and in great working order. Sellers duties are accounting, billing, scheduling and estimating. No physical work or weekends. All numbers are verifiable.

BBF-84300279

Manatee, Florida USA

Lawn/Landscaping|Landscape Lighting

139,900

139,900

127,500

250,000

What an Opportunity! Live & work from home in fast-growing SW Florida community close to beaches. Turnkey Energy-Efficient Landscape Lighting business complete with 2010 GMC Sierra SLE Pickup & Topper w/70K miles; attractively wrapped 6' x 10' enclosed trailer with all tools, ladders & inventory to do the job. Great reputation for honesty, prompt excellent installations & service. 2013 Est is based on 6 mos numbers. Possible Seller financing for highly-qualified buyer. Hurry - This won't last long!

BBF-891300103

Manatee, Florida USA

Lawn/Landscaping|Lawn Mower Repairs

125,000

125,000

62,977

171,880

This 37-year-old small engine business sells, services, and rents commercial and residential lawn equipment. It also services pressure washers, generators, ATVs, golf carts, motorcycles, trailers, and marine engines. The business currently has an absentee owner with a manager in place. A buyer who plans to be active should have sales and marketing skills but does not need to be a mechanic, since mechanics are on staff.

BBF-891300102

Manatee, Florida USA

Lawn/Landscaping|Lawn Equipment Sales

125,000

125,000

62,977

171,880

This 37-year-old small engine business sells, services, and rents commercial and residential lawn equipment. It also services pressure washers, generators, ATVs, golf carts, motorcycles, trailers, and marine engines. The business currently has an absentee owner with a manager in place. A buyer who plans to be active should have sales and marketing skills but does not need to be a mechanic, since mechanics are on staff.

A Simple Metric to Calculate Marketing ROI

Are you struggling to calculate the return on a marketing campaign or social media investment? Just apply this single, simple equation.

If you're a small business owner, look at the revenue to cost ratio: incremental revenue driven by a marketing campaign divided by the cost. It's a deceptively easy metric, but if you use it properly, you’ll be able to make the bold marketing decisions you need to grow your business.

Once you understand the revenue to cost ratio, it's easy to start ranking marketing decisions. Should I advertise in the newspaper? Should I pay to advertise on Facebook? Should I do a daily deal? All of these decisions can be put through this simple analysis to see if it's a good decision. You can estimate revenue to cost ratio up front, or you can try a campaign once and see if it passes your ROI hurdle.

Utilizing Johari's Window to Generate Growth For Your Business

Check out a version of the concept called Johari's Window--one of the most powerful tools in any business growth leader's toolkit--if you know how to use it.

Answering the 'unanswerable' questions, specifically, those unforseen eventualities, is at the heart of not just your business's continued growth, but in fact, its very survival.

If the circle represents everything you need to know to successfully grow your business, then the trick lies in knowing the importance and relevance of each of the three segments:

• KK: What You Know You Know
• KDK: What You Know You Don't Know
• DKDK: What You Don't Know You Don't Know

Source: inc.com

Gas Stations/Convenience Stores For Sale in Sarasota, Florida

Selling Broker/Agent: Ian Harding, (941) 725-1468 ian.harding@kw.com

Listing No.	Location	Category Detail	Price	Down	Adj Net	Sales
BBF-87900065	Manatee, Florida USA	Gas Station|Gas Station/C-Store	850,000	850,000	0	0

Vacant service station property in affluent area lacking in conveniently located gas stations and grocery stores. Easily converted to c-store with or without gas. Corner site has great visibility and access from main highway and from a major side street that is the only route to upscale Longbeach Village neighborhood; to Longboat Art Center, used for social events that overflow the parking lot; and to 2 popular restaurants. Public beach parking immediately across Gulf of Mexico Drive.

BBF-87900064

Manatee, Florida USA

Gas Station|Gas Station/Repairs

850,000

850,000

0

0

Vacant service station property in affluent area lacking in gas stations and repair services. Also, easily converted to many other uses. Corner site has great visibility and access from main highway and from a major side street that is the only route to upscale Longbeach Village neighborhood; to Longboat Art Center, used for social events that overflow the parking lot; and to 2 popular restaurants. Public beach parking immediately across Gulf of Mexico Drive.

