Small business (3)

Over the course of two years, my television habits have changed a lot. I found myself craving more and more scripted drama over Reality TV. It seems like it just one show with a ton of spin offs – the Kardashian Clan and their many shows, Housewives of X (pick a location/sport) and so on. Yes I am going to admit that I watch a few and was obsessed with them for a while but after figuring out their formula they got boring. For example I used to be a huge fan of MTV’s The Real World (the 1st reality show) but after a couple of seasons you figure that every cast is going to have at least one minority – whether its race, sexual orientation or religion. Just the right ingredients to stir up fights and lots of drama, then add alcohol to the mix and the main course is ready to serve.

There were a few shows that capture my attention and I am sad that most of them don’t last very long. This past weekend Centric (sister channel to BET) aired a marathon of Daddy Girl’s a spin off of Run’s House, which followed the lives of Vanessa and Angela Simmons (oldest daughters of Rev Run). I liked the show especially when we got to see how they grown their business Pastry from just a sneaker line but to include fashion as well. Why can’t see more reality shows that depict small business and entrepreneurship... [read entire post]

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This type of website is ideal for entrepreneurs and small business owners looking for simple internet presence to expand their business to a larger market. It can also be used to announce special events such as weddings, group trips, parties or conferences. The winner of this month's promotion will receive the following:

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See Website Example 1See Website Example 2

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Starting a Successful Small Business

12 Steps To Starting A Successful Small BusinessWhether you want to work for yourself, earn some extra income or have more control over your life, people are starting small businesses around the world. These people are living the new American dream of owning a business.About eight months ago, I started a home based travel business due to wanting more flexibility and control over my life. Previously, I worked in Corporate America most of my life and felt I had little to no control over my life. I found myself going from one meeting to the next with no time for deskwork. My deskwork would occur after hours, which left my personal life non-existent. I knew this pattern could not continue. For one, I was very unhappy and knew it was time for a change. I put a plan together that would allow me to leave the corporate arena. After a year of executing my plan, I left Corporate America and started my home based travel business. I'm not quite where I was salary wise, but that's ok. I can say that I am much happier and right now that is what matters to me.Do you want to start your own small business? If so, check out the steps below to get you started.STEP #1 - ORGANIZE YOURSELF:Set up a planning notebook to keep track of appointments, things to do, calls to make, errands to run, shopping, etc. Finally, set up a work schedule so you won't get sidetracked.STEP #2 - SELECT BUSINESS CARDS, STATIONERY ADVERTISING BROCHURES ETC:They make a definite impression-good or bad- on the people who receive them. If you are not certain what is most suitable and effective, consult a graphics designer or advertising agency.STEP #3 - DECIDE ON THE TYPE OF BUSINESS:Make a list of things you like to do, your work and volunteer experience, and items you own that can be used in a business. Look over this line-up, and using ideas from it, list possible businesses to start.STEP #4 - CHOOSE A LEGAL FORM:The three basic legal forms are sole proprietorship, partnership, and corporation. The most common is the sole proprietorship.STEP #5 - DETERMINE WHERE THE MONEY WILL COME FROM:There are three ways to finance start-up costs: use your own money, obtain a loan, or find investors. If possible, it is better to start small, use your savings, and not worry about repaying a debt.STEP #6 - GATHER INFORMATION:Spend a few weeks researching home-based businesses. A library or bookstore can provide numerous books on business basics, and on the specific type of business that interest you.STEP #7 - CHOOSE A MAILING ADDRESS:Using a post office or drop box as the business address down plays the fact you are a home based business. It also prevents customers from dropping in at all hours.STEP #8 - PICK A BUSINESS NAME AND REGISTER IT:If the business name you choose is different from your name, file an assumed (or fictitious) name certificate with the county. You are notified if another business already has that name, so you can select a new one.STEP #9 - WRITE A BUSINESS PLANA good business plan should include a description of what you are selling, who the prospective customers are, how you plan to promote, and how much money is needed for start-up costs.STEP #10 - SET UP RECORD-KEEPING SYSTEMS:Put together a simple and effective bookkeeping system for income and expenses. Use a pocket divider for each month's receipts, bank statement, deposit tickets, and canceled checks.STEP #11 - OPEN A BUSINESS CHECKING ACCOUNT:Call several banks to find out what services they offer. Bank fees can be significant, so shop around for the best deal.STEP #12 - OBTAIN LICENSES & PERMITSIt's very important not to overlook any necessary license or permit. Some cities and counties require a general business license. If the product or service you sell is taxable, you need a state sales tax permit.Creating and operating a small business is a wonderful and rewarding challenge. The satisfaction is not only in the money earned, but in doing what makes you happy.Visit my blog - Ebonywoman
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