K-Mart. Target. Home Depot. The list of businesses that have been involved in a data breach is mounting and, according to online security experts, the problem is only expected to escalate. How can you protect your business, and what should you do if a data breach does occur? Don't deny it. Be up front and arm your [...]
Whether you repair autos, sewing machines, or small engines, the basics of a successful shop remain the same. You need to learn good marketing skills, offer customers a guarantee that the work you provide is worthy, and invest in the tools you need to do the best job around. Here are the basics that can steer [...]
From work pants to prom dresses, everyone needs a good seamstress from time to time. A good alterations shop can become the centerpiece of a thriving community. How can you become the best in town? Here are a few pointers you can use from the day you open shop until you're celebrating your 50th year in [...]
As the business world picks up and the economy slowly recovers, there is more demand for the services of a good CPA. How can you capitalize on this new influx of potential business? With the right tools, like up-to-date technology and a professional live answering service, you'll have no problem rolling the new business in. Invest [...]
In Austin, Fort Worth, Dallas, San Antonio, or any city in the nation you pick, there's an automotive repair shop on nearly every block. When the competition is this tight, how can you be the most successful around? It's easy if you hire and keep the best workers, set high ethics standards for yourself, and provide [...]
How does your little business stack up against the big guys in Fort Worth? With a little ingenuity, you can compete with any established business -- and win! Small businesses have advantages that the big guys don't. Take advantage of your best selling points, and give customers plenty of reasons to stick with the little guys: [...]
As the economy climbs out of the recent deep recession, new construction is popping up across the San Antonio skyline, aided and abetted by renovations, delayed when times were tough. This is an excellent market for a new electrical business and, if you create a good plan and stick to it, your new business can grow [...]
If you're starting a new business of any kind, Austin is the place to be! Outpacing the growth of most other U.S. cities, Austin is in a post-recession building spree, and HVAC services are in demand. What does it take to be successful in this endeavor? Smart marketing, good call answering services, and a solid plan for [...]
For many customers, their opinion of your business will begin and end with how their calls are answered and handled. A good experience with your answering service can solidify a great customer relationship, while a bad one can cost you a customer and damage your reputation. Here are the must-remember practices when it comes to handling [...]
When customers call, what impression does that phone experience make on them? Do they hang up feeling as if they've spoken with a professional who knows their stuff, or an amateur wanna-be? Here are the worst business phone practices and how to avoid them. Using Your Cell Number as Your Business Number One-person businesses often make [...]