Enclosed is the listings that you requested. According to all the
available information and sources within our computer network,
the companies listed here have shown a great need for home-based
workers such as yourself. All of our listed companies are revised
on a regular basis, since some of them may change their needs or
requirements. Although we believe our information to be
completely reliable. We cannot however, guarantee its complete
accuracy and we never stop researching firms in the HOMEWORK
INDUSTRY and make every effort to provide the type of programs
that you, the homebased worker are seeking.
It is now the time for you to read over the listed companies and
pick those in the various groups that you wish to contact. We
urge that you PLEASE contact each and every company listed,
regardless of which group they are in. All that's now required is
to send a large business (10) envelope with one (1) 32 cent stamp
affixed in the upper right hand corner. You then address this
envelope to yourself (SASE) leaving it unsealed, then fold it
into another #10 envelope that you will address to each of the
companies below. BEFORE sealing the mailing envelope, neatly
print or type a short note asking details on their HOMEWORKERS
PROGRAM (S). It is requested you DO NOT write long letters since
they are not read and are often discarded by mail room personnel,
and even if that is not the case, you do not want the companies
response to be delayed, simply because your inquiry laid around
while someone tried to determine just what you were requesting.
Once the listed companies receive your inquiry, they have
instructions to send your materials. Please follow directions. If
you send anything other than what is called for, you will get
little or no response. Be patient, some firms are very large,
international in size, some are on a seasonal basis, so it might
take a few weeks for some responses to reach you.
NOTICE
The listed companies have been separated into 3 different groups,
based upon the type of work they offer. If you are NOT going to
contact all companies listed, be sure to check which particular
group is of interest to you, before you write to any companies.
The following companies usually have more than one to offer. If
so, they will present you with all their opportunities after you
contact them. Which offers they send you and in what order they
will be sent, depends entirely upon their processing
abilities at that time.
GROUP 1--COMMISSION CIRCULARS/MAILING LETTERS
LBI SYSTEMS, P.O. BOX 3430, JAMAICA, NY 11432
B & L ADVERTISING, P.O. BOX 22609, MINNEAPOLIS, MN 55422
SELMAR BROOKS PUBL, P.O BOX 126D, BROOKLYN, NY 11229
IRENE'S ENT.,P.O. BOX 4552, E; PASO, TX 79914
MC CALLS ENT.,P.O. BOX 514, STEUBENVILLE, OH 43952
JAMES TITUS, 22203 FLINTLOCK, DR.,KATY, TX 77449
WORLD WIDE TRADE SERV.,MEDINA, WA 98039
LEIBIG ENT.,3703 COLD SPRINGS RD., HUNTINGDON, PA 16652
EM ENT.,BOX 1315, FLORENCE, SC 29503
TEA TREE OIL, BOX 18508, SPOKANE, WA 99208
ATLANTIC MAIL, BOX 690, HALLSVILLE, TX 75650
PROFIT, 3731 KANAINA #325, HONOLULU, HI 96815
AMETHYST, BOX 2348, NIAGRA FALLS, NY 14302
GOLDEN RULE, BOX 3975, VENICE, FL 33595
SM PUBLISHING, 20119 RHODA CIR.,CERRITOS, CA 90701
LLYOD ADKINS, 9025 E. CRESCENT AVE. MESA, AZ 85208
VIDEOSCOPE, BOX 20302, ATLANTA, GA 30325
BAKER, 221 W. BLUEFIELD, PHOENIX, AZ 85023
BARGER, PO BOX 61 RT 1, MILROY, PA 17063
MASCOR, 4807 BETHSEDA #344, BETHSEDA, MD 20814
SHOP, 433 DOUGLAS, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94114
FORTUNE HOUSE, 7507 S. TAMIAMI #215, SARASOTA, FL 34231
LINDCO, 3636 PETERSON, CHICAGO, IL 60659
TATE ENT.,BOX 330, FLINT, TX 75762
MICAH GRAPHICS, BOX 17726,BATON ROGUE, LA 70893
HOOK FAST, BOX 1088-SD, PROVIDENCE, RI 02901
BEN, BOX 69, FRANKLIN, VT 05457
M&H, 1370 CENTER, OREM, UT 84057
B. WITHERSPOON, 53 LANGMEYER AVE., BUFFALO, NY 14215
PUBLISHER, BOX 22, EARLTON, NY 12058
CPC, 407 N. HUNTINGTON, MONTEREY PK, CA 91754
HOME BUSINESS, 1484 IVERSON, ATLANTA, GA 30307
SAVRAN, BOX 815, FLUSHING, NY 11362
R&R, BOX 111733, TACOMA, WA 98411
HARTWICK, BOX 348, PT OXFORD, OR 97465
IMAGES, 2727 PACIFIC #107b,HIGHLAND, CA 92346
JD ENT.,ALAMOSA, CO 81101
PASTEREZ, 6239 W. CHARTER OAK, GLENDALE, AZ 85304
DYNAMIC IDEAS, 6055 NASH WAY #C11,SACRAMENTO,CA 95842
ORION PRESS, BOX 8068, ALEXANDRIA, VA 22306
MO SPECIALTIES, 312 CARPENTER ST.,READING, PA 19602
GUARDIAN, BOX 31175, PHOENIX, AZ 85046
DOROTHY LEEPER, 918 CANAL ST.,JOHNSTOWN, PA 15901
BUDGET ADS, BOX 125, RED OAK, GA 30272
MIDWEST, BOX 5447, LAFAYETTE, IN 47903
WDC, 693 W. 60 ST. LOS ANGELES, CA 90044
THORNTON, BOX 470492, FT WORTH, TX 76147
STALLINGS, 4502 12 AVE., TAMPA, FL 33605
R. MEDINA, 275 KATHY LN.,MARGATE, FL 33068
QUALITY, BOX 1305, SEAFORD, NY 11783
PROGRESS, BOX 93248, LOS ANGELES, CA 90093
WYNWOOD HOUSE, 323 FRANKLIN BLDG.,#285-02, CHICAGO, IL 60606
RBS, BOX 2659-G, DANBURY, CT 06813
KELLEY, BOX 4696-P, DETROIT, MI 48234
TODDCO,4219 W. OLIVE ST., BURBANK, CA 91505
RUBEY'S, BOX 20514, OKLAHOMA CITY, OK 73156
CONSULTANTS, BOX 1922, SUMAS, WA 98295
GOOD EARTH, 14 SUNSET PT.,ORACLE, AZ 85623
ROBCROSS, BOX 8768, BOSTON, MA 02114
HAWKINS, BOX 589, FOREMAN, AZ 71836
T&S RT 1 BOX 257, FT. GAINES, GA 31751
STUDIO 44, BOX 806, COMMACK, NY 11725
LENHART, 8 STANFORD, W. CALDWELL, NJ 07006
M&K, 3356, IDIATLANTIC, FL 32903
HAMILTON, BOX 608039, ORLANDO, FL 32860
NATIONWIDE, 1671 E 61 ST.,BROOKLYN, NY 11229
OWEN CORP.,771 A, BATTLE GROUND, WA 98604
NAT'L MAILER, 11017 LUENBERG CT.,LOUISVILLE, KY 40223
THOMPSON, 3703 GAMMA ST.,AMARILLO, TX 79110
GEORGE BARTA, BOX 7103, FT. LAUDERDALE, FL 33338
GORMANSTON, 7014 13 AVE.,BROOKLYN, NY 11228
VIDEOS, BOX 4-D, MIDDLETON, NY 10940
COMMUNICATIONS, BOX 996, NEW YORK, NY 10268
FOODMASTER, BURNT HILLS, NY 12027
WORLD WIDE, BOX 62, POWELL, TN 37849
NATIONPLAN, 1671 E. 16TH ST.,BROOKLYN, NY 11229
NAT'L ADVERTISERS, BOX 1356, SILSBEE, TX 77656
BUSINESSES, 92-MG BRIGHTON 11 ST., BROOKLYN, NY 11235
ASHBURN, 140 16 AVE.,SEA CLIFF, NY 11579
MINIWORK, AA, WINKLEMAN, AZ 85292
LYNETTE, 6251 MENTOR PK., MENTOR, OH 44060
R.K, 4700 LAVINA ST.,VANCOUVER, WA 98663
P.K, 1621GISH ST., #1A, LONG BEACH, CA 90815
MERCHANDISING, BOX 20514, OKLAHOMA CITY, OK 73156
NAT'L HOMEWORKERS ASSOC.,P.O. BOX 11350, EUGENE, OR 97440
MAIL IT, BOX 10070, KANSAS CITY, MO 64111
PUBLISHERS, #126 E HOMECRESTA, BROOKLYN, NY 11229
NVS CORP.,48 SPRINGVALE AVE.,DPT 1, LYNN, MA 01904
VL, P.O. BOX 1353, LEMON GROVE, CA 91945
VINYL INDUSTRIAL PROD.,DEPT 2812, 2021 MONTROSE, CHICAGO, IL
60618
UNIQUE SYSTEMS, P.O. BOX 3174, BINGHAMTON, NY 13902
LINCO, 3636 PETERSON, CHICAGO, IL 60659
HARROW PUBL, BOX 176, DANIELSON, CT 06239
CJ NELSON, 1825 DOMANIK DR.,RACINE, WI 53404
PHOENIX, BOX 150, SNELLVILLE,GA 30278
LOVE'S, 1445 E EVANS CREEK RD.,ROGUE RIVER, OR 97537
RAMCO, 2230 ROYAL, NEW ORLEANS, LA 70117
OPPORTUNITY, P.O. BOX 7586, S. LAKE TAHOE, CA 95731
HRB ENTERPRISES, P.O. BOX 574045,ORLANDO, FL 32857-4045
MICAH GRAPHICS, BOX 17726, BATON ROGUE, LA 70893
OPPORTUNITIES, P.O. BOX 2780, DPT HW, N. CONWAY, NH 03860
T. JONES, 3228 S. BOULEVARD STE 226, REDMOND, OK 73013
MARKET MAKERS, 1317-B, CENTRAL-B, CENTRAL AVE SE #276,
ALBUQUERQUE, NM 87123
TELECOM COMMUNICAT'N SER., 135607 CONE ST., #2, NUNCIA, MI 49448
J&J INVESTMENTS, P.O. BOX 131401, BIRMINGHAM, AL 35213
FEDERATED TAX SER.,DPT 6112, 2021 W. MONTROSE AVE., CHICAGO, IL
60618
SMC, 9401 DeSOTO AVE., DPT, 50-24, CHATWORTH, CA 91311-4991
VIEJO PUBL, INC.,5329 FOUNTAIN AVE.,DPT OP, LOS ANGELES, CA 90029
PRIVATE PLACEMENT, P.O. BOX 7387, WILSON, NC 27893
SUCCESSFUL SYSTEMS, DPT 10-12, HORACE HARDING STN., FLUSHING, NY
11362
ACADEMIC GUIDANCE SER.,1500 R COMMERCE PKWY DPT 10, MT. LAUREL,
NJ 08054
TOM BRANCH, 4229 MILL ST., PHILADELPHIA, PA 19136
PASSE PUBL., 161 S. LINCOLNWAY, N. AURORA, IL 60542
HOMEWORK, BOX 4385, PORTLAND, OR 97208
HOME PROFIT, BOX 329-Y MAIN, RANCOCAS, NJ 08073
ASF MARKETING, BOX 6672-E,PORTLAND, OR 97228
PASTERZ, 6239 W. CHARTER OAK, GLENDALE, AZ 85304
