By BRUCE FREEMAN, Scripps Howard News Service
BizProf: Marketing is a good business venture
Dear Professor Bruce:
I own a number of small retail shops and a restaurant and am currently planning for the Valentine's Day rush. Are there any helpful tips that can help me get the most out of this holiday and other holidays in general?
BizProf: Business is down -- but there are ways to protect yourself
Dear Professor Bruce: My small business is way off in this recessionary economy. Do you have any advice?
BizProf: Keeping costs down while marketing
Dear Professor Bruce: I am starting a small business and I need to keep my expenses down. I understand that it can get pricey to do invoicing, e-mail marketing and payment processing. Is there a way to simplify the process?
BizProf: Tap low-cost social media for marketing
Dear Professor Bruce: Experts say small businesses shouldn't cut marketing budgets in a recession. However, I can't afford to do much marketing. Can you recommend any "champagne" marketing ideas for small businesses on a "beer" budget?
BizProf: Recovery Act aims to ease credit for small businesses
Dear Professor Bruce: As the owner of a struggling small business, I've had trouble securing a loan, but I heard that President Obama's plans for small businesses include unlocking credit. What does this mean exactly and how will it affect me?
To partner or not? That is the business question
Dear Professor Bruce: I am about to start my own small business. There are so many things to know and do that I am considering a partner. What do you think?
Tips for small businesses overloaded with regulations
Dear Professor Bruce: As a small business owner, I'm constantly concerned with following federal regulations. How do I guarantee that I'm meeting every requirement?Answer: Small business faces regulatory compliance costs that are 45 percent more than their larger counterparts, according to research conducted by the Small Business Administration.
How to get a patent or trademark
Dear Professor Bruce: I just developed a new product and I am concerned about people making knock-offs or copying my product. How do I get a patent or trademark for my brand/product? How much does it cost?
How to get a good deal on office space
Dear Professor Bruce:I'm about to be a first-time small business owner, and am wondering how to go about getting a good deal on a lease for office space. How can I make sure I don't get too much space or overspend?Answer:
Can small businesses find alternatives to bank loans?
Dear Professor Bruce: I'm a small business owner and am finding it difficult to get a bank loan. I've heard of something called factoring. What is it and when is it time to consider alternatives to traditional bank loans?
