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
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.
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
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
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
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