BBF-891001067

Manatee, Florida USA

Gas Station|Gas Station/C-Store

750,000

750,000

65,000

700,000

BP gas station on main highway. Store does $50k per month @ 30%. Gas commission $1500 per month. Lotto $17,000 at 5%. Very low overhead. Store 1500 sqft. 2 MPDs. Easy business. Owner motivated because he wants to move.

BBF-891001068

Manatee, Florida USA

Gas Station|Gas Station/C-Store

175,000

175,000

65,000

700,000

BP gas station on main highway. Store does $50k per month @ 30%. Gas commission $1500 per month. Lotto $17,000 at 5%. Very low overhead. Store 1500 sqft. 2 MPDs. Easy business. Owner motivated because he wants to move.

BBF-86503705

Manatee, Florida USA

Gas Station|Gas Station/C-Store

149,000

149,000

96,606

4,823,824

Grt. opp't. to buy at a great price! Shopping Center behind store is under construction for a new Beaull's Outlet store, TJ Max, Taco Bell next store opening, Starbucks & Baskin Robbins building nearby, & a new Pandera Bread Co. Lots of new growth!!!! This loc. currently does 95K galls. mthly., $ 3k mthly. in car wash, inside $ 43k at 28% GP. & $25k mtly. for Lottery sales. Gas comm. 50/50. Credit car fees Oil Co pays 40%. Buyer to adjust for payroll.

Restaurants For Sale in Sarasota, Florida

Selling Broker/Agent: Ian Harding, (941) 725-1468 ian.harding@kw.com

Listing No.	Location	Category Detail	Price	Down	Adj Net	Sales
BBF-894017698	Sarasota, Florida USA	Restaurants|Family Style	2,690,000	2,390,000	186,210	550,000

Large Restaurant and Real Estate. Beautifully remodeled 300 seat rest/lounge with SRX license & paved parking. Nicely styled,up to date design inside/out, located along main street & easily accessed w good visability. Great staff fully trained & long term employed. Good operation but owner's partners say "sell". Real estate is included, 7100 S.F. located on 4 lots. Newly remodeled and expanded. 32' hood and large kitchen & food prep area. Banquet room, private parties, and beautiful lounge.

BBF-90712810

Manatee, Florida USA

Restaurants|Italian Restaurant

599,000

599,000

200,000

1,750,000

WATERFRONT FINE ITALIAN RESTAURANT ON A MARINA WHERE YOU CAN DOCK YOUR BOAT, RELAX WITH A DRINK AT THE BAR, ENJOY YOUR MEAL OUT ON A TROPICAL DECK WITH 100 SEATS, HAVE FUN WITH LIVE ENTERTAINMENT. INSIDE 250 SEATS WITH 2 ROOMS FOR PRIVATE PARTIES , WEDDINGS AND ANY KIND OF EVENT. OPEN DINING WITH A VIEW OF KITCHEN, FULL LIQUOR BAR WITH TV'S TO WATCH GAMES. THIS IS A BEAUTIFUL APPOINTED RESTAURANT WITH VERY WARM AMBIANCE. NOTE: OWNER IS COMPLETELY ABSENTEE.

BBF-81108739

Sarasota, Florida USA

Restaurants|Italian Restaurant

450,000

450,000

200,920

2,062,301

Gorgeous place and wonderful food with exceptional service. This restaurant is ideal for a very selective experienced Buyer who dreams of the perfect place without having to do all the concept work. Everything has been redone with no cost being spared. The price of the Business is related to the owner's recent investment in it.

BBF-81108720

Sarasota, Florida USA

Restaurants|Brew/Pub

450,000

450,000

163,383

616,365

European-style Pub with ambiance. A place where people like to gather after work, to celebrate, or to share common interests. The Business has good financial records. Located in a strip mall. Business generated from the surrounding commercial activities, businesses and active community. There are several tables outside. The current owner spent $80K to renovate the premises.

