Better Business Blog

11 useful tips for marketing your brand on LinkedIn

With over 135 million users, 59% of which are located outside of the United States and with 75 of the Fortune 100 companies using the network for marketing and recruiting purposes, LinkedIn has become a critical platform for building, connecting with, and growing your personal and professional networks.

As the leading business social network, LinkedIn offers the chance to connect with professionals all around the world and from all industry backgrounds. But how do you convert networks into customers, and ‘likes’ into sales?

1. Learn from your peers

Successful marketing is all about listening to what your market needs. The LinkedIn Groups feature provides a space where you can discuss issues with others in your industry and learn from their advice. You can bounce ideas off industry experts and stay informed on new developments. You also have an opportunity to establish yourself as an expert in a certain industry/area allowing you to build relationships with current and prospective customers in a more organic and credible fashion.

Read More: 11 useful tips for marketing your brand on LinkedIn

10 Easy Customer Engagement Ideas for Small Business

Business and technology writer Efraim Turban defines customer service as “a series of activities designed to enhance the level of customer satisfaction — that is, the feeling that a product or service has met the customer expectation.”

While customer experience means different things to different people, it is generally about the sum of all the interaction a customer has with a brand or company. That’s a significant difference from customer service, which generally focuses on a single transaction.

All of which begs the question, how do you create a customer experience that sets you apart from the competition and keeps customers coming back? Luckily for you, I recently asked a group of successful young entrepreneurs those very questions.

Read More: 10 Easy Customer Engagement Ideas for Small Business

You Can Get Richer Pinching Pennies Like Warren Buffett

Many people have tried to emulate Warren Buffett’s investment style. More may attempt it as they search for the best investing ideas for 2012. But here’s a more attainable goal: Pinch pennies like the Oracle of Omaha. This might turn out to be a New Year’s resolution you can actually keep. And you’ll be richer for it.

When his first child was born, the famously frugal Buffett turned a dresser drawer into a bassinet. For the second one, he borrowed a crib. While in New York signing up clients to invest six-figure sums with him during the 1960s, he reportedly phoned a friend from New York’s Plaza Hotel to bring over a six-pack of Pepsi so he wouldn’t have to pay for room service. He drove a Volkswagen until his wife decided it was bad for his image and upgraded him to a Cadillac.

Read More: You Can Get Richer Pinching Pennies Like Warren Buffett

The Single Greates Factor of Success in Business

There are so many important ideas and concepts in business. Things like strategy, purpose, and passion are integral to success, but none of it really matters without one ingredient – and that’s clarity.

Clarity is that strong and unwavering sense that our daily choices are grounded in an authentic sense of purpose. Clarity is how we create a sketch of something worth asking others to complete. Clarity forces us to form the right questions.

Without clarity everything we do is either an attempt to gain it or a stab at the hope that we are moving in the right direction.

Read More: The Single Greates Factor of Success in Business

How Do Co-Founders Meet? 17 Startups Tell All

Many of today’s most notable and successful tech companies were born not out of one, but two (and sometimes three) noggins. Entrepreneurship can be a long, lonely and hard road, so it help to have a co-founder — he serves as a sounding board, a different point of view, a yin to your yang. He’s a beer buddy when the going gets tough, and another flute to clink when the long-awaited funding comes through. The co-founding trend is going strong, with many of today’s up-and-coming startups led by two (or more) complementary individuals. After all, if you’re going to go through the startup rollercoaster, why not share the ride with someone?

But how are you supposed to find the person with whom you’ll hunker down to build the company you’re so passionate about? Well, there’s TechCoFounder, FounderDating and Founder2Be, for the Match.com types. Then there are hackathons and startup weekends, a great source for CTOs. And there’s business school, where you have access to a large pool of bright minds. But you might not even have to go that far or spend that much money — you could find the person on Craigslist. Or maybe you’re already dating him. Or best friends with her. Or maybe you just need to meet your future co-founder in a random twist of fate.

