Discounts and referrals: What works now
How to stand out in a crowded field without spending loads of money on advertising.
Jenny, Deer Park, N.Y.
I own a small beauty shop in a mid-sized town on Long Island, New York. The problem for me is the competition: In the past five years, three more beauty shops opened around the five-mile area, and my business started to sink two years ago. How do I stand out from a crowded field without spending tons of money on advertising?
Comment
DiggFinding the best customers for your business
Some clients aren’t worth the headaches. Advance vetting and precautions can spare you the pain.
Chris Walker, Phoenix
I started a concierge service on a tight budget. I am not looking to conquer the world in a day. I would like to attract the “right” customer and grow the business within my means. What would be the best methods to find that “right” customer?
When to get tough with a deadbeat client
Expert tips for picking clients wisely and getting paid on time.
Denise Haney, Orem, Utah
How can I get our clients to pay up? There’s a fine balance between getting our money and losing them as clients – but when invoices are past 100 days, isn’t it time to get tough?
How to fight negative Web reviews
Tony Cantillo
How do I deal with unfair reviews of my business?
Should I relocate my bra business from the suburbs to the city?
Patti is considering relocating her bra business to the city to increase foot traffic. Should Patti relocate? If not, how can she increase foot traffic?
How to handle bounced checks
Hate dealing with rubbery payments? Avoid them by following this advice. How do you ensure that the checks you receive translate into cash? Do you use a check service program? What has been your experience with it?
Freebies and cost-cutting: slump survival tactics
Reader Mike asked FSB’s advice on surviving the dipping economy. How are you beating the slump with your grassroots business?
Sports marketing 101
Victor needs help marketing his athletic scholarship business. Do you have any marketing strategies to share?
How small shops can compete with big ones
A small artisan gelato and coffee store is concerned about cash flow while competing with a larger store across the street. Have you battled the big guys with your small business? What was the outcome?
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