BBF-95108028

Manatee, Florida USA

Restaurants|Seafood Restaurant

350,000

200,000

127,200

450,000

Cute casual restaurant serving great seafood for lunch and dinner in a laid back beachy atmosphere. Close to the beaches and on a main road in a Freestanding building, Seats 153 and has SRX license and has 20 beers on draft. Business could be expanded by adding breakfast or extending to late night hours. . Does small catering business which also could be expanded to take out BBQ.

BBF-95108008

Manatee, Florida USA

Restaurants|Family Style

345,000

345,000

379,420

1,162,660

JUST REDUCED! Family friendly, recently remodeled sports themed grill located on busy thoroughfare. Seats 200 inside and an additional 50 on patio.. 40 domestic, international and micro-brew beers on tap and fabulous food! Local following and pulls in additional traffic with live entertainment in separate sound proof area on Wed-Sat.

BBF-893200023

Manatee, Florida USA

Restaurants|Seafood Restaurant

295,000

150,000

196,989

483,154

Profitable and elegant seafood and steak restaurant, 4COP liquor license available $175,000, superior beach location. Unique menu and wine selection tailored for discriminating customers. Has popular and affordable happy hour. Real estate available. 2,100 sq. ft. restaurant with attractive beach view 1,200 sq. ft. 3/1 Apt. great for live aboard mang. or owner. Does not do Lunch * TON OF POTENTIAL HERE *. Historically has Closed for one month vacation. Reasonable lease terms avail.

BBF-892731814

Sarasota, Florida USA

Restaurants|Banquet Hall/Caterer

290,000

290,000

155,688

378,756

Why Buy This Pub/Restaurant/Banquet Hall? 25 year history and owner invested $80,000 in improvements for 150+ seat pub/banquet hall which includes 2 bars, stage, dance floor, kitchen and patio seating with long garden lawn to a lake and patio area next to water for events outside, lots of parking provides endless marketing opportunity for parties, weddings, and business, this has lots of growth potential.

BBF-891611003

Manatee, Florida USA

Restaurants|Ethnic Restaurant

285,000

285,000

39,162

372,057

Well established ethnic restaurant serving a blend of Greek, Italian and American Cuisine. 4COP SRX license with full bar and wine selection with live music from attached martini bar. 3,800 square feet, seating in excess of 200. Profitable and located in well established area surrounded by residential and businesses with plenty of free parking available.

BBF-84310054

Manatee, Florida USA

Restaurants|Mexican Restaurant

195,000

195,000

121,936

429,657

BEAUTIFUL MEXICAN RESTAURANT IN AN UPSCALE, HIGH TRAFFIC LOCATION! Well established and a favorite with the locals. Whether a full meal, appetizer, mid afternoon snack or a cold Corona, this is the place! An intimate setting with outdoor and indoor tables, seating for 74. Their liquor license allows them to carry beer and wines from south of the border as well as domestic favorites. Operated by a husband/wife team plus employees. Due to personal reasons the seller is very motivated! Call! No drive-bys!

BBF-894490001

Sarasota, Florida USA

Restaurants|Fast Food Mall

169,000

169,000

57,712

325,545

A Super Fast Food Franchise. Great for the health conscious consumer. No cooking experience needed. No deep fryer. No stove. Free 12 day company training seminar. Current owner will stay for short period of time if desired by buyer. Located in Food Court of this areas largest Mall. Excellent traffic created by Mall and AMC Theatres. Franchise & Lease plus Financial Statements available to qualified purchaser upon execution of Confidentiality and Non-Disclosure Agreement.

BBF-95108026

Manatee, Florida USA

Restaurants|Mexican Restaurant

150,000

150,000

106,387

387,696

This is charming Mexican restaurant that makes fresh quality food at moderate prices. It is located in a shopping center on a major thoroughfare. Six years old - seats 150 between booths and tables. Has 4COPD liquor license, This restaurant can easily be converted to either a sports bar or an American bar & grill or even a diner!

BBF-95108014

Manatee, Florida USA

Restaurants|Breakfast Lunch

147,000

147,000

68,613

392,952

This is a unique opportunity to own one of the nicest "Turn Key" restaurants in area. Located on a busy street near many shops this restaurant seats 70 people and serves breakfast and lunch. It has stable and loyal clientele, has great tasting food and has long term employees. Nice operation to run if you are a "people" person and looking to end your work day early or add on dinners and increase the revenues! Would qualify for E2 Visa. Owner may be wiling to hold small note.