Read More: How Do Co-Founders Meet? 17 Startups Tell All

Future Trends: 2012 Online Marketing & Technology Predictions

What does 2012 hold in store for online marketing? The acceleration of innovation in online technologies and the ways we can discover, consume and engage with information can be a challenge to keep up with. But as digital marketers that are more than shiny object opportunists, seeing future trends is exactly what we need to do in order to anticipate our place in the digital universe.

It’s not just about where you can sell stuff to people right now, but next month, next year, 5, 10 or more out.  That’s why I think the concept of discovery, consume and engage is so important, because it transcends ideas like “social network” or “search engine” and focuses more on consumers and technologies. Will we be using a search engine like Google in 5 years? Will we be using desktop computers in 5 years? What will future social networks look like? Answers to those questions are answers to the future of marketing and customer engagement.

Read More: Future Trends: 2012 Online Marketing & Technology Predictions

How To Network Sincerely And Effectively

Theme: networking

Dek: Superficial networking leads to weak connections that recognize your inauthenticity. Establish meaningful connections with these helpful tips.

In almost any business environment you will hear from the people on top about the importance of networking. But what exactly is networking? Is networking establishing deep, meaningful social connections? Or can any social situation wherein you simply engage with another person in the most superficial of manners be considered “networking?”

In its simplest definition, the latter is technically correct. Even if that connection is an exceedingly tenuous one, the bare goal of networking is to establish a connection between yourself and another person. This is done quickly and easily: “Hello, blah blah blah me me me, vague chitchat,” and bam! Networking done, take the rest of the week off.

But networking superficially comes at a price, because you’ve established a poor connection. And these connections can easily “snap.” And having a connection snap can have a more negative impact than never having established a connection in the first place.

Why?

Read More: How To Network Sincerely And Effectively

12 B2B Marketing Predictions for 2012

I was recently informed that every marketing blogger must publish their predictions for the year ahead. So to claim my status as a blogger and not put my right to use WordPress at risk, here are my 12 serious predictions for B2B marketing in 2012.

Content Marketing

1. Name recognition will rule. Flooded with content, audiences will turn to recognized sources. High quality editorial, analysts and recognized thought leaders will rise above the clutter based on their names and reputations.

2. Video will come into its own for B2B marketers in 2012. B2B marketers will use video as a way for subject matter experts to more easily create content. In addition, video will move beyond the website and social outlets and will be used to add depth to advertising messages.

3. Content will be designed to be easy to consume and share. Even today’s longer-form content will be broken into smaller pieces that facilitate quick consumption, feedback and sharing, which will be adopted as part of the quality evaluation of content.

Read More: 12 B2B Marketing Predictions for 2012

Theory of Business

In a Harvard Business Review article, Peter Drucker argued, “the root cause of nearly every [business] crises is not that things are being done poorly. It is not even that the wrong things are being done. Indeed, in most cases, the right things are being done—but fruitlessly.”

His explanation for why business leaders do things unsuccessfully is that their Theory of Business—the assumptions upon which the business was built and that shapes and organization’s behavior, dictates what decisions it makes, and most importantly, defines the results expected—is no longer aligned with reality.

Read More: Theory of Business

Business Networking That Works . . . It's Called Quid Pro Quo

Have you ever handed out your business card at a business mixer or other business related function and initiated a successful business relationship after the exchange of cards? If the answer is yes you are also likely to win the lottery.

Business networking has been described as the process of developing and growing informal relations for the purpose of gaining business opportunities or employment. As a successful entrepreneur who has started several companies from scratch—without knowing anyone in the industry—I can tell you firsthand that there is only one strategy that works.

Read More: Business Networking That Works . . . It's Called Quid Pro Quo

Exceeding expectations (or don't bother)

This, in two words, is the secret of the new marketing.

Find ten people. Ten people who trust you/respect you/need you/listen to you...

Those ten people need what you have to sell, or want it. And if they love it, you win. If they love it, they'll each find you ten more people (or a hundred or a thousand or, perhaps, just three). Repeat.

If they don't love it, you need a new product. Start over.

Your idea spreads. Your business grows. Not as fast as you want, but faster than you could ever imagine.

This approach changes the posture and timing of everything you do.

