Originally published July 2, 2010

Rhonda returned from China earlier this week. Read about her impressions of business in China and what kinds of opportunities growth in China means for small business owners and jobs here in the U.S.

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Originally published June 25, 2010

Most of us have a hard time figuring out when it's time to pull the plug on anything we've put our heart and soul into. Answering the questions in this column will help you decide if it's time to call it quits on your business.

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Originally published June 18, 2010
Is your computer running as though there's sludge in it? It might be time to upgrade. Rhonda takes a closer look at Windows 7. Click here...

Originally published June 11, 2010
Realistically, you have to be responsive — and above all, polite — to all potential customers. But there are ways to limit the amount of time, money and effort you spend on dead-end shoppers. Click here...

Originally published June 4, 2010

This summer, while juggling your small business, your visitors, your kids, and everything else you need to take care of, remember to take time out to recharge your batteries.

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Originally published May 28, 2010
This commencement season, over a million college students will graduate. Even in this economy, now is a great time for them to start their own ventures. Click here...

Originally published May 21, 2010
Can you do good while you're doing well? Increasingly, entrepreneurs who want to achieve more than just profits with their companies are engaging in socially responsible entrepreneurship. Click here...

Originally published May 14, 2010

Believe it or not, in a world of 140 character tweets, you really do still need a business plan. That's because it's the planning and not the plan that's important.

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Originally published May 7, 2010
Little-noticed provisions buried deep inside the gargantuan financial reform legislation will make it more difficult for angel investors to fund start-ups. Click here...

Originally published April 30, 2010

How do you feel about being the boss? If you're like the majority of bosses recently surveyed by Intuit, you're very satisfied. And the more employees you have, the higher the satisfaction.

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Originally published April 23, 2010

A just-released study by the highly respected PEW Institute shows that small business is the most trusted institution in America. More than churches. More than colleges. More than technology companies. And certainly more than labor unions or large corporations.

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Originally published April 16, 2010

Do you have a great idea for a new business? Before you even start your business plan, do a feasibility analysis - it will help you answer some tough questions up front.

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Originally published April 9, 2010
On Opening Day, every team's record is perfect. As with entrepreneurs, all things are possible. Click here...

Originally published April 2, 2010

Do you suffer from PPS (ping pong syndrome)? Most small business owners do, spending their days bouncing from one task to the next, and adding more to their to-do lists along the way.

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Originally published March 26, 2010

Confused by what health care reform means for your small business? Read on to find out.

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Originally published March 19, 2010
Today, the network is mission critical for small business. You need it to "just work." Click here...

Originally published March 12, 2010

Seven percent of male-owned business gross a million dollars a year, while only three percent of female-owned businesses do. Why? Many women are reluctant to hire.

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Originally published March 5, 2010

The very best way — not the easiest, but the best way — to get money to finance your business is to go out there and make sales.

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Originally published February 26, 2010

Have the rules changed in your industry? Find out how to navigate uncertain waters.

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Originally published February 19, 2010
Gung hay fat choy! Or loosely translated, "Congratulations and may you have a prosperous new year. If you're an entrepreneur, the coming new year portends to be an especially good year for you — whether or not you're Chinese. Click here...

Originally published February 12, 2010
All that snow! Who would have imagined a blizzard would shut down a large section of America for nearly a week? These disruptions remind us that we each need an emergency backup plan for our small business. Click here...

Originally published February 5, 2010
It's finally here — the Small Business Challenge. A chance to learn about how to start and grow your business. A challenge among five companies. And a challenge to YOU. Click here...

Originally published January 29, 2010
In his State of the Union address, President Obama made four major proposals to give a boost to small business - the engine of the job growth. Here's how to make those proposals work. Click here...

Originally published January 22, 2010
If you want to grow your small business, then you'll need to hire. Click here...

Originally published January 14, 2010
Every small business owner gets a case of the doldrums occasionally. But you are the spark plug for your business. When the sparks don't seem to ignite, you've got to do something about it. Click here...

Originally published January 7, 2010
My company, The Planning Shop, has become a baby-friendly workplace. When you're the boss of a small business, you get the change the rules. Click here...

Originally published December 31, 2009
Read about 10 New Year's Resolutions for your small business that will inspire you in 2010. Click here...

Originally published December 24, 2009
The last week or so of the year — when others are on vacation, the phones aren't ringing, and things are much quieter around the office — is a good time to finally clean up your office. Click here...