BBF-88210025

Sarasota, Florida USA

Restaurants|Gourmet Dining

145,000

130,000

87,328

249,994

Long Established Fine Dining Restaurant in Sarasota County. Has a loyal following of customers who continue to patronize the establishment. This is a intimate European styled restaurant perfect for a husband and wife team. It has employees in place. The restaurant has tremendous potential for growth. It is only open for dinner hours but lunch hours and menu can be easily added. Serves beer and wine with its well known gourmet entrees.

BBF-893213001

Manatee, Florida USA

Restaurants|Italian Restaurant

125,000

125,000

0

0

Great opportunity to take over newly remodled and fully equiped restaurant opportunity for basically the value of the assets. Due to other business committments owners have not been able to devote the time and resources necessary to make this opportunity take off. Has been a successful Italian restaurant in this location previously for a number of years. Located in a busy shopping plaza on one of the main traffic arteries in Bradenton.

BBF-84363000

Sarasota, Florida USA

Restaurants|Sandwich Shop

99,000

99,000

49,861

156,777

Live in paradise & invest in a great business in the #1 beach community in the U.S. !! Talk about history - this sandwich shop has been around since 1962! Loyal local following with great visibility on Route 41 in Sarasota. This is a CASH only business, no credit cards. Employees will stay if asked. Lease can be extended with a good landlord. Plenty of parking to eat in or take out your food. An icon in the sandwich business for longevity. You'll be very pleased with this unique cash opportunity!

BBF-893200152

Manatee, Florida USA

Restaurants|Cafe Type Eatery

94,500

94,500

40,000

190,000

New Price! The absolute best coffee in town! This elegant and chic European-style boutique gourmet eatery and coffee house is very popular and proves upward trending in sales and profits. Pastry Chef is employee, not owner. Offered turn-key with top-of-the-line FF&E and POS systems. Beer/Wine Lic. available, 50 inside seats, 10 outside seats. Excellent parking, amazing lease terms and room to grow! Priced to sell! Extend hours of operation and add a beer and wine license/

BBF-84300268

Sarasota, Florida USA

Restaurants|Barbecue Restaurant

89,900

50,000

98,568

392,089

Your opportunity to own a successful, profitable BBQ Eat In-Takeout-Catering Biz in heart of #1 Beach Community. Mouthwatering ribs, beef brisket, chicken; great sides.Top reviews! Entrepreneur specializes in buying sub-par or closed restaurants, renovating them, bringing to profitability, passing to new owner & moving to next project. $20K stainless smoker, new stainless coolers. Spotless, well-maintained premises. 2013 Proforma assumes new owner replacing present mgr and a 10% food px increase.

BBF-95313029

Sarasota, Florida USA

Restaurants|American Restaurant

75,000

75,000

82,040

555,325

Likely to qualify for an E2 visa. Sellers moving and want to sell quickly. Classic American fare consisting of simple menu serving breakfast, lunch which consists of sandwiches and burgers and dinner which is only served a few nights per week. Staff is in place so no need to be a cook/chef. One of the highest rated restaurants in the area. Best know for their breakfasts and proteins this is a very desirable local restaurant. Room for growth.

BBF-890613641

Sarasota, Florida USA

Restaurants|Breakfast Lunch

69,000

69,000

30,754

225,000

Excellent Opportunity to purchase a popular profitable breakfast/lunch cafe' in a prime location. Established in 1993 this cafe' has a great reputation with the local community and sports fans. Additional income through the winter and spring season makes this a must for a husband and wife team who want to be home mid afternoon. Established loyal staff in place. Well equipped. Website included. Good financials. Additional income could be derived from opening later, catering and large groups.

BBF-892731028

Sarasota, Florida USA

Restaurants|Cafe Type Eatery

65,000

65,000

0

0

Sale of Assets only, existing cafe "waffle house" style restaurant anchored by motel on busy HWY in Sarasota with several other motels in the general area along with the neighborhood to provide business. Owner has been in business for less than a year and must sell for family reasons. Everything is there and a good opportunity to step in and take over what the seller started.

