Weatherholt and Associates - Small Business Authority » Business Planning

It’s Not Too Late

David Weatherholt — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 18:23:49 +0000

Small Signs That Small Business Lending Is Up

Small-business lending hit a 4 year high in November 2011, according to Thomson Reuter/Pay Net Index. Listen as Dave describes a small but positive change for small businesses. Read the complete article on the Wall Street Journal site.

2012 Business and Marketing Planning

It’s not too late to start simple but effective planning for this New Year. Small-Business Marketing Expert Amanda Cullen and Small-Business Financial Expert Dave Weatherholt give practical tips on planning for 2012. Be bold and set a sales goal that will make you smile. Dave provides tools and advice on how to achieve that audacious goal. Amanda gives you practical cost effective marketing tips that will move your company toward achieving that sales goal.

Here are some useful handouts from the show:

Financial Budgeting Tools

Sample Marketing Plan

Listen or download below:

It’s Not Too Late

Computer Back-Ups: The Avoidable Business Risk, Part 2

Tim White — Thu, 12 Jan 2012 16:00:33 +0000

In my first article in my computer back-up series, I encouraged businesses to take their back-up strategy seriously. In this month’s article, Computer Back-Ups: The Avoidable Business Risk, Part 2, I continue:

“Now that your backup procedures are second nature, what steps are you taking to verify that the data is recoverable and usable? Creating a backup of your data is only the halfway mark. There are other steps that must to be followed to ensure that, in the event of a catastrophe, you do not lose data.”

Read the article: Computer Back-Ups: The Avoidable Business Risk, Part 2

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2012 Marketing Planning – It’s Not Too Late

Amanda Cullen — Fri, 06 Jan 2012 16:00:38 +0000

In December’s Getting Down to Business eNewsletter, I advised that it’s not too late to complete your marketing plan for 2012. Guess what? If you haven’t finished now, it’s still not too late! Here’s an excerpt:

In fact, January is a great time to plan for the rest of the year. The previous year’s results are final; holiday vacations are over, and employees are refreshed and ready to dive in. As you start focusing on the new year, consider these tips in developing your 2012 marketing plan.

Read the article: 2012 Marketing Planning – It’s Not Too Late

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Economic News: Revised Downward

David Weatherholt — Fri, 30 Dec 2011 16:00:52 +0000

In my December Getting Down to Business eNewsletter article, “Economic News: Revised Downward,” I start:

Economically, are you better off today than a year ago? The numbers tell the story. Gross domestic product for Q3 2010, a weak 2.5%, continued to slide into a 2.3% Q4 2010 rate. The slide continues: Q1 2011 was revised down to an abysmal 0.4%, clawing its way back to a meager 1.3% in Q2 2011. The final estimate for Q3 2011, 1.8%, was another significant downward revision. The first estimate was 2.5%. An accurate description for 2011 is “Revised Downward.”

Read the article – Economic News: Revised Downward

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Know Your Customer

David Weatherholt — Mon, 12 Dec 2011 16:00:34 +0000

Small Business Confidence Has Minor Uptick

The NFIB’s “Optimism Index” gained 1.3 points, nudging the index up to 90.2. Listen as Dave discusses the main reason the index remains mired in low readings. Read complete article on NFIB’s website.

Market Analysis

According to Celtic myths, there was once a magical cup. This cup satisfied the tastes and needs of all who drank from it. These myths led to the legend of the Holy Grail. The business equivalent of the Holy Grail is the Business Plan. The real value of a business plan is the process. Listen as Dave gets a rare opportunity to take you through the process of completing a “Market Analysis.”

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Know Your Customer

Exit Stage Left – Business Succession Planning

David Weatherholt — Mon, 31 Oct 2011 15:00:51 +0000

Steven Paul Jobs, 1955-2011

The passing of Steve Jobs had an impact on me. The “Information Age” developed during my business career and the entrepreneurs, innovators and founders are a source of inspiration to us all. The world will miss the inspiration and energy of Mr. Jobs. He ranks with Great American Entrepreneurs: Ford, Carnegie, Morgan, Vanderbilt, McLean, Gates, etc.

Business Succession Planning

Starting and running a small business is an emotional experience. The business contains a lot of the founder which makes it hard to pass on. Succession planning is something most small business owners don’t think about. Listen as Russell Ball, Founder and owner of ACB Solutions, a 25 year old business tells the story of his plan and how it involves Tim White, the company’s Chief Technology Officer. Find out more by visiting: www.akcb.com.

Go It Alone

Listen as Geoff Burch, author & business expert, talks about “Big Decisions” from his book Irresistible Persuasion. As usual, Geoff has some great advice along with a great story. Visit Geoff atwww.geoffburch.com.

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Exit Stage Left – Business Succession Planning

SEO Roundtable

David Weatherholt — Mon, 24 Oct 2011 15:00:40 +0000

Price of Reclassifying Workers

If your business uses independent contractors, the IRS has a new plan that may cost you. Their new program called “Voluntary Worker Classification Settlement Program” will be taking a closer look at how you classify contractors/employees. Is this an attempt to raise money and increase employment? Read the complete article: “Price of Reclassifying Workers.”

