Small Business Information


Pressure Washing; How to Bid Concrete Cleaning Jobs


Remember the cleaning business is all about time ratio to money. You want to be making at least a $1 a minute when doing concrete work at a minimum and aim for $100 to $200 per hour if you can get it.

Setting Up a Pressure Washer Rig to Clean Concrete


Maximum efficiency in the cleaning industry is a key to survival and higher rates of income. The trailer or tuck unit needs to be set up so that you can use a garden hose and external water supply, because you never know when you are going to need one for concrete or other types of jobs.

Dealing With a Crooked on the Take Government Worker


Many government department heads are on the take. Oh they'll jump up and down and swear legitimacy, but it just is not so.

Mobile Pressure Washing and City Contracts


Many mobile pressure-washing companies turn to government contacts to make money. It is very easy to acquire such municipal contracts for cleaning, as the government needs some cleaning up.

Getting City Contracts; Local Government Contracting


All cities have a purchasing office and/or a procurement officer. They handle all city contracts that are sent out to bid.

Local Government Relations for Small Business


Most small businesses simply go about their daily business and serving customers without ever worrying about local government relations. For some it turns out okay but for others it can become a disaster.

Financial Dose for Business


The goals of businesses have undergone much evolution from the times when entrepreneurs were content with anything that they received above the capital invested. Businesses now want to expand their reach globally, riding on the wave of technology.

Tracking Revenue For MORE Profits


The revenue history is a vital piece of your power page and you need to record that information. Keeping track of client revenues should not be done in a paper format, it should be recorded electronically.

What Is YOUR Value Proposition?


Every company has a value proposition. That is a statement of their perceived value to their clients.

Business Pain Defined


Every company has business pain, but the pain does not necessarily mean that they have a success problem. Pain can be anything from a minor dent, as when a marketing event does not produce the anticipated results, to a major process issue, as when reporting is not accurate.

Creating a Power Plan


Part of the power plan is making sure you have all the necessary contact information within a company. It is one thing to have the CEO's information, as he is the decision-maker, but it is quite another to have the information on others that you may be working with directly.

How to Profile a Client


At first glance, this topic may seem a little repetitive, but you will find that although you have done homework before getting a contract and already know a fair amount about your client, you, however, do not know everything that is pertinent to the job. Once you have the project underway you will be adding to your knowledge of the client.

Batting Cages Business - Making Profits With The Swing Of A Bat


There is a Batting Cages Business for those people who love baseball and/or softball. This business will make you a profit and will help raise the self-esteem of the children who come to your facility.

Deciding Which State To Incorporate Your Small Business In


Once you've decided to incorporate your small business the next step is deciding which state to incorporate in. A common misconception is that businesses must incorporate in their state of operation.

Small Home Business: Ad Copy Secrets


So it's time to invest some finances into advertising your business and you are considering producing a flyer to advertise your business. Rather than sweat all night on writing the perfect flyer, first take some time to consider what the experts have found to be effective.

Accepting Checks in Your Business Virtually Risk Free


Most businesses accept checks as form of payment for goods and services. However, accepting checks can be a risky endeavor if your company doesn't follow good policies and procedures for preventing loss from bad checks.

Web Based CRM Systems: Get Mobile; Get Results


Everyday more web based companies enter the business scene. The low initial investment, potentially high revenue, and convenience of owning and operating a business from your home PC or laptop is enticing an ever-increasing number of entrepreneurs to try their hand at e-business.

Expanding your business.


Are you a small business owner who wants to expand your business? Do you need to add another professional location to your company to test and explore a new market? Does a prospect of spending thousands of dollars to find a right location, sign a new long term office lease, purchase or lease office equipment and hire new employees holding you back?Virtual office center may be the answer for you! The concept of virtual office is not new but with advancements in latest internet/communication technologies, the idea of virtual office has become far more appealing for a wide range of businesses. The reason for that is a marriage between computers, internet and telephone systems.

Starting An E-Commerce Business: Baby Steps


Starting your own e-commerce business can be quite the adventure. There is nothing wrong with falling head over heels in love with your ideas and plans and becoming overly excited, but always remember, feet first.

Age Old Marketing Technique Improves Business Plan Executive Summaries


Every business plan book tells you how the Executive Summary is your opportunity to provide a brief overview of your business plan; capture your readers' attention and imagination; and, summarize the plan's highlights and key selling points.So, why am I telling you these 3 things when you probably already know them?Because it's useless advice unless you employ one, not so obvious, age old marketing technique to make these points come alive.

