Given the importance a human resources department plays at companies everywhere, have you put the right amount of time and effort into finding the right HR software?

The bottom line is that having the right HR software in place allows for a more productive relationship between employer and employee, taking care of any issues that come up in the workplace.

If your small business is still looking to obtain the right HR software package, keep in mind that you want to find a product that will maintain present employee records, assist in processing payroll, and assist in recruiting new talent to the company.

As you go about searching for the right HR software program, consider these thoughts:

• Utilize demo products – Given the fact that many software developers offer free demos, take advantage of such items before committing to pay for software. When utilizing such demonstrations, be sure to ask any and all questions of a vendor so that you have a clear idea of the product and how it may best serve your business. Your goal here is to determine among other things the product’s ability to integrate with present software, ease of understanding, simplicity of data entry, function performance and capabilities, how flexible the software is and reporting capabilities;

• Understand the customer support options – Since customer support will play a big role in any product you use, make sure you test the vendor’s customer support strengths and weaknesses. The last thing you want is dealing with a vendor who is not there for you when you need assistance. Check with the vendor to determine their availability to fix issues, and also what sort of backup plan for data they have in place in the event your software goes down;

• Look for referrals – Check around to see who some other companies use and ask for feedback on a variety of vendors. Knowing first-hand how other businesses have dealt with software vendors, any questions or complaints they had, the degree to which their service needs were met, etc. will give you a better idea on whether or not to go with that vendor;

• Review your budget – One of the most important factors to take into consideration is making sure your budget can handle any new software you incorporate into your plans. While the long-term impact of a good HR software program will assist your company, be sure that adding such software makes sense now with where your budget is at. Look at how the program can assist you as your company hopes to grow over time, meaning know your strategic plan for at least a couple of years out.

When all is said and done, the HR software your company puts in play meets your needs when it comes to service and reliability, price and plans going forward.

Photo credit: personnelmanagementtips.com

0 Comments

Just about everyone knows a cheesy pickup line or two (Are you lost miss? Because heaven is a long way from here!).

Whenever we hear those tacky pickup lines we think to ourselves, “who could ever fall for something that stupid sounding?” We recognize a pickup line the minute we hear it and disregard it almost immediately. But did you know that the SEO industry has its fair share of pickup lines that Web site owners should recognize and disregard just as fast?

Too often unsuspecting site owners are swept away by these 3 black hat SEO pickup lines:

“We can guarantee you’ll be on the first page of Google inside of the month.”

Google says it flat out in their SEO webmaster guidelines, “No one can guarantee a #1 ranking on Google.” Yet dozens of black hat SEO consultant and companies promise that they know the “secret” to getting your site to the top of the SERP. There is no secret to SEO, no magic formula that you can follow to catapult your site to the coveted number one spot. Any SEO company toting a guarantee is looking to capitalize on unsuspecting and uneducated site owners. Oh you’ll rank #1, just like they promised, but it will be for an incredibly long-tail, obscure keyword that no one searches for. But hey, they delivered on their guarantee!

A white hat SEO firm is going to do everything they can to help your Web site succeed, but even they can’t predict with absolute certainty what is going to happen.

There are 200 factors that Google takes into account when determining where your site will fall in the SERPs. Some of these factors (like the age of your site) are out of your SEO provider’s hands. A strong SEO campaign will help you build your overall online presence, increase your traffic and conversion rate and slowly lift your site up in rank, but SEO is so long-term that you can’t specify when exactly all that will happen.

“You don’t have to pay until you see the results you want!”

Are you willing to work for free for three months? six months? A year?

That’s how long it could take to see real success that you can contribute to your SEO campaign. White hat SEO is incredibly long-term, which means you’ll have to be a little patient. Great campaigns with a lot of potential are often cut off at the knees because site owners got jumpy and pulled the plug too soon.

Part of the reason black hat SEO is so tempting is because it produces quick, measurable results. Those results make your SEO provider look good to you, which makes you look good to your boss. But here’s the catch—any success earned with black hat SEO tactics is short-lived and ultimately meaningless.

You may be able to show your boss a spreadsheet with 5,000 links in it, but 98% of them come from splogs and link farms, meaning they don’t have much real SEO value. So you’ll pay for the work and watch your site nosedive back down once the SEO company stops working.

Some black hat SEO companies will even undo some of the link building they did on behalf of your site, especially if a good portion of the links were just coming from other spammed sites that the company owned.

“SEO is going to be the answer to all your online marketing needs.”