Search Engine Optimization

Search Engine Optimization (SEO) experts Amanda Cullen (Zoo in a Jungle Marketing) and Steve Volz (Alaska Search Marketing) have an open discussion on the topic. Listen to learn more about how to increase business and some of the basics of SEO as well as finding an SEO provider.

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SEO Roundtable

Written in Alaska

David Weatherholt — Mon, 17 Oct 2011 15:00:05 +0000

Spending Wisely on Technology

People used to working in an office stocked with technology may find that starting as a solo enterprise can be painful. Listen as Dave discusses a useful reality of going it alone. Or read complete article: “Spending Wisely on Technology.”

Alaskan Association of Authors

Authors Josie & Mark McKinney are the co-founders of the Alaskan Association of Authors. Listen as they discuss the reasons for starting their company and the books they have written and published.

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Written in Alaska

Simon & Seaforts Unwrapped

David Weatherholt — Mon, 10 Oct 2011 19:09:26 +0000

Small Business Confidence Takes Huge Hit

Listen to the highlights of the NFIB’s monthly Optimism Index. This index dropped dramatically in August– find out why. Or read complete article: “Small Business Confidence Takes Huge Hit.”

Simon & Seaforts: The Restaurant Business

After over 30 years in Anchorage, Simon & Seaforts is one of the city’s oldest and best restaurants. Listen as Robert Kilby gives us a behind the scenes look a successful restaurant. This is a great show about a super business.

Business Risk Management

Do you know what a “surety bond” is used for? Listen as business insurance expert Chris Pobielgo talks more about this important insurance product. Chris is president of Business Insurance Associates.

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Simon & Seaforts Unwrapped

Great Wine with Your Cheese

David Weatherholt — Mon, 22 Aug 2011 15:00:39 +0000

Small-Business Owners Registering Vote of ‘No Confidence’ in the Federal Government

Bill Dunkelberg, economist says, “Between the deluge of new regulations and a Washington policy agenda that is largely ignorant of Main Street needs, stubbornly low consumer spending, and grave concern among small firms about the federal budget, there is not much to be optimistic about as a small-business owner.” Listen to the Getting Down to Business analysis.

Starting a restaurant with Crush Wine Bistro & Cellar

Chris Pobieglo sitting in for Dave talks with Anchorage entrepreneur Chad Culley one of the founders of Crush Wine Bistro & Cellar talks about starting a restaurant. Listen as Chad talks about employees, team building, customers, the economy, and what wakes him up at 3:00 am. For more information go to www.crushak.com

Go it Alone

Listen as Geoff Burch, bestselling author in business discusses the “Show Business” element in sales from his latest book Irresistible Persuasion.

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Great Wine with Your Cheese

Tools of the Trade – CRM

David Weatherholt — Tue, 02 Aug 2011 18:39:54 +0000

Main Street Desperately in Search of Reasons to be Positive

NFIB’s monthly Small-Business Optimism Index dropped one tenth of a point (0.1) in June, settling at 90.8, an unsurprising reading, unchanged from the previous month and solidly in recession territory. Read the full article from NFIB, then listen to Dave’s commentary.

Customer Relations Management as a Tool

Techniques are not tools, and Customer Relations Management (CRM) software is a tool to help your sales staff to be more effective. Back when I first started in sales (I sold printing for 18 years), we used 3’ x 5’ client cards, daily sales sheets and weekly sales forms– a manual system designed to track contacts with customers and potential customers. CRM automates the client tracking process and provides much more sales help. Listen as Andre Horton, a Microsoft Dynamics CRM consultant talks about CRM.

Business Risk Management

Do your employees use their personal or business autos during their work day? If so, you may need to have a commercial auto policy to minimize your risk. Listen as Chris Pobeiglo, President of Business Insurance Associates talks about commercial auto insurance. Dind out why your company may need this coverage.

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Tools of the Trade – CRM

Leap of Faith

David Weatherholt — Mon, 25 Jul 2011 17:00:37 +0000

Contractors Survey: New EPA Rule to Increase Costs

Home-renovation businesses expect a federal ruling proposed last month to increase operating costs and dampen sales, according to a recently released survey. This survey is a great example of government regulation impacting small business. Read the full article at the Wall Street Journal blog.

>Entrepreneur takes a leap of faith

What is an entrepreneur? If you said a person who assembles the factors of production, raises capital, organizes management, makes policy decisions, and reaps the gains of success or the losses of failure, you would be correct. The short answer is anyone who risks everything to start a business. Steve Volz, of Alaska Search Marketing, left a good job with a steady paycheck and benefits to pursue the dream of owning his own business. Listen as Steve tells the story of how he took a “leap of faith.”

Marketing Matters

Does your business use email marketing as part of its marketing plan? Amanda Cullen of Zoo in a Jungle Marketing provides good reasons why you should and “how to do it right.”

