Cover Story
Behind the MagicHow do stellar sellers work their magic? From the first cold call to closing the deal, discover the top sales secrets of some seriously successful salespeople.
Features
Say It Isn't SoAre these 12 media myths killing your public relations plan? Find out how to get media-savvy--fast.
Be Your Own Boss
Be Your Own Boss FeaturesA Day in the LifeTag along with these 3 franchisees for a day, and see what it's really like to own a franchise.
Scratch a NicheTargeting a narrow customer base with a niche business could be your key to success.
Biz 101WeekendersWork full time? Still want to start a business? You can make it work.
Listen CarefullyKnowing what startup advice to take and to toss is important. Hear what others live by.
Feeding FrenzyThis boot camp makes starting a catering company a little easier.
Taking VetsSpecial programs are fighting for veterans starting businesses.
Biz UStudent ServicesProviding services for fellow students can be a very smart business move.
InnovationsMass AppealA local buying program could be the key to getting your product on the shelves of major merchandisers.
OpportunitiesClean HouseGetting laid off from his corporate job gave this franchisee a fresh start.
Center StageA mom looking to foster her kids found a solution in franchising.
What's New 08/05Off to a running start
Smart IdeasSmart Ideas 08/05Storage solutions, creative coffee and more
Success CoachBreak On ThroughRemove barriers to your big dreams by following these simple steps.
What's Your Problem?Beating the Sophomore SlumpDon't let a successful first year distract you from attracting new customers.
Forward
Biz TravelSeeing StarsGet hotel ratings from people who have actually stayed there.
BooksFuture's So BrightFind out now how technology will evolve in the coming years.
Capitol IssuesFeel the BurnA new bill could help small companies pump up tax deductions.
Forward FeaturesRescue MissionCan American entrepreneurs help solve social ills?
Action SackedA new law aims to protect you from class-action suits.
Running DryIf funding for small business investment companies dries up, who will suffer?
Logo MotionThe winner of our ugliest logo contest gets a new look.
Cup of CourtesyIf the coffeehouse is your office, order up some manners.
Promised LandU.S. companies find new opportunities by partnering with Israeli firms.
Today's SpecialistMicrosoft aims to serve up support for small businesses with a new training program.
Prayer MeetingCan employers meet Muslims' requests in the workplace?
Sleep Tight?Running low on rest? Learn how others cope with fatigue.
Forward SnapshotGuiding LightA good sense of style--and smell--helped a candle-maker fire up his business.
It FiguresIt Figures 08/05Increased compensation, environmentally friendly products and more
Tech ToyThe More, the MerrierGet six gadgets in one with this nifty digital camera.
WheelsThe Finer ThingsYou don't have to break the bank to get one of these luxury sedans.
WomenTo Thine Own SelfHow women business owners can conquer low self-esteem
In Every Issue
Almost FamousSole ProviderThe shoe fit for this fashion maven when it came to designing sky-high heels.
Editor's NoteThe Truth is Out ThereDon't fall into the trap of lying about your competitors, and don't just take it if they lie about you.
FeedbackFeedback 08/05ResourcesResources 08/05Websites, organizations, events and more to grow your business
Lead
Lead BuzzLead Buzz 08/05Redefining medical leave, unhappy employees and more
Lead SnapshotThe Waiting GameLingering behind put this couple ahead of their competition in a new market.
LegalFault LinesIs a misogynistic manager liable for harassment?
Real DealShark RepellentKeep bullies at bay with these negotiating tips.
Smart MovesHoming InThe call center may become a thing of the past--home-shoring is poised to make its mark on the economy. What's in it for you?
Staff SmartsLeading the WayPick-your-own mentor programs help new employees move ahead.
Money
Dollar SignsJust Say No?More big companies are refusing to give Wall Street quarterly earnings guidance. Should small firms jump on the bandwagon, too?
FundsHold itA buy-and-hold approach keeps this tech fund going strong.
InsuranceFaking ItIs your health policy legit?
Money BuzzMoney Buzz 08/05New access to VC funding, foreign real estate and more
Money SnapshotA Penchant for ProfitsSurviving rapid top-line growth requires a bottom-line focus to keep things under control.
Personal FinanceGoing Down?Mutual fund companies are finally beginning to reduce their fees, but you may not feel much of a difference.
Raising MoneyIt's a Win-WinWhether you're having a capital crisis or need funds to support growth, your customers may be an unexpected financing source.
Tax TalkWheel DealsThe tax side of car expenses
Sell
Ad WisdomSlogan's HeroesCreate a tag line that stands out from the competition.
FlashTreasure HuntDig deep to show customers you appreciate them.
Net SalesPartner PowerHave a great e-newsletter, but not enough people to share it with? Build your subscriber list with a co-registration campaign.
Retail RegisterTech It OutGet more from your store with a software solution.
Sales SuccessTake HeartTo really make an impression on your customers, don't just memorize a sales pitch--let them see your heart and soul.
Sell BuzzSell Buzz 08/05Sell your stuff at parties, online advertising and more
Sell SnapshotShock ValueCan a controversial ad get customers to notice your great offer? It worked for this company.
TacticsIn the MoodWhen and where does your advertising work best? Use these contextual-advertising tips to set the scene and snag prospective buyers.
Tech
Buyer's GuideWhich Switch?Speed up your network's performance with a fast Ethernet switch
ConnectionsUp VoIP CreekHave an emergency plan while VoIP providers work on 911 shortcomings.
Digital EdgeIt's a Trap!Watch your step--pharming scams are lurking around every corner.
Editor's PicksEditor's Pick 08/05Create perfect office documents
GearGear 08/05Take professional-grade photos with this lightweight digital camera
Net ProfitsClicks to BricksReady to take your e-tail site to the next level? Get out of the virtual realm and into the brick-and-mortar marketplace for maximum profit.
Tech BuzzTech Buzz 08/05Pint-size PCs, e-mail for dummies and more
Tech SnapshotMind Over MatterTae Kwon Do-practicing techies harness the power of martial arts to solve problems.
WirelessRight in SightWireless webcams give you a better view of your business.
Making ContactSynchronization services can keep your contacts safe.