BBF-95108018

Sarasota, Florida USA

Restaurants|Sandwich Shop

55,000

55,000

31,336

63,000

Nicely located on a busy road near other shops this unique, eclectic restaurant is currently only serving lunch and ice cream but can be easily expanded to do breakfast, dinners and an expanded ice cream business. Potential to additionally acquire a customized truck which allows for off-site revenues at private parties and area events

Small Business Transactions Rise; Up More than 61% from Same Time Last Year

BizBuySell, the internet's largest business-for-sale marketplace, reported today that small business transactions jumped 61.8% in the second quarter of 2013 as compared to the same period of 2012. In total, 1,827 closed transactions were reported in Q2 2013, a significant spike over the 1,129 transactions recorded in Q2 of 2012.

The significant boost occurring now appears driven by a recovering economy, strong supply/demand fundamentals (i.e., an aging business owner demographic and an increase in the number of qualified business buyers) and continued small business performance improvement.

"Since the recession hit in 2008, a large supply of sellers and buyers has been waiting for the right time to transact," Curtis Kroeker, Group General Manager of BizBuySell.com and BizQuest.com, said. "With the economy improving, small business performance rising and acquisition funding becoming more available, the stars are aligning for these buyers and sellers to finally achieve their business transaction goals in 2013."

Source: BizBuySell.com

Small Business Owners Are Too Wary of Web Marketing

Martin Smith helps companies develop strategic Internet marketing plans. But his small-business clients avoid creating plans because they think starting a business itself is hard enough.

“The problem is now, (small businesses) feel left out and behind. They think some special rules apply to Internet marketing and don’t apply to (their) business,” he said.

Rather than being intimidated by the ever-growing online world, owners of these ventures should embrace the Internet and use it as a means to further communicate their message, said Smith, who directs the marketing division at Atlantic Business Technologies, a Raleigh, N.C., Web development company. The most technologically successful small businesses know who they are, where they fit into their market and how to keep their online message consistent with their in-store one, Smith said.

Here are some of Smith’s edited ideas for smart and successful Internet marketing.

• Keep your branding consistent: Making sure your brick-and-mortar and online presences align is essential. If you’re confused about who you are and what you bring to the table, customers will be, too. “Confused customers do a lot of things. Buying isn’t one of them,” Smith said.

• Refrain from the use of jargon: You won’t be doing your customers – or yourself – any favors by using your company’s jargon online. Instead, research what the needs of your area are and what other similar businesses are doing, and use similar language on your site to generate interest. Smith and his colleagues use a process called “branding keywords,” which helps identify words associated with viral marketing campaigns in certain areas and markets.

• Watch for feedback: Online messages can be changed within seconds. If a particular blog post or advertisement goes up at 10 a.m. and isn’t doing well by noon, you can take it down and tweak it until it works.

• It can take a while to build up a Web presence. Have patience, and realize that once you do get there, the reward will be great.

Copyright © 2013 The News & Observer (Raleigh, N.C.) Distributed by MCT Information Services.

Six Core Principles of Building a Business

Here are six principles around building a business of all sizes.

1. Building businesses takes a unique combination of strategy, execution and competitive advantages in attractive markets.
2. Ideas are not worth much if not supported by effective execution that creates customer value.
3. The best strategic insights come from a test-and-learn approach: receiving real-time customer feedback and response and measuring the return on incremental investment.
4. Larger companies generally have the best building blocks to create and grow advantaged businesses, but they often lack the management talent, incentives, and organizational skills to create entrepreneurial growth. Coupling strategic advantages with an entrepreneurial team and culture can create more lasting economic value.
5. The best strategies come from a deep understanding of the facts around customers and markets. Most leadership teams can align on a clear strategy if they can align on the facts.
6. Advantage is created by investing in areas that create customer value. Identifying these high-value areas is core to any growth strategy.

Source: inc.com

Accessorize Your Tech Gear to Boost Your Business

Richard LaBar has long ditched his heavy laptop in favor of a lightweight iPad mini.