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Leap of Faith

Creating a Business Loan Package

David Weatherholt — Mon, 18 Jul 2011 15:00:22 +0000

Outlook Grows Bleak on Main Street

In the eyes of the average small business, the U.S. economy is still in a recession and likely to stay that way through 2012. A new survey, commissioned by the U.S. Bancorp one of several reports out in recent weeks painting a more dismal picture for American small businesses than previously perceived. Listen for my recap, and read the full article on the Wall Street Journal site.

How to prepare a business loan package

The American reserve banking system evolved from Goldsmiths. In most early towns, the only vault belonged to the Goldsmith who began holding the valuables and money of others in the community. Today’s bank lending evolved from these practices. Andy Riddell, VP at Wells Fargo talks about the bank’s side of the lending process including explaining the 5 C’s of Credit. Listen to find out the best way prepare a business loan package.

Alaska Economics

The U.S. economy is made up of all the individual state economies. Listen as Dan Robinson, Senior Economist with the McDowell Group discusses the two common beliefs about the relationship between Alaska’s economy and the U.S. economy. ”Historical data doesn’t really support either of those beliefs,” according to Dan. Listen for his view.

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Creating a Business Loan Package

Business/ News & Views – June 2011

Amanda Cullen — Thu, 30 Jun 2011 15:36:48 +0000

June’s Business/News & Views® continues David’s journey through the audit process, with helpful advice for all who file a Schedule C. Dave also points out that the economy still feels bad, although we’re technically not in a double-dip recession. Learn great email marketing tips from Amanda Cullen, and pick up some advice on how to use PowerPoint.

Read the newsletter: Business/News & Views®

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The Art of Business Planning

David Weatherholt — Mon, 20 Jun 2011 15:00:19 +0000

Small Business Fight IRS Over Data

The Internal Revenue Service is moving aggressively to collect more taxes from small businesses. It is telling companies being audited to turn over exact copies of the electronic records kept in their business-software programs. The IRS wants your QuickBooks files. Read the full Wall Street Journal article.

Business Planning

Success in anything that works well requires vision, dedication, luck and a great plan. Join Dave as he talks about the subject he knows well– “business planning.” A well-written business plan will not guarantee the success of your business start-up, but it will improve the long odds. Listen, as David Weatherholt, you business authority, reveals the art of writing a business plan.

Economics in Alaska

The “Economics Guy” Dan Robinson, Senior Economist for the McDowell Group, discusses gross domestic product and how it impacts your business. Dan and Dave also discuss gross domestic product for the state Alaska. Listen as economic principles become clear and relevant.

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The Art of Business Planning

Business/News & Views – May 2011

Amanda Cullen — Tue, 31 May 2011 17:30:44 +0000

May’s Business/News & Views® brings some encouragement amidst continuing dour economic news – that the US is still a powerhouse. David Weatherholt keeps it upbeat as he details his recent experience with auditors, while marketing expert Amanda Cullen advises businesses with tips for creating that great first impression. In our tech section, learn 9 ideas for managing files and folders on your computer.

Read the newsletter: Business/News & Views®

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Building Wealth Through Real Estate

Amanda Cullen — Fri, 20 May 2011 15:00:09 +0000

In the News

3 Ways to Maintain Positive Cash Flow in a Down Economy

David Weatherholt gives a summary of an article on cash flow– the life blood of a business. Focus on creating annuity revenue is one of the helpful tips. Listen to learn more.

Real Estate Opportunity

It’s no surprise to anyone that the domestic real estate market is in difficulty. Winston Churchill said that an optimist “sees opportunity in every difficulty.” Find out how Dee Thomas and Jeff Greenberg, managing partners in a company called Synergetic Investment Group, LLC, look for opportunity in the real estate market.

Alaska Economics

Dan Robinson, Senior Economist with the McDowell Group, discusses the commercial real estate markets in Alaska.

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Building Wealth Through Real Estate

One Arm Tied Behind Our Back

David Weatherholt — Tue, 17 May 2011 15:00:43 +0000

In my controversial new article,One Arm Tied Behind Our Back, I write,

“It has never been the intention to make this column a political platform, but the ‘unusually uncertain’ or more aptly, ‘political uncertainty’ is crushing our economy. If the reasons for this uncertainty were simple economics, then business would move on looking for effective ways to address the unknown. In this case the uncertainly is by design– creating circumstances where we are competing with ‘one arm tied behind our back.’”

Read the full article: One Arm Tied Behind Our Back

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Business/News & Views – April 2011

Amanda Cullen — Fri, 29 Apr 2011 14:43:06 +0000

This month in Business/News & Views® – Learn the economic meaning behind the cost of a new suit (Hint: don’t expect any good economic news here). Following the economic news, learn how to weather the upcoming storm with cost-cutting and revenue-adding business tips from David Weatherholt in his article, “One Arm Tied Behind Our Back.”

Not all is bad news, as we highlight some of Wells Fargo’s up and coming in Alaska. And harness the power of “Word of Mouth Marketing” from marketing expert Amanda Cullen. Then chill out as you learn to “Listen to the Radio on Your Computer.”

