WELCOME

I read an article that began with "Raise your hand if you don't quite understand this whole financial crisis." I continued reading since that line appealed to what I have been feeling since this downturn began. With words like bailout, plummet and panic all over the news, it's no wonder we're left with confusion and uncertainty.

So, when I say how happy I am to report that MBA, the region's largest small business association, is dropping its dues to $25, our readers and members might think this is not so big a deal under the current circumstances.

MBA's big picture, though, is that the dues reduction lets our members know that we're listening to them. We know that small businesses can best be served by an Alliance that recognizes their needs and interests; that some members want education, some want benefits for their employees and some want an expanded base for their networking market. In addition, money is tight. So MBA is now offering a greatly-reduced membership fee combined with a highly-refined electronic presence.

I still don't understand all the intricacies of our country's financial dilemma, not completely anyway. But I'll look for the little signs of consumer confidence returning. I wish all of us good luck.

Libby Beatty, Chair
MBA Board of Directors

NEWSWORTHY

Searching for Loans, Grants and Financing?

Business.gov has a new tool to help you locate financing for your small business from federal and state agencies. The online form provides a guide to programs for which you may be eligible.

Each program has unique eligibility requirements. For most programs you will need to apply through a commercial lender or third party agency. Be sure to check with each program's website to find out more about eligibility requirements and application procedures.

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MARKETING

Tips for Green Marketing

Updating your marketing to have an eco-conscious edge can be a great way to find new customers and strengthen your bond with existing ones.

Here are some tips for putting some "green" into your marketing:

Consumers have said that they are more likely to buy a green product/service because it was "safer" or "healthier," rather than for it simply being environmentally-friendly. So make sure your green message includes how your product improves safety and health.

Marketing the convenient aspects of your green product/service is also extremely important. Time is a precious commodity for most consumers so show your customers how much time they'll save and how much better your product/service will make their life.

Increased product lifetimes usually equate to increased pricing, as with energy efficient lighting. Let your customers know that their savings will come over time and without additional purchases.

Shopping all the Way

With the holiday season rapidly approaching, this is the time when shoppers are prepared at any moment to make a purchase. Here are some ideas that will help bring sales home for the holidays:

Budget Gifts: Create gift ideas that fit every budget type. Try promotions like, Gifts under $20.

Packaging: If you have the ability to supply the consumer with holiday packaging, do it. Anything to make the gift purchasing process faster and more efficient will be greatly appreciated.

Develop Product Bundles: Themed items can go a long way. Pair complementary items so consumers feel like they are getting a great package deal.

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YOUR FINANCES

Caught in the Act:
Video Surveillance for Your Business

Whatever the size of your business, a video surveillance system can help you deter theft and protect you from various liability issues. Every year small business retailers lose roughly $13 billion due to shoplifters and even more on employee theft.

Aside from theft, video surveillance can protect your business from fraudulent liability claims, help you keep an eye on employee productivity and help stifle yearly losses. Here are some tips for setting up a security strategy suited to your business:

• Cameras should view all entrances, blind spots, parking areas, cash-handling areas and supply rooms.
• Purchase a system that allows live video viewing from remote locations via the web.
• Surveillance signs should be placed at all entrances and in view of the register.

What You Need to Know About Hiring a Tax Preparer

If you hire someone to do your taxes, you are still liable for what gets submitted. That's why it is important to know what to look for in a tax preparer. Unqualified tax preparers can overlook deductions, use shady practices and make costly mistakes.

Here are a few tips from the IRS to help you select someone to prepare your taxes:

Beware of a preparer who promises larger refunds, guarantees results or who bases fees on a percentage of the refund. A practitioner may not charge a contingent fee (percentage of your refund) for preparing an original tax return.

Choose a preparer who will be responsive to your needs. Consider using a fellow MBA member. Find one close to you by checking out MBA's 2008 Directory, visiting MBA's online marketplace or contacting MBA to access the Member-to-Member Consultation Network.

Ask who will actually prepare the return before engaging services. Avoid firms where your work may be delegated to someone with less training.

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FOR THE HOME-BASED BIZ

Making Sure Their Check is in the Mail

If you run your business from home, most of the "big company" rules still apply to you when it comes to credit and collections. First, you must remember that even though collecting money can be unpleasant, the survival of your business could depend on it.

You might decide to set rules with strict payment up front or on delivery. Keep in mind, however, that to stay competitive, you will probably have to extend credit. So then you must evaluate who gets it and who does not.

Always ask your customers to complete a credit application asking about their financial position, banking information and referrals. This application then allows you to look into your customer's creditworthiness. If things look even a little bit fishy, require payment up front. Remember, this is your livelihood.

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HUMAN RESOURCES

Stressed Out Parents Damage Productivity

Working parents concerned with their children's care often have high stress levels that lead to a loss of productivity. To help with this situation employers can consider implementing flexible schedules based on results rather than time and give parents the option of taking half-days when necessary. Another alternative is to allow employees flexible start/quit times.

Parents who were offered solutions to their concerns reported a significant reduction in stress levels leading to happier, more-productive parents/employees.

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IT

How to Protect Your Company from Wireless Threats

Using a wireless network to help run your small business has tremendous benefits, but the risks that accompany those benefits are serious. Unprotected systems can allow hackers to gain access to your company data and the data of your customers. Here are some tips for securing your system:

Default Password: Factory default passwords are common on most access routers and a good hacker knows them. Change your default password as soon as possible to an alphanumeric combination that exceeds 10 characters.

Your SSID: Your SSID (service set identifier) is the name you give your network. It also comes with a default setting. Be sure to pick a name that is not too obvious. Alternately, you can choose not to broadcast your SSID and remove the threat altogether.

Encryption: By encrypting your signal, all of your data is translated into a secret code that only your router understands. This way no one can alter your transmission.

Cut Printing Expenses in a Downturn

When your business is in a rough patch and cash flow is down, create your own marketing materials in-house and save on professional printing costs. No matter what kind of word processing program you use, you likely have the option of using publishing-type templates to create professional-looking business cards, letterhead, fliers, etc.

Another advantage of creating these materials in-house is that they can be customized for each mailing and are easily duplicated.

By taking full advantage of your software you can save time and money while keeping your materials looking professional.

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NEW MEMBERS

When our member base increases there is more of everything: more creative networking, more benefits and more experienced, enthusiastic business owners. All move our members toward growth, success and the entrepreneurial spirit.

Click here to meet our newest small business partners.

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Sponsors of MBA's AR Online Newsletter

Structa-Bond, Inc.

(610) 292-0578
Specializing in repairs to all water leaks in poured concrete foundations

Sun East Federal Credit Union

(610) 485-2960, extension 217
Offer a great employee benefit.

Unless specifically indicated, MBA does not intend mention of companies, products or services discussed in this publication to be construed to be endorsements. The information in this publication is offered as examples that may be useful to our small business readers. Please consult with an industry professional before implementing any of the tips or subscribing to any of the services described above.