SEO can do a lot of things, and is certainly one of the most valuable marketing tools you have to leverage on behalf of your brand, but SEO is not a Band-Aid that can fix all your Internet marketing woes.

If you don’t have a well-defined brand, strong point of differentiation and clearly outlined messaging strategy in place BEFORE you start thinking about SEO, your SEO campaign will never be able to get off the ground. You need to be able to identify you key competitors (which may not be the same as your top offline competitors) and understand your target audience and how their live their online lives.

Just like any other marketing campaign, SEO needs a strong foundation to springboard off of.

Editor’s Note: Nick Stamoulis is the president of Boston SEO agency, Brick Marketing. With more than 12 years of Internet marketing experience, Stamoulis shares his knowledge by offering SEO consulting services and writing daily SEO tips in his blog, the Search Engine Optimization Journal (or SEO Journal). Contact Stamoulis at 781-999-1222 or nick@brickmarketing.com.

Photo credit: onlineseoservices.info

5 Comments

Depending on the size, scope and location of your small business, you may be required to carry workers compensation insurance. If that is the case, do you know the ins and outs of this coverage?

For small businesses in the state of California, workers comp coverage in recent years has been nothing short of a headache. High rates have sent a number of smaller companies fleeing the state to places like Nevada and Arizona where they could better afford to provide the necessary coverage for their workforce.

In other states, the rates have been affordable, but people trying to cheat the system have led to issues.

In its most basic terms, workers comp insurance is in place to cover an employer should a worker be injured on the job. For the employee, it is peace of mind knowing that if they are injured while on the clock, they have coverage to pay for what can be high doctor bills.

For the employee to have access to workers comp coverage, they will need to prove that their employer was responsible for their injury or illness.

In the event an employee does suffer an injury or major illness due to work and are turned down for coverage or medical care, they should discuss the matter with a workers comp attorney to see what they are eligible for.

For any small business owner who is not up to speed on workers comp insurance, they are required to supply the funds for workers comp benefits through a policy, with the expense of the coverage not being taken out of an employee’s paycheck.

Most employees nationwide are covered through workers comp insurance, with some exceptions in some states being those in agricultural, domestic or independent work situations.

So, do you as a small business owner fully comprehend the need and the facts behind workers comp insurance?

If not, keep these factors in mind:

1. How workers comp is determined – The premiums get decided through an equation centered on the amount of payroll per job function within the company’s business. In most states, the agency in charge of workers comp payroll and guidelines sets the rates, while there are some statutory states whereby only state-run funds are allowed to write coverage. The most important factor here is to make sure your payroll figures are as up to speed as possible;

2. Rates can vary – Given the fact that insurance carriers utilize various underwriting companies, what businesses are charged for coverage can and oftentimes do differ. The key here is to locate a carrier seeking to write coverage in your industry, therefore allowing you to find the best rates;

3. The better the employee the less paid for coverage – It is a no-brainer, but emphasize to your employees that the better shape and condition they are in, the less chance for injuries on the job. Remind your employees that it behooves them to be in good shape, thereby lessening the chances they will be out with a serious work injury or illness. Also make sure that you reinforce training for your employees therefore decreasing the chances of any of them getting injured;

4. Be on the lookout for fraud – While it is not the norm, there are oftentimes cases of workers comp fraud, so employers need to keep their eyes open for such actions. Especially given the tough economic times that many employees find themselves in these days, some turn to unlawfully collecting comp benefits. An example would see an employee who was injured at work and takes time off while collecting benefits, then is spotted during an investigation exercising or doing something else they supposedly would not be able to do due to their injury.

While workers comp insurance will cost you differently from the next guy depending on the state your business is in and its size, not having it can be much more costly.

Photo credit: elmoreattorneys.com

1 Comment

As Thanksgiving descends on us this week, Black Friday gets millions out of bed particularly early on Friday, and thoughts of Christmas office parties, trees and presents are right around the corner, how will your employees remained focused on their jobs?

For many small businesses, the end of the year is a busier time than people think, as companies look to make last-minute runs at additional revenue, the year is put under a microscope to see what did and did not work, and plans are well underway to prep for the coming year.

With all there still is do in these final six or so weeks, employee morale can sometimes take a hit as workers are more focused on outside details than what is going on inside their cubicles.

So, how can you as an employer keep the focus on work and not outside distractions?

