Category: Running a Business

Online Reputation Management for Small Business Owners in 2024

Today, even the smallest of businesses usually have an online presence of some sort — even if they don’t realize it. Online reviews can be the catalyst that draws in potential customers, but a lack of reviews or a slew of negative feedback (with no response from the business) can be off-putting.  The good news: Online reputation management doesn’t have to take hours of your time. We’re here to highlight several time-saving strategies to manage customer feedback and improve your… Read More

The Complete Guide to Customer Reviews for Small Business in 2024

Customer reviews are vital for the success and growth of your business. In fact, 87% of shoppers check Google for reviews on a local business before patronizing the business. More business reviews can bring in additional customers — and revenue — but even negative feedback can play a part in building customer loyalty. Responding to negative (and positive) reviews in a thoughtful manner can show that you care about your customers and increase trust in your business.  That’s where customer… Read More

Achieving Financial Sustainability: Essential Strategies for Small Business Owners in 2024

If you want your business to provide you with a solid income for as long as you choose to keep it open, it will have to be financially sustainable. With so many uncertainties in business, how do you get it there? Here, experts and business owners share financially sustainable practices that have worked for their businesses and others.  What Is Financial Sustainability? At its core, a financially sustainable business is one that makes enough income to make a profit after… Read More

Business Credit, Cash Flow and Lenders: What You Should Know in 2024

Key Takeaways  Cash flow and credit are the top two factors many lenders consider when evaluating applications for small business loans and financing.  Cash flow indicates the ability to pay while credit represents the willingness to pay.  Learn how to position your business for financing in 2024 and beyond. It’s Still Possible to Access Capital in 2024  Interest rates have been rising. And some borrowers are finding it more difficult to get financing. Yet business owners in a variety of… Read More

A Guide to Setting Up Google Business Profile in 2024

If you’re looking to boost your online visibility this year, there’s an easy option: Use your Google Business Profile.  Small business owners and local businesses can increase their online presence by utilizing and managing their Google Business Profile.  A Google Business Profile contains your business’s information like business address, phone number, contact information, and store hours (which you can manage by claiming your Business Profile). Google Business Profile is a free tool offered as part of Google’s services. Why Is… Read More

Understanding Merchant Processing for Financial Services

If you're in the business of selling goods or services, the ability to accept electronic payments is critical to your success. In today's economy, cash transactions are becoming increasingly rare, and consumers often expect the convenience of being able to pay using their credit or debit cards. But have you ever stopped to think about how your electronic payment system works? In this article, we'll explore the world of merchant processing and how it affects your business.  The Basics of… Read More