Entrepreneur

Why This Tiny Cube Might Be Your Next Office PC

Fri, 24 Feb 2012 10:35:00 PDT

The grapefruit-size Xi3 comes with useful interactive features and convenient upgrading options.

How to Make the Move From Big-Business Employee to Small-Business Owner

Fri, 24 Feb 2012 09:03:00 PDT

Follow these six steps to help make the transition from corporate employee to entrepreneur.

Seven Ways to Get Your Unmotivated Workers Off Their Butts

Fri, 24 Feb 2012 06:00:00 PDT

Here are some tips for getting workers fired up and raring to achieve your company's goals.

Want to Wow Investors? Bring Your Kids to the Pitch Meeting

Thu, 23 Feb 2012 14:55:00 PDT

See how two inventors fared when they brought their children along to pitch the 'Sharks.'

Is Your Website Lost in Translation?

Thu, 23 Feb 2012 10:30:00 PDT

Ignoring non-English-speaking customers limits your ability to tap new markets and grow revenues.

Obama Takes Aim at Corporate Taxes

Thu, 23 Feb 2012 08:44:00 PDT

The President hopes to revise the U.S. business tax code. Though the goal is to the level the playing field, there would be winners and losers.

Social Media Con Artists a Rising Problem

Thu, 23 Feb 2012 07:01:00 PDT

Entrepreneurs that host online networking communities must be especially vigilant to protect their customers from scammers and spammers.

How to Keep Your Online Social Network Safe

Thu, 23 Feb 2012 07:00:00 PDT

Here are five things online business owners can do to help protect their users.

Social Media Tips from the Oscars

Thu, 23 Feb 2012 06:00:00 PDT

The Oscars may be a must watch event, but is it also a must Tweet event? Business owners, you be the judges.

How to Build an SEO Team from Scratch

Thu, 23 Feb 2012 05:00:00 PDT

Here are the ways you can make sure search engine optimization is a top priority at your company.

10 Hot Export Markets for Small Businesses

Wed, 22 Feb 2012 08:02:00 PDT

A look at a range of export opportunities, as well as challenges, for companies seeking growth beyond their home borders.

Twitter 101: How to Join the Conversation (Video)

Wed, 22 Feb 2012 07:00:00 PDT

Jason Falls, CEO of Social Media Explorer, shares tips for business owners looking to find their place on social network.

Seven Ways to Keep Angry Customers (Like Me) Happy

Wed, 22 Feb 2012 06:00:00 PDT

When customer service goes wrong, I am irate. Here's how to keep angry customers like me from storming out of your real or virtual store, never to return.

Twitter Makes Room for Your Ad Dollars

Tue, 21 Feb 2012 10:46:00 PDT

Advertising on Twitter isn't without its challenges. Should you pay for promoted tweets?

10 Little Known Social Media Tools You Should Be Using -- Now

Tue, 21 Feb 2012 10:00:00 PDT

Want to take your social media campaigns to the next level? These tools can help you get there.

Tips to Take Your Business to the Next Level (Video)

Tue, 21 Feb 2012 09:00:00 PDT

Good Nite Lite founder and inventor Adam Nelson shares his best advice for startups trying to grow their companies.

Chris Brogan: Email Marketing is Not Dead (Video)

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 09:00:00 PDT

The popular blogger shares advice on how to best use email to reach customers, plus common mistakes business owners should avoid.

Taking on Debt to Grow Your Business

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 08:00:00 PDT

In today's economy, debt is a four-letter word -- but it can also be essential for growing a business. Here are some options that could help boost your working capital.

10 Powerful Management Insights from Apple, P&G, Yum Brands and Gilt Groupe

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 05:00:00 PDT

Here's a rundown on the management traits four solid-gold brands used to get their startups off the ground, and to keep driving their companies forward, as described in four new books:

Six Strategies for Partnering with Big Brands

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 03:00:00 PDT

A must-follow checklist for small businesses looking to connect with powerhouse companies like Wal-Mart.

