Business Advice

By Edward L. Fixen At least once a week I talk with the owner of a highly specialized, niche business who is thinking about selling their business.  What is particularly interesting is the common perception that the only buyers for niche businesses are competitors in similar niche businesses and that …

By Eugene E. Valdez What CEO’s should do to stay competitive in today’s difficult economy is a popular topic among business consultants, bankers, equity fund operators  coaches, advisors, business pundits etc. Based on my 30 years’ experience in commercial banking and business coaching here are my personal suggestions humbly submitted …

By Jeff Brannon We’re living in the age of the startup; in fact, the term “startup” is no longer exclusive to tech companies. If you have a new business, you have a startup. The question is, do you have funding? Unless you have a slick presentation ready and good connections …

By Edward L. Fixen It’s normal for business owners to wonder what their business is worth. The actual amount that a particular business sells for depends on many factors unique to that individual business such as historical stability, profitability, growth, industry, customer base, etc. Nonetheless, it is always a good …

By Eugene E. Valdez In my opinion, even in a “good economy”, for a small business owner to be successful, it is essential that he or she master the art of planning.  In a challenged economy like the current one,   it is even more crucial.   How do you become a …

By Tim Kolacz In a previous article, I wrote about being productive versus being busy. In today’s technology driven society, it is ever increasingly difficult to have your employees focus all day. There needs to be some interaction either with other people or with Social Media to keep people sane. …