HOUSECALL MALL, 3431 W. THUNDERBIRD #13-210, PHOENIX, AZ 85023
NWC PUBL. CO.,DPT W-83, 158 BLOOMINGDALE ST.,CHELSEA, MA 02150
BASCO, 9351 DeSOTO AVE DPT B50-24, CHATSWORTH, CA 91311-4948
ATLANTIC MAIL, BOX 690, HALLSVILLE, TX 75650
MD ASSOC., BOX 21305, COLUMBUS, OH 43221
FOLEY-BELSAW CO.,6301 EQUITABLE RD DPT 20952, KANSAS CITY, MO
64120
SUCCESS, BOX 586, ELLICOTT CITY, MD 21043
GROUP 11-ENVELOPE STUFFING
PROFITABLE IDEAS, BOX 5337, NEW YORK, NY 10185
UNIVERSAL FINANCIAL REP.,BOX 2009, FOREST PK.,GA 30050
J.C. ENT.,BOX 236 WASHINGTON ST.,MARIONVILEE, MO 65705
LS BLOOM, BOX 5983, RICHARDSON, TX 75083
SOLLIEN ENT., BOX 2060, WAKEFIELD, MA 01880
CENTURY, BOX 15910, FT. LAUDERDALE, FL 33318
GROUP 111--DISTRIBUTORSHIP/DIRECT SALES OPPORTUNITIES
BRITE MUSIC ENT.,BOX 9191, SALT LK CITY,UT 84109
LE PORE PUBL.,363 MILLER AVE.,FREEPORT, NY 11520
KELL DIST CO.,30820 COUNTRY RD #10, GRANGER, IN 46530
GEORGE STEARN ACY.,8361 VICKERS ST.,SAN DIEGO, CA 92111
SUPER GLOSS MFG.CO., 3431 W. CLARENON, PHOENIX, AZ 85017
KIDCO PRODUCTS, 223 HORSEBLOCK RD., FARMINGVILLE, NY 11738
MERLITE IND. INC.,114 FIFTY AVE.,NEW YORK, 10011
AMERICAN TOY PARTIES, 20 CRAIG RD.,ACTON, MA 01720
PREFUMES +, 1426 W. 6 ST.,#206, CORONA, CA 91702
SPECIAL T, 7360-7433 VAMA, N. HOLLYWOOD, CA 91605
DAN NEWMAN CO.,1051 BLOOMFIELD AVE.,#2A, CLIFTON, NJ 07012
MELLINGER CO., 6100 VARIEL AVE.,WOODLAND HILLS, CA 91367
LIL' ORBITS, 8851 RESEARCH CTR.,MINNEAPOLIS, MN 55428
RICHMOND SALES INC., DPT IO-191, 42 POWER RD., PAWTUCKET, RI
02860
PVC FURNITURE, DPT NC, BATTLE GROUND, WA 98604-0010
PLEASE NOTE--Since the listed companies in group 11 may
change their requirements from time to time or on a seasonal
basis, we urge you to contact ALL companies. The above listed
companies DO guarantee payment for work completed.
If you contact any of the companies listed in group 111, be sure
to provide them with your telephone number.
IMPORTANT NOTICE: We act as an agent in listing you and we are
not responsible for any dealings you have with any of the above
listed firms.
==============
Levino Retanan is an entrepreneur for Global Cash Flow Network, a continuing education and business development company showing people how to build business success. Get No Obligation Free Tips And Training at http://www.24hourwebcash.com. Find out if you qualify to be trained in having your own business at 1-800-719-8268 extension 14478.
Monday, May 26, 2008
MAKE YOUR HOBBY PAY
It's great to delve into an interesting hobby such as artwork,
photography, or crafting paper jewelry. It's even more exciting
(and financially rewarding) to turn your special talents into a
successful home-based business. That's exactly what Mary Maturi
of Cleveland Ohio, Leslie Croyle of Bay Village, Ohio, and
Marlene Stephenson of Virginia, Minnesota, did. Each turned her
hobby into a cash-generating business complete with paying
customers and a bank account.
These aren't isolated stories. Men and women across the country
are joining the ranks of entrepreneurs converting hobbies into
money-paying propositions. It's important to note that none of
these women originally planned to start a business. On the
contrary, interest by others in their hobbies convinced them to
sell their work.
MARY MATURI'S KILLER WHALES
Mary Maturi markets a line of "Killer Whale" petroglyph
tee-shirts, sweat shirts, and note cards both in Alaskan gift
shops and in natural history museums in the lower forty-eight
states.
It all started when Mary and her family spent a year living in
Wrangell, a small town located on Wrangell Island in southeast
Alaska. One day Mary ventured down to Petroglyph Beach on the
island. Petroglyphs are ancient rock carvings left by an unknown
people. Using rice paper and different colored ferns, Mary
"rubbed" the petroglyphs to capture their images on paper. When
others saw her rubbings, they offered to buy them.
"Peoples interest really surprised me, so I thought of other ways
to share the uniqueness of the petroglyphs with out having to
deal with their awkward size (some were several feet in length).
That's how the "Killer Whale" notecards were born," Mary says.
Using her rubbings as a guide, she created smaller scale pen and
ink drawings which she took to a printer to get price quotes for
paper, printing and envelopes."
The major cost of printing is making the plates. Therefore, it's
wise to get price quotes for different runs of 1,000," says
Mary. For example, a run of 3,000 cards might cost around 10
cents per card while a run of 6,000 note cards could drop that
per unit cost below 8 cents per card. That decreases your card
cost by more than 20 percent - quite a savings. Mary also
recommends getting bids from several suppliers or even splitting
up the order.
While printers know how to price their printing competitively,
they don't make their own envelopes. Mary uses the least costly
printer that can deliver the quality of paper stock she desires,
but buys her envelopes from a warehouse specialist at a savings
of nearly 35 percent from prices quoted by printers and other
envelope suppliers. It pays to let your fingers do the walking
and get competitive quotes.
Once Mary obtained the cost estimates, she visited several gift
stores and museums to gather pricing information on competing
notecards. She also talked to store owners and museum managers
to determine their interest in ordering. After all, it would
make no sense to have the notecards printed unless buyers would
purchase at prices that can generate a profit.
LESLIE CROYLE'S PHOTO-FINISH
Leslie Croyle converted her love of photography and knack for
framing into a full-fledged photo decorating business.
Leslie and two friends offered for sale enlarged photos of
popular Cleveland events such as the start of the
Revco-Cleveland Marathon & 10K, and a spectacular shot of the
United Way Kickoff's release of thousands of colored balloons in
Public Square.
"We hired several photographers to cover the events and used the
best photographs of the bunch," say Leslie. Advertisements for
photo promotion proved popular. The trio sold 600 photos at
prices ranging from $8 to $10 a piece, gathering a bit less than
$5,400 in revenues. Not bad for the first venture.
Unfortunately, the combined costs of ads, fees for the
photographers ate up the $5,400 and more. "Although we ended up
with a loss, it gave us a lot of market exposure and a proven
track record," says Leslie.
Next, Leslie and her friends put together a portfolio of
photographs and contacted local businesses. This marketing move
landed them a job of photo decorating PJ McIntyre's Restaurant
in a Cleveland shopping center. "We tied in the nostalgia theme of
the restaurant by contacting area historical societies and
arranging to have their vintage photographs copied. It's
important to make sure you have the right to reuse the prints.
Ask for proper releases and permission to use whatever photos
you have copied," advises Leslie.
She stresses the importance of networking industry contacts. A
decorating firm they worked with on one project led to
additional work when that firm recommended Leslie and her
partners to some of their other clients.
Since 1987, the photo decorating business has progressed well
since its initial unprofitable photo event ventures. Major
projects include photo decorating the guest rooms and suites for
the historic Glidden House, which has been made into a unique
bed and breakfast, and an all-sports photo motif for the Grand
Slam Bar & Restaurant in the refurbished Cleveland Flats night
spot area.
"From our humble beginnings, we're now getting into some pretty
good sized jobs," says Leslie. "Just keep bumbling along - don't
give up."
MARLENE STEPHENSON'S PAPER PROFITS
Marlene Stephenson makes her money tearing paper. Actually, her
unique sculptured jewelry draws rave reviews wherever she wears
it. In fact, people routinely ask to buy her unique designs
right off her dress when she appears at public functions.
