Thursday March 18, 2010

smSmallBiz.com - SmartMoney's Small Business Site


Not Your Father's Phone Book

Thanks to high-tech adaptations, print directory ads still provide tremendous return on investment.

Quick Tips: 7 Ways to Make Pay-Per-Click Pay

As the Internet gets increasingly crowded and sales continue to trickle in, make boosting your company’s marketing efforts a priority.

Services Combine Social Media, Marketing

Some small businesses are experimenting with new Web-marketing services that integrate social media.

Focus on 'User Experience Optimization'

Driving traffic to your homepage is important, but making the destination worthwhile is vital.

Small Business Owners to Shoppers: Stay Put

Research suggests that pushing customers to buy local might not really work.

Snail Mail Still Effective

Despite the prevalence of digital media, many entrepreneurs find that old-fashioned direct mailings are still important for winning customers.

10 Ways a Facebook Fan Page Helps Your Business

Even if members have no intention of buying anything, the community you build can benefit your business.

Integrate Social Media Into Your Website

There’s no going around it, social media is here to stay. Here are some tips to ease the burden of keeping your marketing messages aligned.

10 Online Marketing Trends for 2010

Where to invest, what to test and which deserve a rest


December 29, 2009

Be Your Own Publicist

A good PR campaign can be a cost-effective way to drum up interest in your business.

December 21, 2009

7 Holiday Marketing Mistakes to Avoid

Boost year-end sales by steering clear of these slip-ups.

December 17, 2009

Build a Brand Unusual

To build a business with a brand that stands out, you first need to know why you’re in business.

December 15, 2009

Grab the Holiday Spotlight

Here are three tricks of the trade can help you make the most of your seasonal PR efforts.

December 11, 2009

Put the 'Pay' in Pay-Per-Click

Are your customers all click and no conversion? Check your campaign for these six roadblocks.

December 10, 2009

Don’t Succumb To A Commodity Trap

A recent dip in sales may not be the economy’s fault. Instead, your company’s products and services may look more like everyone else’s these days.

December 8, 2009

Use Coupons to Lure Last-Minute Buyers

Woo penny-pinching consumers and overcome slow sales with a great coupon offer.

December 9, 2009

Treat Customers to a Holiday Party

Give your seasonal marketing a personal touch by hosting a special event for your customers.

December 1, 2009

Avoid Sales Gimmicks

There's no need for tricks when you're driven by the timeless tools of the trade.

December 4, 2009

The Keyword Is Free

Take your social media strategy to the next level with these seven indispensible -- and free -- Keyword Tools.

November 24, 2009

4 Sure Ways to Get Publicity

There are more channels for exposure than ever, but it takes diligence to keep your business in front of the right ones.

November 19, 2009

Market With Meaning

Don't offer your customers products — offer them solutions, connections and satisfaction.

November 16, 2009

Are You Losing Control of Your Brand Online?

The rise of social media allow companies to connect with consumers in unheard of ways. Here’s how to keep control of your brand online.

November 10, 2009

FTC Aims to Uproot Deceptive Marketing

The FTC’s new social media policy makes transparency paramount.

November 11, 2009

Make the Most of Your Advertising Dollars

In today’s market, your advertising dollars can go further. Here are four tips for making the most of your marketing budget.

November 9, 2009

Online Advertising Made Simple

To attract added sales this holiday season, follow these essential tips for an online campaign that increases sales.

November 6, 2009

9 Vital Statistics for Tracking Site Traffic

When you know who your visitors are, you can turn them into customers.

November 3, 2009

Three Best Ways to Win Community Support

Highlighting your local roots can keep the regulars coming in – and attract new customers wanting to patronize neighborhood shops.

October 30, 2009

Keep Your Regulars Happy

Here are ten tips for keeping your regulars coming back — and for picking up new ones along the way.

November 3, 2009

Give Your Marketing a Fall Lift

Check in with customers today to prepare for tomorrow's holiday season.