Read the newsletter: Business/News & Views®

7 Steps to a Business Health Checkup

David Weatherholt — Wed, 20 Apr 2011 15:00:38 +0000

To keep your business healthy, you need to do a business health checkup. In my article, I explained the 7 steps to a healthy business, starting out:

Take a deep breath, clear your head, relax, and then take stock of what you have. How is your business performing now? Have sales slowed? Do you have enough cash? Is your business ready to face a future where business growth is not the key to success? What is the overall health of you and your business, both mentally and financially?

In 2008, the United States and the world economies went into a steep downward tailspin. This economic downturn, despite earlier confusion, misstatements and missteps is very real and had a significant impact on your business. This sudden shift changed what we considered “business normal”– signaling that the old way we operated as a business will not work in the future.

Read all 7 steps: 7 Steps to a Business Health Checkup

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The Business Side of the Food Bank

Amanda Cullen — Fri, 15 Apr 2011 19:45:51 +0000

Executive Director of the Food Bank of Alaska Susannah Morgan joins “Getting Down to Business” with David Weatherholt. Learn about Susannah’s journey and about how she came to be involved in hunger issues. Susannah has an MBA from Boston University and reveals the business model of the Food Bank of Alaska.

In the news, learn about the controversial ways one can use to finance a business using a 401(k). Love it or hate it, it’s important information to know.

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The Business Side of the Food Bank

It Takes More Than Good Food

Amanda Cullen — Thu, 07 Apr 2011 15:00:40 +0000

David Weatherholt has a tasty show for his listeners as he talks the restaurant business with Chef Sal Addonisio, Executive Chef of Sal’s New York Grill and Catering. Chef Sal is a seasoned restauranteur and has lately expanded his catering business, saying his favorite thing about catering, “Is seeing people eating my food, the smiles and head nods while they are enjoying that – working in a restaurant you just don’t get that.” This “Getting Down to Business” is valuable for all aspiring restaurant owners.

Marketing expert Amanda Cullen, president of Zoo in a Jungle Marketing, joins the show to explain Facebook advertising. She answers the questions, “Should you advertise on Facebook?” and “How do you do it?” If you’ve been thinking about advertising on Facebook, you don’t want to miss this segment!

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It Takes More Than Good Food

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It Takes More Than Good Food

Business/News & Views – March 2011

Amanda Cullen — Thu, 31 Mar 2011 21:09:07 +0000

March’s Business/News & Views® has very informative business tips and advice to help you with finances, marketing and technology. First, get the scoop on Pay-Per-Click Advertising as Amanda Cullen explains Google, Bing and Facebook.

Get your business in shape with David Weatherholt’s “7 Steps to a Business Health Checkup.” Learn the state of the economy with David’s economic news summary and learn how to increase browsing speed with our technology article.

Read the newsletter: Business/News & Views®

Business/News & Views – February 2011

Amanda Cullen — Mon, 07 Mar 2011 18:22:23 +0000

February’s Business/News & Views® is packed with great information for Alaska’s businesses. Read about an Anchorage operation’s 20th year and how they’ve made it this far, along with news of local job promotions.

Then read David Weatherholt’s Economic Summary, informing us about the “New Normal.” David’s opinion article takes a look at the optimism index and inspires us with our first President’s example. Beat the new economic normal with your marketing plan – Amanda Cullen tells you how.

And if that wasn’t enough, learn how to make your computer run faster by reading our Internet Tips and Tricks article.

Read the newsletter: Business/News & Views®

Competition: Be the Best

David Weatherholt — Mon, 21 Feb 2011 17:00:15 +0000

What does it feel like to be the best of the best? At the moment of victory, it feels great. What does it take to get there? It takes hours and hours of practicing the basics, until they become second nature. A businessperson that chooses to compete at the top of their market will work hard. That hard work is the cost of membership into the top tier of your market and will bring rewards.

Competing at the top requires more than simply pumping additional money into an organization. A solid base like the “Peerless Pyramid” is quite simply the starting point, and while solid organization will not guarantee business success, a poorly organized structure will guarantee business failure. Performing at the top of your market requires going beyond a solid structure- it requires binding that structure together with solid business processes.

Process Implementation Steps:

Recognize the Process
Formalize the Process
Simplify the Process
Repeat the Process
Flawless implementation
Measurable results
Continuous improvement

This Be the Best article was originally published in January’s Business/News & Views®

Sales Process Defined

David Weatherholt — Thu, 20 Jan 2011 17:00:24 +0000

We all have heard that, as small business owners, we are all sales people. This is no doubt a fact when owning and operating a small business. As with any operational function, there should be some type of process or step-by-step way of doing it.

Following a process, with repetition and practice, has been proven to contribute to a positive outcome. Yes, you guessed it! There is a process to selling – known as the sales cycle.

Be the Best V

David Weatherholt — Thu, 06 Jan 2011 17:00:51 +0000

The title “Be the Best” seems a little underwhelming when you really consider its true meaning. This series has focused on the processes that a company striving to reach the top must have. These processes are important, and we’ve talked about the different steps needed to make a process into an active improvement plan.

