Category: business

For many years, businesses of all shapes and sizes have at least considered sustainability when running their operations. Many people — including customers, investors, employees and job candidates — care about how a company impacts the environment. And reducing energy use, water consumption and waste generally lowers operational costs. However, the current “environment regarding the…

As summer gives way to fall, many businesses begin their budget-setting processes for the upcoming year. This annual rite of passage can be stressful, contentious and, perhaps worst of all, disappointing if your budgets often fail to achieve their objectives. The good news is that there are many ways to enhance your company’s budgeting process…

If your business sponsors health care benefits for its employees, you know the costs of doing so are hardly stable. And unfortunately, the numbers tend to rise much more often than they fall. According to global consultancy Mercer’s Survey on Health & Benefit Strategies for 2026, 51% of large organizations surveyed said they’re likely to…

Whether signing a vendor agreement, approving a repair estimate or applying for a loan, chances are you’ve signed something digitally in recent months. In 2025, digital documents and e-signatures are no longer just a convenience — they’re fast becoming the standard. Businesses of all types and sizes are embracing digital workflows to improve efficiency, reduce…

If your business sponsors health care benefits for its employees, you know the costs of doing so are hardly stable. And unfortunately, the numbers tend to rise much more often than they fall. According to global consultancy Mercer’s Survey on Health & Benefit Strategies for 2026, 51% of large organizations surveyed said they’re likely to…

As its name suggests, a living trust (also known as a revocable trust) is in effect while you’re alive. It’s a legal entity into which you title assets to be managed during your lifetime and after your death. As the trust’s grantor, you typically serve as the trustee and retain control over the assets during…

Businesses with more than one owner benefit from having multiple viewpoints and varying skill sets. However, they also face serious risks of uncertainty and conflict if one of the owners suddenly departs or undergoes a major life change. A carefully crafted buy-sell agreement can guard against these risks — if it’s securely funded. Transfer guidelines…

When many small to midsize businesses are ready to sponsor a qualified retirement plan, they encounter a common obstacle: complex administrative requirements. As a business owner, you no doubt already have a lot on your plate. Do you really want to deal with, say, IRS-mandated testing that could cause considerable hassles and expense? Well, you…

For businesses looking to reach the next level of success, there’s no bigger star than organic sales growth. Simply defined, this is achieving an increase in revenue through existing operations rather than from mergers, acquisitions or other external investments. As you’ve likely noticed, coaxing this star into the spotlight isn’t easy. How can you set…

To get the most from any team, its leader must establish a productive rapport with each member. Of course, that’s easier said than done if you own a company with scores or hundreds of workers. Still, it’s critical for business owners to make “the leadership connection” with their employees. Simply put, the leadership connection is…