The teens in turn don't have much faith in a lot of the ways, the rhymes, and the reasons that folks who got there before them had cooked up. They strive to be different, and to find their own identities. This is quite obvious from the sort of music they go for and also quite visible from how they dress. Fashion is one area where they contributed much in making lots of difference. And when we say fashion, the jewellery they wear is a valuable part of it.

Jewellery made from sterling silver is very popular among today's teens. A lot of why this is so. One reason is that for many teens, yellow gold represents 'tradition', less trendy, and for some, it's a bit too showy. Today, sterling silver jewellery collections are comprised of thousands and thousands of new designs, designs that suit the level of outfits teens today love. It features a more casual feel that matches with the hip or jazzy look or whatever the latest trend in town be. Sterling silver jewellery also goes together with the current 'bling' jewellery fashion.

Another important reason is because of him the cost of the jewellery. The buying powers of the teens are generally much less compared to the grown ups. For almost all of the teens, the allowances they get from their parents or the money they get from their part-time jobs are hardly enough for buying a diamond studded gold ring. So it's not very surprising that they choose the much less expensive but almost equally fashionable jewellery made form cheaper metals and stones like cubic zirconia instead of diamonds and rubies. And even if one particular teenager happens youngster should be throw money for an expensive jewellery, she might still choose the less expensive ones so that she can match the remainder of her gang. As much as they like have their own identity, additionally it is very important for the teens to be identified within the group.

Whether the teenager is eating out in join a slam poetry performance or to the school prom, there are most often two things on her mind. One is that she wants to look a little different and unique or keep a little mystical overtone. Strangely, the other thing is that she still wants to feel area of the clique. That's why many chose the not too splashy but still unique type of jewellery that'll paint for them the level of image they wish to keep. And after all, they aren't required to spend so much for it this way.

kids jewelry tips and hints. How it works, for those that want to know. Our site provides essential information on mother jewelry

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by ++ YENBA ++

Business Loans – Small Business Loans And Government Loans

Applying for a small business loan refers to the process by which a business owner requests funding from a lending institution. The process is usually not very easy and many documents are required for a lender to consider loan requests.

The most common documents a lender will require of small business loan applicants are the loan application, personal and business tax returns, a personal financial statement from each owner of the business, certified financial statements of the business, documentation of the business's structure, a list of all outstanding debts, and a business plan. A business plan usually includes expected revenue and how the loaned money will be spent.

Depending on the lending agency, applicants may be required to also submit a proposal on how they will repay the money, including payment amounts and the length of the loan repayment term. Other times the lender will already have a set plan regarding loan terms.

Lenders also consider the available capital and collateral of a business when an owner applies for a small business loan. Lenders want to know how much the owner has invested in the business and what collateral can be used to secure the loan in case it is not repaid.

The interest rates and payment plans differ according to which lender is chosen for a small business loan. Having good credit and a healthy financial history can help a business owner secure the best terms for a small business loan.

Applying for a small business government loan usually means to go through the United States Small Business Administration (SBA) to obtain funds for a business. The most basic type of loan offered by the SBA is a 7(a) loan, which is provided by lenders such as banks. These lenders structure their loans according to the SBA's requirements and receive a guaranty for a portion of the loan. These loans are available only by guaranty, and both the lenders and the SBA share the risk of loans not being repaid. 7(a) loans come directly from the lenders; therefore, they are technically not government loans.

To apply for a small business government loan, business must meet all of the following eligibility requirements:

§ Be a for-profit business
§ Meet size requirements for the business's industry
§ Lack internal sources for financing
§ Demonstrate ability to repay loan

Certain types of 7(a) and special purpose loans may call for additional eligibility requirements. Other important factors considered when applying for a small business government loan include effective management, character, owner's equity, and collateral. An individual may also be asked to provide a “Statement of Personal History” to analyze the abilities of the individual.

Other variables that a business owner should be aware of when applying for a 7(a) loan are the maximum loan amounts, interest rates, fees, guaranty percentage, maturity terms, and prepayment penalties.

Bad Credit Loan Sources
Bad Credit? No Credit? No Problem! Guaranteed Approval Loans Are Available Up To ,000
Bad Credit Loan Sources

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by lucas.leite

Business Loans and Financing, Bad and Good Credit Programs

Business loans and financing programs with good and bad credit are available in today's financial markets. Whether you have good credit or bad credit, available financing programs can be a solution to your business success and survival in this tough economy.