“I won’t travel without it,” says LaBar, who totes the 7.9-inch tablet (from $329) as owner of LaBar Golf Renovations, based in Bernardsville, N.J. LaBar, 43, uses the pint-sized tablet from Apple for e-mail, Web browsing and picture-taking. There’s only one shortcoming: “The touch-screen isn’t the best for typing.”

So LaBar picked up the Ultrathin Keyboard mini ($79.95) from Logitech, a fitted cover that protects the iPad mini’s screen from scratches and cracks, and houses an integrated Bluetooth keyboard for when you need to type lengthy e-mails, notes or word-processing documents. “Not only am I much faster on a real keyboard, but I make fewer errors – plus the keyboard also props up the iPad mini’s screen while I type, which is handy.”

There’s no shortage of business-related tablet and smartphone accessories. A few noteworthy examples:

Power play
There’s nothing worse than when you’re traveling on business and the gadgets you rely on run out of power. Instead of a bulky battery case that weighs down your phone even when you don’t need the extra juice, consider an external power solution you can plug in as needed. New Trent’s Travelpak+ ($54.95) is a compact 7,000mAH charger that can power up a typical smartphone about three or four times. Dual USB ports mean it can provide power to two devices at the same time. A built-in AC adapter lets you plug it into a wall when you need to top it up before throwing into a carry-on. It also doubles as a nightlight when plugged into the wall, if desired.

Memory maximizer
When it comes to storage, your smartphone or tablet is probably maxed out at 64 gigabytes of built-in memory. But what if you could extend that to 1-terabyte? The Seagate Wireless Plus ($199.99) is a pocket-size hard drive with a unique trick up its sleeve. After you connect it to a PC or Mac and drag and drop files onto it, press a button later on and this battery-powered drive creates a wireless connection with up to eight people. Now, everyone can stream content at the same time – via any Wi-Fi-enabled smartphone, tablet or laptop – and even access something different, if they like (such as a movie, song, photos or documents). On-the-go real estate brokers or insurance adjusters might also like the ability to wirelessly save photos and videos from a smartphone or tablet to the drive, to free up more space on your portable device.

Lost and found
Keep losing your keys or misplacing your smartphone? Perhaps you need the Cobra Tag Universal ($49.99). This second-generation product – which works with free apps for iPhone or Android devices – clamps onto your keys, purse, luggage or whatever else you don’t want to lose. Simply open the app, tap the screen and you’ll hear a loud chirping noise to help you locate your stuff. Or press the button on the Cobra Tag Universal and your Bluetooth-enabled smartphone or tablet will chime or play a song from your collection. The most underrated feature, however, is your Cobra Tag will sound its alarm if it loses a connection with your device – such as accidentally leaving your Android tablet in a cafe. The app can also send you a text, e-mail, tweet or post that your phone or tablet can’t be located and show you a map where it is.

Mightier than the sword
If you still prefer to take notes the “old school” way, the Livescribe Sky Wi-Fi smartpen ($169.95) is a digital pen that records everything it writes or hears. Write or sketch on special paper with tiny dots (Starter Notebook included) and all your notes are recorded by the pen’s minuscule camera at its tip. The notes can then be wirelessly uploaded to your secure Evernote account on a smartphone, tablet or personal computer. Alternatively, you can connect the Livescribe smartpen to your PC or Mac via USB cable, which also charges up its internal battery at the same time. An optional app will transcribe your handwriting into digital text. A built-in microphone and 2GB of memory means it can hold up to 200 hours of audio and thousands of pages of notes. A 4GB Livescribe Sky model sells for $199.95.

Copyright © USA TODAY 2013, Robert Deutsch

Five Questions For Small Business Owners To Ask

Whether the summer means tourism slam, business as usual or slow goings, every entrepreneur should make time for a midyear checkup on their small business, experts say.

“Running a business is a day-to-day process,” said Gregg Thompson, North Carolina director for the National Federation of Independent Businesses. “But it’s much more than (that). It’s a longer-term planning process.”

June and July are months when businesses should assess the year so far and begin planning for the next six months and beyond, Thompson said. But even the prospect of an assessment sounds daunting and potentially expensive.

