Cover Story
Race to the TopAsk not what the presidential candidates can do for you--ask what they can do for your business. We look at the issues shaping President Bush's and Senator Kerry's entrepreneurial agendas.
Features
Great ExpectationsThink your business technology is all that and a bag of microchips? Well, it's not. Chances are, you need an upgrade. Here's a preview of the technologies that will change the way your company works.
Lights, Camera, Action!Do you dream of promoting your business on
Oprah or the
Today show, but don't know where to start? Here's the inside scoop on harnessing the power of TV--so get ready for your close-up.
Be Your Own Boss
Be Your Own Boss FeaturesThe Right StuffAre you franchisee material? Take a look at yourself from a franchisor's point of view, and see how you measure up.
Clutter BustersFrom closets to cabinets to garages, Americans' clutter is piling up like never before. Find out how you can clean up in this growing industry.
Biz 101Balancing ActYour business' success depends on working to attract new customers--while still keeping existing clients happy.
Tech ToolsThe winner of our tech makeover from Interland, Sprint and IBM learns how upgrading can pay off.
Projecting Your Startup CostsGet real when it comes to accurately figuring out just what it'll cost you to get your business off the ground.
Take Me to Your LeaderDo you have what it takes to run a company?
InnovationsRecipe for SuccessSmart partnering can transform a lone inventor into a market force.
OpportunitiesPlaying CupidThese matchmaking sisters aim to give busy singles a fast--and fun--way to date.
High on LifeGenuine enthusiasm translates to good business in any language.
What's New 09/04Garage refurbishing and franchising 101
Smart IdeasSmart Ideas 09/04Asian-inspired children's clothing, fine art marketing materials and more
Success CoachKick Back and RelaxIf you think free time is a luxury you can't afford, think again--relaxation is essential to your startup's success.
What's Your Problem?More Than a SitterWhat to know before starting a child-care business
In Every Issue
Almost FamousMaking WavesFor the brothers who made the fish taco a million-dollar industry, it's all relative.
Editor's NoteKeep Your CoolFeedbackFeedback 09/04Letters from our readers
ResourcesResources 09/04Web sites, organizations, events and more to grow your business
Management
LegalIllicit Affairs?If you do business overseas, be certain your "administrative fees" aren't really illegal bribes.
Management BuzzManagement Buzz 09/04Check your spelling, pay equity and more
Real DealSpeak UpHate to negotiate? That's still no excuse to avoid learning this skill.
Smart MovesFlaw and OrderAre you apt to make mistakes? You're not alone. Find out how to avoid these 8 common pitfalls.
Staff SmartsSeparation AnxietyDon't worry if you have an employee who's not a team player--it
is possible to deal with loners in a way that makes everyone happy.
Marketing
A+ AdsRequired ReadingWho says you can't judge a book by its cover? Book jackets can make or break sales--so why not use them to inspire your advertising efforts?
Ask the ExpertSurvey Says . . .Market research on the cheap is just a click away.
Marketing BuzzMarketing Buzz 09/04Proposal writing tips, advertising in blogs and more
Net SalesIn Hot Water?Take a closer look at your marketing materials, or you may get burned.
Retail RegisterBull in a China Shop?If that's how parents feel bringing kids into your store, they'll pass you by.
Sales ForceGreen With Envy?Don't let the green-eyed monster capsize your team. Use these techniques to bring a sales superstar onboard without rocking the boat.
Sales SuccessBig DealLanding a large account doesn't have to be out of your reach. With these 5 strategies, your company will be on its way up.
TacticsGive It a GoA "hands-on" approach to marketing your product could be just the thing to win customers.
Money
Dollar SignsRelief Valve?Done right, a private investment in public equity, or PIPE, could bring your business much-needed cash.
FundsWay to GrowA computer model picks this fund's winners.
InsuranceOn the Disabled List?Save employees (and your business) a world of hurt with disability insurance.
Money BuzzMoney Buzz 09/04Deducting business lunches, investing help from your computer and more
Personal FinanceDon't Go LongFor fixed-income investors, low interest rates make short-term CDs the best choice.
Raising MoneyPaying Your DuesIf you're looking for investor money, brace yourself for a rigorous due-diligence process.
Tax TalkGetting Their SliceSave money, and keep employees happy with stock ownership plans.
Smarts
Biz TravelIt's a Chic ThingBoutique hotel chains are going strong with cheap, stylish offerings.
BooksWork, InterruptedThink work distractions are a pain? Top CEOs tend to disagree.
Capitol IssuesHunting SeasonFeds try to protect the little guy from payroll tax predators.
It FiguresIt Figures 09/04Eating out, looking to China and more
Smarts FeaturesHeart of GoldNonprofits are reaping the rewards of starting for-profit ventures.
I'm GameWhat hot, new pastime is inspiring entrepreneurs to launch businesses?
What's in a Name?A lot, if you're talking about the .mail domain--it could make sending legit e-mail ads easier.
Will PowerWhat would you do if you suddenly inherited a business?
On the RiseWhat will expected interest-rate hikes mean to you?
In the "No"Pessimistic employees may not be so bad for your business after all.
Domestic DisputeThe debate over benefits for same-sex couples heats up.
SnapshotSnapshot 09/04Jeff Jonas, 40, founder of SRD in Las Vegas
Tech ToySmall WonderA camera that fits nicely in your wallet
WheelsRaise the RoofThese models give you good reasons to drive around with the top down.
WomenNovel IdeasTwo entrepreneurs write books about their experiences--and learn something in the process.
Tech
Buyer's GuidePicture PerfectIn the market for a digital camera for your business? Keep your eyes peeled for these features.
ConnectionsThree's CompanyAmerican carriers are finally bringing 3G cellular service to a phone near you.
Digital EdgeInfectious AgentsA growing number of uninvited guests are pushing their way onto your PCs. Here are the latest antidotes.
GearGear 09/04The ultimate in slim notebooks and PDAs
Hot DisksHot Disks 09/04Hard disk searches, voice-activated dialing and more
Net ProfitsDouble PlayCould sending a paper catalog to customers boost your e-commerce business?
Tech BuzzTech Buzz 09/04Caring for disks, renewing anti-virus software and more
WirelessIn the Book?A "white pages" for mobile phone users is on its way.
BlackBerry HarvestMobile warriors will benefit from new products utilizing this wireless technology.