This article is going to discuss some financial business loan programs available which can give the business owner, especially without stellar credit, an opportunity to maintain is operations.

 One of the newest business loans and financing programs are a no credit check program that is available up to ,000. This program requires you to be in business for at least six months and your eligible borrowing base is calculated on your ending business bank balances for the most recent two months… This loan and financing approval isn't based upon credit

This no credit check loan business program is not a merchant cash advance or loan program based upon your past master and visa master card sales. This loan requires minimum paperwork and is paid back over five months.

  For businesseses that are operational for more than three years, there are cash for collateral programs available up to 0,000. These programs are based upon your business bank balance, your personal credit score and the business assets that you own either free and clear or still encumbered. These business loan programs are repaid over five years. This cash for collateral loan program requests a personal credit score at least 620 or higher depending upon your business industry.

 For those familiar with merchant cash loans and advances, those programs are still out there with programs that start as little as 15% percent and run up into the 40% range. Usually, between four to six months of prior merchant processing statements are required plus the last two to four months of your business bank statements. Many lenders have varying program requirements so it is important to acquire to its particulars. ( See Below). These merchant cash loans and advance programs can lend anywhere from 0,000 to 0,000. Personal Credit Scores for these programs vary among lenders.

 Cash advance/loan programs. Most people aren't even aware of these programs….

 The initial question a lot of people are asking is what is a merchant cash advance? An established business in existence for one year or more with visa and mastercard sales can qualfiy for a restaurant loan or a merchant cash advance on their past activity up to 0,000 from a financial institution and 0,000 or more per location from a true merchant cash advance company. The monthly average of their visa and mastercard sales x 1.5 will be a qualifying amount that the lender will fund up to. Some cash merchant advance companies will fund up to 0,000 per location.

 This is a great way for a business to obtain working capital. Most conventional lenders shy away from the restaurant industry  

 These cash merchant advances/loans are great for businesses that have seasonal cash flow needs, that aren't capitalized properly and need more time to achieve their sales base, have credit issues that can't be overcome at the bank, businesses that need instant cash now, and obviously many other factors tailored to specific businesses.

 These lenders aren't FICO driven and are interested in you past Visa/ Mastercard Sales for the previous six months. Usually the company's bank statements, the merchant processing statements and a signed application are required to commence the lending process. Once the lender has received these requirements, a decision can be made fairly quickly, usually

within 24-48 hours.  Beyond an acceptance, the money is usually funded within seven business days.

 The next obvious question, is how does the customer repay back the business loan or cash merchant advance? It is from the future card sales, a small portion is paid back each day to pay back the lender. This is important because there are no balloon payments or monthly payments to consider. The lender calculates a small repayment per day that can last up to one year.

Finding available business capital whether through leasing and working capital can be very difficult in todays times. The  no credit check, cash for collateral and  cash merchant advances/loans can offer the seasoned business an unique opportunity to acquire funds without all the red tape conventional banks require..  

The types of industries that these business loans and financing programs cover are restaurants, bars, gas stations, all types of retail stores and ss, nightclubs, in essence brick and mortar type businesses.

 Happy hunting for your business loan and its related financing…..

Personal Loans & Visa Approved At Abacus.
Offering Personal Loans, Credit Cards For The Credit Impaired.
Personal Loans & Visa Approved At Abacus.

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by David Armano

BUSINESS PLAN WRITERS:

Writing a professional business plan is not an easy task. Many entrepreneurs due to lack of time and poor business plan writing skills feel overwhelmed in writing a business plan. Most business owners hire a business plan writer for creating a formal business plan that will help them to acquire funds and run their business successfully. The expertise of professional business plan writer results in a top quality business plan in achieving the goals of a business.

Advantages of a business plan writer:

A business plan writer helps entrepreneur in many ways. Business plan writers' saves lot of time by conducting the necessary research that is essential for creating a business plan. Both start up or established businesses benefit from the experience of a professional business plan writer. He or she formulate strategies that are necessary to run a successful business and for increasing profitability. Business plan writer knows the skills of writing a business plan that stand out to investor.

Planning a business plan:

A business plan is an important document that needs proper planning. Business plan writer knows what a business plan means for you and your business success. They write complete, professional and fully customized business plan that take your business to the higher level. Business plan writers write business plan in a sense that it will help business owner to take important decisions in the best possible way.

