The straight line

Category Archives: Small Business Planning

Loan Applications: Put Your Best Foot Forward

Need a loan to start or expand your business? Nearly a decade after the financial crisis of 2008, many banks remain hesitant about loaning money to start-ups and small business owners. Stricter lending policies often make applying for financing a nerve-wracking and time-consuming process. Here are some ways to give your loan application a leg up...

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How Consumer Protection Laws Affect Your Business

In the “good old days,” owners of honestly-run businesses had little reason to fear. “Caveat emptor,” or let the buyer beware, was the norm. Contract laws, particularly those involving warranties, provided consumers with the ability to sue under some circumstances, but it was relatively easy for companies to avoid the long arm of the law. Those...

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Back-to-School Tips for Grownups

August is back-to-school time across the country. Whether the school buses are already disrupting your commute to work — or will be soon — the start of the school year brings opportunities for savvy business owners. Here are some insights into this market segment and creative, real-world marketing solutions to inspire you to think outside the...

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Workplace Dress Code: A Delicate Balance

When it comes to workplace dress standards, you can be formal or casual depending on your organization’s personality. “In general, an employer may establish a dress code which applies to all employees or employees within certain job categories,” according to the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). The two key takeaways from this statement: It’s okay...

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FAQs about Social Security Retirement Benefits

For years, people have questioned the long-term viability of the Social Security system. In June, the Social Security Board of Trustees released its annual report on the long-term financial status of the Social Security Trust Funds. It projects that the combined asset reserves of the Old-Age and Survivors Insurance and Disability Insurance (OASDI) Trust Funds will...

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Tee Off for Success

Golf has its detractors, but one thing is clear: The game is a valuable way for companies to bring in revenue. Many executives believe golf is an essential business tool. Strategic golf isn’t the same as recreational golf. Courting business on the course means keeping your business purpose in mind and focusing on your customers. You...

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