Computer Related Habits From Small Business Owner - Be Prepared, Avoid Despair


Aside from the fear of losing a spreadsheet or research project prepared for a client, what prompted me to write this article was the realization that it takes nothing short of persistent follow up to stay ahead of computer threats which could ruin my business. I also accepted the fact that keeping my computer free of viruses and spam is paramount to ensuring my computer is not going to harm others.

The Beauty of Focus and Plan B


Did you ever have one of those days or weeks when you said "What in the world am I doing running this business?!"Yeah. Me too.

How To Cut Expenses And Manage Your Business


If you own a small business, you should know that often times it can be the little things, rather than the large expenses, that can eat away at your budget. But many times, small business owners will try and increase their profits by looking around at what larger expenses they can cut.

Be Prepared When Business Investors Look Beyond Your Business Plan


You have spent considerable time pulling your business plan together, contacting potential business investors, making management presentations and pitching your business plan to prospective business investors. Now you finally have a serious investor who wants to conduct "due diligence" before investing real cash into your business.

Two Types Of Business Plan Cover Pages - Which One Are You Using?


This is the tale of two business plans with very different cover pages. They both contain a unique and exciting business opportunity with the potential for high investment returns.

FTC Report on Franchise Rule Making; What Purpose?


The Federal Trade Commission out of the blue decide in November of 2004 that they wanted to revamp the franchise and business opportunity rule; specifically addressing franchising. Now then, why now? To prove to the masses that the Federal Trade Commission is in control? After all it is nearly 10 years after the Federal Trade Commission considered revising the rule, before this report has surfaced again.

Lawyers Everywhere Telling Regulators What Laws to Make


The Federal Trade Commission decided to sit down and revamp the franchise rule of the 1970's. They started to do it in 1995 and postponed it then had some comments collected in 1997 and then in 1999.

Too Many Lawyers in Franchising Today


Attorneys and Lawyers are ruining the franchise industry. It is too bad too, because franchising represents over 400,000 businesses in our country and accounts for just over one-third of every consumer dollar spent in this country.

FTC Adding to the Franchise Rule


Last summer the FTC put forth a report and then asked for comments on modifications of the franchise rule. There has been no real significant changes since the 1970's, but lots of opinions and case law along the way.

The Number of Pages in the UFOC in Franchising is Still Growing Today


Today required franchise disclosure documents are over 200 pages generally. How many pages do you think the Uniform Franchise Offering Circular; UFOCs were 35 years ago for these ten-foot tall pillars of the franchising community like Kroc, Monhan and Rosenberg founded their companies? They were of course the founders of McDonalds, Domino's Pizza and Duncan Donuts.

Who Does Over Disclosure Really Hurt In Franchising?


Costs of over regulation and over disclosure end up hurting the very consumer that the regulatory bodies are trying to protect. Over disclosure and over regulation is in itself the worst evil of civilization, as it stifles free enterprise, innovation and free markets.

More Rules for Franchising?


The FTC- Mighty Federal Trade Commission has unilaterally decided to change the franchise rule. They changes are sure to hurt American business, Franchisors and the over 400,000 Franchisees in the United States today.

Franchise Rule to be Revised; Why?


The FTC, Federal Trade Commission, is considering modifying the franchise rule. So far it has be a ten-year process; just imagine working that slow in your business? In 1995, 1997 and 1999 when the comments were first considered and taken in, which spans a ten-year period.

Why the Over Regulation on the Franchising Model?


Franchising is the fastest way to build small businesses, provide jobs, create money flows. Currently the Federal Trade Commission wishes to increase the over regulation on the franchising sector.

The Franchisors Heavy Load


Why are we over regulation the franchising industry, what purpose does it serve? Rules and laws are fine, level playing fields are nice, but the customer votes with their dollar and the entrepreneur and companies can only sell what people are willing to give up that unit of trade we call a dollar for.The FTC, Federal Trade Commission is going to pile on more regulation and minutia to the rules of franchising, but what purpose does it serve? The free market should decide and the right to free contract will determine which businesses succeed and which fail.

Franchising VS Business Opportunity; What is the Difference?


The modern Franchise business model and the much different business opportunity are much different and dissimilar. The definition of these two business models should be broken into completely different parts to better fit the two-different business models and have their own set of regulations, which would contain similar stipulations with regards to prohibitions, definitions or basic rules of law.

Private Franchising is not Real a Real Franchise


One major issue not being addressed right now in the regulatory definitions which guide consumers and lawyers in business opportunities and franchising is the new term being used; Private Franchising. The Federal Trade Commission decided it would revise its definitions of such opportunities in 1995, but failed to address this issue.

