This week, What Works focuses on tough conversations. As a manager, you’re sometimes responsible for diffusing situations or bearing bad news. It’s important to be prepared for these difficult conversations, whether you are firing an employee or maintaining harmony within a tense workplace.

Check out the What Works for Business blog for ideas on funding future growth for your business, as well as more tips and information for small business. Sign up for the RSS feed to receive automatic updates.



5 Keys to Funding Future Business Growth

While many businesses have been slammed by recession, some entrepreneurs are using the downturn as a time to prepare for better times ahead. And a big part of that is not only getting your current balance sheet in shape, but lining up funding sources to support future growth. Find out how...



Guide to Properly Firing an Employee
By Maggie Rauch
Few things you will do in the process of running a business are as unpleasant as firing an employee. But as much as you may want to avoid the situation, firing an employee may be the best option in certain instances. These are some good steps to take so that you’re prepared, when that time comes.

Ending a Business Partnership
By Tom Nutile
If you’re planning on ending a business partnership, make sure you have an organized approach. How you end a business partnership, and how you determine who gets which assets and who can do business with your current clients, depends on the answers to several key questions. Get the answers...


Guide to Managing Employee Conflicts
By Jenni Simcoe
Peace on earth may not be attainable, but peace in the workplace is a must if you want your small business to thrive. Avoiding conflicts entirely is impossible, but a good manager can resolve conflicts and keep them to a minimum. All you need is to put a plan in place to help prevent conflicts from arising in the first place and to resolve them when they do crop up. When used effectively, promotional products can:

Investigating Sexual Harassment Claims in the Workplace
By LaRita Heet
If someone files a sexual harassment claim or makes a complaint to you, it is imperative that you investigate it immediately. Never ignore or disregard a sexual harassment claim, as you have a professional, legal, and ethical obligation and responsibility to your employees and customers. Read full guide.