Guide to Online Courses and Training for Entrepreneurs

How to Train Yourself through Online Courses

By LaRita Heet, Freelance Writer, Journalist, IBT Designer, LMH Communications

1. Take the basic courses to give you a good broad overview.
2. Focus on the courses that are specific to your company and industry.
3. Keep learning through new courses.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Begin with the Basics

If you're just getting started in your own business, it's easy to get overwhelmed with the many things you have to learn. First, focus on the entrepreneurial basics to build a firm foundation on which you can build your knowledge, and your business.

I recommend: Check out My Own Business Course for to learn the basic skills any entrepreneur should know. Take the online course for free, or get the certificate course (plus textbook) for $85. And don't forget the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) - click on the 'FREE Online Entrepreneurship Course' to sign up.

Hone Your Skills

Even if you have years of experience as an entrepreneur, you must continually hone your skills, and follow the ever-changing business world. Look at the general trends and topics that relate to your enterprise. Which skills would aid you in becoming a more successful businessperson?

I recommend: The SBA's Free Online Courses offers dozens of online training courses for topics ranging from finance to management to international trade. Go to Visa Small Business Online Workshops for a list of free e-learning courses.

Keep Current on Laws

The long hours often involved in running your own business can mean little time to devote to the latest in tax laws and regulations, but never fear - you can even learn about taxes online!

I recommend: Believe it or not, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) – the organization people love to hate – has stepped up to the plate with several computer-based training courses and tools for small businesses and entrepreneurs. And guess what? They're free!

Go for the Degree

Kill two birds with one stone: learn to run your own business while earning an MBA - and do it online! (If the learning is related to your business, you can likely earn a tax write-off in the process - ask the IRS for specifics.) Well, what are you waiting for?

I recommend: Check out WorldWideLearn for a list of universities that offer MBAs in Entrepreneurship.

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Save some time: Online courses save time for the entrepreneur working 60-plus hour weeks.
• •  Save money: With affordable online training, small businesses don't have to spend thousands of dollars a year for costly employee seminars.
• •  Convenience: You can take online courses from home, while traveling on business - even while catching some rays at the beach.
• •  Never stop learning: Keep current on the newest online courses. The more you learn, the better your chances of succeeding in business.
• •  Sample first: Most companies allow you to take a free trial before paying for a fee-based course. It's a great way to check out the course before you invest money.