October 29, 2009

Quick Tips: How To Channel Your Twitter Voice

Your customers may be on Twitter and Facebook, but before you jump on board, too, make sure you it's right for you.

October 23, 2009

Create Measurable Impact

Web metrics numbers are only as good as what you do with them.

October 21, 2009

Adding Value: The Future of Marketing

Cut through the advertising noise by marketing with meaning.

October 13, 2009

Marketing Locally? Think Globally

Thinking outside the borders can expand your customer base.

October 12, 2009

Drive Sales With Tutorials

Position yourself as an authority and gain market share by providing instructional content.

October 9, 2009

Give Your Website a Personal Touch

Customers tend to respond to personal touches. Here are three worth considering.

October 7, 2009

Rock-Solid Marketing for Trendy Times

Instead of jumping from trend to trend follow these six steps for marketing that really works.

October 5, 2009

Firms Get Hand With Twitter, Facebook

Some small-business owners, overwhelmed by the time commitment required to market their products via social media, are hiring consultants to lend a hand.

September 29, 2009

Think You Can’t Stretch Your Advertising Dollars?

Colleen DeBaise answers questions about finding the best marketing strategies and getting into the shoe business.

September 28, 2009

Print Ads: A Bargain for Buyers

Bargains abound in this tepid economy. Here’s how to take advantage of today's advertising market.

September 30, 2009

Be Efficient With Your Social Networking

Budget your time wisely -- or risk being ruled by the Internet.

September 14, 2009

Online Ad Deals Are Clicking

Use these online marketing tactics to grow your business during lean times.

September 10, 2009

Find a 'Tweet' Deal on Advertising

Banner ads aren't the only way to advertise online; take advantage with these affordable alternatives.

September 8, 2009

Which Ad Strategy Is Right for You?

Want to rev up your returns? Here’s how to choose the best medium for your message.

August 27, 2009

Lessons from 'Brand Obama'

Think President Obama’s got the right pitch? Here’s how to use his message control strategies to command attention.

August 20, 2009

Create Vocal Brand Advocates

Want to send a louder message? Make sure you’re biggest advocates stay enthusiastic about your company.

September 28, 2009

9 Ways to Advertise for Free

Even in this tough economic climate, it pays to advertise. Here's how to spread the word about your company for free.

August 12, 2009

Dentists Step Up Marketing

Dentists are increasingly advertising their services as more patients lose jobs or employer-sponsored insurance and skip major treatments or routine cleanings.

August 10, 2009

E-mail Marketing Still Works

Social media has its place, but e-mail remains the king of online relationship marketing.

July 30, 2009

Sharpen Your Social Media Intelligence

How to sort through the noise to proactively monitor how your company is represented online.

July 28, 2009

Should You Be the Face of Your Business?

There are plenty of ways to be your own best spokesperson – and a few reasons not to.

July 24, 2009

Contests, Giveaways Move to Twitter

Small businesses increasingly are turning to Twitter to generate buzz and spread brand awareness.

July 23, 2009

Integrate Your Online Advertising

Why pay for clicks when you can actively network with your customers for next to nothing?

July 22, 2009

Entrepreneurs Aim to Build Loyalty

Small businesses are working to build loyal customer bases by reaching out on the Web, offering freebies and getting celebrities to try their products.

July 21, 2009

5 Myths That Can Kill Your Marketing Copy

Here are five copywriting mistakes to avoid when devising your company’s marketing message.

July 15, 2009

5 Franchise Marketing Essentials

Look for these qualities before you make an investment.

July 14, 2009

Track Your Tweets

Twitter is the easiest form of social media to measure, so make sure you're getting the most from it.

July 10, 2009

Ramp up Your Redesign

Make your website's overhaul an event that attracts traffic — and customers.

July 2, 2009

Ways to Boost Online Traffic

Want to ramp up your site’s traffic? Here’s a hint: Interact with consumers and fellow business owners.

July 1, 2009

10 Rules for Quick and Easy PR

Simple steps to give your business a competitive edge, on a budget.