Read More: Exceeding expectations (or don't bother)

5 Daily Deal Sites For Small Business

Daily-deal sites are not just for people interested in restaurants, gifts or spa services. Small business owners can also find discounts through these retailers.

Here are a few sites that offer exclusive bargains for your home office or entrepreneurial efforts.

Startups.com

If saving up to 90 percent on a hot Web app is your thing, then Startups.com may be for you. Each deal is tested before it’s advertised, and there are quite a variety of offerings.

Past deals include apps for increasing Twitter followers, organizing tips for your cloud-based documentation, professional translating tools and Web-based hosting. Startups.com offers a 30-day money-back guarantee for all purchases, as well as a $10 refer-a-friend program.

Read More: 5 Daily Deal Sites For Small Business

LinkedIn Boot Camp [INFOGRAPHIC]

Even after 9 years in the social media stratosphere, LinkedIn is still an elusive platform to master. While there’s still only a fraction of LinkedIn users compared to Facebook, the platform boasts a highly targeted and engaged audience that is there for one purpose: business networking.

Still, there’s a lot of moving parts to tend to before your LinkedIn-powered personal branding machine is ready for operation. Check out the infographic below to get the skinny on how to whip your LinkedIn into shape, and take a look at other career information in our weekly Job Search Series.

Read More: LinkedIn Boot Camp [INFOGRAPHIC]

Three Ways to Export into New Markets

Given the sluggish U.S. economy, small businesses may have little choice these days but to look abroad for growth and start exporting their products.

In many ways it's the only way to grow," says Mona Pearl, founder of Beyond a Strategy Inc., a Chicago-based global strategic development firm and author of Grow Globally (Wiley 2011). "We have to start getting to know more about the world."

The good news: International opportunities are growing, with the U.S. Export-Import Bank having increased small business financing by more than 70% since 2008.

But breaking into the global marketplace takes careful planning. Here is a look at three major export regions and the strategies of some U.S. entrepreneurs doing business there

Read More: Three Ways to Export into New Markets

5 Big-Business Growth Strategies Small Business Can Use

Eventually you want your small business to grow into a big business, right? If that's true, then learn which big-business growth strategies might work for you.

Here are five growth strategies that small businesses should consider. Not every strategy will be right for your situation, but some of these might offer an opportunity for your business.

1. Market segmentation

“Market segmentation” simply means picking a sub-set of the entire marketplace that you can organize your sales efforts around. Out of all the people in the world, who will you try to sell to?

Most big businesses are good at carving out their corner of the market. Then they do whatever they can to own that space.

Red Bull gets its energy drinks in front of a young, adventurous crowd: its segment of the market. Have you wondered why Red Bull owns a Formula One racing team? That’s why.

Pepsi was losing its battle with Coca-Cola to become the heavyweight cola company. Instead of trying to beat Coke at its own game, Pepsi focused on a young, fun-loving demographic. Many Pepsi commercials show younger music stars, celebrities or other young status symbols.

Read More: 5 Big-Business Growth Strategies Small Business Can Use

What You Can Learn About Business By Talking To A Comic Book Writer

A quick walk-through of New York Comic Con in Manhattan's Jacob K. Javits Convention Center last month, and it’s easy to see that the comic world is no longer a niche counterculture, but rather a mainstream industry. It's one that openly unites larger-than-life big businesses, like Warner Brothers, Hasbro, Marvel and even Bloomingdale's, with the littler guys — emerging and independent artists, designers, shop owners and entrepreneurs — who together willingly present their big ideas for this massive geek fest.

 “I love every one of those mainstream brands,” says Jean Michel, chief creative officer and writer of Megabrain Comics’ American Dark Age. Michel debuted the comic, which explores what happens to America when modern technology fails, at Comic Con.

Read More: What You Can Learn About Business By Talking To A Comic Book Writer

This New Social Network Is Definitely Worth A Try For Your Small Biz

There are countless social networks out there, riding the success of Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter. Most aren't worth a business's glance, but some can provide some real value.

One of the latest attempts to shake up the industry is Chime.in, made by the folks at UberMedia. It launched on Oct. 17, and fancies itself as an "interest network" that makes connections based on content, rather than people.

