Social Networking Tools for Small Business, Part I

Networking has always played an important role in small business marketing. Now web-based social networking tools have created new ways to reach your audience. You've probably heard of Flickr, the photo sharing site, but have you wondered if you could use it in your business? Here is an excellent article from the blog, Small Business Search Marketing, that can get you started. With the new networking tools come new networking rules, and this article has practical advice on how to follow those rules to get the most out of your Flickr account.

If you're thinking of selling, or buying, a small business...

These are difficult economic times, but if you are trying to decide whether or not to sell your small business, this article about Skokie business, Schaefer's Wines, Foods & Spirits, in the August 5, 2008, Chicago Tribune, says that the economy should not deter you. Of course it also means that you should not be deterred from buying a small business in this economy either!

It does take planning, however, and Evanston Public Library has some resources that might help: Sell your business your way : getting out, getting rich, and getting on with your life, by Heather Linton, and Valuing your business : strategies to maximize the sale price, by Frederick D. Lipman, The complete guide to buying a business, published by Nolo Press .

The Small Business Administration also has some advice for you in its Small Business Planner, including information about seller financing; things to consider when taking your business public; and a checklist of items that must be written on the sales agreement.