Drawbacks of hiring a business plan writer:

The responsibility of a business plan writer is to understand your business goals and objectives in a better way that your business is trying to accomplish. Many business plan writer may not understand what your business goal and objective actually are.

The business plan must meet the needs and requirement of your industry. Many writers use the standard template of writing a business plan that not matches the requirement of the industry in which you are going to operate a business.

It is better to write business plan by your own because a business plan writer that you hire will not be with you at meetings with potential investors and lenders to answer their questions, if something is not understandable by them.

Business Plan Secrets Revealed!
Find Investors For Your Business: Insider Truths About Raising Money Through Business Plans.
Business Plan Secrets Revealed!

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Business Loan Brokers have the ability to conserve a lot of time and cash. in the long run!

Business Loan Brokers could save you money in the end!

Many entrepreneurs seek to avoid business loan brokers when seeking financing for their corporations. And, it's, in part, easy to understand given unhealthy reputation that lots of brokers possess (especially in the commercial loan and commercial mortgage loan industry).

In most borrower's sight, business bank loan brokers are simply just middlemen between them and the basically lenders; middlemen who just seem to get a new, greater layer regarding costs on the whole loan process – a real dissuasive to companies seeking outside financing that is by itself an exceptionally expense and time eating endeavor from the start.

Unfortunately though, many business lenders would rather use bank loan brokers for two primary causes:

Using Business loan brokers allow lenders to lessen their overall marketing expenses. Thus, they can concentrate more on producing and creating their home loan programs to better match business borrower needs and also focus on the underwriting (that is what their particular business is truly all about).

Lenders also favor business loan brokers as they supply an additional a higher level filtering job seekers. In speaking with several lenders in the unguaranteed business loan industry, any difficulty . only 1 in 10 applicants would really qualify for a company loan product. Thus, these types of lenders ought to spend equally time and effort with pre*screening prospective applicants which often can really increase their overall charges – Take into account that as their own costs go up, so really does the costs towards potential debtor as all costs get past with – as a result, most lenders elect to let personal loan brokers filtration system and pre-be eligible potential clients.

But, business loan brokers also provide a bit of worth to hectic business owners. Calling a broker who has many contacts within the business can not simply save this company owner moment (and period is money) but can aid a business seller determine along with identify which often products and also which creditors may be greatest for their business – merchandise or firms that many companies may not find out about.

Plus, business loan brokers can do a lot of the leg work for the business managers – releasing the owner's time to go on to focus on working and rising their small business. The trade off and probable cost preserving is a sense of balance between the elevated fees or even increases costs of using a home based business loan dealer and the purchase (expense from the owners occasion) of getting drawn far from the business along with finding as well as dealing with loan companies on their own.

Most business bank loan brokers are honest, hard working individuals who in fact desire to aid your business find the capital their needs. Although, like most industries today, you can find always poor examples.

When wanting to hire a borrowing arrangement broker, listed below are five concerns you should consider before you sign any kind of contract, transfer any organization financial data or pay any costs:

Ask for sources then really follow up with those provided. Today, keep in mind that the majority of brokers can pass along their full capacity references which can be a bit misleading. So, both try to find some other companies who have used your broker before or request the list of references as long as they know of various other businesses who have used of which broker.

Inquire the brokerage what your organization could sensibly expect and then try to get in which in writing. The key here is to listen. Listen to what's being said and to your own personal instincts. If you have any uncertainty or simply believe that the offer is too very good to be true, next walk away.

Ask about the time it should take for your enterprise to actually be given funding. Nearly all business owners in search of capital normally need funds immediately – not four or five months as time goes on. This won't allow your company to decide the merit of the brokerage but to also impress on them your time and energy frame specifications – don't forget, you are basically hiring all of them and should count on results that will meet your needs but not theirs.

Inquire about costs * not just the particular fees needed but the diverse overall prices that are a part of different company loan items. For example, nearly all secured or unsecured business loans are very straight forward given an expressed annual monthly interest. But, different products, like account receivable factoring or business payday loans, are not demand to state the rates like traditional loans. Thus, some sort of 5Percent rate to have an advance in opposition to your organization's invoices could possibly cost significantly more than a classic term mortgage loan over the very same period. If your broker can not reasonably clarify the financing costs for your requirements in phrases that are very easily understood, then this broker may not have a very agency grasp around the products that they are brokering as your representative.

And, finally, fees. Ask if they require a fee out of your business as well as will they be given their repayment from the loan company? Will these kind of fees, in particular when from your enterprise, be required transparent or if the loan is definitely funded?

