Owning a business can be a thrilling adventure and an outlet for your most creative ideas. But behind the scenes of creativity and ambition, there’s a practical reality that every business owner faces. To succeed, you need more than ideas and drive—it’s about having the right team in place. In this blog, we explore three […]
Read MoreQUESTION Q: “How long does trademark protection last?” — Curious Business Owner ANSWER Dear Curious, Trademark registration must be renewed every 10 years to maintain its legal standing. Be sure to keep track of your trademark’s renewal date and submit the necessary paperwork and fees on time to prevent your trademark registration from expiring.
Read MoreBeginning January 1, 2024, the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA) will require businesses to file an annual report about their owners and major decision-makers. If you plan to create a new company, your reporting deadline under the CTA could be as soon as 30 days after the date of its creation. The good news is there’s […]
Read MoreYour company’s name is more than just a label; it’s a valuable asset that not only represents your brand but represents the legacy of your work in the world as well. It tells your clients, customers, and community who you are and what your business stands for. Protecting your business name through trademark registration can […]
Read MoreContracts are the cornerstone of business relationships. From office leases to vendor agreements, contracts establish the rules, responsibilities, and expectations that guide the relationships between the parties involved. Well-drafted contracts avoid disputes and misunderstandings, but they can’t always prevent unexpected issues from happening. That’s where a “right to cure” provision comes into play. A “right […]
Read MoreIt’s the end of another full day as an entrepreneur. You shut down your computer, lock up your office, and get ready to enjoy a relaxing night at home. But even though you’re off hours, your mind isn’t. Maybe you run through conversations you had during the day, brainstorm marketing ideas on a cocktail napkin, […]
Read MoreQUESTION Q: Will mentoring someone provide any benefit to my business? — Busy Boss ANSWER Dear Busy, As a business owner, it can be easy to see an opportunity to mentor a young professional as a purely charitable experience. However, mentorship can play a pivotal role in shaping your legacy when you approach it […]
Read MoreLast week we looked at four methods you can use to save money on your 2023 business tax return: Make large purchases for your business before December 31 Defer business income until next year Accelerate business expenses to this year, and Contribute to your employee HSA accounts This week, I share more ways end-of-year tax […]
Read MoreIt might seem a bit early to think about your 2023 business taxes, but as the year draws to a close, it’s the perfect time to take a closer look at your company’s financial situation and make some strategic moves to minimize your business’ tax liability come next April. Year-end tax planning for your business […]
Read MoreIn the past decades, diverse hiring was mainly associated with increasing and improving employment opportunities for minority groups. While diverse hiring is still a matter of social responsibility, it’s also becoming a driving force behind business success. In this blog, we’ll explore how diverse hiring can elevate your business, from fostering innovation to improving customer […]
Read MoreIf you’re like many business owners, you probably feel like there isn’t enough time in the day for everything you need to do, let alone everything else you’d like to do. But it doesn’t need to be that way. Last week I explored how to use time blocking and task management tools to better manage […]
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