Process Implementation Steps:

Recognize the Process
Formalize the Process
Simplify the Process
Repeat the Process
Flawless implementation
Measurable results
Continuous improvement

Be the Best, Part IV

David Weatherholt — Thu, 23 Dec 2010 17:00:53 +0000

To be the best in your field or industry requires hours and hours of practicing the basics, until they become second nature. My “Be the Best” series in Business/News & Views explores what this means on a deeper level. In “Be the Best, Part IV,” I discuss what business metrics you can use to measure success and how to incentivize your team based on those metrics.

Read full article: Be the Best, Part IV

Hire the Best

Amanda Cullen — Thu, 11 Nov 2010 17:00:07 +0000

David Weatherholt’s guest for this “Getting Down to Business” is Mike Littman, VP of Marketing for Previsor. Previsor is a talent measurement organization, and Mike talks about the importance of pre-employment screening, assessment testing and personality tests. David shares his story of an employee out of control and how disciplined talent measurement would have helped his situation. Learn what steps you can take to hire with precision.

Amanda Cullen, president of Zoo in a Jungle Marketing, calls in later in the show to assert Marketing is Everything. Or, more accurately stated, everything you do is marketing. Learn how each interaction a customer has with your company builds – or destroys- your brand.

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Hire the Best

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Hire the Best

Be the Best III

David Weatherholt — Mon, 11 Oct 2010 16:00:11 +0000

Continuing my series on being a Peerless Competitor, I emphasize creating effective processes as necessary to attain the number one place in your field. I follow the paths of John D. Rockefeller and the Green Bay Packers and how their experiences applies to your business today. You have to get down to the basics before you can soar to the top. I write:

“‘Ladies and gentlemen, this is a dollar.’ The goal of every business is to earn them. Most business people focus on the dollar and either forget or don’t realize what a successful collection process means.”

Read the full article: Be the Best III

Art for Sale

Amanda Cullen — Thu, 30 Sep 2010 20:30:07 +0000

David Weatherholt brings onto the show René Haag, owner of Blaine’s Art Supply. The company has been around for over 50 years, and is one of Anchorage’s most established businesses. René has valuable advice for small businesses on sustaining a business throughout the years.

Geoff Burch joins the show with tips on how to get a “yes” every time. As a sales guru, he knows an endless stream of “yes” answers are every salesperson’s dream.

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Art for Sale

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Art for Sale

Be the Best II

David Weatherholt — Tue, 14 Sep 2010 16:00:34 +0000

To be the best at your level is a unique achievement requiring above average commitment and performance. A business that stands alone at the top of its market earns above average profits, making it something of value and worth the extra effort needed to become a “Peerless Competitor.” I have identified seven steps to become the best in your field.

Recognize the Process
Formalize the Process
Simplify the Process
Repeat the Process
Flawless implementation
Measurable results
Continuous improvement

Read my articles, Be the Best and Be the Best II to learn how to organize your business structure to be able to accommodate success. Then use this solid base to grow. My seven steps are based on my Peerless Competitor pyramid:

Implementation Means “Keep at It”

Amanda Cullen — Thu, 19 Aug 2010 16:00:21 +0000

My article on implementation for small businesses was in the latest issue of Business/News & Views®. Implementation is the last step in the long process of strategy and planning. Here’s an excerpt:

You’ve developed a strategy that informs where you want your company to go. You’ve involved your team in developing and planning for this strategy. Together, you’ve made sure this strategy communicates with customers in ways that are meaningful to them and ensures your company is easy to do business with. You’re probably feeling pretty satisfied with your progress. But your work has only just begun.

Read the full article: Implementation Means “Keep at It”

Be the Best

David Weatherholt — Mon, 09 Aug 2010 16:00:23 +0000

Are you one of the few who wants to be at the very top? This is the question I ask in my article Be the Best – and this article is for the high-achievers:

Do you ever wonder what it is like to be on a world championship team? How would it feel to be part of the Los Angeles Lakers, New Orleans Saints, New York Yankees, Chicago Blackhawks, or “The Red Fury” Spanish National Football team? To know that you are the best at your level is an awesome feeling. It also means better than average profits.

I introduce the 7-step the process to get to the top of my Peerless Competitor Pyramid:

Read the full article: Be the Best

Business for Sale

Amanda Cullen — Mon, 09 Aug 2010 15:14:59 +0000

David interviews John A. Letorneau, CPA for his expertise in business sales and succession planning. John is a stockholder of and director for Thomas, Head and Greisen, a leading CPA firm in Anchorage. David and John tell anectodes of successful and failed business sales – and advice for any business considering putting up a For Sale sign.

In the news, David informs of a business that started with the intent to sell and how planning succession early on can make the transition smooth and pain-free.

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Business for Sale

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Business for Sale

Business/News & Views – July 2010

Amanda Cullen — Wed, 28 Jul 2010 18:34:21 +0000

July’s Business/News & Views® contains great information and resources for small businesses. David Weatherholt encourages your company to “Be the Best” and introduces you to the process that can lead your business to the top. With similar intention, Amanda Cullen writes on implementation- tips to take your strategy to market.

