"Be Prepared" isn't just the official Boy Scout motto. It's also terrific advice for small business owners during turbulent economic times. The better you plan ahead and prepare both for things you can anticipate -- and those you can't -- the better off you'll be. This issue of WhatWorks is devoted to being prepared for such things as filing your business taxes, making the most of networking events, creating a strategic plan and knowing what to do in case of a disaster.

Better Networking
Preparing for Networking Events
By Scott Allen
Whether you're attending a weekly networking breakfast or an annual tradeshow, preparing for a networking event will help you get the most out of precious face time with other business professionals. Proper preparation includes knowing who's going and preparing to meet those who seem to be a particularly good contact for you (or you for them) and preparing to make a good first impression. Here are some tips that may seem like a lot of work at first, but as you develop your routine, it will get easier... Read Full Guide

In Case of Emergency
Preparing for a Disaster
By Eric Martin
What's better: preparing for a disaster that never comes or blowing off the chances of an emergency and losing your business when one occurs? According to the American Red Cross, as many as 40 percent of small businesses fail to reopen after natural catastrophes such as earthquakes and floods. Don't let this happen to your business. Here's what you can do to be prepared: Read Full Guide

Tax Tactics
Preparing to File Your Business Taxes
By Irwin Speizer
There's no such thing as a convenient tax deadline. But with proper preparation and an understanding of the requirements, the chore can be a little less taxing on your time. Keeping good records is key, but it's also important to know what records you need and what forms you must complete. Understanding what it takes to prepare and file your business taxes can help you in these ways: Read Full Guide

Preparing a Plan
Preparing a Small-Business Strategic Plan
By Constance Gustke
Lack of planning often leads to failure. That's why strategic planning is a key success tool for growing your business. While a business plan focuses on startup nuts and bolts, a strategic plan plots your company's success in small, logical, ongoing steps. Here's what you need to know: Read Full Guide

Preparing Proposals
Preparing a Request for Proposal (RFP)
By Mary Sit
A clearly written request for proposal – a document inviting vendors to bid on a specific service or product and tell how they can best meet your needs – will save you time and money. First develop a short list of 3-4 vendors. Check work samples, references, experience, reputation, and size. Specify how you want proposals to be arranged or written so you can more easily compare. Here's what to do to prepare: Read Full Guide

Sales and Marketing
Technology
Management
Money and Finance