Possessing upfront fees is now turning out to be, unfortunately, normal in this sector – simply due to the monetary turmoil inside our economy but additionally because several brokers desire to weed out the actual looky loos and merely deal with significant businesses. Bear this in mind, an advance fee is fine as long as it is accompanied with some type of guarantee : like being refunded when the broker can not obtain your business the agreed upon amount of money or offset against various other broker or perhaps lender charges when funding does arise.

Also, it will always be beneficial to spend some time researching the many different solutions that are available to new or growing businesses. This way, you can better measure the broker's advice. For example, you'd probably rather have a dealer recommend as well as pursue a loan product that is best for your company but not simply the best for the specialist.

While broker agents may be simply middlemen, fortunately they are becoming more dominant in this business and a fresh link within the financial sequence that appears to be maturing all the time. But, broker agents do not have to possibly be an Achilles heel for the business any time seeking investment capital if both you and your business focus on using them to your great advantage. If you can yank this away from using the points outlined over, brokers may actually be really worth using while they then get to be the eyes, hearing and legs for your business during your company loan search – enabling you, the business owner, to continue making the worthwhile business you've always dreamed of.

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by Ajda Gregorčič

Small Business Loans – The Ideal Credit Option

Just like individuals, businesses are also in need of finance. In fact, it could be said that businesses need finance more than individuals to run the show. There are times when the business meets financial bottleneck or may need extra finance to start or alter some area of the business. In such times, loan options are always looked at. For small and medium businesses it is always better to go for unsecure small business loans to solve the problem.

How To Get A Small Business Loan

Unsecure small business loans are available for individuals and businesses. The steps to apply for the loans are quite different when it comes to business loans when compared to personal loans. The main difference from personal loans is that for business loans the credit score of the business is usually considered. If the credit score is high then the chance of getting the loan is higher. Different loan providers require different credit score for providing the loan. It always helps to ask regarding this and get a clear picture of what is required.

A check on the business's credit score can then be done to see if there is eligibility. It always helps to check the eligibility criteria and weigh the company's options before applying for the loan. This is because once one or two loan providers check the credit score and rejects the loan there is always the risk that other loan providers will follow suit. So one should always apply for the loan where there is the best chance of getting approval. In case of these loans there is absolutely no need to give any security or divulge social security number. Once the loan application is filled up getting the loan is easy and some loans are approved within a short period of 24 hours. The repaying of these loans can usually be done within six months to 80 months.

The Advantages Of Small Business Loans

Unlike huge secure financial loans, small loans and unsecured loans have many advantages.

1.They require minimum paper work.
2.They do not require any collateral.
3.They are approved within a period of 24 hours in usual circumstances.
4.There is usually no restriction on the business types who can apply for the loan.
5.Most of the loan providers allow unrestricted use of the funds.
6.The loans are usually available at great rates and are easy to repay compared to other loans.
7.In many cases there is no annual fee charge.
8.Guidance and support from the service provider with regard to repayment of the loan.
9.Finally the application process is simple and easy.

For small and medium businesses financing small business loans are ideal. They are easy to obtain and payback. They are the most economical option that is available and can be used for any genre of business. These loans can also be used for startup companies as well as established companies who are facing financial cringe.

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Overcoming Business Loan and Commercial Mortgage Finance Problems

One of the most difficult business loan scenarios occurs when a commercial borrower is rejected for either a commercial mortgage or commercial loan. There are five specific reasons that account for a healthy majority of business finance rejections. These common business financing application problems are particularly applicable to commercial real estate investment property financing.

Commercial borrowers are likely to be confused when their commercial loan application is turned down and will probably be unsure as to why it happened and what to do next. For each of the five major reasons that a bank might decline a commercial mortgage, a practical strategy is provided for converting the declined commercial real estate loan into an approved business loan.

Two reasons (tax returns and business plan requirements) could impact virtually all businesses. Many business loan officers will begin their business loan and commercial mortgage review process by stating “We will need to see at least three years of tax returns” and “Can you show me your business plan?” before proceeding.

Commercial projects are frequently too unique for traditional commercial banks. In these situations (even if a commercial borrower has favorable tax returns and an adequate business plan), it is not unusual for the business owner to be declined for a commercial mortgage loan by a traditional commercial lender.

The reasons described do not involve unusual issues. It is likely that two or more of the reasons will be applicable for many commercial loan situations.