Hitting the Road and Taking the Business with You

Sun, 19 Feb 2012 06:00:00 PDT

Last year Fran Reisner sold her home and took her photography business and her life on the road. Here's how she did it -- and how she's adapting.

Why Next-Gen Displays Might Be Your Next Point-of-Sale Marketing Tool

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 11:35:00 PDT

While still pricey, these displays can offer an exciting element to your check-out experience.

12 Leadership Traits You Need to Thrive in Tough Times

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 10:39:00 PDT

What does it take to lead a small business through this ongoing economic mess? Here's a roundup of the important traits for entrepreneurs in 2012.

Five Tools for Naming a Startup

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 10:00:00 PDT

Stuck on what you should call your new business? Here are five ways to ease the creative process.

Dividing the Family Fortune

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 09:00:00 PDT

Passing on the family fortune can be tricky when it's tied up in a small business. Here's how to find a solution that works for your business and your family.

A Proposal to Expand Health-Care Tax Credits for Small Businesses

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 08:07:00 PDT

The Obama administration's 2013 budget includes a proposal to make health-care tax credits available to another 140,000 small businesses.

What's With All the Interest in Pinterest?

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 02:00:00 PDT

Here are six reasons you might want to try the wildly popular online pinboard.

Finding the Jeremy Lin on Your Team

Thu, 16 Feb 2012 13:30:00 PDT

The basketball dynamo may have captured the nation's attention, but he's also giving business owners a vital lesson in how to unlock a team's hidden talent.

Would You Sell Your Startup Right Now If I Gave You $600,000?

Thu, 16 Feb 2012 13:00:00 PDT

Few business owners expect to get a fat buyout offer while their startup is still on the launch pad. Here's what one business owner did when confronted with an offer.

An Argument for Caution as Facebook Readies Mobile Ads

Thu, 16 Feb 2012 12:48:00 PDT

Here's why Facebook's next big move into mobile ads may be a boon -- or a bust -- for your business.

The Buzz Behind Those Tech Buzzwords

Thu, 16 Feb 2012 09:00:00 PDT

In our piece on hot tech trends, we explained the cloud, crowdsourcing and other tricky terms. Now, we tackle those big concept buzzwords that likely get thrown around your office.

Five Things to Do Before Your SXSW Launch

Thu, 16 Feb 2012 05:00:00 PDT

A good showing at Austin's South by Southwest Interactive festival can carry you down the path to startup glory. Here's a last-minute checklist.

How to Create a Profitable Business Idea

Thu, 16 Feb 2012 05:00:00 PDT

To do so, you'll need to understand the value proposition you're creating. Consider these steps to put your startup idea to the test.

SBA Seeks More Money in 2013 for Fewer Loans

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 14:43:00 PDT

The Small Business Administration asked for almost $1.1 billion for fiscal year 2013, but don't get too excited. They also plan to back fewer loans.

What Are You Willing to Do to Launch Your Business?

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 12:30:00 PDT

Sometimes, it's not a question of how brilliant your startup idea is, but what an entrepreneur is willing to do to get through the tough times.

Could Your Business Survive Without You?

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 09:00:00 PDT

Seventy-five percent of small-business owners have no real succession plan -- a potential recipe for disaster. This entrepreneur's accidental fate tells a cautionary tale.

Seven Business Goals of Social Media - and How to Get Started (Video)

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 08:00:00 PDT

Jason Falls, CEO of Social Media Explorer, explains how business owners can take a strategic approach to social media marketing.

How to Avoid One of the Biggest Email Hacking Threats

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 07:00:00 PDT

Consider this advice to identify and avoid 'spear phishing' email -- cons designed specifically to target you and your business.

An Entrepreneur's Top Leadership Challenges -- and How to Meet Them

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 06:01:00 PDT

As their companies expand, business owners aren't always ready to deal with new management issues.

Do You Know What's In Your Business Credit File?