Among the ways to go about it are:

1. Incorporate the holidays into the office – While there is still work to be done these final six or so weeks of the year, make the atmosphere fun for employees. Whether it is one big office party or some smaller and more intimate gatherings, don’t try and make like you don’t know what time of the year it is;
2. Highlight the past year’s accomplishments – We all know that 2011 was a tough year for many small businesses, in turn, many employees who lost their jobs. For those things that did go right this year, take the time over the holidays to highlight them. While the company’s return on investment (ROI) is always the bottom line, make note of both company and individual highlights to give your team some momentum going into 2012;
3. Be positive going into the New Year – Short of mass layoffs, point out all the positive aspects of the coming year to your employees. Whether it is projected positive financial numbers, increased numbers of new-hires, or recognition from consumers looking forward to work with you, make sure to discuss with your team the prospects for 2012. By doing so, you keep the focus on work and not coasting through the remainder of this year;
4. Provide incentives – While many small businesses have taken it on the chin this year, others have done okay for themselves. If the money is there, provide incentives for your employees this last month-plus of 2011. Whether it is bonuses, time off from work or other incentives, make the last six or so weeks fun, giving employees a reason not to think of you as Scrooge.

It is only natural after a hectic year that many of your employees want to slow down and recharge their batteries for the days and weeks ahead in 2012.

Make these final weeks of 2011 a fun time for all, making for a more exciting and positive office environment.

Oh, and don’t hang any mistletoe in your office, you don’t want any potential sexual harassment suits to be unwrapped.

Photo credit: wikihow.com

2 Comments

Editor’s note: This article was written by Tej Shah, E-commerce director at Blue Soda Promo. The company provides promotional products and trade show giveaways such as custom tote bags, polo shirts and printed water bottles.

It seems the best of times always gives rise to the worse of times and today, following a housing boom, businesses are in the valley of a recession bust.

The increased competition for fewer customers rages on and your small business is fighting to stay afloat in this economic storm. You look to the skies to see what, if anything, can give your business a boost, a miracle cure that will somehow get you more clients and customers without costing you more money.

Miracles are for fairy tales and sacraments but there is one advertising strategy that has been proven to increase sales while decreasing advertising costs – the use of promotional products.

Sure, you’ve seen the Nike swoosh on jackets and t-shirts, the McDonald’s golden arches on bags and pens, and the red-and-blue Chicago Cubs logo sprawled across hats. But does all this branding on clothes, writing instruments and coffee mugs really lead to sales? The short answer is yes.

And this article will help you figure out why promotional products can provide a magical formula of less costs, and more sales for your business.

The Case for Promotional Products

Most people assume that they know all about the value of promotional products. Most people are wrong.
We know you’re smart and know the value of promotional products. But just in case someone asks here are some cold hard facts.

Promotional products are the best economical alternative to other forms of advertising because:

1. Promotional products cost less per impression than television, national magazines or radio;
2. Promotional products are more targeted – you get to choose who receives them;
3. The effect of promotional product marketing can be accurately measured.

Promotional Products Cost Less, More Filling

At a cost of just half a penny per impression promotional product advertising is priced less than any other traditional advertising media, according to a study from the Advertising Specialty Institute (ASI).

Compare $.005 to:

1. $0.018 for Prime Time television;
2. $0.045 national magazines;
3. $0.058 spot radio.

Oh and if you think the Internet will save you, have you advertised on Google lately? It can cost as much as $44 per click for popular key word ads such as “loans” and “attorney.” Nearly $55 pay-per-click for the cost of “insurance.” Who has that kind of money in this economy?

Promotional Products Equals Advertising that Works

Okay, so the price is right, but will using promotional products directly lead to sales?
The line, “I know half my advertising is wasted – I just don’t’ know which half,” is a humorous comment on advertising’s ambiguity. In the book “What Sticks,” about what advertising does work the authors found that 47 percent of advertising campaigns failed.

The ones that succeed – read lead to sales – are:

1. Targeted;
2. Leave a lasting impression;
3. Work over time.

Promotional product advertising hits all those points.

You can target who will receive those shirts, calendars and pens with your logo and contact information. Sell youth sports equipment?

Give out promotional baseball jerseys to your local Little League. Want more women buying your makeup? You should order promotional lipstick holders to give away at book clubs. Whatever your market, there is sure to be a promotional item your customers or potential customers will want to use.

Also, promotional items leave a lasting impression because they’re actually useful.

According to ASI, nearly half of Americans own a promotional writing instrument (pens being the most popular). More than a third own promotional shirts. And more than 1 out of 5 Americans own a promotional calendar.

And the best part?

Promotional products have a longer shelf-life than television commercials and other media advertising.
People keep promotional products for nearly six months, according to ASI. If you use electronic products, that number can be increased to eight months. Think of it. Someone advertising your company on their wrist, desk or back for EIGHT MONTHS! That beats even the cleverest Apple commercials.

