All Things Consulting
Laurel sitting can creep up on people, companies, and teams. It's the condition of resting on one's laurels – accolades, awards, education, training and experience, among other things – of the past instead of keeping them current, fresh. Here, for example, is how one coach described it: “We rested on last year’s laurels. Other teams came right at us and we did not respond to that.” Wayne Cafferty Laurel snatching can happen, too. And it can happen when you least … [Read more...]
A recent survey by Harris Interactive found that the number one resolution is to get organized. If you are one of the many who said 2012 is your year to get organized…but still haven’t “gotten around to it”, why not start now? The best way to begin organizing is to take that first step. To start you on your path, here are my top 3 favorite organizing tips from my co-authors in Get Organized Today: “Before you start to organize, it is crucial that you identify the things you … [Read more...]
Know anyone who is addicted to social media? Addiction is a strong word, but a recent study conducted by the University of Chicago Booth School of Business showed that checking Twitter or email was more addictive than cigarettes and alcohol! The researcher was quoted as saying that it’s because media is “…harder to resist because of their high availability and also because it feels like it does not ‘cost much’ to engage in these activities, even though one wants to resist.” Social … [Read more...]
The old saying goes, “There are only two certainties in life: death and taxes.” Have you ever wondered what would happen if you filed your tax return late or worse, did not file at all? Well, you are looking for trouble if you don’t file your tax return. If you do not file an income tax return, the IRS will gather all the transmitted tax documents and create a “substitute return” for you. If they show you are due a refund, nothing further will be done. Surprised? If they … [Read more...]
The challenges of business are rich and varied. And even if you do almost everything else right, if you make the following two mistakes, you may unwittingly chase customers, business and profits away. First, if your priorities don't line up well with what's important to your customers, you could be working very, very hard...on all the wrong things. Second, if you don’t have a way to translate those priorities into actions you can plan and manage easily, there’s no … [Read more...]
There’s a plethora of blogs out there now. Finding good ones can be a challenge sometimes. Here are a few that are great resources for consultants and small business owners, each offering their own take on topics related to running a business. Women in Consulting—of course this would be number one. :-) But really, you’ll find posts that cover the full range of issues confronting consultants and small business owners. Social Media Examiner—if you follow only one social media blog, … [Read more...]
Time after time, there are rulings from the IRS stating someone lost their deduction due to bad record keeping. Karen Hough had to pay $100,849 in taxes because she “estimated” the business expenses. She relied on her testimony to prove the deductions, while the IRS required documentation. She did not have cancelled checks or receipts. The IRS could see she spent money, but because she could not prove the items purchased, the deductions were denied. There were no excuses. I had … [Read more...]
"The finish line." -- When you read those words, what do you think? And what do you feel? Do you imagine, or recall, experiences of: Soaring across a finish line? Struggling to cross it? Missing a finish line altogether, despite your best intentions and most dedicated preparation? If you’re like most people, your experience with finish lines – and goal achievement – covers the full range from exuberance to missing the mark at times. Goal-setting and goal achievement is, of … [Read more...]
Processing 1099’s can be confusing and frustrating. Admin Books enjoys passing on important information that will help you find your way through the requirements of 1099’s. Here are some facts you need to know! General 1099 Rule: If you pay someone more than $600 in a calendar year for services, not material/product, then you are required to provide a 1099 showing the amount you paid. One tip is to collect a W-9 at the time of payment so you know if the business is a sole … [Read more...]
The jungle is dark, humid and dense. Birds of all kinds sing and call, while other animals rustle through the underbrush. The adventurers hack through the plants with their machetes to blaze a passable trail. It’s hard work, and it had to be done so they have a clear path to get where they’re going. Is your website like that jungle? Recently, I met someone at a conference and wanted to learn more about them while following up. So, I carved out a few minutes to check out their … [Read more...]