Marlene is a medical technician by trade, and her paper profits
grew out of a coffee get-together group of friends that met once
a week to try their hands at new craft ideas. One day one of the
ladies brought a book on making paper jewelry. "I just fell in
love with it and made a pin and some earrings to wear to a
business meeting. Lots of the women at the meeting asked me to
make some for them also," says Marlene.
As with any fashion item, Marlene pays attention to color
schemes and design. Even though she makes several copies of
different designs, each is unique in color, shading, size, and
even texture. Marlene crafts her one-a-kind jewelry to match her
customers special outfits.
"With any small business, it's important to link up with other
small businesses," stresses Marlene. For example, her local
hairdresser lets Marlene display her paper jewelry at her shop.
Local gift stores either buy the pins and earrings outright or
take them on consignment, which means they pay for the items
after they sell. Marlene also teamed up with several other artists to
display their work at trade shows.
"Try to tailor your product to the particular market. With the
loon as the state bird of Minnesota, my loon pins always do well
at local craft shows," she says. Likewise, when Marlene sent
samples of her pins to trade show in Anchorage, Alaska, she made
some new designs to capture the wilds of Alaska, These pins
included a polar bear, Alaska wild flowers, whales, and fish.
What ever your own hobby pursuits, you may be over looking an
opportunity to turn personal interests into money-making
enterprises. Investigate the possibilities, calculate the costs,
analyze the market, and move forward with your plan of action.
Take your lead from these three women who have turned hobbies
into profits.
===============
Levino Retanan is an entrepreneur for Global Cash Flow Network, a continuing education and business development company showing people how to build business success. Get No Obligation Free Tips And Training at http://www.24hourwebcash.com. Find out if you qualify to be trained in having your own business at 1-800-719-8268 extension 14478.
photography, or crafting paper jewelry. It's even more exciting
(and financially rewarding) to turn your special talents into a
successful home-based business. That's exactly what Mary Maturi
of Cleveland Ohio, Leslie Croyle of Bay Village, Ohio, and
Marlene Stephenson of Virginia, Minnesota, did. Each turned her
hobby into a cash-generating business complete with paying
customers and a bank account.
These aren't isolated stories. Men and women across the country
are joining the ranks of entrepreneurs converting hobbies into
money-paying propositions. It's important to note that none of
these women originally planned to start a business. On the
contrary, interest by others in their hobbies convinced them to
sell their work.
MARY MATURI'S KILLER WHALES
Mary Maturi markets a line of "Killer Whale" petroglyph
tee-shirts, sweat shirts, and note cards both in Alaskan gift
shops and in natural history museums in the lower forty-eight
states.
It all started when Mary and her family spent a year living in
Wrangell, a small town located on Wrangell Island in southeast
Alaska. One day Mary ventured down to Petroglyph Beach on the
island. Petroglyphs are ancient rock carvings left by an unknown
people. Using rice paper and different colored ferns, Mary
"rubbed" the petroglyphs to capture their images on paper. When
others saw her rubbings, they offered to buy them.
"Peoples interest really surprised me, so I thought of other ways
to share the uniqueness of the petroglyphs with out having to
deal with their awkward size (some were several feet in length).
That's how the "Killer Whale" notecards were born," Mary says.
Using her rubbings as a guide, she created smaller scale pen and
ink drawings which she took to a printer to get price quotes for
paper, printing and envelopes."
The major cost of printing is making the plates. Therefore, it's
wise to get price quotes for different runs of 1,000," says
Mary. For example, a run of 3,000 cards might cost around 10
cents per card while a run of 6,000 note cards could drop that
per unit cost below 8 cents per card. That decreases your card
cost by more than 20 percent - quite a savings. Mary also
recommends getting bids from several suppliers or even splitting
up the order.
While printers know how to price their printing competitively,
they don't make their own envelopes. Mary uses the least costly
printer that can deliver the quality of paper stock she desires,
but buys her envelopes from a warehouse specialist at a savings
of nearly 35 percent from prices quoted by printers and other
envelope suppliers. It pays to let your fingers do the walking
and get competitive quotes.
Once Mary obtained the cost estimates, she visited several gift
stores and museums to gather pricing information on competing
notecards. She also talked to store owners and museum managers
to determine their interest in ordering. After all, it would
make no sense to have the notecards printed unless buyers would
purchase at prices that can generate a profit.
LESLIE CROYLE'S PHOTO-FINISH
Leslie Croyle converted her love of photography and knack for
framing into a full-fledged photo decorating business.
Leslie and two friends offered for sale enlarged photos of
popular Cleveland events such as the start of the
Revco-Cleveland Marathon & 10K, and a spectacular shot of the
United Way Kickoff's release of thousands of colored balloons in
Public Square.
"We hired several photographers to cover the events and used the
best photographs of the bunch," say Leslie. Advertisements for
photo promotion proved popular. The trio sold 600 photos at
prices ranging from $8 to $10 a piece, gathering a bit less than
$5,400 in revenues. Not bad for the first venture.
Unfortunately, the combined costs of ads, fees for the
photographers ate up the $5,400 and more. "Although we ended up
with a loss, it gave us a lot of market exposure and a proven
track record," says Leslie.
Next, Leslie and her friends put together a portfolio of
photographs and contacted local businesses. This marketing move
landed them a job of photo decorating PJ McIntyre's Restaurant
in a Cleveland shopping center. "We tied in the nostalgia theme of
the restaurant by contacting area historical societies and
arranging to have their vintage photographs copied. It's
important to make sure you have the right to reuse the prints.
Ask for proper releases and permission to use whatever photos
you have copied," advises Leslie.
She stresses the importance of networking industry contacts. A
decorating firm they worked with on one project led to
additional work when that firm recommended Leslie and her
partners to some of their other clients.
Since 1987, the photo decorating business has progressed well
since its initial unprofitable photo event ventures. Major
projects include photo decorating the guest rooms and suites for
the historic Glidden House, which has been made into a unique
bed and breakfast, and an all-sports photo motif for the Grand
Slam Bar & Restaurant in the refurbished Cleveland Flats night
spot area.
"From our humble beginnings, we're now getting into some pretty
good sized jobs," says Leslie. "Just keep bumbling along - don't
give up."
MARLENE STEPHENSON'S PAPER PROFITS
Marlene Stephenson makes her money tearing paper. Actually, her
unique sculptured jewelry draws rave reviews wherever she wears
it. In fact, people routinely ask to buy her unique designs
right off her dress when she appears at public functions.
Marlene is a medical technician by trade, and her paper profits
grew out of a coffee get-together group of friends that met once
a week to try their hands at new craft ideas. One day one of the
ladies brought a book on making paper jewelry. "I just fell in
love with it and made a pin and some earrings to wear to a
business meeting. Lots of the women at the meeting asked me to
make some for them also," says Marlene.
As with any fashion item, Marlene pays attention to color
schemes and design. Even though she makes several copies of
different designs, each is unique in color, shading, size, and
even texture. Marlene crafts her one-a-kind jewelry to match her
customers special outfits.
"With any small business, it's important to link up with other
small businesses," stresses Marlene. For example, her local
hairdresser lets Marlene display her paper jewelry at her shop.
Local gift stores either buy the pins and earrings outright or
take them on consignment, which means they pay for the items
after they sell. Marlene also teamed up with several other artists to
display their work at trade shows.
"Try to tailor your product to the particular market. With the
loon as the state bird of Minnesota, my loon pins always do well
at local craft shows," she says. Likewise, when Marlene sent
samples of her pins to trade show in Anchorage, Alaska, she made
some new designs to capture the wilds of Alaska, These pins
included a polar bear, Alaska wild flowers, whales, and fish.
What ever your own hobby pursuits, you may be over looking an
opportunity to turn personal interests into money-making
enterprises. Investigate the possibilities, calculate the costs,
analyze the market, and move forward with your plan of action.
Take your lead from these three women who have turned hobbies
into profits.
===============
Levino Retanan is an entrepreneur for Global Cash Flow Network, a continuing education and business development company showing people how to build business success. Get No Obligation Free Tips And Training at http://www.24hourwebcash.com. Find out if you qualify to be trained in having your own business at 1-800-719-8268 extension 14478.
Friday, April 11, 2008
THE SURVIVAL TIPS FOR SMALL BUSINESSES
You may be in Mail Order, Direct Mail, or you may be a local merchant with 150 employees; whichever, however or whatever---you've got to know how to keep your business alive during economic recessions. Anytime the cash flow in a business, large or small, starts to tighten up, the money management of that business has to be run as a "tight ship."
Some of the things you can and should do include protecting yourself from expenditures made on sudden impulse. We've all bought merchandise or services we really didn't need simply because we were in the mood, or perhaps in response to the flamboyancy of the advertising or the persuasiveness of the salesperson. Then we sort of "wake up" a couple of days later and find that we've committed hundreds of dollars of business funds for an item or service that's not essential to the success of our own business, when really pressing items had been waiting for those dollars.
If you are incorporated, you can eliminate these "impulse purchases" by including in your by-laws a clause that states: "All purchasing decisions over (a certain amount) are contingent upon approval by the board of directors." This will force you to consider any "impulse purchases" of considerable cost, and may even be a reminder in the case of smaller purchases.
If your business is a partnership, you can state, when faced with a buying decision, that all purchases are contingent upon the approval of a third party. In reality, the third party can be your partner, one of your department heads, or even one of your suppliers.
If your business is a sole proprietorship, you don't have much to worry about really, because as an individual you have three days to think about your purchase, and then to nullify that purchase if you think you don't really need it or can't afford it.
While you may think you cannot afford it, be sure that you don't "short-change" yourself on professional services. This would apply especially during a time of emergency. Anytime you commit yourself and move ahead without completely investigating all the angles, and preparing yourself for all the contingencies that may arise, you're skating on thin ice. Regardless of the costs involved, it always pays off in the long run to seek out the advice of experienced professionals before embarking on a plan that could ruin you.