June 24, 2009

Customer Reviews Can Boost Business

Here’s how to get the most out of your customers’ written testimonials.

June 22, 2009

3 Tips for Working with a PR Firm

Tapping a public relations firm can be a great way to drum up attention for your business. Here's how to make the most of that key relationship.

June 19, 2009

The Cost (and Payoff) of Investing in Social Media

Savvy entrepreneurs are looking to social media as another way to market their businesses.

June 12, 2009

Turn Web Traffic Into Foot Traffic

A solid web presence is essential--even for the smallest brick-and-mortar businesses.

June 11, 2009

A Hot, Affordable New Advertising Opportunity

Consumer habits show online video is the best value for advertisers. Here’s how to get started.

June 10, 2009

A $25 Million Press Release

Grab the press's attention – and keep it – with concise and compelling releases.

June 8, 2009

Maximize Your Ad Campaign Dollars

Advertising isn't cheap, but that doesn't mean you have to spend a fortune to promote your business. Try stretching your ad dollars with these tips.

May 22, 2009

4 Ways to Boost Franchise Sales

Don’t just rely on the mother ship to help boost sales. Be proactive now, and your business will thrive in any economy.

May 22, 2009

Can They Really Make Money Off the Dollar Menu?

What deals really cost and why they've become a battleground for franchisees.

May 14, 2009

As Seen (Often) on TV!

With the cost of air time falling, more small companies are discovering the benefits of infomercials.

May 6, 2009

Build Your List, Grow Your Business

Every point of contact with potential customers is an opportunity to build your e-mail list – and sales.

May 5, 2009

6 Easy Ways to Make Money Online

Learn how affiliate marketing can skyrocket your bottom line.

April 30, 2009

Proven Tactics for Tough Times

The newest insights into online marketing that deliver customers

April 21, 2009

Look Like a Multimillion Dollar Brand

Five ways to look like you make a lot of money without spending a lot.

April 15, 2009

5 Ways to Stand Out on Fee-for-Service Sites

Make sure potential clients find your business among the growing competition on fee-for-service sites.

April 13, 2009

Are Your Ads Hitting the Mark?

Here’s how to gauge whether or not your advertising dollars are being spent effectively.

April 9, 2009

How Using Detailed Keywords Will Help You Grab Shoppers

Help motivated shoppers find exactly what they’re looking for with descriptive, long-tail keywords.

April 8, 2009

Need Cheap Marketing? Consider Twitter

Thought Twitter was just for media personalities and blog writers? Think again. Here’s how you can use Twitter to market your small business.

March 19, 2009

Recession Marketing All About Connections

Experiential marketing helps you connect with customers on an emotional level — for less than you think.

March 13, 2009

Word-of-Mouth Marketing Can Bite Back

A lot of reputations are at stake when you give a referral--including yours. Make it count and keep your integrity.

March 11, 2009

Targeted E-Mail Marketing

People tend to pay attention to articles and offers in their areas of interest. So, if you’re trying to beef up your response rate, get to know your customers.

March 10, 2009

Do More with Less

New communications and public relations tools offer marketers less costly alternatives for building brand and product awareness.

February 26, 2009

A Great Ad Campaign Can Last Forever

Marketing to values is more important than marketing products.

February 25, 2009

How to Make Your Message Stick

Memorable marketing leads to sales. Follow these 4 essential tips to make your message unforgettable.

February 20, 2009

SEO: Essential to Survival

Companies that rely on the web for sales can’t afford not to embrace search engine optimization.

February 19, 2009

Starting Up: Corporate America Offers Its Own 'Stimulus Package'

Whether it's free software or substantial funding, companies offer aid to small businesses.

February 12, 2009

Unlock the Secrets of Successful Websites

Creating a great website and promoting your business via search engine optimization and social media websites can be done in eight steps.

February 18, 2009

Use Stories to Add Oomph to Your Brand

Broadcasting customer testimonials can boost your business’ credibility. Here’s how to sniff them out.