So The Charlotte Observer spoke with a handful of small-business owners and consultants for their best tips and strategies for a midyear analysis that won’t break the bank – or consume those long-awaited vacation days.

Here are five questions to ask about your business:

1. Am I networking enough?

Joe Garen, senior operations manager of Vine American Kitchen, a restaurant that opened late last year in Ballantyne, N.C., said the hours he recently spent passing out free jambalaya, chocolate-chip cookies and menus at the annual Ballantyne Business Bash were fruitful. Summer can be a slow time of the year, especially if you’re new on the scene, Garen said. But that’s just another reason to make sure you keep your name circulating. “You don’t let your guard down,” he said. “You’ve got to stay up on your business. … Stay sharp.”

Someone’s more likely to seek out a restaurant where they know someone, Garen said, and summertime business events and family-friendly festivals facilitate that one-on-one interaction. “You exhibit what you have, you have fun, and you generate business,” Garen said.

2. Am I playing off the news?

David Tobin, one of the founders of Tobin Starr and Partners, a Charlotte, N.C.-based architectural and design firm, said he starts every meeting with a discussion of local and national news. Those few minutes help them stay apprised of the marketplace, which, in turn, has generated a lot of business, Tobin said. His firm designed the NASCAR Hall of Fame building in Charlotte and has big-name clients, such as Brixx Pizza and Pandora Jewelry.

These updates were especially important when the economy crashed and many of the private-sector gigs dropped off. Tobin Starr and Partners relied on news to find opportunities for public-sector jobs, such as the renovation they recently worked on at the University of North Carolina-Charlotte.

“It’s important for us to pay attention … to even try to participate,” he said. “We’d be in much worse shape if we simply sat at our desks and did our work … and before we know it, we’ll be looking up at our desk and our phones won’t be ringing.”

3. How are my financials?

At the midyear mark, it’s important to take a look at profits and losses over the first six months – and consider an outside opinion, said Carol Daly, a consultant with the Rock Hill, S.C.-based Winthrop Regional Small Business Development Center.

For a quick, budget-conscious tune-up, consider free resources through local nonprofits and publicly funded business incubators. The Winthrop Regional Small Business Development Center, for example, has a certified financial planner on staff who can sit down with a business owner, quickly run through the finances for the last two to three years, and highlight problem areas and solutions, Daly said.

It’s not an alternative to an in-depth analysis from a business’ financial consultant or CPA who knows the operation intimately, but it’s often beneficial to get fresh eyes and new ideas, Daly said. “We’ve seen some places close … that we’ve all known needed help, that we even tried to reach out and help,” Daly said. “But they always say, ‘Oh no, we’re doing fine. We’ll see it through.’ Then they close up two months later. Had they asked for help sooner, they probably wouldn’t have.”

4. What is my competition doing?

It doesn’t cost any money, but a few simple Internet searches can go a long way toward helping your business better compete in the marketplace, said Dawn Newsome, founder and owner of Moonlight Creative Group, a Charlotte marketing agency that predominantly works with nonprofits.

Start with your own “brand checkup,” Newsome said. Have you gotten any positive or negative press? Are customers talking about your brand? Are they saying what you want them to say? This will give you a point of reference and a way to analyze your goals for the next six months, she said.

As for the competition: See what’s being said about them. Visit their websites, blogs and social media pages. See what they’re touting, and the medium they used to do it.

“It’s not like you’re spying,” Newsome said. “You’re just staying current, making sure you know what’s going on in the industry. You may learn some trends that you weren’t aware of that you want to get up to speed on.”

5. How do I get ready for fall?

It may be the last thing on your mind as you consider the office policy on flip-flops, but it’s crucial to look ahead at upcoming events and holidays in the next six months, especially if you want to save money.

Consider what you want your staffing to look like and how many people you’ll need to hire, Daly said. Do you need to install security cameras, revamp the layout to decrease shoplifting, or budget for part-time security? Don’t let those considerations sneak up on during the busiest, most stressful time of year.

Copyright © 2013 The Charlotte Observer (Charlotte, N.C.) Distributed by MCT Information Services.