Basic Psychology of Franchisee Ownership and Expansion


If you are a franchisee of a large franchise system; before you expand your franchise to include more stores there are some questions you might ask yourself. If, however, you bought your franchise to expand, grow and amass a small empire of your own, your franchisor will be the last person to stand in your way.

Expanding A Mobile Car Wash Business


What is the best time to expand a mobile car wash business? If everything were perfect and you could choose the best time to buy a new mobile car wash rig, you should buy it in April and have it running by the 20th of May. If you have 1.

Expanding Franchisee Advice


Franchisor expansion policies are not as simple as one might think. On the mind of every businessperson is the idea of expansion.


More Resources


Pressure Washing; How to Bid Concrete Cleaning Jobs
Remember the cleaning business is all about time ratio to money. You want to be making at least a $1 a minute when doing concrete work at a minimum and aim for $100 to $200 per hour if you can get it.
Setting Prices - Pricing Your Consulting Services
THE PSYCHOLOGY OF PRICINGIn case you hadn't noticed, people can react very differently when faced with the same price for a product or service. In fact in most cases, we'll never actually know what is in their minds when they consider a price and then decide to respond to it in certain way.
Taking Stock
Back when I owned an inventory-based business, one of my better customers had a clever barb in his repertoire. If we were out of anything he needed in his order, he would say "You know, this would be a great place to open a supply house.
The 5 Habits of Highly Successful Small-Business Owners
Have you ever wondered what the difference is between a business that consistently grows and another that struggles just to make ends meet? Or why a business that was started in a basement of a home can outperform some of the best-run "big" companies in sales and profits?Two businesses, operating in the same marketing arena and selling the same products or services, can have extraordinarily different results. How can one business continually grow and prosper, while the other struggles? How can one business owner run a highly successful business while still spending a good portion of his or her time away from the business on trips and vacations with the family, and another owner work day and night only to see his business fail?Such questions have always intrigued me.
Sex Up Your Business Growth
A top executive called up me late in the night. He was still awake at 3 o'clock.
Build Credibility, Value, and Trust on a Shoestring
Setting priorities in your business? Your first job is to sell. Selling is - writing the orders; receiving the cash; feeding the beast.
Janitorial Cleaning Service: Getting Started
A janitorial cleaning service is one of the best businesses for a hardworking, blue collar person to start from scratch. Every business and every building needs to be cleaned once in a while - in some cases, many times each day.
A Business Plan Is Not Worth A Cracker To A Struggling Business - A Plans The Last Thing It Needs
Before you start a business we encourage you to prepare a business plan. Without it your business has a 92% chance of failing within the first 12 months.
More Business Card Uses
Why would you use an event pass?Event passes are often used as giveaways to entice people to attend some event. You will find that most time-share companies will have passes to be used to attend their spiel, plus they also give away other goodies.
Three Big Barriers To Small Business Marketing Success
When you feel like you're always busy working on your business, but not getting where you want to go, it can be frustrating trying to figure out how to get your marketing on track. It can easily become a "not seeing the forest for the trees" feeling.
Work is a Four Letter Word
I love work, I can watch it all day.I am not scared of work, I have been known to approach within arm's length of it on a number of occasions.
Temporary Staffing Agency: How to Start
The temporary staffing industry continues to expand, with yearly double-digit growth being commonplace. Companies find it convenient and cost-effective to work with a temporary staffing agency to fulfill unforeseen demand, fill short-term vacancies, and assist with changing workloads due to restructuring or mergers.
10 Hiring Tips for Small Business Owners
As a successful small business owner,you're accustomed to long hours; non-existent holidays and weekends spent working.When was the last time you went to your dentist? When was thelast time you had an uninterrupted night out with your partner?Whether your goal for 2005 is to find more time for family orpersonal enrichment --like attending classes and conferences --you'll want to consider bringing on some help.
Choose Your Own Guru
What is a guru?A guru is a teacher. A mentor.
Tips For Successful Home Show Businesses
Opportunities for home show businesses have never been more abundant. If you're thinking about joining the ranks of those in the many show businesses at home available, use these quick tips to get going.
Starting is the Hardest Part
You can't imagine how many people ask me how I did it. To turn my back onto convention, to turn a deaf ear on the people who wants what is best for me, to snub my nose at people who thinks I am making one of the biggest mistakes in my life?etc.
11 Things Small Business Owners Can Learn From Punxsutawney Phil
1. Look Over Your Shoulder - Of course, Punxsutawney Phil has to look over his to search for his shadow.
A Lesson From "The Apprentice" That Can Make You A Master
I have to admit, I was curious. When I saw previews of a new show called "The Apprentice," it made me want to at least watch the premiere to see what was going on.
Home Based Franchise Case Study
Here is an interesting case study of a company, which franchised mobile car wash units. It started with the humblest of beginnings indeed.
Canon City, Colorado - Good for Small Business
Canon City, Colorado is known for it's 6 Prisons; State and Federal, women's prison and juvenile. It is also home to the First Colorado Territorial Prison.