Commercial Mortgage Rejections: (1) Special Purpose Commercial Real Estate -

Reason Number One for commercial mortgage rejections: The bank does not generally make business loans for the type of business involved or imposes special requirements that make the commercial loan impractical for the commercial borrower. For example, fewer banks are making commercial mortgage loans for restaurants.

In a similar fashion, an auto service business is often given expensive and unnecessary environmental stipulations. There are many special purpose commercial properties such as golf courses, campgrounds, churches, funeral homes and gas stations that most traditional lenders have eliminated from their commercial lending program.

Strategy Number One for converting the disapproved business loan into an approved commercial mortgage loan: For most business owners, there are reasonable commercial loan options beyond traditional commercial lenders.

There are action-oriented non-traditional commercial lenders that will offer commercial mortgage loans for most special purpose commercial property situations. The best business loan could be available only from a non-traditional lender when a traditional lender won't provide the necessary commercial real estate loan.

Business Loan Disapprovals: (2) Tax Returns Required -

Reason Number Two for business loan rejections: A loan underwriter finds an issue on tax returns that disqualifies a business borrower under the bank's lending standards. This “issue” will often be inadequate net income, but when commercial loan underwriters analyze income tax returns, there can be a wide variety of other possibilities which produce the same disapproval.

Strategy Number Two for converting the rejected commercial real estate loan into an approved business loan: Commercial borrowers will never have this reason to worry about if they have applied for a “Stated Income” commercial mortgage loan. Very few traditional lenders use a Stated Income process (no income verification, no tax returns, no IRS Form 4506) for a commercial loan.

Borrowers should search for commercial lenders using Stated Income commercial mortgage loans. Unfortunately, this suggested solution will not work for all commercial loans because of a normal maximum loan amount of about -3 million for a Stated Income business loan.

Commercial Loan Rejections: (3) Cash Out Limitations -

Reason Number Three for commercial mortgage loan and business loan disapprovals: When a business attempts to refinance their commercial property loan and wants to get significant cash out, it is normal for a traditional bank to restrict what the funds are used for and to severely limit the amount of cash received. Even though the bank is willing to make the commercial loan, if they won't provide the cash required by the commercial borrower, this is similar to rejecting the loan.

Strategy Number Three for converting the declined commercial mortgage into an approved commercial real estate loan: As mentioned above, there are other commercial lending options available. The commercial borrower's mission (and it is not impossible at all) is to use a commercial real estate lender that will allow them to get much larger amounts of cash out of a commercial refinancing without restrictions on what they do with it.

Commercial Real Estate Investment Property Loan Disapprovals: (4) Cross Collateral Requirements -

Reason Number Four for commercial mortgage loan and business loan disapprovals: The bank will not make a commercial loan without sufficient collateral such as a lien on personal assets.

Strategy Number Four for converting the disapproved business loan into an approved commercial mortgage loan: Business borrowers should seek out commercial lenders that will not “cross collateralize” assets as a stipulation for getting business financing. This will result in more flexibility for the commercial borrower and preclude unwise (and unnecessary) connections between business and personal assets.

Commercial Real Estate Loan Rejections: (5) Business Plan Requirements -

Reason Number Five for commercial mortgage loan and business loan disapprovals: A bank's loan officer determines that the business plan does not support the needed commercial loan.

Strategy Number Five for converting the disapproved business loan into an approved commercial mortgage loan: Commercial borrowers should save money and avoid possible delays by working with a lender that does not require a business plan due to these primary advantages:

(A) Reduce commercial loan costs by thousands of dollars. A common range for an average business plan (prepared to typical bank specifications) is ,000 to ,000.

(B) Shorten the business financing closing period. Business plan preparation is likely to take 1-2 months or more.

(C) If the lender does not require a business plan, there is one less item standing between the commercial borrower and their approved commercial loan.

Business Loans and Business Credit: Loans with no personal guarantee.
Our product teaches customers how to get loans for their business without personal guarantees and without personal credit checks. Great product with great commission. Low returns and high conversions.
Business Loans and Business Credit: Loans with no personal guarantee.