As an example, an experienced business consultant can fill you in on the 1244 stock advantages. Getting eligibility for the 1244 stock category is a very simple process, but one with tremendous benefits to your business.
The 1244 stock encourages investors to put equity capital into your business because in the event of a loss, amounts up to the entire sum of the investment can be written off in the current year. Without the "1244" classification, any losses would have to be spread over several years, and this, of course, would greatly lessen the attractiveness of your company's stock. Any business owner who has not filed the 1244 corporation has in effect cut himself off from 90 percent of his prospective investors.
Particularly when sales are down, you must be "hard-nosed" with people trying to sell you luxuries for your business. When business is booming, you undoubtedly will allow sales people to show you new models of equipment or a new line of supplies; but when your business is down, skip the entertaining frills and concentrate on the basics. Great care must be taken however, to maintain courtesy and allow these sellers to consider you a friend and call back at another time.
Your company's books should reflect your way of thinking, and whoever maintains them should generate information according to your policies. Thus, you should hire an outside accountant or accounting firm to figure your return on your investment, as well as the turnover on your accounts receivable and inventory. Such an audit or survey should focus in depth on any or every item within the financial statement that merits special attention. In this way, you'll probably uncover any potential financial problems before they become readily apparent, and certainly before they could get out of hand.
Many small companies set up advisory boards of outside professional people. These are sometimes known as power Circles, and once in place, the business always benefits, especially in times of short operating capital. Such an advisory board or power circle should include an attorney, a certified public accountant, civic club leaders, owners or managers of businesses similar to yours, and retired executives. Setting up such an advisory board of directors is really quite easy, because most people you ask will be honored to serve.
Once your board is set up, you should meet once a month and present material for review. Each meeting should be a discussion of your business problems and an input from your advisors relative to possible solutions. These members of your board of advisors should offer you advice as well as alternatives, and provide you with objectivity. No formal decisions need to be made either at your board meeting, or as a result of them, but you should be able to gain a great deal from the suggestions you hear.
You will find that most of your customers have the money to pay at least some of what they owe you immediately. To keep them current, and the number of accounts receivable in your files to a minimum, you should call them on the phone and ask for some kind of explanation why they're falling behind. if you develop such a habit as part of your operating procedure, you'll find your invoices will magically be drawn to the front of their piles of bills to pay. While maintaining a courteous attitude, don't be hesitant, or too much of a "nice guy" when it comes to collecting money.
Something else that's a very good business practice, but which few business owners do is to methodically build a credit rating with their local banks. Particularly when you have a good cash flow, you should borrow $100 to $1,000 from your banks every 90 days or so. Simply borrow the money, and place it in an interest bearing account, and then pay it all back at least a month or so before it's due. By doing this, you will increase the borrowing power of your signature, and strengthen your ability to obtain needed financing on short notice. This is a kind of business leverage that will be of great value to you if or whenever your cash position becomes less favorable.
By all means, join your industry's local and national trade associations. Most of these organizations have a wealth of information available on everything from details on your competitors to average industry sales figures, new products, services, and trends.
If you are given a membership certificate or wall plaque, you should display these conspicuously on your office wall. Customers like to see such "seals of approval" and feel additional confidence in your business when they see them.
Still another thing often overlooked: If at all possible, you should have your spouse work in the business with you for at least three or four weeks per year. The important thing is that if for any reason you are not available to run the business, your spouse will be familiar with certain people and situations about your business. These people should include your attorney, accountant, any consultants or advisors, creditors and your major suppliers. The long-term advantages of having your spouse work four weeks per year in your business with you will greatly outweigh the short-term inconvenience. Many couples share responsibility and time entirely, which is in most cases even more desirable.
Whenever you can, and as often as you need it, take advantage of whatever free business counseling is available. The Small Business Administration published many excellent booklets, checklist and brochures on quite a large variety of businesses. These publications are available through the U.S.Government printing office. Most local universities, and many private organizations hold seminars at minimal cost, and often without charge. You should also take advantage of the services offered by your bank and local library.
The important thing about running a small business is to know the direction in which you're heading; to know on a day-to-day basis your progress in that very direction; to be aware of what your competitors are doing and to practice good money management at all times. All this will prepare you to recognize potential problems before they arise.
In order to survive with a small business, regardless of the economic climate, it is essential to surround yourself with smart people, and practice sound business management at all times.
==============
Levino Retanan is an entrepreneur for Global Cash Flow Network, a continuing education and business development company showing people how to build business success. Get No Obligation Free Tips And Training at http://www.24hourwebcash.com. Find out if you qualify to be trained in having your own business at 1-800-719-8268 extension 14478.
Some of the things you can and should do include protecting yourself from expenditures made on sudden impulse. We've all bought merchandise or services we really didn't need simply because we were in the mood, or perhaps in response to the flamboyancy of the advertising or the persuasiveness of the salesperson. Then we sort of "wake up" a couple of days later and find that we've committed hundreds of dollars of business funds for an item or service that's not essential to the success of our own business, when really pressing items had been waiting for those dollars.
If you are incorporated, you can eliminate these "impulse purchases" by including in your by-laws a clause that states: "All purchasing decisions over (a certain amount) are contingent upon approval by the board of directors." This will force you to consider any "impulse purchases" of considerable cost, and may even be a reminder in the case of smaller purchases.
If your business is a partnership, you can state, when faced with a buying decision, that all purchases are contingent upon the approval of a third party. In reality, the third party can be your partner, one of your department heads, or even one of your suppliers.
If your business is a sole proprietorship, you don't have much to worry about really, because as an individual you have three days to think about your purchase, and then to nullify that purchase if you think you don't really need it or can't afford it.
While you may think you cannot afford it, be sure that you don't "short-change" yourself on professional services. This would apply especially during a time of emergency. Anytime you commit yourself and move ahead without completely investigating all the angles, and preparing yourself for all the contingencies that may arise, you're skating on thin ice. Regardless of the costs involved, it always pays off in the long run to seek out the advice of experienced professionals before embarking on a plan that could ruin you.
As an example, an experienced business consultant can fill you in on the 1244 stock advantages. Getting eligibility for the 1244 stock category is a very simple process, but one with tremendous benefits to your business.
The 1244 stock encourages investors to put equity capital into your business because in the event of a loss, amounts up to the entire sum of the investment can be written off in the current year. Without the "1244" classification, any losses would have to be spread over several years, and this, of course, would greatly lessen the attractiveness of your company's stock. Any business owner who has not filed the 1244 corporation has in effect cut himself off from 90 percent of his prospective investors.
Particularly when sales are down, you must be "hard-nosed" with people trying to sell you luxuries for your business. When business is booming, you undoubtedly will allow sales people to show you new models of equipment or a new line of supplies; but when your business is down, skip the entertaining frills and concentrate on the basics. Great care must be taken however, to maintain courtesy and allow these sellers to consider you a friend and call back at another time.
Your company's books should reflect your way of thinking, and whoever maintains them should generate information according to your policies. Thus, you should hire an outside accountant or accounting firm to figure your return on your investment, as well as the turnover on your accounts receivable and inventory. Such an audit or survey should focus in depth on any or every item within the financial statement that merits special attention. In this way, you'll probably uncover any potential financial problems before they become readily apparent, and certainly before they could get out of hand.
Many small companies set up advisory boards of outside professional people. These are sometimes known as power Circles, and once in place, the business always benefits, especially in times of short operating capital. Such an advisory board or power circle should include an attorney, a certified public accountant, civic club leaders, owners or managers of businesses similar to yours, and retired executives. Setting up such an advisory board of directors is really quite easy, because most people you ask will be honored to serve.
Once your board is set up, you should meet once a month and present material for review. Each meeting should be a discussion of your business problems and an input from your advisors relative to possible solutions. These members of your board of advisors should offer you advice as well as alternatives, and provide you with objectivity. No formal decisions need to be made either at your board meeting, or as a result of them, but you should be able to gain a great deal from the suggestions you hear.
You will find that most of your customers have the money to pay at least some of what they owe you immediately. To keep them current, and the number of accounts receivable in your files to a minimum, you should call them on the phone and ask for some kind of explanation why they're falling behind. if you develop such a habit as part of your operating procedure, you'll find your invoices will magically be drawn to the front of their piles of bills to pay. While maintaining a courteous attitude, don't be hesitant, or too much of a "nice guy" when it comes to collecting money.
Something else that's a very good business practice, but which few business owners do is to methodically build a credit rating with their local banks. Particularly when you have a good cash flow, you should borrow $100 to $1,000 from your banks every 90 days or so. Simply borrow the money, and place it in an interest bearing account, and then pay it all back at least a month or so before it's due. By doing this, you will increase the borrowing power of your signature, and strengthen your ability to obtain needed financing on short notice. This is a kind of business leverage that will be of great value to you if or whenever your cash position becomes less favorable.
By all means, join your industry's local and national trade associations. Most of these organizations have a wealth of information available on everything from details on your competitors to average industry sales figures, new products, services, and trends.
If you are given a membership certificate or wall plaque, you should display these conspicuously on your office wall. Customers like to see such "seals of approval" and feel additional confidence in your business when they see them.
Still another thing often overlooked: If at all possible, you should have your spouse work in the business with you for at least three or four weeks per year. The important thing is that if for any reason you are not available to run the business, your spouse will be familiar with certain people and situations about your business. These people should include your attorney, accountant, any consultants or advisors, creditors and your major suppliers. The long-term advantages of having your spouse work four weeks per year in your business with you will greatly outweigh the short-term inconvenience. Many couples share responsibility and time entirely, which is in most cases even more desirable.
