As The Balance‘s Susan Ward puts it, “business promotion is to running a successful business as practicing scales is to playing the piano well…” A tedious activity, in other words, but fundamental to success. In fact, Ward recommends that business owners devote one hour per day to promotional activities.   It doesn’t have to be … Read more

It’s summer now—and business is booming. Whether it’s surfboards, swimming lessons, gas grills, or other summer-oriented merchandise and services, summer is the peak season for the business. Unless the staff plans a mass vacation to parts south over the winter, it’s time to plan what to do to keep the business humming even when the … Read more

Let’s say a company has an old product. Sales are so-so and dropping off gradually, like a slow leak in a tire. It may not be a drain on the bottom line just yet, but that day is coming.   The first temptation—just end production and try to keep its fans satisfied with another one … Read more