Venturespeak
Some humorous phrases that venture capitalists use to describe their portfolio companies. Read story
Inc. staff
Training
Chart: How employees are trained, and the % of work hours spent on training during the first 3 months on the job. Read story
Computer Smarts
Joining a computer users group is a good way to learn more about getting the most out of your company computer. Read story
Music To Their Ears
A mail-order company promotes non-profit organizations in its catalog. Read story
Taking Orders
When order-takers are busy all other employees at SecondWind Co. become back-up support to salespeople. Read story
Family Ties
CEO augments overtime pay with flowers and coupons for dinner at local restaurants. Read story
Benefits
Chart: Companies were asked how much vacation time they give their employees after 1, 5, and 10 years of service. Read story
Finding The Right Seminar
For better information in his area of interest a company executive attends seminars conducted by field experts. Read story
Character Loans
Over the course of 5 years, a company founder built up his credit record before building his company. Read story
Business-To-Business Calls
When selling business to business, an 800 number may be a waste of money. Read story
Alumni Network
Cabinetmaker refers his customers to other woodworkers, many of whom are former employees. Read story
Send Them Packing
Mail order art-supplies company uses recycled paper instead of Styrofoam packing peanuts. Read story
My Company, My Self
The founder of two defunct software companies reflects on growing too fast, staying small, and facing losses. Read story
Blowing Your Own Horn
One CEO purchased a siren to help celebrate small accomplishments in the office. Read story
Reading The Fine Print
One CEO sent trade magazine subscriptions to bankers in order to increase his credibility. Read story
The Big Picture
Chart: How Americans rate the ability of some industries to serve the country's needs at a reasonable cost. Read story
Look It Up
The Annual Statement Studies, a reference book used by bankers, can be a handy tool for businesses as well. Read story
In The Territory
Salespeople at FrederickSeal Inc. organize their visits in sequence, making it easy to revisit clients. Read story
How Did You Chose Your Lawyer?
Chart: How 126 high-tech businesspeople with an average $5 million in sales and 50 employees chose their law firm. Read story
Quality Time
A manufacturer cuts down on 10-hour work days and rewards its workers for a resulting increase in productivity. Read story
Now Read This
A CEO provides incentive to encourage employees to read the company newsletter. Read story
Title Free
A company president downplays the importance of job titles in order to empower frontline people with authority. Read story
Just a Second
Survey: 500 execs were asked how long they would wait at a booth to see a trade-show sales representative. Read story
An Eye On Supplies
Clean Harbors Inc. provides some tips for establishing an environmentally safe office. Read story
Thanks But. . .
An Inc. reader's humorous business card. Read story
The Ancestry Factor
Chart: Does ancestry affect the likelihood that someone will start a business? Read story
This Business is a Joke
For a fee, The Joke's On You! Inc. arranges practical jokes for its customers. Read story
Looking Ahead
Company CEO schedules 2-hour weekly sessions to "talk to himself" about strategic planning and company needs. Read story
Phone Manners
Company owner created a bonus system for employees in order to cut down on the amount of time customers spend on hold. Read story
Take A Break
Retail shoe CEO provides television and eating space for his employees. Read story
Money Isn't Everything
Tom Bayliss, CEO of Tab Electric Supply Inc., doesn't like to lure new employees with high-salary offers. Read story
Mail Call
Managers at Paramount Flag Company spend time each morning reading the company's mail. Read story
Marketing: Who Likes You For Your Toll-free Number?
Survey: Does a company's 800 number affect your confidence in them? Read story
Getting On Line
A Rhode Island pump manufacturer computerizes its catalogue. Read story
What Motivates Managers?
Survey: What kinds of motivating factors do managers value most? Read story
Direct Mail
Quill Corp. publishes a direct mail primer: How to Compile and Maintain a Direct Mailing List. Read story
Make No Mistake
Company head presents awards for the year's best mistakes. Read story
The 1989 Inc. 100
Listing of the 100 fastest-growing small public companies, with statistics on growth, sales, employees and profits. Read story
Getting to Know You
Original Copy Centers Inc. publishes an employee yearbook in order to celebrate its staff members. Read story
Paper Chase
NCO Financial Systems Inc. has created a bonus system for data-entry clerks that has brought paperwork under control. Read story
