What’s a fair split when partnering up?
A software inventor checks with Ask FSB’s experts for advice on whether a 50/50 split with a sales and marketing partner is a reasonable deal.
Eugene, Santa Monica, Calif.
I have a software product that I developed myself. I found a company that is willing to sell the product, and they would like a 50/50 deal: They’ll be responsible for advertising and selling and I’m responsible for continuing development of the software. Am I giving them too much of the profit? Read more…
Attracting new customers
Orna Sabbah, Union, N.J.
We operate an authorized Sprint sales & repair center in Union, N.J. Sales have been declining for some time now. Union is not the most happening city commercially, but we are located on the main business street. The repairs bring in traffic, but not new activations or upgrades, which is the meat of the business. Since our address is listed on the Sprint Web site, customers come to us to make payments, but not for new activations. What services can we offer to beef up business?
What do you recommend? Leave a comment with your answer. Read more…
Taking your web design firm to the next level
A small business owner wonders where his marketing strategy should go next.
Alex Diaz, Houston, Texas
I run a website design firm, www.toptechexperts.com. We offer a unique, affordable and complete website design package catered to small businesses. We want to grow and get more clients. My question: Should I invest more money in promotion and advertising, or hire some salespeople to reach out to new customers? I’m a great salesperson, but my time is limited, between designing and managing. Any advice? Read more…
How much equity do my investors deserve?
Have you recently added partners to your business? Share your advice with Victor.
Help for an online launch
Andy asked for marketing advice for his new e-store. Have you used an outside agency to market your web site? Give Andy some advice.
Taking your business online
Michael asked how to begin building a website for his business. Have you started a website for your business? Did you hire a company to design it for you? Share your experiences here.
Got an idea that could make you rich?
Have you pitched your idea to large corporations in order to expand your R&D? What precautions have you taken to protect your IP? Talk back here.
How do I set prices?
Gary has minimal profits and wants to know how to calculate a markup. Have you recently raised your prices? How did it affect your business?
What makes a successful loan application?
Frederick, owner of On Point PDS, asked FSB what banks are looking for when evaluating loan applications. Have you been successful in establishing bank credit? Tell us how you did it.
Write offs for Small Biz Owners
Randy wants to know how to reduce his tax burden through depreciation. Have you taken advantage of depreciation? How?
-
Should you use carrots - and sticks - to nudge your employees toward better health? more
-
An entrepreneur says he's found an endless source of cheap energy. Trouble is, it violates the laws of quantum physics. more
-
Six are dead in Kentucky. Should business owners have the right to ban guns from the workplace? more
-
These five next-generation green vehicles will be faster, more powerful - and cheaper. more
-
A small U.S. tour business sends animal lovers into the bush to help threatened species. more
-
A rural indie channel is paying $25 million to pair the shock jock's chatter with tractor pulls and Christian cowboys. more







