A powerful strategy for business success is to, first and foremost, have a strategy.Businesses fall apart because of a lack of strategy.Many businesses go about their day-to-day activities without knowing where they're going. They just perform task after task hoping that they'll end up some place good.Sorry to say, hope is not a strategy."How are we going to get our next job or our next client?"If this question is a driving force in...more
There has been a rapid growth in the availability of zero per cent rates in the credit card industry. These have been caused by the combination of very low national interest rates, and the injection of fierce competition from American lenders such as Capital One. The UK credit card industry is now recognised as one of the most sophisticated and competitive credit card markets in the world. One of the most popular innovations in the past number of...more
Selecting the location for your business is one of the most important decisions you will make; the success of your business could depend upon it. Base your decision on sound research and fact, rather than an initial reaction.1. Know the area2. Who frequents the area?3. Observe traffic patterns4. Evaluate the convenience factor5. Evaluate available parking6. Storage space7. Follow the coffee shops8. Pinpoint the competition9. Choosing a real estate companyKnow the area - how big is the area? It may be a large shopping area such as a mall with a high footfall flow, or it may only be a few blocks with no other competing store. You want to pick an area that is going to ensure you hit your targets, so knowing the type of visitors to the area is useful. (The type of stores should help indicate this).Who frequents the area? - The local area should be an indication of the type of people living there; mostly families or young professionals? If you're planning on opening a toy store you obviously want the former, whereas a trendy wine bar will appeal to the latter. You know your target market, so ensure you know your area.Observe traffic...more
According to the New York Times "many national banks are encouraging clients with low balances to overdraw their checking accounts, allowing the banks to avoid credit laws and collect billions of dollars in new fees." You might now realize that pay day loans are actually much more economical than overdraft fees from your bank.The banks say that the...more
When I started my first business I didn't have a solid, well thought-out business plan. I threw together a rough one that I used to apply for a bank loan (which I didn't get, by the way). I've found the best way to make sure a business is going to be successful is to create a business plan. It doesn't need to be pages long and...more
Are you thinking about beginning a home business? Chances are that you dont need to be convinced. Nevertheless, you have to be certain that you are doing the home business for the right reasons, and that you arent going to be surprised by anything that might happen while you are working with your home business. Be certain that you are doing it for the right reasons, and you are going to be more likely to be happy with the way that your home business turns out. ReasonsThere are lots of reasons to have a home business. You need to ensure that you are doing it for a good reason, and that this is going to fit into your life. You shouldnt decide that you want to open a home business, for example, if you merely want to work at home. There are a lot of ways that you can work at home without having your own home business, and so if you just want to have the freedom of working at home, then a home business might not be the best option for you. However, if you really have the drive and ambition to not only work at home, but to be able to create a business from scratch, then it is something that you should think about. You should also not open a home business just because you are angry...more
If you would like to purchase a home but believe you are unable to because your credit has gone through some challenges, think again, there just may be some hope for you.The mortgage industry is a very diverse one. And these days it is no longer a...more
You're looking to find a payday loan or cash advance loan company that is reputable, provides excellent service, and is properly licensed in their state of business. Also look for a payday loan site that is professionally designed and managed,...more
Do you want to stand out from the crowd in your business or personal life?Does the idea of free publicity appeal to you?One way to gain recognition and exposure for your business or your personal achievements is to distribute a media release.The...more
Whether you are in a new business or established one, you must have found accounting the toughest job. If you are handling the accounting work of your business, on your own it means that you have to be busy in handling and studying your company...more
If you are over 55 and have owned your home for several years you may be eligible for property tax relief!There are currently three propositions that affect eligibility for tax relief; Proposition 13, Proposition 60 and Proposition 90. You'll...more
Buying a property abroad in 2006When buying a property abroad many people forget about the most obvious and relevant point of all which is quite simply what do you want the property to do for you? This simple factor could determine the country and...more