No one ever thinks about Santa as an experienced business owner, but he’s been running a successful enterprise for centuries. So before the holiday crunch, I sat down with Santa over a cup of hot chocolate and asked for his small business start-up advice. I also asked for a red Tesla. I’ll see if Santa …
Entrepreneurs: What’s Your Exit Plan?
When you’re about to launch your great new startup or building a small business, you don’t spend a lot of time pondering how you’ll eventually leave it. Sure, you might imagine your terrific new app will be bought by millions. Or perhaps you think one day you’ll make enough money to retire. But without a …
7 Things an Entrepreneur Should Never Say
“Whoops – did he really just say that?” When you’re just starting a small business or launching a startup, it’s easy to put your foot in your mouth. You’ll be meeting many people and telling them about your new entrepreneurial venture. You’ll pitch to investors or try to impress a banker. You’ll almost certainly be …
Is a Franchise a Ripoff or a Road to Success?
You’ve always wanted to run your own small business—be your own boss. But you don’t want to start from scratch. Maybe you don’t have that “big” idea, don’t know where to start, or aren’t sure you have all the skills you need. Then, someone suggests you get a franchise. “It’s all done for you—it’s a …
So You Think You Want to be a Consultant?
Let’s say you’re an expert in a field but got laid off from your job. Or you have skills but can’t find permanent work that pays enough. It may be time to become a self-employed consultant. Consulting is a great way to own your own small business. I know, because I was a consultant for …