Whenever you can, and as often as you need it, take advantage of whatever free business counseling is available. The Small Business Administration published many excellent booklets, checklist and brochures on quite a large variety of businesses. These publications are available through the U.S.Government printing office. Most local universities, and many private organizations hold seminars at minimal cost, and often without charge. You should also take advantage of the services offered by your bank and local library.
The important thing about running a small business is to know the direction in which you're heading; to know on a day-to-day basis your progress in that very direction; to be aware of what your competitors are doing and to practice good money management at all times. All this will prepare you to recognize potential problems before they arise.
In order to survive with a small business, regardless of the economic climate, it is essential to surround yourself with smart people, and practice sound business management at all times.
==============
Levino Retanan is an entrepreneur for Global Cash Flow Network, a continuing education and business development company showing people how to build business success. Get No Obligation Free Tips And Training at http://www.24hourwebcash.com. Find out if you qualify to be trained in having your own business at 1-800-719-8268 extension 14478.
Monday, March 31, 2008
MAKE MONEY WITH A PC
Edward Bulwer-Lytton stated "The pen is mightier than the sword." These days, not may people use the pen to write with. More often they use typewriters or, even more frequently, computers and word processors. But make no mistake, the written word is still very powerful, and if you own a word processor you are sitting on top of one of the most powerful money-making machines ever created.
Most people use their computer to do simple tasks, such as their taxes. Or they buy a word processor so their children can write term papers and get better grades in school. Very few people realize that their computers can make them money as well as fulfilling all of these other functions. If your computer is taking up desk space but not bringing you any extra income, it's time for you to put that machine to work for you.
Of course, the logical question is "How can my computer make money for me?" Computers are extremely versatile and can be programmed to do almost anything. Many different computer functions can be incorporated into a home-based business, but one of the easiest to master is the word processor. There are dozens of word processing programs on the market, and you should be able to master one in about five or six hours of practice. And,if you don't have a computer, don't worry. You can still cash in on this great business idea. many computer companies make word processing machines which are like super typewriters, combining the functions of both typewriters and computers.
Once you are familiar with your word processor, look out! You will be ready to take on the world with your home-based, word-processing business.
WORD PROCESSING RICHES
Using your word processor to make money is easy. In fact, it's easy as finding someone who needs a document created and selling your service to them. Once you've read through the following suggestions, you will have lots of great ideas on how to use your computer to make money.
NEWSLETTER WRITING
A successful company needs to keep their employees up to date on company activities (such as corporate buy outs, company recreational events, and policy changes) and trade news (such as new legislation affecting customers, competition news and manufacturer updates). The easiest and least expensive way to do all of this is through an employee newsletter.
The problem with this is most companies especially smaller ones, do not have the capital to hire a full-time writer. Many companies attempt to designate someone within the organization to write their newsletter, but this person is not a writer, in fact the one in charge of the newsletter is usually the secretary. Using nothing more than a typewriter, she tries to produce a nice-looking newsletter in a few minutes she has to spare between projects. Needless to say, the result is usually less than spectacular.
That's where you and your word processor come in. Using your computer, you can easily put together a newsletter that looks very professional--with columns, bold headlines, graphs and even pictures. Bring a sample newsletter into a business and have the manager compare it to his current newsletter (if he has one at all). Then tell him that by subscribing to your newsletter service, productivity and profit will rise for two reasons. First, because he will not be paying someone from inside the company to write the newsletter. Second, his employees will work more efficiently because they will be better informed.
Before you know it, you will have 10 to 15 companies paying you to write their newsletter, and will probably be just about all you can handle. Since each one will be paying you about $300 a month for the service, you will need to make the decision whether to continue to expand your service and hire more help, or simply relax and let the money keep rolling in.
MAIL ORDER REPORTS
Fads and trends come and go, but one thing that will always sell is information. With your word processor, you have one of the best mediums for presenting information, and you can make a bundle doing just that.
Just walk through your local book store or library and notice how many self-help, diet and how-to books there are. This should give you a feel how hungry consumers are for this type of information. Once you've read through a few of these types of books, you should know enough about the subject to write a brief five to ten page report. With the computer, you can make the report look very professional through the use of page numbers, double columns, pull quotes in the middle of the pages, and a bold catch title.
When the paper is complete, it's time for you to begin the marketing procedure. Take out an ad in the classified section of your local newspaper. Word the advertisement so that customers will be enticed to send you a check to learn more about the subject. Here are a few examples.
Tired of reading through useless diet books? TRY THE SECRETS OF CONTROLLING YOUR WEIGHT. Just send $3 to...
Plumbers charge over $100 dollars to make a house call. BE YOUR OWN PLUMBER, a new informed book, costs only $5. To order, send to...
Since printing costs will be minimal (between 25 cents and $1 per report) most of the money you collect will go directly to profit. And, since these reports are easy to produce, you can use some of that income to write and print a new report and sell it the same way. See how easy it is to make the whole thing snowball?
Here are some more subjects you can easily write brief reports and sell through the mail:
• How To Grow A Garden
• Selected Mexican Recipes
• Stop Smoking
• How To Paint Your House
• Mail-Order Marketing
• Making Your Own Patio Furniture
• Camping Made Easy
• Easy Baking Techniques
If some of this appeals to you, think of something else. Just remember, the idea must appeal to a wide arrange of customers or you will not sell enough products to defray your production costs.
TYPING SERVICE
When you begin to use your computer, you will quickly see the advantages you have over a standard typewriter. You can easily check your spelling and grammar, set your margins and type face as you wish, and make universal changes throughout the document without retyping the entire thing.
Because of these extensive features, your computer saves you time and effort when typing documents, and you can pass those savings on to your customers. With your computer, you can easily input a document, proofread it, give a draft copy to the customer for approval, make changes, then print a final version--all in less time than it would take a standard typist to type a single copy.
This is one of the easiest businesses to run once you master your word processor because all you need to know is how to type, no other talents are required. If you have a modern (telephone hookup) for your computer, you can even send documents across the country or around the world just as easily as you can deliver them across the street.
Your main concern in this business is finding customers who need typing done. Here are some customer suggestions and tips on how to get in touch with them:
Writers: There are literally thousands of people in this country who enjoy writing either for a hobby or as a source of extra income. By running an ad in one of the many writers magazines (such as Writers Digest or The Writer) you will get responses from writers all across the country who want their manuscripts typed.
Professionals: Small businesses often cannot afford the luxury of a secretary. Larger businesses sometimes have large projects to type but do not wish to hire someone extra. In either case an outside typist can be a valuable service.
Students: Many high school and college students don't have the time to type their own papers even if they do have the ability to. Especially during mid-terms or finals, a typing service can really make money at a school. Post flyers in every classroom and every bulletin board you can find.
The only requirement you need to stick to in this business is accuracy. No matter who you are typing for, they will stand for less than 100 percent perfect documents. Always check, double check, then triple check your work before you send it to your clients.
COMPUTING THE POSSIBILITIES
As you can see, with a computer or word processor, you can open up a whole new world of business opportunities. If you are one of the few business people who are still operating without one, you really should look into making that big purchase. While the initial capital outlay may seem high, a little ingenuity is all it takes to make the computer pay for itself.
===========
Levino Retanan is an entrepreneur for Global Cash Flow Network, a continuing education and business development company showing people how to build business success. Get No Obligation Free Tips And Training at http://www.24hourwebcash.com. Find out if you qualify to be trained in having your own business at 1-800-719-8268 extension 14478.
Most people use their computer to do simple tasks, such as their taxes. Or they buy a word processor so their children can write term papers and get better grades in school. Very few people realize that their computers can make them money as well as fulfilling all of these other functions. If your computer is taking up desk space but not bringing you any extra income, it's time for you to put that machine to work for you.
Of course, the logical question is "How can my computer make money for me?" Computers are extremely versatile and can be programmed to do almost anything. Many different computer functions can be incorporated into a home-based business, but one of the easiest to master is the word processor. There are dozens of word processing programs on the market, and you should be able to master one in about five or six hours of practice. And,if you don't have a computer, don't worry. You can still cash in on this great business idea. many computer companies make word processing machines which are like super typewriters, combining the functions of both typewriters and computers.
Once you are familiar with your word processor, look out! You will be ready to take on the world with your home-based, word-processing business.
WORD PROCESSING RICHES
Using your word processor to make money is easy. In fact, it's easy as finding someone who needs a document created and selling your service to them. Once you've read through the following suggestions, you will have lots of great ideas on how to use your computer to make money.
NEWSLETTER WRITING
A successful company needs to keep their employees up to date on company activities (such as corporate buy outs, company recreational events, and policy changes) and trade news (such as new legislation affecting customers, competition news and manufacturer updates). The easiest and least expensive way to do all of this is through an employee newsletter.
The problem with this is most companies especially smaller ones, do not have the capital to hire a full-time writer. Many companies attempt to designate someone within the organization to write their newsletter, but this person is not a writer, in fact the one in charge of the newsletter is usually the secretary. Using nothing more than a typewriter, she tries to produce a nice-looking newsletter in a few minutes she has to spare between projects. Needless to say, the result is usually less than spectacular.
That's where you and your word processor come in. Using your computer, you can easily put together a newsletter that looks very professional--with columns, bold headlines, graphs and even pictures. Bring a sample newsletter into a business and have the manager compare it to his current newsletter (if he has one at all). Then tell him that by subscribing to your newsletter service, productivity and profit will rise for two reasons. First, because he will not be paying someone from inside the company to write the newsletter. Second, his employees will work more efficiently because they will be better informed.
Before you know it, you will have 10 to 15 companies paying you to write their newsletter, and will probably be just about all you can handle. Since each one will be paying you about $300 a month for the service, you will need to make the decision whether to continue to expand your service and hire more help, or simply relax and let the money keep rolling in.
MAIL ORDER REPORTS
Fads and trends come and go, but one thing that will always sell is information. With your word processor, you have one of the best mediums for presenting information, and you can make a bundle doing just that.
