New entrepreneurs are proud, driven, and willing to take risks—qualities that unfortunately also make them prime targets for scammers. From fake invoices to phishing emails to bogus business directories, con artists have plenty of tricks aimed squarely at busy new business owners. Here’s a rundown of the most common scams to watch for and how to protect yourself and your company.
Starting a company comes with an overwhelming list of things you think you need to do before you can really get going. But chasing perfection, exhaustive market research, or a fully built-out product before launch can actually slow you down and cost you opportunities. Here are some common startup myths worth letting go of so you can focus on what actually matters.
Running a small business means constantly juggling more than you can reasonably handle on your own—and sometimes, the smartest move is simply asking a friend for help. It might feel uncomfortable at first, but there’s a right way to ask that makes it easier for both of you. Here are some simple tips for requesting favors without straining the relationship.
Not being taken seriously by investors, clients, or even friends and family is one of the most demoralizing challenges a new entrepreneur can face. It happened to radio legend Dave Ramsey, whose southern accent led station managers to doubt him—yet he pushed through anyway. Here are several strategies entrepreneurs can use to earn the credibility and respect they deserve.
Growing a small business can feel just as daunting as starting one, with financing, staffing, and marketing all competing for your limited attention. The good news is that expansion doesn’t always require a big budget or major risk—sometimes a little creativity goes a long way. Here are several inventive, low-cost strategies entrepreneurs can use to grow their businesses and build in some extra stability.
Since the collapse of Silicon Valley Bank, traditional lenders have tightened their belts, leaving many small businesses scrambling for capital elsewhere. Alternative lenders can offer faster approval and more flexible terms, but they also come with trade-offs that are worth understanding before you sign anything. Here’s what you need to know about the pros and cons of borrowing outside the traditional banking system.
As an entrepreneur, there’s always a million things competing for your attention, and it’s easy to feel overwhelmed if you don’t have a system for sorting them out. Learning to prioritize effectively isn’t just about productivity—it’s what keeps you calm, focused, and in control. Here are some practical strategies for juggling competing priorities without losing your footing.
Office equipment is a necessary expense, but that doesn’t mean you’re stuck with only one way to acquire it. Buying new comes with perks like improved efficiency and morale, while refurbished equipment can save you money and reduce waste—each option comes with its own set of trade-offs. Here’s a rundown of the pros and cons of both so you can make the right call for your budget.
Economic downturns tend to hit small businesses the hardest, and preparation can mean the difference between merely surviving and coming out ahead of your competition. Building a strong financial foundation, cutting unnecessary costs, and diversifying your offerings are just the start. Here’s what small business owners can do now to weather a recession—and even use it as an opportunity to outperform the competition.
Roughly half of all new businesses won’t survive five years, and the reasons why are surprisingly predictable. From skipping market research to mismanaging finances, the same handful of mistakes trip up entrepreneur after entrepreneur. The good news? Once you know what they are, they’re entirely avoidable. Here’s what you need to watch out for.