It's getting attention, too. Actor and Twitter superstar Ashton Kutcher is on Chime.in, and big brands like Disney, Universal Pictures and E! have already signed partnership deals.

But is Chime.in actually worth your small business's time and resources? We signed up and took a look at what it has to offer.

Read More: This New Social Network Is Definitely Worth A Try For Your Small Biz

How This Entrepreneur Launched A Second Career By Making Business Travel Bearable

Business travel is no vacation. In fact, it can be quite the uncomfortable journey. It doesn’t have to be though, especially for those whose working life consists of constant on-the-road travel. The smoothest, least complicated and non-problematic way to get from point A to point B is the only way to sustain this kind of working life.

That’s what Michael Bettua, the CEO and founder of Max Mirani, (a collection of slick, space saving and maximizing suitcases) recognized after years on the road with limited travel-efficient resources. Bettua did what any enterprising entrepreneur would do with a problem in need of a solution: he jump-started a second career with a business that helps make quick and constant travel a more pleasant experience.

Read More: How This Entrepreneur Launched A Second Career By Making Business Travel Bearable

2nd Annual Biggest Business Networking Event in NY History (Featured in Wall Street Journal)

 
 
 






In conjunction with the New York XPO For Business, The NYC Business Networking Group (NYCBNG) and The LGBT Business Network invites you to attend the 2nd Annual Biggest Business Networking Event.

This 3-hour event is part mini-expo and part networking to connect you with NYC industry professionals, executives, business owners & decision makers.

Last year we hosted the inaugural event, which quickly became the BIGGEST event in NYC History. That event is still being talked about. Nearly 900 people attended and it was such a success, we received a feature story in The Wall Street Journal.

This year we're hosting an even bigger and better event. Everyone will be there and you won't want to be left out!

The event is free w/RSVP for all members of our group. Not a member? Join for free. You can't get info this event unless you're on the list. NOTE: You're welcome to invite business associates but they MUST sign up themselves.

After a day of first-rate classes and presentations at the 6th Annual New York XPO for Business, NYCBNG will host the after-party networking event.

*******VENDOR TABLES AVAILABLE*******

Why Exhibit At The 2nd Annual Biggest Business Networking Event?

Exhibiting is a great way to expand your business base, generate HUNDREDS of leads and increase your company's visibility amongst business owners.


Promotional Vendor Benefits:

• Face-to-face contact with 1200+ business industry professionals
• A vendor table at the event for your marketing materials
• Establish new business relationships in your target market
• Introduce & demo your product or service to new prospects
• Distribute product samples & materials
• Exposure on NYCBNG & NYXPO website
• Company Promotional paragraph posted on NYCBNG
• Company participation promoted on Social Media Sites
• Direct access to the press and media

Vendor Table Fees:

Option 1: Four Foot Table (incl. 2 company reps) $300.00
Option 2: Six Foot Table (incl. 4 company reps) $500.00

We accept vendors with business-related products and services. NOTE: To apply for a vendor table email nycbiznet@yahoo.com with your full name, description of your business & website link. We'll provide more information.

Disclaimer: We have a no-refund policy on table sales.

Attendee Demographic

51.5% Presidents, Owners, CEOs
9% Directors
7.5% Vice Presidents
6% Sales Executives
5.5% Marketing Professionals
4.5% CFOs/COOs/CMOs
4% Business Development
4% Consultants
3% Management
3% Financial Services Representative
2% Miscellaneous

Industry Type Breakdown

11.5% Professional Services
11% Technology
10.5% Financial & Banking
10% Marketing & Advertising
10% Consulting
8% Hospitality & Entertainment
5% Real Estate
5% Manufacturing & Distribution
3.5% Telecommunications
3.5% Healthcare
3.5% Non-Profit
3% Energy
3% Retail
2.5% Transportation
2.5% Insurance
2% Construction & Contracting
1.5% Legal
1% Publishing & Printing
1% Education
1% Media
1% Miscellaneous

 

PARTIAL VENDOR LIST:

