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The economy is in shambles, real estate valuations are tanking and most “brick & mortar” business models depend on unpredictable things like weather and fuel prices — add all that up and you've got a recipe for tight margins and bankers that are unlikely to lend to you. No big deal though, keep reading to get my best advice for first time buyers — Read More

A series comprised of email interviews with professionals who's businesses/positions have let them form an opinion as to how design may or may not lend to the growth and success of their products or services. Read More

When your customers call in to tech support or other customer service areas, their experiences can either make them trust you, your company, and your brand even more -- or wonder whether anyone really cares. This customer service check list outlines the do's and don'ts of keeping your customers happy on the phone. Read More

Urging employees to simply rethink their jobs was enough to drop absenteeism by 60% and turnover by 75%, according to a new University of Alberta study. A 'Spirit at Work' intervention program, designed to engage employees and give a sense of purpose, significantly boosted morale and job retention for a group of long-term health-care workers Read More

BizBox's Jerry Kalish on the rules for borrowing out of your 401(k)--and the risks. Read More

Franchise consultant Joel Libava, exposes some urban legends concerning franchise failure rates... Read More

Small businesses are always searching for ways to differentiate themselves. But with fewer people out buying, some of the businesses are doing whatever they think will draw in customers. Holding special events also can be far less expensive than regular advertising. And in a slowing economy, advertising and marketing budgets typically get trim Read More

Slate's BizBox jumps off from an interview that Sen. Olympia Snowe (R-Me.) did with Business Week to discuss her plans for fixing the Small Business Administration. Read More

Lay-a-way? Doesn't that involve some kind of a system where you pay for the merchandise BEFORE you take it home? A reasonable lay-a-way program would be a great option, allowing the customer to pay a little each week and walk out of the store with the item full paid for in 8 weeks. And yes, it usually closed the sale. It looks like some modern- Read More

Small businesses finally are getting their own little piece of the federal government's ballooning bailout package. U.S. officials announced the federal government as part of a broader package will lend up to $200 billion to institutions that originate consumer loans and business loans backed by the Small Business Administration. The rationale Read More