Our What Works for Business how-to guides this week focus on some key operational basics for small companies, including picking the right location (whether you are moving or just starting up), setting up work stations, buying office supplies and managing inventory.

This week's Q&A offers 10 tips on gaining loyalty from both customers and employees in today's tough economy. Visit our What Works for Business blog for the latest small business solutions.





Gaining Customer and Employee Loyalty Now

Q. Dear Dan: Business is off, and my employees are dragging. Any ideas on keeping both my customers and my employees engaged and interested?
- Dragging

A. Dear Dragging: When economic conditions are challenging it's more important than ever to be vigilant in two key areas: 1) Keeping the customers or clients that you already have; and 2) Keeping employees loyal and motivated even if raises, bonuses and benefits are a thing of the past. Here are 10 things you can do: [Read More]




Location Basics
Picking a Location for Your Business
By Matt Alderton
Your business location can make or break you, whether you own a restaurant, a retail shop or even a service business. Your company's image, your dependence on commuter or foot traffic and your budget all play a role in finding the best spot for your business. Here's what you need to know: Read Full Guide

Space Setup
Setting Up Office Work Stations
By Jenni Simcoe
Setting up office workstations that keep employees motivated, productive and happy begins with planning — something that should begin when you're looking for office space. Calculate how many employees will be working in the space and what tasks they‘ll be performing in order to know the square footage your office will require. Set up workstations with these things in mind: Read Full Guide

Saving Money Online
Buying Office Supplies
By Greg Brown
Nothing will slow down a productive afternoon like that sinking feeling when the printer demands ink or the presentations have to be out the door but you just can't put your hands on the right binders. The key to keeping your people moving – while not spending willy-nilly or buying the wrong products – is making time to understand office-supply shopping online. Here's how to do it: Read Full Guide

Inventory Basics
Inventory Management Systems
By Irwin Speizer
Your inventory can be sizeable if you run a retail business or minimal if you operate a consultancy. Either way, controlling inventory costs is critical to your business. You need to know when to order items, how much to keep on hand, how much you have at any given time, and what the carrying costs are. Here's help to do it right: Read Full Guide

Startup
Technology
Management
Money and Finance