More Small Business Information:

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Looking for a New Office Chair?
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Small Business Checks - Money Saving Options
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FTC Franchise Rule if Enacted will Trigger Hardship for Private Sector
The FTC Franchise Rule maybe changed, as the Federal trade Commission has put out a report to the franchising industry as to upgrade the rule. If enacted will it will trigger hardship for private sector and cost many trees their lives; Paperwork.
Environmental Pressure Washing in Pennsylvania
If you run a mobile car wash, mobile fleet washing company, mobile auto detailing business or a Pressure Washing firm in Pennsylvania there are things you should know. Pennsylvania is serious about cleaning the environment.
Business Relationships Defined
What makes a business relationship?What really makes a business relationship? This may be very hard to define as it goes beyond just meeting the person and chatting about something you have in common. A relationship is developed over a period of time and usually does not happen instantly.
Finance Your Small Business: So Much Money, So Little Time
$37.4 million funded from venture capital today.
Home Based Franchise Case Study
Here is an interesting case study of a company, which franchised mobile car wash units. It started with the humblest of beginnings indeed.
Pressure Washing Business Case Study, Tractor Cleaning
So often small service businesses fail to exploit niches, which have little if any competition. I know as I built my companies we always tried to identify all the market niches and go after them.
Blowing Your Own Horn - A Key Marketing Strategy for Small Business
-- Building Credibility Through Success Stories --Successful solo entrepreneurs spend quite a bit of time building and expanding their networks. These networks can cover a broad spectrum - professional associations, community service, school or alumni networks, virtual communities, athletic groups, neighborhood associations.
Corporate Shells
A corporate shell could be liken to a house that had been occupied by a family, prior to the family moving out it was a home. But now it is just shell, a skeleton a plain house with nobody in it, but if a family was to purchase the house and moves in, it becomes a home.
Successfully Adding a Service To Your Business
There will come a time in your business where you feel ready to add another service offering. To make this successful, there are ten tips to consider before moving ahead.
Franchising 101- What You Absolutely Need to Know
Franchising has made the world look really small. The well known flavors are now not just restricted to a single town or city but can be enjoyed world wide.
Pressure Washing Business and Post Fire Cleanups
Many have not experienced a fire up close. One year about 15 years ago I almost lost my house as did our neighbors to a wild fire.
Uncover Free Veins Of Gold By Prospecting Online Guru Newsletters (Part 1 of 2)
Incredible as it sounds, you have a goldmine of free business advice and resources available to you for starting an online business. Many entrepreneurs are taking advantage of the unbelievable opportunity of financial independence by starting an Internet business.
S Corporation - What Is It?
For many small businesses, the "S" corporation is the business entity of choice. The "S" in S corporation refers to a tax designation.
Small Business Owners - They Owe You The Money Why Dont They Pay?
Doesn't it frustrate you when you've given good service, sometimes super service, and the customer doesn't pay you?Some of them aren't doing too well and are struggling for cash, but, gee, so are you. In the time they take to pay they could have paid off a little each week and the debt would be gone.
Solving the Late Paying Customer Blues
Nothing can drive a business down faster than customers who don't pay their bills as agreed. When you sell to customers on credit you are making an agreement with them.
Challenging the Gospel of Growth -- Must Business Grow to Survive?
A cherished business doctrine is that growth must be a primary business purpose: "grow or perish" is a mostly unquestioned truth. At South Mountain we favor certain kinds of growth, but not expansion for its own sake, which author Edward Abbey described as "the ideology of the cancer cell.
How to Prepare for Your Start-Up Venture!
When you awoke this morning, you found yourself buzzing with a fantastic idea for starting a new business and you hadn't a doubt in your mind that you could turn it into a huge success. But now what? All those great ideas floating around in your head and you're excited about making them happen, but at the moment you don't know where to begin.
The End -- Fireworks or Fizzle?
Seems as though there are a lot of business closings going around lately. Everywhere I look small businesses -- one on top of another -- are closing their doors.