As year-end looms and you work to meet the year’s final goals, here are two of many possible scenarios. 1. You are GOOD for the finish line. You have the right time, money, energy, attention, skills and other resources you need to get the job done. 2. You are HOPING miracles are real…because you need one now. In this case, priorities may be unclear, or absent. Resources may be limited, or poorly aligned with your goals. Skills, knowledge or experience available to get the job done may … [Read more...]

Do you ever feel like your brand's a little bit chilly? Like it's too professional or boring? Or you're distant... not as cozied up and close with your clients as you'd like to be? Why not warm it up a bit? Warmth in your brand can make it seem more alive, open, passionate, and even both interesting and interested. The warmth is a sign that your small business is run by a real person and that you care about your clients. A warm brand also does a lot for your client relationships. Warmth … [Read more...]

We are all trying to develop a social media strategy that will: 1)      Make us look ‘social media savvy’ 2)      Augment our other marketing efforts 3)      Expand our visibility 4)      And more! In our efforts, we are constantly learning and adjusting.  No one has this perfected.  But one thing to definitely keep in mind along the way is your customers’ experience and perception of you.  Don’t get so wrapped up in what YOU can get out of social … [Read more...]

Probably one of the most frequently asked questions I receive revolves around auto use for business: what can I deduct?; Lease or buy?;  What miles count?, etc.  Here are some general rules you need to know to make sure you get every deduction allowed on your auto use! First, you need to understand that the IRS allows you to take the higher of two amounts when it comes to your auto.  You can deduct the business miles driven at the IRS rate for that year OR you can deduct actual costs; such … [Read more...]