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 14:31:00 PDT

Why managing your business credit score is more important than you may think.

The Payroll-Tax Cut Deal Gives Obama's Budget Hope

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 13:02:00 PDT

They called the President's budget 'dead on arrival' but new efforts to compromise in Congress may bode well for certain small-business-focused provisions.

How Young Entrepreneurs Can Make Time for Love

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 11:46:00 PDT

On Valentine's Day, a young entrepreneur's thoughts may turn to love. Here are seven tips for making room in your busy schedule.

Pop the Question. It Will Help Your Business (Opinion)

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 11:20:00 PDT

Getting married is a good idea if you're an entrepreneur or want to run your own business. The below-market labor and advice are just some of the reasons why. Our columnist explains.

Chris Brogan on Using Video to Market Your Business (Video)

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 08:00:00 PDT

The popular blogger shares tips on how to get started on YouTube and other video platforms for business.

Four Low-Cost Ways to Turbo-Charge Your Website

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 07:00:00 PDT

Consider these tips and tools for making improvements to your site that can help attract customers and help you close more sales.

10 Ways to Get Investors to Listen to Your Business Pitch

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 05:08:00 PDT

Wooing investors is a challenge even for entrepreneurs who're enthusiastic about their business. Here are ten tips on how to craft your investor pitch.

Valentine's Niche: Say It With Beer and Beef Jerky?

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 03:00:00 PDT

In the business of love, nothing is sacred -- not even candy hearts and red roses.

How to Become a Carbon-Neutral Business (Video)

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 11:00:00 PDT

Courtney and Carter Reum, founders of liquor company VeeV Acai Spirit, offer tips on creating a green and sustainable brand.

Young Entrepreneur Gabrielle Palermo on Growing a Social Business (Video)

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 08:00:00 PDT

Entrepreneur Magazine's College Entrepreneur of 2011 and co-founder of G3Box shares the challenges of growing the startup.

How to Get the Most Bang For Your Facebook Ad Buck

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 06:06:00 PDT

Facebook advertising can be surprisingly cost effective. Here's advice on getting your money's worth.

Six Tips for Maximizing Email Marketing Campaigns

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 05:00:00 PDT

Consider this advice for testing different strategies to encourage customers to open and respond to email messages.

How to Redefine Your Business in a New Market

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 03:00:00 PDT

Three ways entrepreneurs have refocused their companies for success by targeting a different audience -- and you can, too.

My Top 10 List: Online Entrepreneur Craig Newmark

Sun, 12 Feb 2012 08:00:00 PDT

The Craigslist founder shares his latest projects, plus his picks for browsing, reading and TV watching, too.

There's No Business Like the Chocolate Business

Sat, 11 Feb 2012 08:00:00 PDT

A truck dealer, an engineer and a mapmaker left their professions to work with their one true love -- chocolate.

What 'Project Runway' Can Teach You About Business

Fri, 10 Feb 2012 10:09:00 PDT

Rule No. 1: Entrepreneurs who pursue their own passion can't lose sight of what makes a business successful. Two 'Project Runway All Stars' recently made this key-business flub.

Moshi Monsters and the Mistake That Launched the Multimillion-Dollar Business

Fri, 10 Feb 2012 08:00:00 PDT

Mind Candy's Michael Acton Smith offers his three biggest lessons before striking gold with one of the fastest-growing online children's games.

Five Tips for Retooling Your Business

Fri, 10 Feb 2012 06:05:00 PDT

Is your business feeling like an old jalopy? Here are strategies for getting the money-making engine humming again.

Main Street Merchants Aren't Deterred by Red Tape

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 13:01:00 PDT

As politicians vilify regulations on the campaign trail, consider the results from a recent survey of small-business owners. It seems regulations aren't as onerous as some think.

Eight Creative Marketing Ideas to Make Your Business Stand Out

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 09:00:00 PDT

If your marketing could use a new twist, consider these new ideas to reach today's customers.