(MORE VENDOR LISTINGS COMING SOON)

 

New York Life
Founded in 1845 and headquartered in NYC, New York Life Insurance Company is a Fortune 100 company and the oldest and one of the largest mutual life insurance companies in America. New York Life maintains operations in all 50 states and several markets in Asia and Latin America through a network of more than 17,000 employees and more than 60,000 licensed agents. The Company holds the highest possible ratingsfor financial strength currently awarded to any life insurer from the life insurance industry's four principal rating agencies. Visit: http://newyorklife.com/

 

1-800-GOT-JUNK?
1-800-GOT-JUNK? is the World’s largest Junk removal service.  We remove almost anything- from old furniture and appliances, garden waste and renovation debris, electronics, and of course complete residential and office cleanouts!  Our uniformed crews provide outstanding customer service and donate or recycle all possible items. Visit: http://www.1800gotjunk.com

 

Kingdom of Bahrain
The Kingdom of Bahrain is unique in the Middle East. It offers a stable economic climate & competitive costs, a highly business friendly culture that welcomes foreign investment, an educated, bilingual workforce, low operating costs & 100% foreign ownership. No corporate, income or withholding taxes & no restrictions on repatriation of capital or profits. Bahrain has a Free Trade Agreement with the USA where businesses enjoy protection of the Kingdom's legal & regulatory systems & strict intellectual property & copyright laws. Visit: http://www.bahrainedb.com

Inkandescent Networking
Are You Ready to Start Networking in Seven East Coast Cities? At Inkandescent Networking, our goal is to help your business grow by connecting you to potential customers, strategic partners, and employees / employers through networking events and online introductions. Posting a short profile is free. Meet us in the social media sphere. Sign up today: http://www.inkandescentnetworking.com


Preyas LLC
Preyas Consulting is a custom software development firm in New York and we provide Web and Enterprise software development services to businesses in NY, NJ and CT. Our collaborative approach to software development ensure that our software solutions are not only tailored to your business needs, but allow you to leverage technology for your business. We specialize in PHP, Joomla, Drupal, Rails, Magento, Java.J2EE, Sharepoint, ASP.NET and C#. Visit http://www.preyasconsulting.com


Bizodo
Bizodo is a cloud form builder that allows its users to create forms, surveys, event registrations and online order forms,  then links them seamlessly with easy to use sales, marketing and management tools. The forms can be embed on your site or you can use a URL which they conveniently provide. Visit http://www.bizodo.com

Wyndham Garden Hotel
Whether you are traveling to Manhattan for business or pleasure, you can experience all that New York City has to offer at the Wyndham Garden Hotel - Times Square South centrally located in Midtown Manhattan. Visit: http://www.wyndhamnewyorkcity.com

 

GoSteals
A 100% FREE marketplace for every small business to list and acquire great discounts on products and services. Built over the most sophisticated self-service advertising technology available, it offers a fast, easy, cost-effective alternative to acquire new local customers while receiving discounts on necessary business services along the way. The one-stop online ad destination for small business owners worldwide. Visit http://www.Gosteals.com


Godettes Peru
An exclusive importer of men, women & children's apparel for high-end, American boutiques. Our company's merchandise includes baby alpaca including capes, sweaters, fur hats & many other accessories. Our main goal is to supply & fulfill the quality required for the best possible customer experience. Visit: http://www.godettesperu.com

 

Social Media School
Social Media School educates small business owners, career changers and marketing professionals in how to create and manage social media effectively, with solid results. Courses include Introduction to Social Media, Social Media for Executives, and beginner and advanced courses in Facebook, Twitter, Blogging, YouTube and LinkedIn for business. Visit: http://www.socialmediaschoolny.com


Chesspin Enterprise LLC
Chesspin Enterprises focuses on your business at the start-up phase to give you a properly-registered company. We help you with everything from incorporation to obtaining your business license and connect you with the resources you need to grow. Visit: http://www.chesspin.com/


in10sity
Since 1997, in10sity has specialized in creating website, software, and marketing solutions for major brands across the globe. Our strength lies in our experience creating award-winning designs, communications, and content management systems that brand your business.  Our clients include Coca-Cola, Delta Airlines, New York Blood Center, Queens College and Rack Room Shoes. Visit http://www.In10sity.net