February 6, 2009

A Marketing Home Run

In baseball-crazed Boston, sponsoring the Red Sox earned Exotic Flowers a marketing award and a mass of new fans.

February 5, 2009

No Better Time for E-Mail Marketing

What do the best franchise owners know about online marketing that you need to know, too?

January 23, 2009

Quick Tips: How to Land a Government Contract

How to get in on the billions of dollars in government spending expected this year.

January 27, 2009

Steal Your Competitors' Clients

If your best prospects are someone else's customers, you better have a strategy for wooing them away.

January 22, 2009

How to Advertise Now

Unsure what to cut and what to keep? This smart, 4-point checklist is your guide to recession-era advertising.

January 21, 2009

How to Get Indexed Faster

Use these techniques to make a bigger online impact faster than your competition.

January 9, 2009

Premium Chocolate Holds Steady

Even in a recession, “premium” products like chocolate and wine sell.

December 31, 2008

2009: The Year of One-to-One Marketing

Great letters make for strong sales. Start the new year out right by building relationships one letter at a time.

December 30, 2008

Musician Finds a Following Online

A heartbroken musician became an instant rock star after word-of-mouth praise on the Web attracted fans -- and a record deal.

December 22, 2008

10 Advertising Words to Avoid in 2009

Shun meaningless words like 'a lot' and 'guarantee' in your copy. It'll help you out a lot -- we guarantee it.

December 19, 2008

Marketing That Takes Flight

Steve Astephen turns cult heroes into household names -- and his philosophy can work for you, too.

December 18, 2008

For Eateries, Oatmeal Is Hotter

As chain restaurant sales suffer, traditional menu items like oatmeal give some eateries a boost.

December 17, 2008

Where Stunts and Strategy Collide

As the Super Bowl nears, a small apparel company is trying to use the buzz around the big game to drum up attention.

December 15, 2008

Starting Up: 6 Ways to Profit From Social Media Tools

Boost business by offering blogs, video and other content that appeal to customers.

December 11, 2008

Quick Tips: Boosting Your Online Search Profile

Improve the odds that prospective customers will stumble upon your business online.

December 11, 2008

Selling It: The Path to Viral Success

How start-ups market online, on the cheap.

December 3, 2008

Border Retailers Court Mexicans

Merchants in Southwestern cities are heavily courting upscale Mexicans to save the holiday season, but they now have to wrestle with the falling value of the peso.

November 24, 2008

6 Low-Cost Ways to Attract Holiday Shoppers

Get shoppers in the holiday spending spirit and boost your sales, too.

November 21, 2008

Not Your Father's Marketing Campaign

Press releases can be targeted directly to consumers, without the media filter. Here are 4 new ways to use press releases to win sales.

November 18, 2008

Connect the Branding Dots

Logos, websites and marketing materials have to work together to create a positive impression -- and put money in your pocket.

November 12, 2008

Stay on Top of Mobile Advertising

As current and potential customers increasingly embrace mobile technologies, so should you. Here’s how to stay in touch.

November 11, 2008

Convert Passers-By Into Purchasers

Big events pose big opportunities to generate sales. Here’s how to convert crowds into customers.

November 6, 2008

Targeted Marketing Gets Intelligent

Advertisers ride a brain wave called neuromarketing. But is it for real?

November 5, 2008

A Marketing Tool That's Obvious, Overlooked and Cheap

Superior customer service is a thrifty and effective way to hang onto existing customers – and attract new ones.

October 28, 2008

Unearth the Hidden Publicity Gems in Your Business

Build exposure for your brand by showing off your company's expertise and top employees in trade magazines.

October 15, 2008

4 Advantages to Buying a Big-Name Franchise

With borrowing leverage, purchasing power and marketing prowess already in place, big franchises handle much of the legwork.

October 7, 2008

Economic Crises Call for Better Marketing Plans

Waiting for the next crisis to hit means you will have waited too long to revise your business plan.