David’s economic summary emphasizes the uncertainty businesses and consumers feel about the economic recovery. He describes this outlook with up-to-date analysis and data.

Finally, lighten things up a bit with “Four Common Errors on Social Media Strategy,” to help your business be smart about social media.

Read now: Business/News & Views® – July 2010

A Small Agency with a Big Mission

Amanda Cullen — Thu, 01 Jul 2010 21:50:27 +0000

This podcast is all about the Small Business Administration, a great resource for small businesses. The need for the SBA becomes apparent when you realize there are 26 million businesses in the United States – and most of them are small businesses. 36% of those employed in the US work for a company employing less than 100 people. David also gives a history of the SBA and an overview of how it has helped Alaska over the years.

The first special guest is the head of the Small Business Administration – Karen Mills, Administrator. She has a Harvard MBA and a background in venture capital. In her home state of Maine, she was instrumental in developing the “cluster approach” to grouping businesses together. David asked her some great questions.

David has the opportunity to interview a recipient of an SBA award – Marty Weisner, from Marty’s New York Bagel Deli. His funding was made possible by the American Reinvestment and Recovery Act (also known as the stimulus bill)

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A Small Agency with a Big Mission

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A Small Agency with a Big Mission

Become a Peerless Competitor II

David Weatherholt — Mon, 14 Jun 2010 16:00:18 +0000

In this follow-up to my first article, Become a Peerless Competitor I, I continue explaining my Peerless Pyramid. I address the middle layers, Products/Services and Marketing/Sales, which are the center of every business.

As I explain in the article Become a Peerless Competitor II,

Becoming a “peerless competitor” means building a solid company modeled after a pyramid that is broad at the base and sharp at the apex. Providing great customer service will not go very far without the proper foundation. Financial resources must be sufficient to support the company, followed by putting in place the kind of financial controls and accounting systems that safe guard your financial resources.

Read the full article: Become a Peerless Competitor II

Business in Alaska V

Amanda Cullen — Tue, 08 Jun 2010 14:50:19 +0000

Gubernatorial candidate Ethan Berkowitz joins David Weatherholt to explain why he’s running for Alaska’s governorship. Ethan has an interesting business background in alternative energy and brings intellectual answers to David’s questions.

Small business marketing expert Amanda Cullen of Zoo in a Jungle Marketing joins the show later with her segment “Marketing Matters.” She strays a bit from the topic of marketing this week to ask businesses the question, “Where do you want to go?” Before implementing any marketing initiatives, businesses need to secure a solid business strategy. This strategy will make day-to-day decision making more simple and help your business reach success on time.

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Business in Alaska V

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Business in Alaska V

Know Where You Want to Go

Amanda Cullen — Mon, 07 Jun 2010 16:00:45 +0000

Do you know where you want your business to be in the next year? How about in the next five years? In this article from Business/News & Views®, I challenge small businesses to think about their future strategy. There is nothing more important to a small business than planning their future, but:

So many small business owners don’t have a solid idea of where they want to take their businesses. Other, more immediate issues demand your attention every day – like how to solve your biggest customers’ problem with shipping or approving a purchase order for new office chairs. These decisions seem (and are) so important.But you’ll never know if you’re making the right decision unless you have a strategic framework of where you want to be in the future.

In the article, you’ll find examples, learn about “your picture of success” and gain valuable information on filling in the details of your overall strategy.

Read the full article here: Know Where You Want to Go

Business/News & Views – May 2010

Amanda Cullen — Fri, 28 May 2010 17:50:51 +0000

May’s issue of Business/News & Views® brings a bevy of great advice – from how to be a peerless competitor to defining your business’ future to helping shape the futures of graduates.

David Weatherholt brings great economic news, as he says that Prosperity Returns. For businesses looking to find new markets, we have news of a free international and trade seminar sponsored by the SBA.

And lastly, don’t miss out on some helpful technology tips.

Read Now: May 2010 Business/News & Views®

Demystifying Six Sigma

Amanda Cullen — Wed, 26 May 2010 21:21:56 +0000

Have you ever wondered what Six Sigma is? In this episode of “Getting Down to Business,” David’s guest Eric Britten will demystify the concept and explain how Six Sigma helps businesses cut costs and boost profits even in tough times. Eric is president of Britten & Associates.

David also brings some news for lending opportunities for small businesses and a short history of management science. Six Sigma is actually the culmination of the slow growth of management science.

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Alternative Business Lending

A Matter of Survival

Amanda Cullen — Wed, 12 May 2010 14:57:57 +0000

David starts off this “Getting Down to Business” by celebrating his first year on the radio and providing listeners with some great borrowing advice – how to start and maintain a close relationship with a bank.

Later in the show, David brings in two special guests. Russell Ball, founder of ACB Solutions, talks about transitioning his business from Alaska Computer Brokers, a computer retail store, to ACB Solutions, a technology services provider. He and David talk about the evolving marketplace that necessitated this change and share valuable stories and advice for small business owners facing similar situations.