Originally published Deceber 18, 2009
Tammy Murray of Sacramento, is about to get an amazing gift this Christmas: the business of her dreams. That's right — Tammy's getting a complete small business we've built just for her. Click here...

Originally published December 11, 2009
This week, President Obama announced a few proposals to help small businesses create jobs, including tax relief and extended support for SBA loans. Good start, Mr. President, but not enough. Click here...

Originally published December 4, 2009
Want to save money on your 2009 small business taxes? (Who doesn't?) By taking a few simple steps today, you can save a bundle next April. Click here...

Originally published November 27, 2009
Unless you're in retail, at this time of year, business may be slowing down. Take advantage of this time to start your end-of-year business tasks. Come 2010, you'll be happy you did. Click here...

Originally published November 20, 2009
Does your small business need a new laptop? A printer? Software? Black Friday can be a great time to stock up. Click here...

Originally published November 13, 2009
Small businesses will be the fastest growing segment of the economy over the next five years and HP wants to woo you--the small biz owner. This past week HP announced a whole suite of new, integrated products and services for small and medium-size companies. Click here...

Originally published November 6, 2009
Small business is the engine of job creation. If a mere 1% of non-employer small businesses hired their first employee, they would create 200,000 new jobs. Click here...

Originally published October 30, 2009
Highlights from the amazing Women's Conference hosted by Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger and his wife, Maria Shriver. Click here...

Originally published October 23, 2009
Whether you've been in business for years or are just starting out, you need to develop your business plan. Click here...

Originally published October 16, 2009
Before you spend your limited dollars, save yourself a lot of money and headaches by doing some basic research into your industry, competition and target market. Click here...

Originally published October 9, 2009
Fall is networking season in the business world and you need to be able to answer the question 'What do you do?' Time to work on your elevator pitch - a clear description of your business, short enough that you can deliver it in the time it takes to ride in an elevator. Click here...

Originally published October 2, 2009
Finding money to start or grow your business is a challenge. But there are funds out there. Click here...

Originally published September 25, 2009
Take the "E-Type" test and learn what kind of entrepreneur you are and which businesses might be best for you. Click here...

Originally published September 18, 2009
Have an idea for a business? A dream you want to pursue? Are you thinking of starting a business? Rhonda has got new help for you. Click here...

Originally published September 11, 2009
Rhonda goes to the annual meeting of the Association of Small Business Development Centers. Click here...

Originally published September 4, 2009
What Rhonda did on her summer vacation? Click here...

Originally published August 28, 2009
Rhonda is a big fan of inspirational quotations. One or two you'll find of the following quotations speak to you. Click here...

Originally published August 21, 2009
Rhonda's master list of office goodies by category. Click here...

Originally published August 14, 2009
You don't have to go it alone. You can find a great deal of help—much of it free. Click here...

Originally published August 7, 2009
In virtually every business, the first customer is the hardest to land. There are a number of tricks to snare that first one. Click here...

Originally published July 24, 2009
Starting and running a business can be a lot more fun when you're working with someone you like and respect. Click here...

Originally published July 17, 2009
It's time to get serious about having fun in your business again ... Click here...

Originally published July 10, 2009
Wouldn't you like to get some free advertising for your business? Click here...

Originally published July 03, 2009
Not just a friends, barbecue, fireworks ... it's also a terrific reminder of what makes America a wonderful place for entrepreneurs – we nurture freedom and respect and value differences. Click here...

Originally published June 19, 2009
If you want to grow your small business, it's time to squeeze some oranges. Click here...

Originally published June 12, 2006
Why not enable microloans right here in America? Click here...

Originally published May 29, 2009
Rhonda's advice: “Whatever you do, make sure you do whatever you can to keep your current customers.” Click here...

Originally published May 22, 2009
The future of Intuit CEO is closely aligned with the future of all small businesses. Click here...

Originally published May 15, 2009
Which social networking site is best for your small business? What's a small business person to do? Do you really have to be Tweeting all day? Click here...

Originally published May 8, 2009
"Be your own boss," "become an independent distributor." Click here...

Originally published May 1, 2009
How can swine flu affect you and your small business? Click here...

Originally published April 24, 2009
Can't find a job? Here are eight keys to a productive work-at-home work routine. Click here...

Originally published April 17, 2009
The future of your small business is in the clouds. Having key business functions handled somewhere out there in the Web-based clouds of cyberspace. Click here...