October 2, 2008

Restaurants Push Value Meals

All-you-can-eat promotions and the like are flooding casual-dining outlets as restaurant chains attempt to lure customers to their tables.

September 29, 2008

Starting Up: Pricing Your Products

Business owners often miss the mark in terms of pricing their products. Here’s a primer on how to hit the target.

September 22, 2008

Companies Offering Innovative Incentives to Lure Franchisees

Franchisers are using innovative marketing tactics in the face of increased competition.

September 19, 2008

Wholesalers Set Up Shop Online

To compel added sales, some wholesalers are using the Internet to cut out retailers and sell directly to consumers.

September 17, 2008

Starting Up: The Art of the Pitch

How to persuade prospective clients to take a risk on your start-up.

September 16, 2008

4 Steps to Assessing Your Product's Profit Potential

Have a great idea for new business? Here’s how to judge whether it’s a market or just a mirage.

September 11, 2008

Give Web Users What They Really Want

Most people go online with a goal in mind. Learn to capitalize on their habits.

September 10, 2008

Standing Out in the Beauty Game

Burt's Bees' marketing chief talks about maintaining a small-brand feel as business grows.

September 9, 2008

Looking Abroad for a Profit Boost

Struggling at home? Overseas markets may be ripe for the picking.

September 5, 2008

Do You Know What Your Audience Wants?

Define your target market and stay up to date with its needs.

August 28, 2008

Appeal to Consumers' Five Senses

Your copy should stimulate a sensory reaction that compels readers to buy.

August 26, 2008

Innovative Incentives to Lure Franchisees

Franchisers are becoming increasingly creative in marketing themselves.

August 20, 2008

Amazon vs. eBay: a 7-Point Comparison

Knowing the pros and cons of each can help you maximize your online profits.

August 19, 2008

3 Secrets to a Site that Sells

Put these tips in place to turn browsers into buyers.

August 18, 2008

Starting Up: Staying Out of Spam Folders

A newsletter is a great way to connect with customers — if it doesn't land in their spam folders.

August 18, 2008

Use E-Coupons to Increase Online Sales

E-coupons are a proven way to increase sales, and are easy to implement.

August 15, 2008

Win Sales From Recession-Minded Consumers

Here are 4 ways to woo shoppers this summer, when the spotlight's on saving.

August 14, 2008

Irked by eBay, Sellers Trade Elsewhere

Upset by recent changes, some online retailers are moving away from the auction giant.

August 11, 2008

Starting Up: Attracting Luxury Shoppers

Starting a high-end shop in rocky times? Here’s how to land wealthy customers.

August 8, 2008

Starting Up: Teaming Up With Other Businesses

Joining forces with another small business can help you win customers.

August 5, 2008

Certifiably Green

Strut your business's eco-friendly stuff with the help of these 10 programs.

August 4, 2008

12 Tips for Writing Better Brochures

Every online company must have brochures and other printed literature to hand out to customers and prospects. Are yours ready to go?

July 23, 2008

Networking Together

The expansion of social-networking sites are giving small businesses new opportunities to network with each other and their customers.

August 4, 2008

Use Social Media to Bond With Consumers

Social media can help small firms to better connect with and market themselves to consumers and others in their industries. And they're often free.

July 23, 2008

Generating More Referrals

There are plenty of opportunities to develop quality referrals — you just have to look for them.

July 21, 2008

Advertising in Digital Media

These 3 hot trends can give you a competitive edge on the web and beyond.

July 15, 2008

Small Businesses Succeed with E-mail Marketing

These 3 entrepreneurs used e-newsletters for a cheaper, faster and more effective marketing campaign.

July 11, 2008

Nostalgia Sells

The oldies but goodies of baby boomers are all the rage.

July 1, 2008

How to Market a For-Profit Social Venture

A socially-minded business needs to win customers, without compromising its mission.