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Since success of a business is determined by the soundness of its financial status, a business owner must arrange sufficient finance to meet various routine and unplanned expenditures of his or her business. With the ever- increasing rivalry in the corporate world, a business owner can experience necessity of funds anytime. Since these financial requirements are unavoidable, delay in arranging funds can hamper the functioning of a business. In fact, unavailability of sufficient cash can cause major problems within the business organization, as scarcity of funds affects the decision making ability of a business owner. It is widely observed that not only sapling businesses but well established organizations face the situation of premature closure just because of inadequate finance. However, now arranging funds for all business related requirements have become easier, as n numbers of banks and financial institutions are offing business loans. Business owners, who so not possess any high valued property to secure the loan amount, can also manage to arrange desired finance with the help of unsecured business loans.

Unsecured business loans are the perfect solution to deal with financial shortfalls; in fact these loans provide every business owner with the most suitable solution to handle everlasting problem of insufficient finance. Since secured loans are complex and demand high valued property against loan amount, unsecured loans are becoming the most preferred choice of borrowers from all over the world. These loans carry multiple advantages and do not hamper a business owner to secure the loan amount against any collateral. However, unsecured business loans charge higher interest rates than secured loans but flexibility of terms and conditions make them more preferred option for all business owners.

It is widely seen that small business owners prefer unsecured business loans, as these loans are instant and free from the hassle of submitting collateral. However, these loans charge high interest rates but they are pretty reasonable and affordable. Since lenders offer such loans without making any arrangement for loan recovery, they try to compensate that risk by charging higher interest rates. In fact, it is quite logical and practical way of dealing with defaults therefore, if you are worried about high interest rates of these loans then relax and compare other aspects of these loans with secured loans. Definitely, you will find that these loans are more profitable and hassle free, as they do not include any hard and fast statute.

Usually, a typical business loan requires a written loan proposal and personal and financial details of the borrower. Since processing of these details consumes a lot of time, a business owner can go for online Unsecured business loans . In fact, online processing system helps the business owner in saving his or her precious time and allows him or her to redeem loan with a faster pace. With these loans, the borrower needs to follow a monthly schedule of repayment; however, this schedule can be chosen as per his or her monthly business revenue flow. This facility helps the business owner in achieving his or monthly target without bothering for arrangement of funds and supports the business to grow with faster pace.

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Easy strategies for making more money by working and spending smart

When I'm working with speakers and consultants to develop their Marketing Gameplan, one of our key outcomes is finding ways they can make more money. Typically we can:

Charge more for the services we offer,

Provide new services or adjust existing ones so they're aligned more closely with the results our clients are looking for (which converts more prospects to customers),

Adjust the budget so we're spending the right amount of money on the right active marketing strategies to attract more prospects (with more prospects, you'll have more opportunities to book business), and

Identify areas where excess money is being spent on non-revenue generating activities (i.e. spending the majority of your budget on product development rather than active marketing strategies … a very common mistake!)

It seems that no matter how successful the client, managing the money side of their business—knowing what to charge, and how much to budget for office support, marketing, and sales—is challenging.

A fundamental component of the Marketing Mix (product, price, promotion and distribution/delivery) is, of course, your pricing strategy. Price too low and people doubt your credibility. Price too high and you don't get hired because you're overvalued. There are a couple of formulas or “rules of thumb” that can help you determine the best way to structure your offerings and spend your money smart to grow your business.

Your business is about your clients, not you! Attract more prospects by positioning your offerings based upon your client's needs and how you solve them rather than positioning by your expertise. Your customers often don't know what expertise is needed to solve their problems, nor do they really care about your expertise. They care about their pain and getting better results!

It is so important that you get this: Your business isn't worth anything to the customer if you aren't solving their problems. Forget about your credentials and what you know … position yourself based upon what the customer wants and the results you can help them achieve: Where is their pain? What is frustrating them? How do they want their problem solved? What is this ongoing problem costing them? You'll increase your close rate, get more money for your offerings, and strengthen your position in the marketplace.

Price yourself based on your ability to get results. You help your clients achieve results based upon years of study and experience. How long would it take your clients to figure those strategies for themselves, assuming they had the aptitude?

For some independent professionals, asking for a higher hourly rate knots their throat. However, if what you're offering truly serves people and makes a difference in their lives, if you take away their pain and help them get results beyond their current capabilities, you are worth every penny! To get around the hourly rate issue, offer a package tied to a result.

For example, “Our 5 day customer-retention training program will teach your managers how to retain more customers and turn them into raving fans! Priced at $10,000.” You may also include three bullets that further elaborate on the specific results you will focus on. Note that you aren't positioning yourself by the strategies you use or your credentials … you're positioning yourself according to the solutions your prospects are looking for, music to their ears!