Four Questions to Ask Before Setting a Price

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 06:03:00 PDT

Before you figure out your pricing, figure out your business.

Three Ways to Extend the Battery Life of Smartphones and Tablets

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 05:00:00 PDT

Consider these options for extending the battery life of your mobile devices.

Fashion Mogul Christopher Burch Talks Business

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 03:00:00 PDT

As Fashion Week kicks off, we sat down with the man behind brands like Tory Burch and Monika Chiang to find out what it takes to make it in the business.

Seven Ways to Kill Your Meetings and Unleash Productivity

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 13:08:00 PDT

Despite studies showing that meetings are a colossal waste of time, they remain common. Here's how to collaborate while cutting back on meetings.

The Danger of Being Franchisee No. 1

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 11:00:00 PDT

Sure, it's a thrill to get in on the ground floor of a hot new concept. But it's risky to invest in an unproven business model. Here are questions to ask.

How the White House Became a Social-Media Powerhouse

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 08:00:00 PDT

Macon Phillips, the White House's director of New Media, describes how the administration is using social media in unique ways -- and how your business can too.

No-Cost Ways to Increase Your Sales This Year

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 06:02:00 PDT

You don't need to spend a lot to win a lot of sales in 2012.

The Battle Against SOPA Is Far From Over

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 05:00:00 PDT

Even though the anti-piracy bill has been sidelined, other proposed legislation still exist that pose equal threats to online businesses.

Is Your Facebook Business Page Ready for 31,170 Visitors?

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 14:40:00 PDT

A new survey reveals the reach of the average Facebook user.

When It Comes to Networking, Don't Try to Wing It

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 10:00:00 PDT

Looking to get more out of networking? Here are four tips to help you make your efforts more productive.

Glassybaby Founder Lee Rhodes on Growth Mistakes (Video)

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 09:05:00 PDT

Our Entrepreneur of 2011 award winner shares the mistakes she made when growing her company -- and the lessons learned along the way.

Richard Branson on Decision-Making For Entrepreneurs

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 06:03:00 PDT

The British billionaire talks about how he makes tough choices.

How Pinterest Is Becoming the Next Big Thing in Social Media for Business

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 05:00:00 PDT

The online 'pinboard' is driving serious traffic and proving to be a powerful online marketing tool for some companies.

Chris Brogan on Social Media Starter Tips to Grow Your Business (Video)

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 00:06:00 PDT

The popular blogger shares helpful strategies for small-business owners getting started on social networks like Twitter, Facebook and Google+.

Good Nite Lite's Adam Nelson on Growing Without a Business Plan (Video)

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 17:02:00 PDT

Entrepreneur Magazine's Emerging Entrepreneur of 2011 shares growth strategies that helped his startup succeed.

Seven Ways to Get a 'Cash Mob' to Shop at Your Small Business

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 11:00:00 PDT

Buy-local advocates are creating 'cash mobs,' which ask people to patronize local stores at a particular time. Here's how you can get a cash mob to shop your store.

Three Reasons Apple's iCloud Isn't Ready for Business

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 05:00:00 PDT

While the popular cloud service can be handy for personal use, it lacks some essential functionality that can be critical for entrepreneurs.

How to Build a Fan-Worthy Facebook Page

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 02:00:00 PDT

Five steps to improve your branding power on the social network.

10 Insights from Entrepreneur and Celebrity Chef Susan Feniger

Sun, 05 Feb 2012 09:00:00 PDT

From 'Top Chef Masters' to food trucks, this restaurateur continues to reinvent herself.

10 Workplace Trends to Watch in 2012

Sat, 04 Feb 2012 09:00:00 PDT

Keep up with the ever changing American workplace with these 10 trends.

Baristas, the Hooters of Coffee, Tries Reality TV

Fri, 03 Feb 2012 12:00:00 PDT

The Seattle coffee chain is holdings auditions to cast "hot young girls as servers" for a new reality show. A recent Tampa casting call, however, came up short.

