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March, 2014

Is Your Workplace Receptive?

Submitted by John McMalcolm on Mon, 03/24/2014 - 13:40

In the past, offices were typically dull and uninspiring places with rows of cubicles and industrial carpeting.

However, over the years, many small businesses have realized the importance of making their offices warmer and more inviting.

The modern office is one that features vibrant décor and comfortable furnishings, and it is designed with the purpose of making both employees and visitors feel at home.

Turn The Daily Drag Into A Lifetime Pursuit Of Fun

Submitted by John Morris on Mon, 03/24/2014 - 13:50

The state of the economy isn't the only negative factor for the average American worker. Gallup reports 70 percent of Americans feel disengaged from their line of work, stating there's not much to be happy about besides the paycheck. If you feel like the rat race is about to get the better of you, change your attitude and daily schedule to better improve your mood and productivity.

3 Ways to Keep Your New Customers Happy

Submitted by Emily Green on Tue, 03/25/2014 - 12:42

Competition to attract and keep customers is tough for small business owners. Keeping customers happy means keeping their dollars at your business. According to Desk.com, 75 percent of customers spend more money with a company because of positive customer service experiences. How can you keep your customers happy? Check out these three categories of ways to attract and keep customers at your small business.

Take Credit for Offering Consumers Better Payment Options

Submitted by Tristan Anwyn on Tue, 03/25/2014 - 12:48

If you want to offer your customers good customer service and potentially increase your sales, make sure your small business is wired for credit card transactions.

Data by Intuit shows that businesses who accept cards often see an upswing in sales - yet 55% of businesses still don't accept credit cards. 

What are some of the reasons your business needs to accept credit cards? And how do you get ready for credit card payments?

How To Drastically Improve Your Business Productivity Through Technology

Submitted by Harry Trott on Tue, 03/25/2014 - 13:15

In the modern business world, your competitive advantage is purely driven by how tech-driven your business is. In one of her articles on IdeaCafe, Jayla Barnsen had proposed five tips to enhance the technology process in your business. One of the most critical pieces of advice was to finalize on a long term plan to deploy technology at business to make life easier while dealing with workers, suppliers and customers. This article will take you through a brief overview of how this can be achieved.

How Your Internet Marketing Can Tell Customers A Lot About You

Submitted by Savannah Coulsen on Wed, 03/26/2014 - 10:45

What is marketing if not a way to get on peoples radar and impress them? But what happens when you do get on their radar but don't impress them? You have wasted your time, energy, and money. People often view you and your business through that first lens they see you through. It is also equally true that in this 24/7, interconnected, wired world, there are a lot of different ways to make that great first impression. Here are three:

Companies going over the Edge - could the crisis have been prevented?

Submitted by Lori Williams on Wed, 03/26/2014 - 10:48

As a strategy and finance turnaround consultant, I have worked with many companies in a crisis situation. A business owner's frantic call for help was usually prompted by a cash flow problem. The company’s bank account was dwindling. They questioned their ability to meet future expenses.  

Prior to meeting with the owners I would review the company’s financial statements. The income statement and balance sheet provide vital clues about historical performance. Within a short period of time I can piece together a story about the company—the good, bad and ugly!

Five Ways to Keep Your Work Records Protected

Submitted by Anica Oaks on Wed, 03/26/2014 - 10:51

Unfortunately, many professionals with access to important records at work do not keep that data protected. If you’re one of them, these simple steps are a great way to start protecting your information.

Categorize Your Records

First, you must know which records to protect. Many companies have an established system of three categories to classify all files. The first and least private category is external files. This information is available to everyone, including people outside your company. The next category is internal files.

Office Envy: Six Office Spaces You Want to Work In

Submitted by Annette Hazard on Thu, 03/27/2014 - 11:29

Over the years, office designers and employers have learned that the arrangement of an office space can directly affect worker productivity and mood. As a result, many employers have turned to more appealing office layouts and design themes.

Five Ways Your Company Is Making A Bad First Impression

Submitted by Brooke Chaplan on Fri, 03/28/2014 - 14:41

In today's tight business environment, you want your company to make a good first impression. If it doesn't, potential customers can immediately decide to use one of your competitors instead. Do you know some of the things that matter to potential customers? Make sure your company is doing the following right.