Creative Group LLC
A graphic design company creating logo & packaging design, branding, exhibit booths for trade shows, video presentations to promote your business & printed marketing materials to help build your business to the next level. We provide printing services  from small to large format at some of the most competitive prices. We pride ourselves on the quality of what we provide in a timely manner. Visit: http://www.creativegroupllc.com


Managed Business Services
Flexible, scalable business support, always onshore. MBS is a provider of onshore domestic and global outsourcing solutions. MBS offers a unique modular approach to onsite and virtual staffing, support and knowledge-management. MBS’ service modules include: Professional & Consulting Services, Creative & Media Services, Back & Middle Office Support. Visit: http://www.accessmbs.com 

 

Quest Media
Quest Media Entertainment Inc. is a full-service Television Production Company. Services include: Television Program Development - (Our most popular program Profiles has been the recipient of four Telly Awards in the last three years), Television Commercial Production, On-Air Commercial Placement, Corporate Video Production, Celebrity Acquisition, Event Filming, and Website Design and Maintenance. Visit http://www.questmedia.net

 

Visalus Sciences
Visalus is the fastest growing health phenomenon in the country. With over 50 million shakes served, 89,000 people are joining the challenge each month. We challenge you to make health your priority the next 90 days. Join the millions who are shedding pounds and shaping up with the Visalus Challenge! Visit http://rubinon2.bodybyvi.com


Nuskin/Pharmanex
Nuskin/Pharmanex is a leader in anti-aging industry that takes the science of anti-aging to a completely new level by studying the genetic origins of how and why we age. With range of products from nutrient rich supplements to skin-care that targets the ultimate sources of aging we have something to offer to anyone who want to stay healthy and youthful. Visit: http://www.vivacity.nsedreams.com


Osteopathy New York, P.C
A medical practice dedicated to improving health naturally by relieving tension and pain at its cause using a gentle hands-on therapy that yields powerful long-lasting results. Visit http://www.osteopathyny.com


Ardyss
Reshape ◊ Revive ◊ Rediscover the Real You – is a Health and Wellness company with 5 different lines of products, Nutrition, Reshaping, Skin Care, Home Care and Coffee. The Ardyss family is committed to quality products that reshape and revive the body both inside and out while empowering individuals worldwide with the opportunity to rediscover financial freedom. An Appointment With Ardyss Will Change Your Life! Visit: http://www.ardysslife.com/denisejwhitehead

 

Computer Warriors, Inc.
Is a New York City based Information Services Consulting firm with over fifteen years of experience addressing both Corporate and Residential computer needs in the Tri-State area of New York. Including the Five Boroughs, Northern New Jersey, lower Westchester, Southern  Rockland, Nassau, and Suffolk Counties. Visit http://www.computerwarriorsinc.com

Business Networking International: Chapter 48
More Details Coming Soon!
Visit http://www.bni.com
 

Green Mountain Energy
More Details Coming Soon!

 

MEDIA PARTNERS:

 





Pace University: My name is Barry Miller, Manager Alumni Career Programs and Services at Pace University, If you are looking for interns with book smarts and real world experience through seasoned professionals, we have them. Contact me at bmiller@pace.edu for the exciting details.

NYCLGBTCC: The NYC LGBT Chamber of Commerce, Inc. is a not-for profit 501 (c) (6) whose purpose is to assist in and facilitate economic development opportunities for LGBT in business and minority businesses in the borough of the Bronx & in NYC & out of NYC. LGBT attendees who sign up at the event will get 50% off their membership fee. Visit http://www.nyclgbtcc.com

 

New York Enterprise Report: Featuring expert articles and tools to help small businesses grow. Visit http://www.nyreport.com

 

 

 

SmallBiz Technology:  Tech Insight and News for Small Businesses. Visit http://www.smallbiztechnology.com

 

 

 

 

Meet the small biz loan matchmakers

The climate for small business lending over the past few years has been dark to say the least, opening a door to entrepreneurs who pair business owners with interested lenders.

