Running a successful small business means running a business that's constantly growing and evolving. To grow your business you need to look beyond day-to-day operations and plan for the future. The Hotfrog Small Business Hub's Growing Your Business section covers topics like putting together a business plan, basic networking tips, industry support and effectively naming your business.
US Postal Service forced to take drastic measures
Increased online competition and high overhead costs are forcing the US Postal Service to take drastic measures to reduce costs. This time, cuts to first-class mail will eliminate the chance for stamped letters to be delivered the next day, a move most customers are sure not to appreciate. Find out how this could affect your small business.
MoreNot encouraged, not supported - female entrepreneurs
You always wanted to put your BIG idea in practice but there was never enough motivation nor encouragement. You are not alone. As Angie Chang reports, many female entrepreneurs feel discouraged and unsupported. These are the stories of some of the women that have made it thanks to their hard work and support from others with business expertise.
MoreShort-termism and fear to make mistakes – according to Mark Zuckerberg, two factors to steer clear from if you are a small business owner. For more insights from Facebook's leadsman, read Henry Blodget's summary of his presentation at Y Combinator’s Startup School.
MoreWhere are all the qualified candidates gone?
Can’t get the right candidates to work for you? You are not alone. Manpower Group reports a considerable increase in the number of employers who are finding it difficult to find suitably qualified recruits. Aimee Groth reports.
MoreLocalization: Priming your website for a global market
Thinking of expanding your web presence into foreign markets? Then you need to consider how to localize your site to suit the new markets you are venturing into. Find out what linguistic and cultural nuances you need to pay attention to and how to manage this fairly time-consuming process.
MoreBacking up your computer: What you need to know
Backing up your computer - a process that sits at the back of most small business owners but hardly ever gets done. By making it slightly simpler, David Moore’s suggestions might help you get started.
MoreThree bottom lines for your small business
The main goal of many small business owners is to achieve a sound profit at the end of each financial year. But if you want to commit to giving back to your community, you may want to start by considering Fraser Doherty’s three bottom lines.
MoreSometimes, a little reinvention goes a long way
If your life-long business is struggling to survive in our rapidly changing societies, Captain Cash’s story may help you find a way to accommodate to new circumstances.
MoreNew working methodologies: how to be selective and productive
You’ve started your business and you are trying your hardest to make it a successful venture. You get yourself informed about better practices, you learn about different ways to help you improve your old methods, you attend seminars, webinars, you listen to podcasts: you are swamped by far too many ideas and suggestions. Holly Green explains how to be selective and productive.
MoreHow to play a bigger game as a solopreneur
Small businesses can often be overlooked by their competitors because they are too small and look like beginners. Natalie Sisson provides interesting advice on how to make you and your business appear much larger than it really is.
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