June 25, 2008

Asked & Answered: Marketing Multiple Businesses

Should I combine my separate businesses under one umbrella to save on marketing costs?

August 24, 2009

Green Products Gain From New Price Equation

Green products are becoming more affordable these days, allowing businesses to draw in new consumers.

June 19, 2008

Break Into the Global Marketplace

Preference programs and free trade agreements can provide strategic advantage.

June 17, 2008

Keep Your Customers from Straying

Follow these 8 simple methods of building business relationships that last.

June 9, 2008

Developing Your Company's Logo

If you just need a logo and not an entire campaign, an online logo company is a better alternative to a traditional ad agency.

June 5, 2008

No More 'Me Too' Marketing

Before you can beat your competitors, customers have to be able to tell you apart. Here are 3 steps to becoming the leader of the pack.

June 3, 2008

Three Tips for Closing a Sale

Revamp your sales strategies to ramp up your closing rates.

June 2, 2008

Three Strategies to Get Customers to Say 'Yes'

Small companies often find creative ways to level the playing field with larger competitors.

May 22, 2008

Permanent Wholesale Marts a Boon to Retailers

You don't have to wait for the next trade show to keep your shelves stocked with the latest and greatest.

June 2, 2008

Top 10 Sales Mistakes

Every salesperson, regardless of the industry, product, or skill level, makes mistakes. Be smart. Avoid these common errors and generate more revenue and happier customers.

May 28, 2008

Teaching Old Dogs New Tricks

Understanding the changing face of journalism can be the key to getting more coverage for your business.

May 21, 2008

With Wedding Bells, Novelty Sells

Finding and courting a creative niche business idea is destined for success in the $62.8 billion wedding industry.

May 20, 2008

Emotional Branding: What's Love Got to Do With It? Plenty!

Sell to your customers by appealing to both their reason and their emotions.

May 19, 2008

Ten Key Principles of Franchise Marketing

Being part of a franchise system offers tremendous advantages such as, in most cases, instant brand recognition. But it also presents some limitations.

May 9, 2008

Do-It-Yourself Display Ads

Start-ups and major Internet players such as Facebook are giving advertisers the option of building online-ad campaigns all on their own.

May 7, 2008

Marketing in the Recommendation Age

As customer review venues and their influence increase, business owners should capitalize on this trend.

May 7, 2008

Web Start-Ups Seek New Ways to Click

As concerns mount that the slowing economy may hurt the online-ad market, Silicon Valley Web start-ups are developing new approaches.

May 5, 2008

Tech Firm Drums Up Sales Growth Through A Web Marketplace

This outfit kept its techs working during a revamp by turning to an IT-services matchmaker.

May 2, 2008

The Essentials of Guerrilla Marketing

Implement these building blocks to create a successful campaign.

May 1, 2008

Gucci-Stalking: New Sites Make Shopping a Game

A number of members-only Web sites have launched selling luxury goods at discounts of as much as 70%.

April 28, 2008

As Candidates Quit, Trinkets Pile Up

The businesses responsible for campaign paraphernalia are devising creative ways to unload their excess inventory.

April 24, 2008

Modern Marketing: Using Tech in Creative Ways

From widgets to mashups, businesses use imagination and tech savvy to win customers.

April 24, 2008

Web Market Lets Companies Buy, Sell Ideas

Small businesses looking to find a hot idea — or trying to sell a hot idea to a big company — are about to get some help.

April 23, 2008

Make Your Ads Workhorses

Tough economic times demand productive ads. Learn the 4 most critical elements for ads that get results.

April 15, 2008

Getting on Top Bloggers' Radar

Small businesses looking to pitch their products or services to influential blogs have some help these days.

April 9, 2008

Expand Your Ad Empire

Amplify your interactive ad arsenal with the latest technology trends.

April 4, 2008

Getting Workers to Share Know-How With Their Peers

Knowledge-management technologies are helping small companies make the most of limited training budgets.

April 3, 2008

8 Tips for Increasing Your Average Sale

Getting a few more dollars out of each customer can put startups on a fast track to success.