Originally published April 10, 2009
There's many ways to deal with awful happenings and Rhonda would like to share with you how to: "Get over it, and stay over it." Click here...

Originally published April 3, 2009
Do's and don'ts. Last-minute advice to lessen your chances of getting audited as you rush to the wire before April 15. Click here...

Originally published March 27, 2009
A quick refresher course on some of the keys to successful small business sales. Click here...

Originally published March 20, 2009
Want to save money? Here's the plan for your Spring Small Business Savings. Click here...

Originally published March 13, 2009
This year, Rhonda got some new and unusual advice how to be more environmentally sustainable. Go out and plant an EDIBLE garden. Click here...

Originally published March 06, 2009
Feeling gloomy all the time? Fearful, pessimistic? So here's Rhonda's handy-dandy guide to maintaining good health and some peace of mind in these difficult times... Click here...

Originally published February 27,2009
"Inventory is money sitting around in a different form." So what are some effective ways for you to move your products or services? Click here...

Originally published February 20,2009
Being in business takes confidence and courage. How do you —how do I —as a business owner survive and thrive in uncertain times? Click here...

Originally published February 13, 2009
Who's the only U.S. president to receive a patent? Click here...

Originally published February 06,2009
Love is in the air, and all you need is L O V E. But this Valentine’s Day, let’s look at 10 ways that love helps your business succeed. Click here...

Originally published January 30, 2009
What do the Chinese New Year and your success have in common? Click here...

Originally published January 23,2009
Developing an annual business plan is a key to long-term business survival and success. Click here...

Originally published January 16,2009
To help rebuild the American economy, Mr. President must directly and significantly helps America's small businesses. Click here...

Originally published January 09, 2009
If your company is on the brink of disaster, you naturally have to save every penny. How are you going to spend your company's money, ask Rhonda. Click here...

Originally published January 02, 2009
What are Rhonda's seven New Year's resolutions for 2009? What she or you can put on the list. Click here...

Originally published December 26, 2008
As 2008 Ends, it's time, to clean off your desk and files. Click here...

Originally published December 19, 2008
Here are nine last-minute easy steps to take NOW to lower your taxes next APRIL. Click here...

Originally published December 12, 2008
Looking for a gift for the entrepreneur or small business owner on your holiday list? This is what Rhonda came up with. Click here...

Originally published December 5, 2008
Keep marketing. Do it inexpensively — and here's how to do holiday marketing on the cheap this year. Click here...

Originally published November 28, 2008
Get your website to appear high up in the results when someone is looking for the kind of stuff you sell. Click here...

Originally published November 21,2008
How about those millions (or is it billions?) of strangers surfing the Web, perhaps looking for products or services you sell? How do you come up high on results on search engines such as Google and Yahoo? Click here...

Originally published November 14, 2008
Rhonda is here today to remind you that you can do it. You can survive this downturn. Here are ways to pull up your pants, roll up your sleeves, and survive, even thrive.  Click here...

Originally published November 07, 2008
An open letter to the incoming president. Click here...

Originally published October 31, 2008
This holiday season, Rhonda has an important warning for every small company that sells to big retailers. Click here...

Originally published October 24, 2008
Rhonda's election-year evaluation of the presidential candidates and small-business issues. Click here...

Originally published October 17, 2008
What makes it possible for new companies to thrive when times are so bad? Why can it be a good time to launch out on your own? Click here...

Originally published October 10, 2008
Eleanor Roosevelt's story inspires, especially now. Click here...

Originally published October, 3 2008
Google has a suite of services that may well replace your office software as well as give you new tools for collaboration. All FREE. Click here...

Originally published September 12, 2008
Buy and eat more "local" food to help your own and fellow local small businesses Click here...

Originally published September 5, 2008
Here are the ways how to make writing proposals easier and landing clients more likely. Click here...

Originally published August 29, 2008
Get back to work and start selling. How to get energy if you're still on the beach—ask Rhonda. Click here...

Originally published August 21, 2008
Can you make the most of your limited marketing dollars and have the biggest impact on your bottom line. You need to know your "target market" Click here...

Originally published August 07, 2008
Can you build a company faster, easier, and more successfully if you're not part of group serving your industry or community? Click here...

Originally published August 1, 2008
Why some things still need to be put on paper, ask Rhonda. Click here...

Originally published July 18, 2008
Want to get Rhonda's business tips regularly? Sign up for her monthly e-mail newsletter. Click here...

