Home > Entrepreneur Daily > May 15, 2008

Entrepreneur Daily

Mixing Business with Love

(HR and Management)

Is summer lovin' on its way to your office? David Koeppel of Newsweek writes that employers are becoming more wary of office romances and the repercussions that may come with possible break-ups. According to the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, sexual harassment charges have climbed the past couple years. And in an attempt to prevent more claims, companies are beginning to require office lovers to sign consensual relationship agreements that clearly state their equal footing in the romance.

While some find it awkward, ineffective, and needlessly legalistic, being aware of your employees' interactions and emotional well-being can prevent nasty arguments and litigation as well as bring resolution and success to any break-up or business.--Whitney Chen

Changes in Store for SBA

(Business News)

According to the Washington Post's Small Business Blog, current SBA leader Steven Preston could soon take over as head of the Housing and Urban Development Department following the resignation of the previous director, Alphonso Jackson. The Senate Banking Committee has scheduled a hearing for Tuesday, May 20, to examine the proposed move.

After receiving approval from the banking panel, Preston would still have to seek approval from the full Senate. The blog's sources said that if Preston is confirmed as head of the housing department, SBA Deputy Administrator Jovita Carranza is expected to take his place as head of the SBA.

Online Marketing Made Easy

(Marketing)

With the world going increasingly digital, here's yet another opportunity to stay up-to-speed. Webcards, developed by Smalltown, act as online Yellow Page ads, created by you, to keep customers informed. Use Webcards to share product and service information, list store locations and offer promotions. These listings--which can be outfitted with photos and maps--may also stand on their own (with their very own URL) and as embedded advertisements in search engines like Google, Yahoo! and AOL.

If your business doesn't have any other online presence, consider Webcards to increase visibility and keep customers up-to-date. If you already have a website, Webcards can be used instead as an advertising and outreach tool. Check out the Webcards and Smalltown websites for more details.--Whitney Chen