March 26, 2008

How Can I Sell My Client List?

We answer a reader's question about how to sell your client base to another professional.

March 26, 2008

The Wisdom (or Not) of Non-Compete Contracts

Here are some things to consider before hiring your first salesperson.

March 17, 2008

Starting Up: How to Market on Social-Networking Sites

Does your business have a profile on MySpace or Facebook? How to win customers via social media.

March 13, 2008

Think Outside the Box With E-Brochures

These hot new marketing tools show a lot of potential.

March 5, 2008

Differentiating Your Business

7 tips for creating a unique selling proposition that helps cut through the competitive clutter to drive sales.

March 3, 2008

Marketing Your Home Based Biz

Even if it's the only thing you do to promote your home based business, e-mail marketing will get you repeat business and referrals without breaking the bank.

March 3, 2008

Starting Up: Entrepreneurial Buzzwords

Are you a solopreneur, greenpreneur or copreneur? Here's a lesson in the new entrepreneurial lexicon.

March 18, 2008

Getting Customers to Buy More

Want to increase profits? Try this smart upselling technique and watch sales soar.

February 27, 2008

What are the Pros and Cons of LinkedIn?

The value of professional networking sites depends on how much time you're willing to spend on making connections.

February 22, 2008

Taking a Green Initiative

These 3 entrepreneurs are taking advantage of green marketing tactics the right way.

February 19, 2008

Learn to Market More Creatively

Knowledge of your industry can bring originality to your business.

February 13, 2008

Starting Up: The Business of Love

Online dating, private matchmaking… love is everywhere. How to break into a hot industry.

February 14, 2008

Improve Client Relationships Through Social Media

Would your business benefit from a page on Facebook or MySpace?

February 14, 2008

The Future of Customer Service

Mobile technology is changing the way consumers search for answers.

January 30, 2008

Colors That Bring Out Your Brand

Make sure the colors you choose are sending the right message to your customers.

January 29, 2008

Pitching a Product Over the Phone

Kelly Spors explains how to convince a company to pay you for a product idea.

January 17, 2008

Misleading Marketing Copy

You may be tempted to use them, but avoid these phrases in your advertising and marketing materials.

January 9, 2008

E-mail Marketing Resolutions

Implement these 5 goals for a great new year of e-mail marketing.

January 7, 2008

Starting Up: Four Tips on Effective Networking

For entrepreneurs, networking is essential. Here are four ways to get your name out there.

December 21, 2007

Paying for PR — But Only When It Works

How small companies on a budget spread the word about their business in the media.

December 7, 2007

This Holiday, Say It With an E-Card

Here are 10 creative holiday e-mail card ideas.

December 3, 2007

Web Promotion: Lights! Camera! Sales!

How to use video to expand your business in a YouTube world.

November 30, 2007

Talk Is Cheap

Advertising can be a big problem for a small business. One alternative is just to get the right people talking.

November 27, 2007

Facebook, a Marketer's Friend

Small firms are using the social-networking site Facebook as a marketing tool to cultivate relationships with clients and consumers.

November 26, 2007

Starting Up: Giveaway Slip-Ups

A business can win customers by offering free products. Just don't give the store away.

December 3, 2007

10 Common Marketing Mistakes to Avoid

A good marketing plan can help launch a new business or grow an existing one. But make sure to avoid these mistakes.

November 20, 2007

Starting Up: Freebies Can Spur Sales

New business owners can attract attention by giving away products.

November 16, 2007

Web Sites Cast a Net Over Striking Writers

With no restraints under Guild rules, upstarts lure talent.

November 9, 2007

Getting the Most From Tradeshows

Don't show up empty-handed. Make sure you're fully prepared to maximize your time at this annual event.

November 8, 2007

Consulting and Licensing Agreements

We have a start-up and know people interested in using our model to open their own company. We don't want a partnership, so what kind of agreement do we need?