Originally published July 11, 2008
Online ads are everywhere, and while they might seem annoying, they're often effective. Isn't it time you considered online advertising for your small business? Click here...

Originally published July 04, 2008
Learn from first enterprises, as strategies for running a successful lemonade stand. Click here...

Originally published June 27, 2008
Sell over internet and get paid? Then you'll want to know about PayPal... Click here...

Originally published June 20,2008
Learn a thing or two about business success having your dog lying under your desk. Click here...

Originally published June 13, 2008
How to keep your small business run even huge megastores moved into town. Click here...

Originally published June 6, 2008
Most of us have a hard time figuring out when it's time to pull the plug on anything we’ve put our heart and soul into.When is the right time to say, “Enough!” Click here...

Originally published May 30,2008
Your neighbor invites you over for a swim party. Do you bring business cards with you? Click here...

Originally published May 23, 2008
Graduating from college or graduate school? So now that you no longer have to go to class, it's time to try to make your great new idea - how about starting your own business? Click here...

Originally published May 16, 2008
You may have a flashy website and a blog but you still need print materials to market your business. Click here...

Originally published May 9, 2008
Let's get a little help for self-employed mothers and share secrets for juggling both demanding jobs at once. Click here...

Originally published May 2, 2008
Gas prices have skyrocketed and continue to rise. What can entrepreneurs do to save money on gas? Click here...

Originally published April 4, 2008
Can you grow your business during a recession? Here are ways to grow even when the economy stagnates. Click here...

Originally published March 7,2008
To increase sales and grow your business, you have to get inside your customers' heads. What are their needs and wants? Click here...

Originally published February 29, 2008
What to include on your website--the basics and more. Click here...

Originally published February 22, 2008
Happy Chinese New Year! How the year of the rat can be good for entreprenuers! Click here...

Originally published February 15, 2008
Take a look at your sales figures and income from the past months and years, those numbers may help you find opportunities to make more sales. Click here...

Originally published February 08, 2008
You're launching a new business and you need customers. Here are some major objectives of marketing campaigns fall. Click here...

Originally published Februry 01,2008
It's time to go through the piles and files — physical and digital. To start, have necessities on hand. Click here...

Originally published January 25, 2008
Stimulate the economy by stimulating small business and help them create more jobs. Small businesses employ more than half of the workforce in the US. Click here...

Originally published January 18, 2008
Taken seriously, a customer compaint can lead to an opportunity to improve your services. Click here...

Originally published January 4,2008
How can you break out of this cycle and achieve more of your overall ambitions? Click here...

Originally published December 27,2007
Helpful list of resolutions for entrepreneurial companies for 2008. Click here...

Originally published December 21,2007
There's always something else You'd rather be doing. But things must be done. Why don't you join Rhonda, it will be just piece of cake. Click here...

Originally published December 14, 2007
Not sure what to get the entreprenuer on your list, or making a wish list of your own? Rhonda has the list for you! Click here...

Originally published December 07, 2007
Here's a fact of business life entrepreneurs often overlook: many companies have money they absolutely, positively must spend this month. They could be spending it with you. Click here...

Originally published November 30, 2007
Is chocolate your passion? The chocolate business is a relatively easy one to get into. Click here...

Originally published November 23, 2007
By supporting the small business sector, you're indirectly helping your own company to thrive. Click here...

Originally published November 15, 2007
Some tricks how to get your very first customer. Click here...

Originally published October 26, 2007
The fundamentals of starting your own business. What you need to do, and who you can ask for help. Click here...

Originally published September 21, 2007
You still need – or want – to make money, but you certainly don’t want another job. So, start your own business! Click here...

Originally published September 14, 2007
Rhonda's business lessons from the baseball season of 2007. Click here...

Originally published September 7, 2007
Summer's over, so it's time to turn your full attention back to your business. Fall is a busy season for everyone, make the most of it! Click here...

Originally published August 31, 2007
Everyone likes to go to the office supply store-for things that you really need, and some that you really don't! Click here...

Originally published August 17, 2007
Make a positive impression with your elevator pitch! Click here...

Originally published August 10,2007
Do clients feel uncomfortable because your company is too small? Add  size, depth and strength to your company without adding extra employees. Click here...

Originally published August 3, 2007
Unsure of what type of business to start? Read the legal pros and cons of the different forms of business. Click here...

Originally published July 27, 2007
With a small budget, who is more important to hire? Someone in sales or in marketing? Click here...