Determine your price based upon the result your business creates. You are a business. Don't price yourself as an employee working x number of hours on a project. If you price yourself as an employee (projecting into the $50-$100 / hour price range), you'd likely be better off finding a job that guarantees you 40 hours per week! (See the math below.) Instead, think of yourself as a business providing a specialized, valuable service. And as a business, consider that a sound balance sheet has you taking home 50% of what your business generates (including salary, taxes, benefits, and write-offs like automobile expenses). The other 50% is split between marketing (35%) and administrative costs (15%).

So if you want to earn $100/hour, you'll need to price yourself at $200/hour to take care of your needs and grow the business. To get $200/hour, your offering must connect with the results your market is looking for (i.e. your positioning is attractive!) so they'll sign up and write you a check.

Consistently budget for marketing and administrative costs. A solid marketing strategy, implemented consistently, will ensure that new business is flowing through your pipeline. A steady stream of business will improve your cashflow, and a good pricing strategy will get you more money per transaction. Spending money on your active marketing strategies isn't something you do once a year. You need to be implementing these marketing strategies every single month. (You will likely be doing something every single day to promote your business.)

It's important to note that printing a bunch of promotional materials like speaker's kits or brochures, or redoing your website quarterly, doesn't qualify as spending money on active marketing strategies. Creating tools has its place and an important one at that, but create your tools annually and use them throughout the year to support your active strategies, with minor tweaking as needed. Your monthly spending should be on active strategies such as attending networking events, listing your services in PR / Industry directories, running ads, and / or implementing a solid search engine and online marketing strategy.

Mark LeBlanc, author of Growing Your Business, recommends that you do three high-value activities (HVAs)—measurable action items focused on finding new clients—every single day. HVAs could be writing an article, sending a note to your VIP list, putting together a 5-step Autoresponder for your website, attending a networking event, or enrolling in a marketing teleseminar. These activities are measurable by time or money, and the key is consistency.
For help putting together your Marketing Gameplan, contact me today to sign up for a complimentary Strategic Planning session, and we'll talk about what needs to be done to put together a solid Marketing Gameplan to grow your business in 2008.

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As a lender, I wish we could approve every loan application that hit our table; unfortunately it's not possible. We deal with mostly very small businesses seeking small loans, usually less than $250,000. Lending to inexperienced, new business owners is one of the riskiest arenas for a lending agency. Still, we manage to keep our losses to a minimum. The amazing thing about these business plan killers is that they rarely travel alone; they almost always appear in clusters. Here are the top ten business plan killers and what you can do to avoid or fix them:

1. Dreadful Personal Financial Profile

What is the likelihood that one who demonstrates abysmal financial management in his or her personal affairs will miraculously become an effective manager of finances for a business? It's highly unlikely. It's a lot more likely that poor practices in one's personal situation are simply carried into the business. The main difference is that in business a much broader range of people and organizations usually get burned as a result of mismanaged business finances. Red flags pop up in business plans in the form of high credit card financing, garages full of toys (trucks, Seadoos, Skidoos, bikes, boats) 90% financed, poor credit history and no savings.

Strategy One: Tidy up your personal finances before applying for a business loan. Pay down loans, clean up any bad debts, collect some business-related equipment and save some money.

2. Insufficient or Non-Existent Owner Equity or Security

Business is always risky, but new business is infinitely more so. Lenders will want to see you personally “invested” in your business. The part of the business you personally own is called your equity. Another way to describe equity is the amount of cash or equipment you put into the business. A lender wants to see that you are invested to the point that you will not be inclined to walk away when the going gets tough. How much owner equity is enough? The amount varies from lender to lender, but less than 10% is inviting scrutiny while 20% or more will make your proposition more enticing. Any savvy lender will insist on seeing you invested to the degree that any financial complications result in you, not them, laying awake nights stressing over how to pay the bills. Security is the surly sister of equity. Your loan application will be stronger if you bring some sort of asset to the table as security. Lenders will be more attracted to assets with a clear resale value of more than the loan. Inventory is usually less desirable because it tends to grow legs and disappear when the going gets tough.

Strategy Two: Create some equity to bring to the table. Save money, sell some toys, borrow some love money, or get a second job for a while.