 FORTUNE -- For many entrepreneurs, growing a business over the past few years has come to feel like an endless, and fruitless, quest. Not so for Brock Blake. Five years ago, the 30-year-old entrepreneur founded Lendio, an online matchmaker that pairs loan-hungry entrepreneurs with banks, credit unions, and other lenders.

Lendio, which specializes in loans that range from $5,000 to $1 million, brought in about $8.6 million in revenue in 2010, according to Blake. Borrowers do not have to pay Lendio to search for a lender, but the company collects a payment from lenders when it makes a successful match. Since March, the company, based in South Jordan, Utah, says it has received 3,000 loan requests through its system and has achieved a loan approval rate of 50 to 70%.

Read More: Meet the small biz loan matchmakers

Pros and Cons of New Grads Starting a Business

It's a brave new working world for recent college grads. Find out if entrepreneurship is a good option for you as we weigh the pros and cons.

You're a graduate. You have a framed document that says you're qualified to work in your field. You could apply for jobs at established companies and small businesses. You're different, though. You crave the excitement and control of entrepreneurship. You want to start a business.

We live in a world with an uncertain economy that's driving people toward self-employment -- particularly young grads who can't find work. However, starting a business straight out of college comes with pros and cons. Here, we explore those and open up a conversation for graduating students thinking about business ownership.

Read More: Pros and Cons of New Grads Starting a Business

AMEX OPEN Forum taps New York City’s startup community

The power of the Internet, backed by beefy companies like Google, Amazon and Facebook has launched a new era of small businesses or “startups”, in which entrepreneurs small and tall can take advantage of its tools to turn bright ideas into nimble, lightweight companies.

To capitalize on this trend, American Express has launched OPEN Forum, an online community for business owners chockfull of insights, advice and tools to help them manage and grow their companies (and hopefully sign up for American Express cards). This site provides articles from OPEN Forum editors along with staff picks from around the web. The site currently sees over a million unique business owners coming to its site each month, about double what it was last year.

Read More: AMEX OPEN Forum taps New York City’s startup community

Ilana Eberson of NYC Business Networking Group: Wishing for a Clone

The problem for many entrepreneurs is that there’s only one of them. Ilana Eberson, founder of The New York City Business Networking Group, wishes she had a clone to help her host the ever-growing number of networking groups she runs:

“I have really become the brand of my own business, which is a double-edged sword.”

Eberson really could use a few copies of herself. She travels to the cities where she’s launched new groups, including Sydney, Australia, Los Angeles and Philadelphia. The Business Networking Group is doing so well, it plans to continue developing branches in the U.S. and Australia during 2012, and over the next five years, Eberson hopes to develop a presence in Southeast Asia, Israel and Europe. It’s this global domination that earned Eberson the title of Small Business Influencer Champion this year.

 

Read More: Ilana Eberson of NYC Business Networking Group: Wishing for a Clone

How to Hire the Best Small Business Employees

The smaller the business, the more hiring the right people matters. When employee #100 turns out to be a disaster the impact on the business is relatively small and usually confined to a small group of employees.

When employee #4 is a disaster, everything suffers.

Attitude is everything. you can teach skills but it's incredibly hard to teach and instill enthusiasm, teamwork and independence (you need both), and motivation.

Read More: How to Hire the Best Small Business Employees

Publicity: Every Entrepreneur's Secret Weapon

 

Whether in architecture, dry-cleaning, plumbing or legal services, it is critical business owners understand the importance of marketing their brands. Marketing, after all, is a central mechanism for business growth.

Too often entrepreneurs get lost in the decision of which marketing channels to choose. Direct mail may be effective for local businesses, while national television ads tend to suit large corporations well. Most recently, online marketing tools like websites and social media have taken center stage.

Entrepreneurs with limited budgets must choose which marketing mix best suits their particular businesses. If implemented well, any marketing channel can be effective. Unfortunately, high costs are usually associated with strong campaigns.

Read More: Publicity: Every Entrepreneur's Secret Weapon