Guides

How to Structure a Partnership

Partnerships are incredibly common--and incredibly hard to sustain. Here's how to set up a partnership that is equitable, efficient, and mutually rewarding.

How to Track Your Company's Critical Numbers

Working with a great accountant is an asset; leaning too hard on one can be a flaw. Any executive should have an easy-to-update balance sheet of critical numbers to turn to anytime. We walk you through the key steps to boosting your financial literacy.

How to Improve Your Cold-Calling Skills

Let’s face it: nobody really enjoys making cold calls. But sparking a connection remains a crucial skill to have whether you are a business owner, job seeker or even a volunteer looking to raise money. Here's a guide to closing more deals with fewer dials.

How to Make Money on Foursquare

This new social broadcast application can help your business promote deals, get the attention of savvy early adopters of technology, or simply to increase foot traffic.

How to Create a Cell Phone Policy

Just because cell phones have taken over the way we communicate doesn’t mean they have to take over your business. Here's some advice on how to institute a policy to protect your company from disruptive and legally-damaging behavior.

How To Write Off Travel and Entertainment Expenses

By Sarah Kessler | Mar 16, 2010

Are you perplexed by the newly released 13-page IRS guidelines for deducting travel and entertainment expenses? Inc.com's shorter (less complicated) guide wi... Read more

The Pros and Cons of Setting Up a C Corp

By Elizabeth Wasserman | Mar 2, 2010

Converting a company to a C Corp can help you establish some legal and financial separation between you and your business. But the switch involves more paper... Read more

How to Read a Term Sheet

By Darren Dahl | Mar 1, 2010

Looking for venture capital? Don't be so quick to sign on the dotted line. Here's what you need to know about liquidation preferences and preferred stock. Read more

How to Fill Out a Loan Application

By Christine Lagorio | Feb 25, 2010

When it's time to ask for a loan to kick your idea into existence, the loan application – usually a standard form from your lender – is something you sim... Read more

More guides on Start-up

Running a Business

How to Make a Splash at SXSW

By Christine Lagorio | Mar 15, 2010

It seems as if every company is looking to create buzz at SXSW in Austin this week. Here are some strategies for making a memorable impression. Read more

How to Run a Family Business

By Christine Lagorio | Mar 5, 2010

Whether you're a third-generation CEO or starting a company with a sibling or spouse, running a family business presents particular challenges and rewards. H... Read more

How to Manage Multiple Business Locations

By Darren Dahl | Mar 4, 2010

Many companies expand by adding offices or stores in different cities. But geographic growth involves logistical complexity and management finesse. Here's ho... Read more

How to Find a Good Patent Lawyer

By Christine Lagorio | Feb 26, 2010

Filing for a patent with the government is just one step along the road to protecting your idea. To do it right, you'll need to know how to seek and intervie... Read more

More guides on Running a Business

Money and Finance

Tips On Streamlining Accounts Payable

By Christine Lagorio | Mar 12, 2010

Is your bookkeeping system failing to keep up with the rate of growth at your business? Here are some tips for upgrading your accounts payable process. Read more

How to Set Up Accounts Receivable

By Christine Lagorio | Mar 12, 2010

Who owes you money? Here's how to set up a bookkeeping and billing system to keep track of your accounts receivable. Read more

Tips for Streamlining Accounts Receivable

By Christine Lagorio | Mar 12, 2010

If you feel you are not getting paid promptly and in full by your customers, here are some simple ways to upgrade your billing system. Read more

How to Structure an Earn-out

By Christine Lagorio | Mar 11, 2010

When there's a valuation difference between what a buyer thinks a business is worth and what the seller expects to profit, an earn-out can bridge that gap. H... Read more

More guides on Money and Finance

Leadership and Managing

How to Provide Constructive Criticism

By Stephen D. Marsh | Mar 9, 2010

Telling an employee how to improve his or her performance is always important and never comfortable. Here are some tips on how to do it right. Read more

How to Set a Workplace Vacation Policy

By Lauren Folino | Mar 1, 2010

A guide to structuring a vacation policy that sets the tone for your benefits package and keeps employees happy and motivated - not to mention gives your com... Read more

How to Develop a Business Growth Strategy

By Darren Dahl | Feb 25, 2010

There are many ways to guide a business through a period of expansion, including geographic growth, growth through acquisition, and franchising. Here's how t... Read more

How to Write a Code of Ethics for Business

By Josh Spiro | Feb 24, 2010

A code of ethics can help a business determine its priorities and values. It can also help you down the line if one of your employees or vendors drags you in... Read more

More guides on Leadership and Managing

Sales and Marketing

How to Reduce Your Cost of Sales

By Susan Greco | Mar 5, 2010

There are some smart ways to trim your cost of sales short of taking the dangerous step of slashing your sales force compensation. Read more

How to Use Google's Tools for Building an Online Storefront

By Christine Lagorio | Feb 23, 2010

For small businesses just beginning to build an online presence, turning to cheap - or free - Google tools can be a simple solution. Read more

How to Improve Your Presentation Skills

By Sarah Kessler | Feb 22, 2010

Your presentations skills are just as important as the information you are presenting. This guide will help you prepare for a presentation and polish your sp... Read more

How to Hire a Marketing Director

By Christine Lagorio | Feb 22, 2010

Looking for a manager to develop and execute effective marketing solutions to cultivate growth? Here are some tips for incorporating the best hiring practice... Read more

More guides on Sales and Marketing

Managing Technology

How to Make Money on iPhone Apps

By Christine Lagorio | Mar 12, 2010

Sure, the marketplace is teeming with competing apps. But there still is tremendous opportunity for scoring big—if you have a great idea. Read more

How to Handle Online Credit Card Processing

By Christine Lagorio | Feb 18, 2010

If you are ready to take your small business's website to the next level and create a retail component, it is vital that you find a reliable (and affordable)... Read more