I often hear the question, "how many graphs or charts should I have in my business plan?" As with most other business planning questions, the answer is "it depends." This article discusses the key factors influencing the number of graphs and charts to include in your business plan.To begin, the key point to consider in developing your business plan is the time restraints of your audience. If your audience is a retired angel investor, he may have...more
is... gearing. The same factor that gives the buy-to-let landlord his massive advantage in a rising property market is one of his worst enemies in a falling market. With housing markets across the world teetering on the brink of a chasm, now may very well be a good time to evaluate exactly what gearing means to the average buy to let landlord.What exactly is gearing? It's basically another word for leverage. Imagine you want to buy a $100,000...more
For your job search to be successful, you need to start with the right frame of mind and attitude. If this is not handled right away, everything you do will show lack of confidence, fear and desperation - & poor results.Mental preparation is probably your most important task as you proceed in your job search. This not only needs to be worked on right from the start, but also on an ongoing basis.A healthy mindset is your best asset for the daunting task ahead. Here are some points to help you prepare mentally:1. Maintain positive self-esteem. You must believe in yourself and your abilities. You have special skills and talents that are valuable. Talk and think positively about yourself. Projecting this is the only way prospective employers will believe in you. If you are not convinced yourself, you will not be able to convince anyone else. Your confidence and self-belief are two important personality traits that any employer looks for, and they cannot be faked, only instilled. Master them, and you'll be way ahead of the game.2. Develop and maintain a positive attitude. Being negative about your current job situation makes a dramatic impact on how you project yourself to the outside...more
This article is going to briefly touch on the main things a financial plan should accomplish. You don't need a professional to help you draw up your own financial plan, but you might need professional advice and help to put some of your plans into action. Such as advice on your insurance needs to make sure you, your family and your home are...more
Losing a business is overall, akin to the "death" of a loved one. So much of a business owner's personality and hard work have gone into a business, that when tragedy strikes, for whatever reason and the business is forced into bankruptcy or to close, the emotions felt by the business owner are nothing short of serious and all encompassing!Since...more
As any executive interim manager knows, when you're operating your own business, "reputation is everything" and an executive interim manager is only as good as their last assignments and the references and referrals that can be obtained from them. A pointed remark or two from a client to either an interim management agency or another prospective client can mean the difference between being in demand or "on the beach". Ethical standards are an extremely important component of an executive interim manager's reputation, and whilst all of us would have no hesitation in agreeing about certain practises which would not be ethical, there are certain issues that to one person would be questionable, yet to others wouldn't. Take for example post tender price negotiations after sealed bids have been invited with the implication that such bids would be final. In some organisations, such practises are applauded for delivering greater value, yet in others the same approach attracts immediate condemnation. What about invitations to tender where new suppliers are encouraged to participate but with the sole intention of negotiating a price reduction with the incumbent: the harsh realities of a...more
Introduction...In today's business world, your business competitors will often try and get an edge over you by any means possible.This includes attempts at intercepting your sensitive business communications.This is why it is highly recommended all...more
Understanding Your Company's HistoryImagine if you will, a person that has had a positive impact on your life; perhaps a parent, grandparent, teacher, minister. Think about experiences you shared with that person, in what ways they influenced your...more
Growing Your Business by Adding More Sticking Power to Your ResolutionsIf you are like me, a new year brings dreams of a fresh start for your small business. Hopes abound for the new year. But, in the back of your mind, you may remember your past...more
Do you, like millions of other Americans, feel like you're sinking in an ocean of credit card debt? Well, fear not--there are many options for reducing your debt way before you have to be concerned about receiving notices or daunting telephone calls...more
Making the DecisionDo you want or need to live with a roommate? What are the pros and cons of having a roommate? What should you consider when looking for a roommate? And what issues should you get settled before you move in? On this page we'll look...more
In our world of dizzying change, nothing is more true than the time honored statement that circumstances always change.No where is this more true than with financial issues.Have you ever borrowed money, or charged up the VISA card at Christmas, all...more