November 7, 2007

When Success Isn't Enough

Here's what retailer Shabby Chic did to take its business to the next level.

November 6, 2007

Starting Up: The Art of the Gimmick

For entrepreneurs looking to make a big splash in a new market, an over-the-top sales promotion can help.

November 1, 2007

A Niche to Grow

Expand your business by targeting qualified niche markets.

October 30, 2007

The Fastest Way to Find New Customers

Tap into your customer base by piggybacking on established businesses with similar target markets.

October 29, 2007

Top 5 Business Card Blunders

Avoid these mistakes that could ruin your branding efforts.

October 24, 2007

Bidding for Large Contracts

Learn how your startup can bid for contracts against established businesses.

October 24, 2007

How Small Businesses Can Land Big Contracts

Want to boost business and your profile? Here are some tips on landing a major deal.

May 14, 2008

Starting Up: Drop Shipping Can Relieve Inventory Headaches

Want to start an e-commerce site without inventory worries?

October 23, 2007

Green Fashion: Beyond T-Shirts

Eco-designers branch out but still face scarcity of outlets and logistics woes.

October 23, 2007

Holiday Sales Checklist

Start doing these 10 things now to prepare for the year's biggest shopping season.

October 18, 2007

The Luxury of Flexible Ownership

Partial ownership has moved beyond yachts and ski chalets. Find out how businesses are capitalizing on this trend sweeping the middle class.

October 16, 2007

Halo: The Power of 3

Think the biggest video game launch in history doesn't apply to you? Here's why you're wrong.

October 24, 2007

Web Sites Find Security Seals a Boon for Business

Merchant verification programs can boost consumer confidence -- and your business.

October 10, 2007

Marketing an Online Business

I have an online retail business that sells ethnic, handmade jewelry. How can I market my products most effectively?

October 1, 2007

Small Business, Big Clients

Don't fear taking on giant corporations as clients and business partners. Everyone benefits when Goliath hires David.

October 8, 2007

Toy Stories: Show-and-Tell Blog Hooks Customers

A former science teacher credits a blog for his educational toy's company success.

September 17, 2007

An Eye-Catching Way to Drive Home Your Message

When it comes to pitching products, there's nothing like an eye-catching set of wheels.

September 6, 2007

Got a Great Business? Spread the Word

With all the demands of running a business, it's not uncommon for business owners to ignore a potentially lucrative tool: public relations.

September 25, 2007

An Event to Remember

Whether it's a flying competition or an art show, these companies prove that businesses of any size can host a memorable event.

September 10, 2007

For Your Review

Want more eyes on your products? Go online and share your expertise.

September 4, 2007

Discounts Abound for Small-Business Owners

Get discounts on everything from computers to janitorial supplies.

August 27, 2007

Readers and Owners Talk About Branding

Mark Hellendrung, president of Narragansett Brewing Co., and George Wright, director of marketing at K-TEC Inc.'s Blendtec, moderate a forum on branding.

September 4, 2007

Going Global: Businesses Earn More by Exporting

Small businesses often shy away from tapping foreign markets. Big mistake.

September 4, 2007

Four Ways to Protect Your Business Ideas

We offer a guide on trademarks, copyrights, patents and more.

September 4, 2007

Creating the Right Image Sets the Tone for Success

The perfect name, logo or tag line can make a big impact on a business' success. Here's how to proceed.

September 4, 2007

Develop a Weird Idea Into a Marketable Success

Got a great -- but offbeat -- product? Here's advice on how to market the truly odd idea.

August 27, 2007

Building on a Name

Uncle Wally's muffins may not be as famous as Famous Amos cookies, but the same person was behind starting both brands: Wally Amos.

September 4, 2007

Hispanic Entrepreneurs Succeed in Fertile Latino Market

Hispanic-owned businesses are succeeding in the fertile Latino market.

September 4, 2007

A Few Moments in the Limelight Can Boost a Small Business

Getting the famous to use your products is a good way to boost sales.

Fox Business - Small Business