Small Business Toolbox

A library of business management info


Hiring Professional Advisers
  • Guidelines for Hiring and Using Consultants
    05/20/2008
    When it comes to making important business decisions, sometimes you need the help of an outsider—and that's when a consultant comes in handy. By providing an external perspective, consultants are usually able to focus attention in a manner that clarifies objectives and renders them more achievable. They are frequently helpful in refining a company's mission and redefining its niche in its industry.
  • Hiring a Business Coach
    01/28/2008
    As a small-business owner, you have a bird's-eye view of your business, but sometimes there's value in getting an outside perspective on how to move your company to the next level. A business coach can not only help you identify key strategies to make your business grow, he or she can also hold you accountable for taking the necessary steps.
  • Tax Topics Make a Powerful Phishing Lure
    09/20/2007
    Phishing, the e-mail scam in which con artists try to get financial data that can be used to empty bank accounts or max out credit lines, is not restricted to individual victims. Phishers realize that even limited success on a corporate level is potentially much more lucrative than thousands of attempts aimed at individuals.
  • What Your CPA Wishes You Knew
    08/08/2007
    April 15 may seem light years away right now, but your accountant probably isn't just lounging at the beach only starting to work on April 1. In fact, he may already be gearing up to handle the work of many clients. Your accountant's job is to complete your tax preparation accurately and promptly—and save you money in tax-prep charges and by reducing taxes whenever possible.
  • Hiring a Business Coach
    02/19/2007
    If you're a small-business owner, you no doubt have felt you could benefit from some solid advice about running your company. You may have wanted advice about your management style, hiring employees or realistic feedback about a new direction you want your business to take. You may have considered a consultant, or even a business coach, to help you. But should you shell out your money to hire a business or executive coach to help you solve your problems?
  • How to Find the Accountant Who's Right for You
    01/03/2007
    Having the right accountant can make all the difference for a small business. The following suggestions can help you locate a good accountant and start building a working relationship from the start.
  • Taking Advantage of What Experts Can Offer
    03/23/2006
    Many entrepreneurs think of themselves as rugged individualists who would rather go it alone than ask for help. This trait may be helpful in some instances, but in others, it can limit the success of a growing company. In general, it’s best to take advantage of expert advice whenever possible. No one has all the answers and to avoid seeking advice can be remiss in many circumstances.
  • Daily Money Managers Can Relieve You of Day-to-Day Financial Duties
    03/24/2005
    If you don't have the time to devote to the daily financial duties that your small business requires, you might want to consider the services of a daily money manager.
  • What to Look for in a Tax Preparer
    01/19/2005
    Tax codes have become so complex that most business owners choose to use experienced accountants, tax attorneys or other tax specialists when preparing tax forms. An expert not only can assure that a company's tax records and forms are in order, but also can be sure that all available deductions have been taken.
  • Hiring: When It Makes Sense to Use a Professional
    09/07/2004
    While you may be able to handle most of the issues that will arise as you start a small business, you will want professional assistance for more complex issues, particularly legal and accounting issues.
  • April-December Relationships: Your Accountant Can Help You the Rest of the Year
    05/04/2004
    Sure, you've spent a lot of time with your accountant lately, but have you ever called her for advice in, say, July or October?
  • How to Select a Lender
    03/18/2004
    It's true that small businesses need to cut costs wherever possible, but searching out the lowest rates for a business loan may mean that more important issues are overlooked.
  • Hiring Small Business Bookkeeping Services
    05/20/2003
    A company can gain from having its finances and financial planning in order at every stage of growth.
  • How to Select an Accountant
    04/15/2002
    Whether an accountant will be keeping your books on a daily basis, working with your attorney, or periodically preparing the formal financial statements, choosing the right person (or firm) is an important decision for a new business owner.
  • When Do You Need an Accountant to Help Start a New Business?
    04/15/2002
    Many new small business owners are reluctant to spend the money required for professional assistance and consultation.
  • Finding a Business Adviser
    03/28/2002
    It seems that every article you read about starting a small business, or about making significant changes in an existing business, advises you to consult with your accountant, lawyer or business adviser before making any decisions