Amanda Cullen, president of Zoo in a Jungle Marketing for small business, elaborates on the importance of keeping your business strategy current with what your customers want. She advocates conducting qualitative research with your customers and gives helpful tips on how to do that.

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Business/News & Views – April 2010

Amanda Cullen — Tue, 20 Apr 2010 17:54:58 +0000

April’s Business/News & Views® carries articles concerning your business’ marketing communication, how to become a peerless competitor, the current economic state and some news about Wells Fargo.

David Weatherholt introduced his Peerless Competitor Pyramid, giving businesses solid advice on improving their competitive standpoint. Amanda Cullen focuses on communicating with customers in ways that are meaningful to them.

Read Now: April 2010 Business/News & Views®

Learn How to Fish

David Weatherholt — Wed, 10 Mar 2010 18:45:30 +0000

Non-Profits are Businesses

Amanda Cullen — Tue, 16 Feb 2010 20:27:10 +0000

Non-profit organizations perform many necessary functions in our communities, but they face many unique business challenges, as well. Dave’s first guest is Candace Winkler, CEO of Thread, an Anchorage-based non-profit. They discuss some of the business aspects non-profits focus on more than other organizations, such as having a transparent accounting system, keeping administrative costs reasonable and keeping a strict budget. Candace also talks about her experience in rebranding Thread (formerly Child Care Connection), and the wide variety of non-profits that are in Alaska.

In the next segment, Dave brings in Jason Stralka to discuss taxes for non-profits and answer listener questions. Jason is a tax expert for Carter Tax, Inc. Dave discovers that he has a passion for taxes. Jason knows that taxes are more than just filling out the forms– he loves finding loopholes and saving his clients money. However, he realizes the importance of being accurate and paying all the taxes that are due to the IRS.

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Diversify Your Business

David Weatherholt — Wed, 27 Jan 2010 20:56:17 +0000

The diversification principle has long been accepted as an important investment strategy. Can the diversification principle be applied to your business as well?

In this article from the January 2010 Business/News & Views®, I advocate that businesses should start thinking differently about their business structure. It is dangerous to put all your financial eggs in one basket, just as it is dangerous to have only one stock in your investment portfolio.

For my recommendations on how to start this analysis and implement the changes you need, read the full article: Diversify Your Business

Business/News & Views – December 2009

Amanda Cullen — Mon, 21 Dec 2009 15:16:55 +0000

The December issue of Business/News & Views® is chock full of useful news and great advice for small businesses. In the news, David sees growth in the economy’s future with his Economic News Update. Amanda Cullen writes an article about creating great customer experiences and how that grows your profits. David weighs in with the importance of tracking your business’s performance numbers. He provides an easy-to-use cash flow statement and walks readers through each step in this helpful article. Finally, Kevin Donnigan details the seven top social networking sites for businesses– and how you can use them for your business.

Read Now: Business/News & Views® - December 2009

Traits of a Business Plan Superhero

David Weatherholt — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 16:12:29 +0000

How many of you have ever heard of a superhero needing a business plan? The reason you haven’t is not because they don’t need them. The real reason superheroes most often succeed with their entrepreneurial pursuits is because they hire business planning superhero consultants. They get and expect super results because they aren’t looking for the easiest or the cheapest ways. It’s because they know the nine essential personality traits of a business plan superhero consultant.

Do they ask you about you and your business?
Do they have a background in finance?
Are they savvy with marketing?
Do they have experience in business?
What are their academic credentials?
Do they have business writing skills?
Are they reliable and ethical?
Are they experienced and proficient at market research?
Do they talk about success in business and have your best interest in mind?

These are the nine essential personality traits that are critical to success in business planning. The first is the ability of the consultant to look at you as an individual. Can they look you in the eye and meet you face-to-face? Are they able to be genuine when asking you questions about your desires, hopes and passion for your business? Make sure you are comfortable with your consultant and able to communicate effectively. Be sure your values and theirs are compatible.

Does the potential consultant superhero have a background in finance? When hiring someone to lead you in your business planning, you want a person who can develop meaningful financial projections. This means knowing what investors and lenders look for in solid business ventures. The financial section of your business plan provides the most critical data within your plan. It is necessary to hire someone who has the capacity to fulfill this need in your business plan. When you start with solid market projections and use this data to drive the pro forma financial projections and the breakeven analysis, you can begin to see the value of working with a person who has a solid financial background. The success of your plan hinges on the ability to link market data to strategic financial performance.

Has your potential superhero consultant had any business experience? It is so important for your consultant to have been involved in a start-up business in the past. Have they had any businesses themselves or been involved with other ventures which have grown into successful and thriving businesses? They must understand this as well as customer relations. Is your potential superhero consultant prepared to answer such questions as how the mind of your customers affects whether they will buy your product or service?

Another essential personality characteristic necessary is experience with quality goods and services. Has your potential consultant been involved in companies that have stood the test of time? And do they have experience with both large and small organizations?

What are their academic credentials? Real world experience is important but so is education. What degrees do they hold? Do they have a graduate degree and any professional certifications? Check them out and see what they have done with their education.