Just walk through your local book store or library and notice how many self-help, diet and how-to books there are. This should give you a feel how hungry consumers are for this type of information. Once you've read through a few of these types of books, you should know enough about the subject to write a brief five to ten page report. With the computer, you can make the report look very professional through the use of page numbers, double columns, pull quotes in the middle of the pages, and a bold catch title.
When the paper is complete, it's time for you to begin the marketing procedure. Take out an ad in the classified section of your local newspaper. Word the advertisement so that customers will be enticed to send you a check to learn more about the subject. Here are a few examples.
Tired of reading through useless diet books? TRY THE SECRETS OF CONTROLLING YOUR WEIGHT. Just send $3 to...
Plumbers charge over $100 dollars to make a house call. BE YOUR OWN PLUMBER, a new informed book, costs only $5. To order, send to...
Since printing costs will be minimal (between 25 cents and $1 per report) most of the money you collect will go directly to profit. And, since these reports are easy to produce, you can use some of that income to write and print a new report and sell it the same way. See how easy it is to make the whole thing snowball?
Here are some more subjects you can easily write brief reports and sell through the mail:
• How To Grow A Garden
• Selected Mexican Recipes
• Stop Smoking
• How To Paint Your House
• Mail-Order Marketing
• Making Your Own Patio Furniture
• Camping Made Easy
• Easy Baking Techniques
If some of this appeals to you, think of something else. Just remember, the idea must appeal to a wide arrange of customers or you will not sell enough products to defray your production costs.
TYPING SERVICE
When you begin to use your computer, you will quickly see the advantages you have over a standard typewriter. You can easily check your spelling and grammar, set your margins and type face as you wish, and make universal changes throughout the document without retyping the entire thing.
Because of these extensive features, your computer saves you time and effort when typing documents, and you can pass those savings on to your customers. With your computer, you can easily input a document, proofread it, give a draft copy to the customer for approval, make changes, then print a final version--all in less time than it would take a standard typist to type a single copy.
This is one of the easiest businesses to run once you master your word processor because all you need to know is how to type, no other talents are required. If you have a modern (telephone hookup) for your computer, you can even send documents across the country or around the world just as easily as you can deliver them across the street.
Your main concern in this business is finding customers who need typing done. Here are some customer suggestions and tips on how to get in touch with them:
Writers: There are literally thousands of people in this country who enjoy writing either for a hobby or as a source of extra income. By running an ad in one of the many writers magazines (such as Writers Digest or The Writer) you will get responses from writers all across the country who want their manuscripts typed.
Professionals: Small businesses often cannot afford the luxury of a secretary. Larger businesses sometimes have large projects to type but do not wish to hire someone extra. In either case an outside typist can be a valuable service.
Students: Many high school and college students don't have the time to type their own papers even if they do have the ability to. Especially during mid-terms or finals, a typing service can really make money at a school. Post flyers in every classroom and every bulletin board you can find.
The only requirement you need to stick to in this business is accuracy. No matter who you are typing for, they will stand for less than 100 percent perfect documents. Always check, double check, then triple check your work before you send it to your clients.
COMPUTING THE POSSIBILITIES
As you can see, with a computer or word processor, you can open up a whole new world of business opportunities. If you are one of the few business people who are still operating without one, you really should look into making that big purchase. While the initial capital outlay may seem high, a little ingenuity is all it takes to make the computer pay for itself.
===========
Levino Retanan is an entrepreneur for Global Cash Flow Network, a continuing education and business development company showing people how to build business success. Get No Obligation Free Tips And Training at http://www.24hourwebcash.com. Find out if you qualify to be trained in having your own business at 1-800-719-8268 extension 14478.
Sunday, March 30, 2008
SECRETS TO SUCCESSFULLY STARTING YOUR OWN BUSINESS
The American Dream is, and always will be, to come up with an idea, start a business and become rich from your own efforts. Based upon this motivation, thousands of businesses fail each year, due primarily to not being familiar with the basics involved in running a business.
This report will enlighten you, and give you a number of suggestions you can use to better guarantee your chances for success. This report is written with the warning that any and every business venture contains certain inherent risks, and any number of alternatives. We do not espouse that any one way is the right way or that our suggestions are the only way. On the contrary, we advise that before investing any money in a business venture, you seek counseling and help from a qualified accountant and/or attorney.
Just about the first thing you should consider before deciding to start or purchase a business is the legal form you'll be operating under. There are basically four choices: sole proprietorship, partnership, limited partnership, and/or corporation.
Each has a number of advantages and disadvantages. As much as anything else, for many people starting a business is a form of ego-gratification, and they form a corporation for some sort of prestige gain - just to say, "I own a corporation."
With just a little bit of observation, you'll find that one of the major causes of business failures is due to the founder wasting start-up capital on frills, such as an impressive store-front office, expensive furnishings, and corporate legal costs.
One of the basic traits you must develop if you're going to be successful in business, is a tight hold on your expenditures. In fact, a good rule of thumb is that anything that does not make money for you or protect your investment, should not be purchased at this time. Very definitely, this applies to the expense of setting up your own corporation.
Unless you have a partnership and start your business as such, the only real advantage to forming a corporation would appear to be that a corporate structure will semi-protect the property you personally own.
As an example, you own a home and car. You form a corporation to protect these possessions from business losses. Yet, if you can be found guilty of misusing corporate funds, your business creditors can pierce the corporate shield and come after your possessions.
Basically, if you invest everything you have in your business, as most newcomers do, you don't usually need a corporation because you have nothing to protect. Your household possessions, personal belongings, generally your car, and even a portion of the equity in your home is protected by the homestead provision of the Federal Bankruptcy Act, and cannot be taken away from you.
As a sole proprietor or partner of a business you'll be paying taxes on your overall earnings, much the same as if you were holding down a salaried or hourly paid job. Whether you do or don't take out money as a salary will have no bearing on the earnings of your business and tax return.
The often advertised advantage of incorporating, that you can manipulate your salary in order to save on tax dollars, is real because of corporation laws. However, the IRS frowns on this practice. When your business is successful and making a lot of money, definitely check with your accountant on the advantages of incorporating.
As a corporation, you'll be subject to a number of other drawbacks as well: generally higher state taxes, stricter laws concerning the operation of your business, more elaborate accounting procedures, and legal papers that are required just about every time you make a major move or sign almost any contract. Thus, your legal and accounting fees will be much higher as a corporation than will those required for a sole proprietorship type of business.
As a sole proprietor or partnership, you'll find many areas require the registration of your business name. The cost however, is minimal, ranging from $5 to $100. About the best way to find out what laws apply in your area, is to call your bank and ask if they need a fictitious name registration card or certificate in order for you to open a business account.
Selecting a name for your business is quite important to you and particularly relative to advertising. Your business name should describe the product or services you offer. Fancy names such as, Linda's Clipping Service will lose potential "walk-in and passing" customers to the beauty shop across the street that calls itself, Patti's Beauty Salon or Jane's Hair Styling Shop.
The advantage of using your full name in the title of your business, such as Johnny Jones' Meat Lockers, has the advantage of making credit somewhat easier to come by - provided you pay your bills on time - but it also includes the disadvantage of confining your services to a local or at most, a regional area.
Should you buy, lease, or rent a space for your business? Think twice before you make any decision along these lines. Most businesses tend to grow quickly or they never get off the ground.
There are a few exceptions, but only a very few, that tend to grow at a modified rate. So, buying a piece of property and setting up your business on or within that property, obligates you to ownership regardless of what happens to your business.
Leases are almost always very strong contracts written by attorneys to the advantage of the property-owner. When you sign an agreement to pay someone for the use of their space over any length of time, you're "nailed in" to paying for that space regardless of what happens to your business.
In the beginning, it's wise to either get the shortest-term lease possible, or arrange to rent with an option to lease at a later date. This does not apply to a retail business, unless your particular business happens to be an untried one.
Definitely, you should open a business bank account. In selecting a bank for your business, scout around and look for one that can, and will help you. Determine what your banking needs will be, and then via telephone, interview the managers of the banks in your area. The important convenient bank to your business location.
A point to remember: the closer you can make the relationship between you and the bank manager, the better your chances are going to be for approval on loans and/or special favors you may need at a later date.
Try to become acquainted with as many of the bank employees as possible. The better you know them, the more courtesies they'll be extending especially to you in the course of your association.
Just as a doctor is a specialist in his field, and you go to him for medical problems, your banker is a specialist in his field and you should go to him for your money problems. In business, you'll have to learn that everyone is an expert in his own line of work, and in your associations with other business people, refrain from acting like a "sharpie" and/or pretending that you know exactly how everything works in someone else's specialty.
You'll find that very often, different banks specialize in different types of businesses. As an example, you're sure to find banks that specialize in real estate transactions, export-import businesses, and even manufacturing operations only.
What I'm saying here is that if you're planning to sell fairly expensive item, your customers will probably need and/or want financing. It will behoove you to select a bank familiar with your type of product that will afford your customers, through you, contract financing.
Some of the questions you should ask of your banker include the following:
Is it necessary to maintain a certain balance in your account before the bank will approve a loan for you?
What qualifications must you have in order to obtain a line of credit with the bank?
Does the bank limit the number of loans, or types of loans it will approve for small businesses?
What is the bank's policy regarding the size of a check you might deposit that requires holding for collection?
And what about checks less than that amount - will they be immediately credited to your account?
In almost all types of businesses, it will be to your benefit to set up with your bank, a method of handling VISA, Master Charge, and regional credit cards. The important thing here is to ultimately set up your account in the bank that will service all of these credit transactions for you - one stop for all your banking needs. In most instances, you'll find that having the capability to fill orders/make sales via credit card transactions, will increase your volume of sales appreciatively.
Once you've made the decision as to which bank is going to handle your account, you'll need your Social Security Number or your Federal Employer's Identification Number, your driver's license, the fictitious name certificate, and if you're requesting a VISA or Master Charge franchise, you'll also need a financial statement.