Promotional Products Can Save the Day

Budget-friendly, creative and thoughtful, promotional products are a great way to advertise your company.
You can target the right audience with the right message and know that your promotional product will have a long shelf life.

Don’t miss out on an opportunity to grow your business with little upfront costs. Get started with promotional products now!

Photo credit: Brownsprinting.com

1 Comment

While the economy continues to stagger along in many different sectors, small business loans are out there for those who need them. The trick, however, is to know where to look.

Due to the Small Business Jobs Act, which was signed into law by President Obama in September 2010, the Small Business Administration (SBA) was able to sign off on $9.1 billion in small business loans between Oct. 1 and Dec. 31 of 2010. According to a recent Thomson Reuters/PayNet Small Business Lending Index, lending grew by 12% this past spring, compared to one year ago.

With 2011 winding down and the New Year just around the corner, small business owners in need of loans for their business should do their research and shop wisely for a loan that is both doable and works in their best interests.

When searching for a small business loan, keep these factors in mind:

• Be positive – While many banks have tightened their rules and regulations when it comes to loaning money, there are loans out there to be had. Be sure to shop around so that you get a variety of options with which to work with. Remember, banks are in business to make money, so everyone who comes through their doors seeking a business loan is always a potential customer;

• Be prepared – Put together a good proposal as to why your business needs the loan, how it will be paid back, your track record as a businessperson etc. If you go into the loan process unprepared, your chances for obtaining the needed funds will decrease. Loan officers want to work with individuals who have all the necessary paperwork filled out, have a good credit history, and can answer any and all questions thrown at them. Expect to cover areas like how much money your small business will require, the duration of the loan, and of course how and when you plan to pay it off;

• Be professional – Just as you would not show up for a job interview dress inappropriately, be sure to dress accordingly for your interview with a loan officer. It is important to treat this process as a professional matter. Also be sure to be positive in the event you do not get the loan, as you may try and do business with this bank down the road;

• Be honest – It is also important that you are truthful and accurate in your application process and interview. Don’t stretch the truth regarding any matters, don’t lie about your business doing real well if that is not the case, etc. The last thing you want to do is have a lie or lies come back to haunt you, i.e. you do not get the loan;

• Be close to home – While not required, consider looking for a loan from your hometown bank, given that local businesses tend to want to support each other. If you go to a large franchise-type bank, they are likely not to know what you are doing as a small business to help your community;

• Be sure to mention any affiliations – Whether you served in the military or have other affiliations, make sure to bring them up during your interview with a loan officer. There are a number of different loan programs out there that are geared to assist past and current military members (reservists) with starting up or continuing a small business.

At the end of the day, there are no guarantees when it comes to obtaining small business loans other than banks are in business to make money.

If you’re a start-up and you have a strong business plan in place or are present business looking to grow, getting a loan is something you will look to want to bank on.

Photo credit: dailynewspulse.com

1 Comment

For many small businesses, the human resources department plays a pivotal role in maintaining and overseeing things such as payroll, health benefits, internal issues involving employees and much more.

In fact, sometimes all those responsibilities prove to be too much for the head of HR to handle, leaving them with not enough hours in the day to handle all the pertinent details. In a worst-case scenario, your company’s HR plan consists of an individual or individuals handling the necessary workload without any real experience in this important field.

So, is your small business’ HR department finding itself able to handle the workload, needs immediate help just to handle the basics or things have gotten to be a little too overbearing in recent times? Read the full entry

2 Comments

Editor’s note: This article was written by Amy Fowler on behalf of  Maintel , experts in unified communications solutions for both small businesses and large corporations.

There’s an old saying, “expect the unexpected.” It may sound like an oxymoron, and in truth, it is. However, that does not mean that there isn’t a grain of common sense in there.

When it comes to business planning, trying to plan for the unexpected makes sense.

Yes, you can’t plan for every eventuality, but if you build some flexibility in your business plan there’s a good chance that you’ll be able to implement Plan B, or Plan C, when things go wrong. Read the full entry

0 Comments

When your small business is in the process of hiring new employees, background checks take on added importance so that you end up improving the odds of hiring the right individual/s for your company.

As many small business owners can tell you, it just takes one wrong hire to throw a company into temporary or long-term upheaval, be it office morale, financial problems or both.

By using background checks on each and every potential new hire, small business employers lessen the chances of getting the wrong hire for their company. Read the full entry

0 Comments