Originally published July 19, 2007
If you can't control your cash flow, you can't control your company. Strategies to control your cash flow and your company. Click here...

Originally published July 13, 2007
Customers are fickle and it can be frustrating to deal with. Learn how to calmly accommodate customers without losing your shirt or your self-respect. Click here...

Originally published July 6, 2007
Interns can help build your company, while gaining a real-world experience. Read about our experience with interns and advice for companies looking to hiring them. Click here...

Originally published June 29, 2007
Don't lose your freedom to the demands of your business, make a stand and become independent again! Click here...

Originally published June 22, 2007
While most larger corporations don't think twice about giving away their product as a promotion, this idea of "free stuff" can really hurt a small business. Figure out ways that small businesses can manage to compete with free give aways. Click here...

Originally published June 15, 2007
Managing a business along with summer fever, vistors and vacation opportunities can be tough, but find your balance. Click here...

Originally published June 7, 2007
According to trade show industry resources, up to 80% of trade show leads aren't followed up. That's a huge waste! Learn to get the most out of your trade show leads. Click here...

Originally published June 1, 2007
Learn how to build a long-lasting relationship with your customers. And find out if the saying that the customer is always right, is really true. Click here...

Originally published May 25, 2007
Follow these tips to increase the success of hiring the right person and avoid hiring the wrong person. Click here...

Originally published May 18, 2007
Every entrepreneur faces a constant tug-of-war between the time and staffing it takes to maintain your current business, and the time and staffing it will take to develop your business further. Click here...

Originally published May 11, 2007
Now is the time to look for angel investors. There are more angels and more funds available to entrepreneurs than ever before. Click here...

Originally published May 4, 2007
According to US Census Bureau statistics, people who are self-employed in less glamorous positions tend to make more money than those doing more appealing work. Click here...

Originally published April 27, 2007
Have you thought about what will happen to your business when you decide to retire, or if you decide you would like to do something else?  Click here...

Originally published April 20, 2007
Most entrepreneurs are careful spenders, but all of us, from time to time, squander our precious funds. Click here...

Originally published April 13, 2007
Faith, doubt and effort are all needed for success. You'll encounter challenges, and  these three qualities will help guide you through them. Click here...

Originally published April 6, 2007
Creating a niche for your business can help you obtain more success. The key is to keep focused on your objective, even when tempting opportunities arise. Click here...

Originally published March 30, 2007
Bankruptcy is never fun, especially when it's not your company, but you can survive! Take precautions to prevent bankruptcy for yourself, of course, and learn about your rights in case another business you rely on faces this unfortunate situation. Click here...

Originally published March 23, 2007
Take steps to insulate yourself from another company's bankruptcy. My company's distributor declared bankruptcy this year, and I've learned more than I ever wanted to know about the bankruptcy process. Click here...

Originally published March 16, 2007
Save your company some money this spring! Spend half a day lowering your overhead bills. Take a look at your statements and make a few phone calls. It never hurts to ask! Click here...

Originally published March 9, 2007
You win, we all win! Going green can save dollars in your pocket, and help protect the environment. Click here...

Originally published March 2, 2007
Entrepreneurship Week is February 24-March 3rd, sponsored by the Kauffman Foundation. As President and CEO, Carl Schramm, shares his keen insight about entrepreneurship in America. Click here...

Originally published February 23, 2007
Money is what business is supposed to be all about, but why is it that we try not to deal with money matters more then we absolutely have to? Click here...

Originally published February 16, 2007
Setting some goals to achieve more sales this year can effectively bring in more income for your business. Click here...

Originally published February 9, 2007
Exhibiting at trade shows effectively can find you more of the kind of business you want for success. Click here...

Originally published February 2, 2007
There’s one place small employers often fail to search for new job applicants – the families and friends of their best employees. Click here...

Originally published January 26, 2007
Local businesses build local communities. Shopping in locally owned businesses, and using local services supports your community. Click here...

Originally published January 19, 2007
It's "Get Organized" month. Are there piles of papers on your desk? Is messy the same thing as disorganized? Click here...

Originally published January 12, 2007
Consider other ways of competing with the competition. Unlike big businesses, offering low prices, and having narrow profit margins, is risky for small businesses. Click here...

Originally published January 5, 2007
Rhonda's seven steps that are key to business success in the next 12 months. Click here...

Originally published July 8, 2005
Don't just sit there, grow your business! Rhonda knows how to get you going and get you growing! Click here...