3. Inadequate Market Research

Inadequate market research manifests itself in various cruel ways. It can surface in the business plan as an unconvincing business case. It can reveal itself in the form of too much secondary information (from other sources) and not enough primary market research (that which you gather yourself). Lack of market research can lead to a business plan that is too general – not specific enough. Perhaps one of the most common and perplexing indicators is that the entrepreneur has not talked to or listened to the potential customers. A lender will want to see that you have “turned over all the rocks” in search of knowledge about your business. After reading your business plan, if I feel that I know more about your business than you do, I will not be inspired to approve your loan.

Strategy Three: Prove your business case to yourself and to your reader. Persist in your market research efforts until you become “the expert” for your business. You will feel more confident and have an easier time convincing your readers that you know what you are doing.

4. Transmitting and Not Receiving

It's your responsibility to find that elusive balance between being bullheaded enough to bulldoze your way to success, yet sensitive enough to receive critical information. Your ability to listen to your clients is the key to your success in business. Falling in love with your business idea at the high cost of closing your ears to input will not help you acquire a loan. Business analysts, bankers and customers vote with their money. They have no need to yell at you to get their points across. It's important to listen attentively when they speak at normal volumes.

Strategy Four: Listen and learn. Listen to those who agree with you AND to those who do not. Listen to all who shoot holes in your business idea, they might just be pointing you toward success. When you think you've heard it all, listen harder!

5. Dishonesty, Discrepancies, Inconsistencies One sure way to cheat yourself out of a loan is to give the appearance, intentionally or accidentally, that you are anything less than above board. Any form of dishonesty in your business plan, or during your dealings with the targeted lending agency staff, is a sure way to have your application rejected. Blatant untruths are the more obvious offence, but it is entirely possible to communication underhandedness in other ways. For example, missing or inaccurate information invites questions and sends the wrong message. Conveniently leaving out some of the less obvious, non-flattering financial information (like unpaid long overdue taxes) is a sure way to a “NO”.

Strategy Five: Be honest, thorough, and accurate.

6. Not Answering the Key Business Questions Clearly

Your business plan is a tool for communicating with others. What is your product or service? Who are your customers? How will you market and distribute your product or service to your customers? Will you make money? Will your business be able to repay the loan? Does your plan communicate these things clearly?

Strategy Six: Answer the basic business questions. Who, what, where, why, when, how. There are many business planning systems (although none surpass the Roadmap!) that will provide a framework to keep you on track. A proper business planning system will provide you with a framework in which to place the assortment of information you will gather. Choose a system and use it.

7. Shoddy Presentation

You can do the best market research on the planet, but if you can't communicate it clearly and package your business plan professionally, your target audience might not even read it.

Strategy Seven: Provide a professional presentation. Ask a friend or pay someone to proof, get someone to keypunch the plan if you need to, but do a professional job. Demonstrate that you care and you will increase your odds with the lender.

8. Pie-In-The-Sky

Inflated, over optimistic sales forecasts or cash flow projections will derail your loan application every time. A future too bright will blind the lenders and scare them off the loan.

Strategy Eight: Be realistic in your expectations, even if you believe you will be floating on a sea of cash within months. No matter how lofty your financial aspirations might be, know that businesses are usually not profitable for the first while. Estimate your sales conservatively and your expenses a bit higher than you think they will be. Keep that cash flow realistic and be sure to include ALL expenses.

9. Fish-Out-Of-Water Syndrome

This is what happens when someone tries to get into a business they know nothing about. It becomes evident when the owner background reveals that the applicant has no prior experience in the area of expertise that is the main focus of the business. For example, a heavy-duty mechanic might seek to start a small restaurant. Not an impossible leap, just risky.

Strategy Nine: Know your business. It is so important to have a base of knowledge about your business and experience where possible. Many successful businesses arise from disgruntled or displaced employees who feel they can do as good as or better than their employer. Enhance this background experience with solid market research, the Internet, courses, books, tapes, and trade publications. Knowing your business will increase your confidence and enhance your loan options.

10. Too Little Too Late

This point pertains to existing businesses in search of financial assistance after things have already gone sideways. Too often we see the application when the accounts receivable is out of control or major suppliers have already been hung out too long for scary large sums of money. Other aspects of this condition are collectors hot on the trail and long overdue taxes. It's really difficult to get excited about loaning money to pay for bills that should already have been paid.

Strategy Ten: Be decisive when your business gets into rough financial waters. Make the tough decisions early and then act on them quickly. If your recovery plan involves a loan, you are far stronger coming to the table early with a well thought out plan, than later with a plea for assistance to pay back taxes.

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