10 Reasons Your Small Business Shouldn't Start a Blog

Fri, 03 Feb 2012 11:00:00 PDT

Blogging is increasingly popular, but that doesn't mean it's right for your small business. Here are some reasons you might want to hold off on blogging.

Storytelling Expected to Score Big in 2012 Super Bowl Ads

Fri, 03 Feb 2012 06:00:00 PDT

Three ways small businesses can turn stories into ads and digital content without a Super Bowl-size budget.

The Kickoff: Three Startups Born from the NFL

Fri, 03 Feb 2012 05:00:00 PDT

After the Super Bowl and the end of the season, some football stars learn business skills and start their own companies.

How One Entrepreneur Used the Law of Publicity to Get Investors

Thu, 02 Feb 2012 11:00:00 PDT

Getting turned down by the 'Sharks' was the best thing to happen to one contestant.

Game On for Pizza Franchises

Thu, 02 Feb 2012 10:05:00 PDT

Forget football. Sales of America's favorite food will skyrocket on Super Bowl Sunday. That's good news for these pizza franchises.

Why Watching the Super Bowl May Inspire You to Start a Business

Thu, 02 Feb 2012 09:00:00 PDT

An entrepreneurship organization is running an ad during the Super Bowl. Its goal: To get you to start up.

Zuckerberg's $1 Salary and More: Parsing the Facebook IPO Filing

Thu, 02 Feb 2012 08:30:00 PDT

Facebook's IPO filing reveals a great deal about the company. Here's a brief overview.

Seven Secrets of Self-Made Multimillionaires

Thu, 02 Feb 2012 06:00:00 PDT

Sales pro Grant Cardone examines the habits of the super-rich, and how to make them your own.

Nine Tech Terms You Need to Know Before Starting a Business

Thu, 02 Feb 2012 05:00:00 PDT

No matter what industry you're in, having a working knowledge of tech-related concepts can be crucial. Here's a look at some of the most important terms and what they mean.

What Facebook's IPO Means for VCs and Entrepreneurs

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 13:30:00 PDT

The social networking giant's showing on the public market may land with a thud.

How to Reinvent Your Business (Video)

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 10:00:00 PDT

The owners of social-buying site Fab.com discuss how they came to the decision to shut down their old venture -- and focus on their new one. Here are their three tips for how to pivot.

Three Social-Media-Fueled Contests for Small Businesses

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 09:00:00 PDT

Contests are emerging as a popular, low-cost way for big companies to connect with their small-business customers. Check out these three business contests.

Sit Down Now and Write That Business Plan (Opinion)

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 06:00:00 PDT

If you're serious about building a successful enterprise, you'll need a business plan. But don't let that stop you from starting.

How to Safeguard Online Shopping Transactions

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 05:00:00 PDT

A secure credit-card transaction system can encourage shoppers to make purchases and help ensure that you stay in business.

How Broderick's Bueller Can Deliver Your Business Super Bowl Buzz

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 04:00:00 PDT

Curious how to take advantage of the pre-game buzz? Consider newsjacking or hosting a promotional tie-in.

Inside the Mind of Your Buyers

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 02:00:00 PDT

A look at what motivates customers to buy -- and six ways to tailor your sales pitch.

Startup America Gets a Do-Over

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 14:54:00 PDT

The President issued a new call on Congress to pass an ambitious legislative agenda to help small businesses, but some wonder whether it's just hot air.

The 10 Things Facebook Got Right Pre-IPO

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 13:00:00 PDT

Facebook has the potential to raise $10 billion in an IPO. Here's why that's possible.

Using an iPad to Boost Productivity (Video)

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 08:00:00 PDT

Jaime and Mark Van Wye, owners of dog-training franchise Zoom Room, say they're running a more efficient business thanks to tablet technology. Here are their iPad tips.

Is Facebook Advertising for You?

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 07:15:00 PDT

Most businesses can benefit from some sort of Facebook advertising, but not every business should make a significant investment in it. Should you?