Finding 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?
Expanding a niche business
Ricky, Orlando, Fla.
I am looking to buy an out-of-state business. The company currently handles hotels and transportation bookings for airline crews and a few corporations. I would like to open an office in my hometown and focus on the film industry and engineering companies who have extended stays in many cities. How can I expand the category of business? What should I expect with this challenge?
Advertising your business online
Ricky, Los Angeles
I’m buying a hotel booking company, and I understand the importance of advertising. How do I advertise on the Web? I would like to target companies only in certain fields.
How snack companies snag in-flight deals
Tim is trying to sell his healthy snacks to airlines. Have any other suggestions as to how he can do this?
Valuing a business you’d like to acquire
Have you recently considered purchasing a business? How did you evaluate it? Share your experiences here.
Can I write off my international travel?
Reader Nancy asked FSB about deducting travel expenses. How do you deduct your travel expenses? Share your advice.
High-flying online marketing tips
A boutique travel-agency planner seeks ideas for building site traffic. What do you recommend?
How do I start blogging?
FSB recommends blog software applications that are popular with small businesses. Seasoned bloggers: what are we missing?
Is my business franchise-worthy?
FSB suggests taking it slow to find out. If you’ve had successes or failures making your business a franchise, talk about it here.
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