For corporations, you'll also need a corporate resolution approving of the opening of your business account.
There are different policies exercised in just about every state regarding installation/hook-up charges by the telephone and utility companies. Some require a deposit, and some don't.
You'll find that a great number of city business license departments are there solely for the purpose of collecting another tax. Depending on the type of business you're asking a license for, the building and zoning people may inspectyour premises for soundness of structure and safety.
Generally, you won't encounter any difficulties - you simply pay your fee to operate your business in that city, and the clerk types your name onto a city license certificate.
Relative to sales tax permits and licenses, each state's rules and regulations very widely. The best thing to do is call your state offices and ask for information concerning registry and collection procedures. Many states require an advance deposit or bond, and you'll find that some wholesalers or manufacturers will not sell to you at wholesale prices until you can show them your sales tax permit or number.
Should your business entail selling your products or services across state lines, in another state, you're not required to collect taxes except in those where you have offices or stores.
You may find also that your particular business requires the collection of Federal Excise Taxes. For information along these lines, check in with your local office of the Internal Revenue Service.
Some states also require certain businesses to hold state licenses, such as those required in many states for TV Repairmen.
These are known as "occupational permits" and are most often required of barbers, hair stylists, real estate people and a number of other consumer oriented businesses. If you have any doubts, check with your state offices for a list of those occupations that require licensing.
Any business doing business in any type of interstate commerce is subject to federal regulations, usually through the Federal Trade Commission. This means that any business that shops, sells or advertises in more than one state is subject to such regulation, and this includes even the smallest of mail order operations.
Normally, very few business people ever have and contact with the federal regulatory agencies. The only exceptions being when there is a question of your operating your business unethically or illegally.
Any business that sells or distributes food in any manner almost always requires a county health department permit. If your business falls into this category, simply call the county health department and invite them out to your place of business for an inspection. The fees generally range from about $25, depending on the size of your business when they first inspect it for permit approval.
There are also a number of businesses that require inspection by a fire Marshall, and fire department approval. Generally, these are those that handle flammable materials or attract large numbers of people, such as a theater. Overall, the local fire department has to be allowed to inspect your premises whenever they desire to do so.
You may also run into a requirement for an air and/or water pollution control permit. These specifically apply to any business that burns anything, discharges anything into the sewers or waterways, or use any gas-producing product, such as a paint sprayer.
Without a doubt, you'll need to check on local regulations relating to advertising display signs. Each city or township makes its own rules and then enforces those rules according to its own thinking-check before you contract to have a sign made for your business.
The design and placement of your sign is very important to your business - specifically to retail establishments - but let me remind you that your business sign is usually the first thing a potential customer sees and as such, it should catch his eye and leave an impression that lasts. It would be a good idea to ride around your town and take a look at the signs that catch your eye, and try to determine the impression of the business that sign leaves on you. This is a basic learning formula for determining the design, size and placement of your business sign.
Some of the other things to consider before opening for business- If you intend to employ one or more employees, you'll be required to deduct Federal Income Taxes, and Social Security payments from their checks. This will involve your filing for a Federal Tax Number and necessitates contact with your local IRS Office.
Most states have "unemployment taxes" which will have to be deducted from the paychecks of any employees you hire. And there are a number of states that have income taxes - disability insurance - and any number of other taxes. Again, the best thing to do is check with your local office of the IRS. And above all else, don't forget to ask for the rules of the minimum wage law, and comply.
When your business grows to the point of needing additional help, don't be afraid to look for and hire the help you need. when you're ready to hire someone, simply run an ad in your local paper and/or register your needs with the local office of your state's employment service. Businesses either grow or die, and those that grow eventually need more people in order to continue growing.
When that time comes, hire the additional people you need, and your business will continue growing. If you don't, for whatever reason, you'll find yourself married to your business and your business growth stymied.
Regardless of how small your business is when you begin, never walk in with the thought in mind that it's something to keep you busy. Anyone with an attitude of that kind is a fool. You begin and make a business successful in order to realize financial freedom. Establish your business. Put it on its feet, and then hire other people to do the work for you. And those businesses that require an operations manager, or someone to run a phase of the business you're too busy to handle, hire the person needed or the business will surely suffer.
To protect the investment of your business, you need business insurance. If you've never had any experience with business insurance, simply look under the heading of "business insurance" in your phone directory. Ask for bids from several different companies or agents... Primarily, you should have a policy that gives you general liability, fire, workmen's compensation, business interruption, and vehicle coverage. You may also want coverage against possible losses related to burglary, robbery, Life & Accident, Key Man, and Fidelity Bonds.
As the sole proprietor of a business, you won't be paid as an employee, so there will be no income tax deducted from whatever you withdraw from the company's earnings. What you'll have to do is a gain check with the IRS Office for a Tax Guide For Small Businesses Handbook, and probably end up filing an estimated tax return on a quarterly basis.
The minute you open your doors for business, you'll have to spend some time engaged in the work of bookkeeping. Exactly how, and using what forms, you keep books, should be on the recommendations of a good tax counselor... The same holds true for your overall business and/or payroll accounting system. Look for an experienced CPA that knows the accounting problems to your particular kind of business, and solicit his advise/counseling.
If your business is going to involve the possible purchase or lease of operating equipment, again seek the help of your tax counselor for the most advantageous method of obtaining the needed equipment.
Basically, arranging for your suppliers to give you materials on credit will depend upon your honesty and personal financial statement. The best way is usually a personal visit to the person with the power to approve or disapprove of credit at the company where you want to set up a credit account. Show him your financial statement, and explain your prospects for success. Then assure him that you've always honored all of your obligations, and that if ever there's a question or problem, you'd like for him to call you at home. And of course, give him your home phone number.
We won't go into the exigencies of advertising your products, services or business here, but there is something along these lines you should always keep in mind. The best kind of advertising your business can receive is that you don't really pay for - publicity.
When something unusual happens to you, your business, or your employees - that's news, so be sure to tell the news media in your area about it.
In closing, let me say that the most important ingredient of your eventual success will be the soundness of the planning you did before you started your business. Any number of bad things can really throw your business into a tailspin, but it you've done your homework well - really set up a detailed business plan before starting - your losses or setbacks will be minimal. Success takes planning, and within this report, you've got a basic checklist... The rest is up to you...Good luck, and may your life overflow with success in all that you undertake from this moment forward.
===========
Levino Retanan is an entrepreneur for Global Cash Flow Network, a continuing education and business development company showing people how to build business success. Get No Obligation Free Tips And Training at http://www.24hourwebcash.com. Find out if you qualify to be trained in having your own business at 1-800-719-8268 extension 14478.
This report will enlighten you, and give you a number of suggestions you can use to better guarantee your chances for success. This report is written with the warning that any and every business venture contains certain inherent risks, and any number of alternatives. We do not espouse that any one way is the right way or that our suggestions are the only way. On the contrary, we advise that before investing any money in a business venture, you seek counseling and help from a qualified accountant and/or attorney.
Just about the first thing you should consider before deciding to start or purchase a business is the legal form you'll be operating under. There are basically four choices: sole proprietorship, partnership, limited partnership, and/or corporation.
Each has a number of advantages and disadvantages. As much as anything else, for many people starting a business is a form of ego-gratification, and they form a corporation for some sort of prestige gain - just to say, "I own a corporation."
With just a little bit of observation, you'll find that one of the major causes of business failures is due to the founder wasting start-up capital on frills, such as an impressive store-front office, expensive furnishings, and corporate legal costs.
One of the basic traits you must develop if you're going to be successful in business, is a tight hold on your expenditures. In fact, a good rule of thumb is that anything that does not make money for you or protect your investment, should not be purchased at this time. Very definitely, this applies to the expense of setting up your own corporation.
Unless you have a partnership and start your business as such, the only real advantage to forming a corporation would appear to be that a corporate structure will semi-protect the property you personally own.
As an example, you own a home and car. You form a corporation to protect these possessions from business losses. Yet, if you can be found guilty of misusing corporate funds, your business creditors can pierce the corporate shield and come after your possessions.
Basically, if you invest everything you have in your business, as most newcomers do, you don't usually need a corporation because you have nothing to protect. Your household possessions, personal belongings, generally your car, and even a portion of the equity in your home is protected by the homestead provision of the Federal Bankruptcy Act, and cannot be taken away from you.
As a sole proprietor or partner of a business you'll be paying taxes on your overall earnings, much the same as if you were holding down a salaried or hourly paid job. Whether you do or don't take out money as a salary will have no bearing on the earnings of your business and tax return.
The often advertised advantage of incorporating, that you can manipulate your salary in order to save on tax dollars, is real because of corporation laws. However, the IRS frowns on this practice. When your business is successful and making a lot of money, definitely check with your accountant on the advantages of incorporating.
As a corporation, you'll be subject to a number of other drawbacks as well: generally higher state taxes, stricter laws concerning the operation of your business, more elaborate accounting procedures, and legal papers that are required just about every time you make a major move or sign almost any contract. Thus, your legal and accounting fees will be much higher as a corporation than will those required for a sole proprietorship type of business.
As a sole proprietor or partnership, you'll find many areas require the registration of your business name. The cost however, is minimal, ranging from $5 to $100. About the best way to find out what laws apply in your area, is to call your bank and ask if they need a fictitious name registration card or certificate in order for you to open a business account.
Selecting a name for your business is quite important to you and particularly relative to advertising. Your business name should describe the product or services you offer. Fancy names such as, Linda's Clipping Service will lose potential "walk-in and passing" customers to the beauty shop across the street that calls itself, Patti's Beauty Salon or Jane's Hair Styling Shop.
The advantage of using your full name in the title of your business, such as Johnny Jones' Meat Lockers, has the advantage of making credit somewhat easier to come by - provided you pay your bills on time - but it also includes the disadvantage of confining your services to a local or at most, a regional area.
