Work.com: WHATWORKS
 Volume 2 Issue 44 November 4, 2008

Daniel Kehrer
Growth Strategies for Today
"Growth" is a word heard less these days -- largely because so few businesses are actually growing. But finding the right path to renewed growth for YOUR business -- whether it's a service, manufacturing, retail or solo operation -- is crucial to long term success. This issue of WhatWorks covers growth from multiple angles: expanding distribution channels, going mobile, finding subcontracting work and growth strategies for service and manufacturing businesses.

For updates on the latest ideas, trends and solutions for small business, visit the new Technology Channel and Money Channel pages at our sister site Business.com, where you'll find anything and everything for your business in 65,000 categories.
– Daniel Kehrer, Editor

Sales Solution
Guide Author Expanding Distribution Channels

By Frances Sharpe
Every small business wants to sell more. Rather than simply thinking of ways to get more customers into your store, start thinking of ways to get your products or services out to more consumers. One of the best ways to gain more buyers and increase revenues is to sell through additional venues. Expanding distribution channels can be an effective tool to increase business. Here's how: Read Full Guide

Made in U.S.A.
Guide Author Growing a Manufacturing Business

By Tonya Vinas
While it may seem that manufacturing is fleeing the U.S. to Asia and Mexico, the truth is that many sectors of American manufacturing are growing. What's changing is what is manufactured and how it is done. Products with high complexity and intellectual property content can still be manufactured profitably in the U.S. When manufacturers can't compete on price, their advantage comes from solving customers' problems. Here's what you need to know: Read Full Guide

Selling On The GO
Guide Author Taking a Business Mobile

By John Henshell
In today's business world, it's commonplace to conduct business on the go – in the car, at a trade show, at the airport, from a client's office, even in a foreign country. With the right technology and equipment, you can be wired for business anywhere, anytime. By taking your business mobile, you can: Read Full Guide

The Road to Sub Riches
Guide Author Finding Subcontracting Business

By Meagan Francis
Contractors in a variety of industries, from IT to construction and beyond, regularly use subcontracted workers to complete projects large and small. If you are a self-employed worker or small biz owner but aren't ready for bidding on large projects — or don't want the liability, marketing, and other overhead costs involved — here's help finding the contractors who need your services: Read Full Guide

Service Biz Solutions
Guide Author Growing a Service Business

By Holly Ocasio Rizzo
Whether you're a landscaper, a window washer or a cooking-class instructor, you need a steady flow of customers to keep your business going – and growing. Although some customers may seek you out, your best bet is to actively find them first. You'll need a three-part approach: Read Full Guide

 
Business.com’s What Works for Business Contest: Win up to $10,000 for creative business solutions


FAST TRACK
Fast TrackQuick reads, hot topics and cool tools for your business

Spice Up Your Business Cards: Tired of boring business cards? Try clear or frosted plastic cards with rich colors and sharp graphics. They stand out, don't bend and are waterproof to boot! See samples at PlasticPrinters.com.

Collaborate on One Computer: TeamPlayer 2.0 is new (and free) software that lets multiple people work together on the same computer. Simply connect extra mice via the USB port, install the software and multiple cursers will appear.

SOLUTION OF THE WEEK
Enlisting Employees to Save Money on Energy: In this tough economy, businesses can save money by encouraging employees to use a cool new online tool from ENERGY STAR @ work. Businesses that enlist employees to use the link and conserve energy can lower utility bills and reduce overhead. Take a tour of ENERGY STAR @ work.



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