For starters, the problem: Fewer new businesses means fewer new jobs

A recent front-page story in USA Today should have grabbed the attention of anyone concerned about economic growth and job creation. The headline? “Weakest startups since early ’90s.” USA Today reported that, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the 12-month period ending in March 2011 experienced the slowest new business startups over 12 months […]

Health reform likely headed to high court

After a three-judge federal panel heard arguments by the National Federation of Independent Business and 26 states that President Barack Obama’s health reform law violates the Constitution, one major newspaper columnist wrote he’d almost “bet the house” the lawsuit will wind up in the U.S. Supreme Court. We at NFIB are encouraged, too, because our […]

Do you consistently stand out in the marketplace?

As consumers become increasingly discerning with their financial resources, it’s more important than ever to remain consistent in your professional offerings. Exceptional companies stand out in the marketplace, and they do so by delivering a high-quality customer service experience on a consistent basis. Consider your own recent experiences when spending your hard-earned money. Of your […]

Bicycle riding combines fitness and fun

People ask me all the time if I “ride.” I assume they’re asking whether or not I ride road bikes or mountain bikes, as my husband avidly does both. I know how to ride a bike. I’ve known how to ride my bicycle since I was a kid. However, it’s a little more complicated these […]

Buying technology? Consider all costs

If a refillable pen costs $49.99 new and annual refill expenses are $100, would you purchase a box of those pens for your business? Of course you wouldn’t. At the same time, if I told you a new Microsoft server would cost your business $4,000 up front and require $6,000 a year in maintenance, would […]

With vacancy rates down, timing good to buy rental properties

The Grand Junction rental housing market is doing better than expected, way better. The first quarter vacancy rate for Grand Junction was 6.3 percent, down from 11.6 percent for the same quarter last year. This information is based on the Gordon Von Stroh Denver University survey for apartment rentals statewide. Apartment managers in this market […]

By helping others, business owners help themselves

Let’s face it: If you had a knife to your throat and someone demanded all your money, the $20 in your pocket wouldn’t seem nearly as important as getting the knife removed from your precious neck. Now, what does that have to do with business networking? Three things: the feeling of urgency, the feeling of […]