Should you buy, lease, or rent a space for your business? Think twice before you make any decision along these lines. Most businesses tend to grow quickly or they never get off the ground.
There are a few exceptions, but only a very few, that tend to grow at a modified rate. So, buying a piece of property and setting up your business on or within that property, obligates you to ownership regardless of what happens to your business.
Leases are almost always very strong contracts written by attorneys to the advantage of the property-owner. When you sign an agreement to pay someone for the use of their space over any length of time, you're "nailed in" to paying for that space regardless of what happens to your business.
In the beginning, it's wise to either get the shortest-term lease possible, or arrange to rent with an option to lease at a later date. This does not apply to a retail business, unless your particular business happens to be an untried one.
Definitely, you should open a business bank account. In selecting a bank for your business, scout around and look for one that can, and will help you. Determine what your banking needs will be, and then via telephone, interview the managers of the banks in your area. The important convenient bank to your business location.
A point to remember: the closer you can make the relationship between you and the bank manager, the better your chances are going to be for approval on loans and/or special favors you may need at a later date.
Try to become acquainted with as many of the bank employees as possible. The better you know them, the more courtesies they'll be extending especially to you in the course of your association.
Just as a doctor is a specialist in his field, and you go to him for medical problems, your banker is a specialist in his field and you should go to him for your money problems. In business, you'll have to learn that everyone is an expert in his own line of work, and in your associations with other business people, refrain from acting like a "sharpie" and/or pretending that you know exactly how everything works in someone else's specialty.
You'll find that very often, different banks specialize in different types of businesses. As an example, you're sure to find banks that specialize in real estate transactions, export-import businesses, and even manufacturing operations only.
What I'm saying here is that if you're planning to sell fairly expensive item, your customers will probably need and/or want financing. It will behoove you to select a bank familiar with your type of product that will afford your customers, through you, contract financing.
Some of the questions you should ask of your banker include the following:
Is it necessary to maintain a certain balance in your account before the bank will approve a loan for you?
What qualifications must you have in order to obtain a line of credit with the bank?
Does the bank limit the number of loans, or types of loans it will approve for small businesses?
What is the bank's policy regarding the size of a check you might deposit that requires holding for collection?
And what about checks less than that amount - will they be immediately credited to your account?
In almost all types of businesses, it will be to your benefit to set up with your bank, a method of handling VISA, Master Charge, and regional credit cards. The important thing here is to ultimately set up your account in the bank that will service all of these credit transactions for you - one stop for all your banking needs. In most instances, you'll find that having the capability to fill orders/make sales via credit card transactions, will increase your volume of sales appreciatively.
Once you've made the decision as to which bank is going to handle your account, you'll need your Social Security Number or your Federal Employer's Identification Number, your driver's license, the fictitious name certificate, and if you're requesting a VISA or Master Charge franchise, you'll also need a financial statement.
For corporations, you'll also need a corporate resolution approving of the opening of your business account.
There are different policies exercised in just about every state regarding installation/hook-up charges by the telephone and utility companies. Some require a deposit, and some don't.
You'll find that a great number of city business license departments are there solely for the purpose of collecting another tax. Depending on the type of business you're asking a license for, the building and zoning people may inspectyour premises for soundness of structure and safety.
Generally, you won't encounter any difficulties - you simply pay your fee to operate your business in that city, and the clerk types your name onto a city license certificate.
Relative to sales tax permits and licenses, each state's rules and regulations very widely. The best thing to do is call your state offices and ask for information concerning registry and collection procedures. Many states require an advance deposit or bond, and you'll find that some wholesalers or manufacturers will not sell to you at wholesale prices until you can show them your sales tax permit or number.
Should your business entail selling your products or services across state lines, in another state, you're not required to collect taxes except in those where you have offices or stores.
You may find also that your particular business requires the collection of Federal Excise Taxes. For information along these lines, check in with your local office of the Internal Revenue Service.
Some states also require certain businesses to hold state licenses, such as those required in many states for TV Repairmen.
These are known as "occupational permits" and are most often required of barbers, hair stylists, real estate people and a number of other consumer oriented businesses. If you have any doubts, check with your state offices for a list of those occupations that require licensing.
Any business doing business in any type of interstate commerce is subject to federal regulations, usually through the Federal Trade Commission. This means that any business that shops, sells or advertises in more than one state is subject to such regulation, and this includes even the smallest of mail order operations.
Normally, very few business people ever have and contact with the federal regulatory agencies. The only exceptions being when there is a question of your operating your business unethically or illegally.
Any business that sells or distributes food in any manner almost always requires a county health department permit. If your business falls into this category, simply call the county health department and invite them out to your place of business for an inspection. The fees generally range from about $25, depending on the size of your business when they first inspect it for permit approval.
There are also a number of businesses that require inspection by a fire Marshall, and fire department approval. Generally, these are those that handle flammable materials or attract large numbers of people, such as a theater. Overall, the local fire department has to be allowed to inspect your premises whenever they desire to do so.
You may also run into a requirement for an air and/or water pollution control permit. These specifically apply to any business that burns anything, discharges anything into the sewers or waterways, or use any gas-producing product, such as a paint sprayer.
Without a doubt, you'll need to check on local regulations relating to advertising display signs. Each city or township makes its own rules and then enforces those rules according to its own thinking-check before you contract to have a sign made for your business.
The design and placement of your sign is very important to your business - specifically to retail establishments - but let me remind you that your business sign is usually the first thing a potential customer sees and as such, it should catch his eye and leave an impression that lasts. It would be a good idea to ride around your town and take a look at the signs that catch your eye, and try to determine the impression of the business that sign leaves on you. This is a basic learning formula for determining the design, size and placement of your business sign.
Some of the other things to consider before opening for business- If you intend to employ one or more employees, you'll be required to deduct Federal Income Taxes, and Social Security payments from their checks. This will involve your filing for a Federal Tax Number and necessitates contact with your local IRS Office.
Most states have "unemployment taxes" which will have to be deducted from the paychecks of any employees you hire. And there are a number of states that have income taxes - disability insurance - and any number of other taxes. Again, the best thing to do is check with your local office of the IRS. And above all else, don't forget to ask for the rules of the minimum wage law, and comply.
When your business grows to the point of needing additional help, don't be afraid to look for and hire the help you need. when you're ready to hire someone, simply run an ad in your local paper and/or register your needs with the local office of your state's employment service. Businesses either grow or die, and those that grow eventually need more people in order to continue growing.
When that time comes, hire the additional people you need, and your business will continue growing. If you don't, for whatever reason, you'll find yourself married to your business and your business growth stymied.
Regardless of how small your business is when you begin, never walk in with the thought in mind that it's something to keep you busy. Anyone with an attitude of that kind is a fool. You begin and make a business successful in order to realize financial freedom. Establish your business. Put it on its feet, and then hire other people to do the work for you. And those businesses that require an operations manager, or someone to run a phase of the business you're too busy to handle, hire the person needed or the business will surely suffer.
To protect the investment of your business, you need business insurance. If you've never had any experience with business insurance, simply look under the heading of "business insurance" in your phone directory. Ask for bids from several different companies or agents... Primarily, you should have a policy that gives you general liability, fire, workmen's compensation, business interruption, and vehicle coverage. You may also want coverage against possible losses related to burglary, robbery, Life & Accident, Key Man, and Fidelity Bonds.
As the sole proprietor of a business, you won't be paid as an employee, so there will be no income tax deducted from whatever you withdraw from the company's earnings. What you'll have to do is a gain check with the IRS Office for a Tax Guide For Small Businesses Handbook, and probably end up filing an estimated tax return on a quarterly basis.
The minute you open your doors for business, you'll have to spend some time engaged in the work of bookkeeping. Exactly how, and using what forms, you keep books, should be on the recommendations of a good tax counselor... The same holds true for your overall business and/or payroll accounting system. Look for an experienced CPA that knows the accounting problems to your particular kind of business, and solicit his advise/counseling.
If your business is going to involve the possible purchase or lease of operating equipment, again seek the help of your tax counselor for the most advantageous method of obtaining the needed equipment.
Basically, arranging for your suppliers to give you materials on credit will depend upon your honesty and personal financial statement. The best way is usually a personal visit to the person with the power to approve or disapprove of credit at the company where you want to set up a credit account. Show him your financial statement, and explain your prospects for success. Then assure him that you've always honored all of your obligations, and that if ever there's a question or problem, you'd like for him to call you at home. And of course, give him your home phone number.
We won't go into the exigencies of advertising your products, services or business here, but there is something along these lines you should always keep in mind. The best kind of advertising your business can receive is that you don't really pay for - publicity.
When something unusual happens to you, your business, or your employees - that's news, so be sure to tell the news media in your area about it.
In closing, let me say that the most important ingredient of your eventual success will be the soundness of the planning you did before you started your business. Any number of bad things can really throw your business into a tailspin, but it you've done your homework well - really set up a detailed business plan before starting - your losses or setbacks will be minimal. Success takes planning, and within this report, you've got a basic checklist... The rest is up to you...Good luck, and may your life overflow with success in all that you undertake from this moment forward.
===========
Levino Retanan is an entrepreneur for Global Cash Flow Network, a continuing education and business development company showing people how to build business success. Get No Obligation Free Tips And Training at http://www.24hourwebcash.com. Find out if you qualify to be trained in having your own business at 1-800-719-8268 extension 14478.
Saturday, December 1, 2007
My Home Business
"The ''Lazy'' Man's Way To Riches Working From Home! A Completely Different Approach To Making Money In Your Own Business!"
Create Explosive Income in just a few days from today.
• Set your own hours
• Be your own boss
• Make money 24/7
• No Selling
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• No experience required
• Full Training and Support
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Create Explosive Income in just a few days from today.
• Set your own hours
• Be your own boss
• Make money 24/7
• No Selling
• No Inventory
• No experience required
• Full Training and Support
More Details...
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