Largely a forgotten talent, it is important that your potential superhero consultant have experience with business plan writing. Can they write? Can they provide samples of plans they have written? What are some examples of other documents that they have written?

Are they reliable and ethical? Do they understand the real world and deadlines? Get a feel for how down-to-earth and grounded in experience they are. Can they help implement the plan? Do they provide high quality work? Can they provide benchmarks that are practical and consistent?

The last and final talent separates many an amateur writer from a truly gifted business-planning consultant that is the ability to do competent and reliable market research. Does your potential consultant have knowledge and ability to conduct effective and accurate market research? Will they provide you with accurate data that will be critical in assessing the competition and aid in the growth of your business?

Success in business requires planning, focus, execution, hard work and a little luck. Business planning is a key component of any business’s success. For example a properly developed breakeven analysis will provide a visual picture of the risk and reward your idea or concept faces. This is why choosing the right consultant is so important. When you choose one that is a superhero, you know his skills are based on strong business philosophy, financial analysis, and projection experience. The real superheroes have an understanding of broad general business concepts and a rich array of industry specific knowledge. This alleviates the possibility of industry-specific blind spots, and allows your superhero consultant to objectively analyze the industry and provide innovative solutions. Getting a high quality business plan starts with hiring a business planning superhero consultant!

You Need a Damn Good Business Plan

David Weatherholt — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 16:12:08 +0000

Many of you know that starting a business takes hard work, long hours, low pay, and a lot of sacrifice. In fact, only five of every ten businesses will survive their first five years. It’s easy to look around and see examples of dying businesses and even ones that are thriving. However, these are extremes and easy to notice. What the public (and new business owners) don’t get a chance to see are the business owners who are plodding along, making small inroads, and making their dreams happen because they had a fantastic business plan.

Most successful entrepreneurs are highly motivated, focused and full of intention. Having a thoughtful and professionally written business plan will tip the odds in your favor. There are fifteen “must haves” for a good business plan. Each one takes time and thoughtful reflection to be done well. The first is a qualified business-planning consultant. When you hire a fully qualified business-planning consultant much of the stress of wondering whether you are fully informed about your market, product and future earnings will be alleviated as you turn over that task to a professional.

The second “must have” for a business plan is an executive summary and business concept. The executive summary is a statement of purpose and general overview of your plan: concept, product/service, market, operations, management, your company and the industry. Your business concept includes your mission statement, your background, current status, and future plans.

When describing the industry your business calls home, it is important for you to look for the characteristics, the participants and the trends that make your business unique.

The product or service you provide is often the focal point of any business. What is needed is a simple
explanation of the product features, the customer benefits, the stages of development, and future products and/or services.

Next describe the facilities in where your business will be located. You will describe the business location, any special transportation routes or vehicles needed, what the labor pool or employees consists of, and the availabilities of utilities to meet your needs.

Marketing is a key component to business success. Analysis of target markets will bring many important insights. When you profile target customers to understand the total person and their motivation for wanting a product or service like yours, you begin to understand how you can best serve that customer’s needs. Looking at market share, trends, and growth potential is an important part of the process.

A large portion of a thorough marketing summary includes the competition analysis for your business. What is your competitor’s profile? How does your product or service compare with that of your competition? Do you occupy a particular market niche? Is it possible that you share a segment of the market with another company or business? Finally, what are your strengths and weaknesses in relation to those of your competition? When working on the marketing piece of your business plan, a good one will have market penetration goals. It will cover pricing and packaging of your product or service. In addition it will include advertising, public relations, and promotions.

When planning the business structure and organization of your business, the management and ownership of the business are crucial. What type of business structure will you work from? Will you be an LLC, S-Corp, C-Corp, partnership, or sole proprietorship? The list goes on and is worthy of some investigation. Who will manage your company? Is there a board of directors? Who owns the business? Are you or your business a member of any supporting professional assistance programs? Answering these questions will give you a clear picture of how your business will run.

Financial data and projections of your company are critical for assessing the outcome of your business. What is the source of funding for a start-up? Does it come from an owner, partners, stockholders, loans, or venture capital?

What do you plan to do with the money that is allocated? What are your business’s needs for start-up costs? Does the money you plan to have from the beginning cover your plans for expansion of the business? Will there be new construction? It’s also important to think about what equipment you need to successfully begin running your business. Do you have a budget set aside for your needed marketing campaign? Do you have enough working capital to draw from for any of these scenarios? For projected or pro forma financial performance, do you have detailed assumptions, a pro forma balance sheet, a pro forma income statement, or measures of performance?

In the final section of your business plan you will include supporting documentation which will add support to your plan. There are four areas to this: company and product/service support material, legal support materials, market support materials, and business structure and organization. When providing the company and product/service support material, the product and equipment specifications sheets may be helpful. In addition, photos of product, equipment, or facilities can be included.

This article has provided a template for creating a great business plan. Now start evaluating your mission, purpose, values, and motivation for launching or expanding a business. Then begin writing. Once it is complete, your business will have a schedule and plan, strategy and road map to the future. This will enable the plan to grow and change with your business as it becomes more successful.