Encourage Canada’s young entrepreneurs to reach full potential
- Written by Financial Post
- Hits: 2109
By Jean-René Halde
In my role at the Business Development Bank of Canada, I meet lots of young entrepreneurs in every part of the country. When I ask why they’re in business, the reply invariably is that they love the freedom of being their own boss and they want to make a difference.
To turn their dream into reality, they have to build a business from the ground up, often starting with little more than hard work, ingenuity and determination. They relish the challenge and take pride in seeing customers respond to what they have created.
One of those young entrepreneurs is Pierre Martell in Moncton, N.B. Martell works in an industry that is almost as old as humanity: He builds homes. But, unlike most builders, he’s learned to make savvy use of the Internet not only to attract customers but also to respond to their greatest fears — that their home won’t be ready on time or on budget. Martell Home Builders website allows tradespeople, suppliers and clients to find information about a home and follow its construction during a “99-day countdown” to completion. People love it and business is booming. ... Read more
Spring Clean Your Approach to Your Business
- Written by Small Biz Trends
- Hits: 2208
It’s tough to say for sure with the crazy weather many of us are experiencing, but one thing is certain: Even it doesn’t feel like spring has arrived where you are, it does feel like spring is in the air. You can feel the sense of possibility and excitement that the new season brings, and you’re itching for it to arrive. And that feeling extends to your business.
Did you make New Year’s resolutions for your business way back in January? Well if you didn’t live up to them, it’s time to let it go. Stop beating yourself up about what you did or didn’t achieve. Let’s start with a fresh slate. With thoughts of new possibilities in mind, here are some ideas to spring-clean your business. ... Read more
How to Gain Media Coverage for your Small Business
- Written by Small Business BC
- Hits: 2300
Earning positive media coverage for your small business can be one of the most effective ways to publicize your business. However, landing these media stories takes planning, research and time. The following are some tips to help you understand the process of media relations and how to go about earning media coverage for your small business.
Media Relations vs Advertising
Top 10 ways to reduce your tax bill
- Written by CRA
- Hits: 2203
Did you know?
There are a number of ways to reduce the amount of tax you owe and keep more money in your pocket at tax time. The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) can help you learn more about the various credits and deductions that you may be entitled to and that can save you money when you file your 2011 income tax and benefit return.
Important facts
For individuals:
1. Plan ahead - Register for My Account, gather your receipts and NETFILE access code, and sign up for direct deposit before April 30. Submitting your income tax and benefit return before the tax-filing deadline means you can avoid having to pay late-filing penalties. ... Read more
How to put your sales on auto pilot
- Written by Globe and Mail
- Hits: 2409
Attracting new customers is an art and a science. The same can be said for selling more to existing clients.
While you need to do both, many small businesses ignore the low hanging fruit of the latter – growth through existing customers who have proven they are willing to pay for your product or service.
Recurring revenue is one of the most valuable ways to create more opportunities. It’s like auto pilot for sales. Here are some examples to consider.
Consumables
If you sell products that wear out but are used consistently, you can create a subscription service for just about anything. Examples? ... Read more