How to Include Social Icons & Links in Email Signatures

The process of adding social badges and links to your email signature will vary depending on your email provider. This will cover the basic steps but feel free to call us if you have questions.

Step 1 - Gather your social links
You will need to know the URL of the social media pages or website you would like to link to. (hint: URL's start with http:// or https://) Have these handy in a text document so you can copy and paste.

6 MUST READ Tax Tips to Save You Money

Have you filed your taxes yet? The deadline is just around the corner so odds are - the stress is building. Whether you use a popular tax software, file by mail or online or hire a professional tax service - these 6 tips will help save you time and money.

1. Planning Ahead Saves Money - Many business owners put off filing their taxes until the last minute, but procrastinating can cost you extra. As the deadline approaches you may start to notice that tax preparation costs increase. Late filers are often disorganized which can result in extra late fees and missed deductions. Know your standard and corporate tax deadlines so you can plan ahead and be confident with your preparations.

Social Media Snapshot: Pinterest for Business

According to Pinterest.com...."Pinterest lets you organize and share all the beautiful things you find on the web. People use pinboards to plan their weddings, decorate their homes, and organize their favorite recipes." Users share visual images from the web by "pinning" them on to a series of virtual PinBoards.

It's All About Visual Connections!

So How to Get Started?
FIRST: Our first suggestion is to RESEARCH what your ideal client is pinning. Search the keywords and categories on the Pinterest Dashboard. Create your business boards with your ideal client in mind.
* Provide answers to their questions
* Feed their inspirations.
* Solve their problems.

Facebook in 5 Minutes - Cover Pic 101

Today's Tip is centered on promoting your Facebook Business Page by creating a compelling cover pic that represents your business and meets Facebook's new Timeline guidelines.
 

What is a Cover Pic?
When Facebook changed all business pages to the new Timeline format, all pages now have the option for a large rectangle picture to display at the top the page. If you have not uploaded or chosen a picture as your cover - you probably see a blank space.

Dimensions - 851 x 315 pixels
Not sure what a pixel is? If you don't have a graphic artist who understands this form of measurement (you won't find it on any ruler), it measures about 2.75" x 1.0". This will seem very small so as long as you create a picture with this proportions, Facebook will shrink it when you up load the image.

Format - Its an Image
This should be a flattened graphic in a jpeg, png or tiff format. Text formats like MS Word are not going to be compatible. Click here if you need help.

New Policies - the Don'ts
Cover photos cannot include:
A. Price or purchase information , such as "40% Off" or "Download at our Website"
B. Contact information such as website address, email or other info that should be located in the "About" section
C. References to Facebook features or actions such as "Like" or "Share" or an arrow pointing from the cover photo to any of these features.
D. Calls to action such as "Get it now" or "Tell your friends."
Failure to adhere to these new policies could result in Facebook's removal of your page.

These are some big changes since many people used their profile pic to push visitors to 'like' them as well as promote sales. These functions can now be handled through a tab.

How to Make a Cover Pic Work for You?
This picture will represent your business in a large way. This is not the time to upload a pic of your dog or grandchild. This is the opportunity to BRAND your business or product. Most people will decide in 7 seconds whether they want to stay on a webpage. Your cover is your chance to HOOK them in.

Examples:
• Picture of your storefront or inside your store - take a GOOD pic. Not one that shows dirty floors and paint peeling. Draw attention to the assets of your business.
• Portfolio of Work - If you create, produce or build something, show it off!
• Behind the Scenes - Remember your fans want to believe that they get the inside scoop by being a fan of your business so let them in on the secrets. For example, if I was a chocolatier, I might show a pic of someone making an intricate piece of chocolate.
• Something that appeals to your fan's inner desires - If I owned an auto repair shop, I might show a pic of a winding open road with a statment because I know my fans would rather be driving carefree than having their wheels in the shop. My statement plays into the idea that my business will get them back on the road.
• An image and statment reflecting your company mission - If you excel at service, broadcast it here. How can you sum up your business in a compelling sentence and picture that makes people take notice?

Time for Action

Take a moment to creat your cover picture. This is not set in stone. You can change it every day if you want though we recommend once a quarter or monthly as needed when timely. When you have your image, go to your business page and hover on your cover pic  - a box will pop up that says 'Change Cover'. Most of the time you will choose to 'Upload Photo'. You may have to reposition your image but one you save it - you're done! It only takes 5 minutes but the impressions can last much longer!

Facebook in 5 Minutes in April from Qlixite

Everyday we will be posting fast and easy (& Free) ways to get more out of your Facebook Business page. Become a Fan so you don't miss out!

We are not affiliated with Facebook in anyway. All of these tips are based on our own knowledge and research of public resources

Facebook in 5 Minutes - Post an Event

Today's Tip is centered on promoting your Facebook Business Page by creating a formal 'Event' using Facebook's create an Event tool. By utilizing this tool (as opposed to just listing the event date in your post), you can select guests, add a picture and allow people to RSVP.
 

What Qualifies as An Event?
Events can really be anything you want! If it is date and time specific, you could make an event to draw attention from fans.
Examples:
• Open House
• Product Debut
• Office Party
• Friends and Family Savings
• Local Event or Trade Show

How to Create an Event?
• Go to your business facebook page
• In the Status bar (where you normally create a post - click on 'Event, Milestone +'
• Click on 'Event' - a new screen will open
• Type an Event Name - make it clear, catchy and memorable
• Specify date, start and end times
• Type a location - you can add a street address
• Type details to explain more about the event. Remember you are 'selling' why someone would want to attend or tune in to your event so be brief but answer the questions attendees might have.
• You can select guests - you fans will automatically be notified of your event so this allows you the option to select personal friends who might not yet be a fan of your page.
• Choose whether you want the guest list to be shown on your event page. This can be positive if you believe your fans know one another but it can be detrimental if people decide not to attend because they're aren't sure if they will know anyone at the event.
• Allowing non-admins to write on the wall means people can post on this event wall specifically. This is a great option in case people have questions about this event. If this is a reoccuring event, you can encourage people to post their thoughts on the last event to incentivise more attendance this year.
• Finally - add a picture to promote your event. Three words...People-love-pictures. Again, this is all about incentivising people to attend - so give them what they want!

Time for Action

This can be tough because you might not have an event coming up...then again, maybe you do! Will you attend any expos, fairs or trade shows as your business? Is there a big sale coming up? Take a moment to think about what you could broadcast to your fans. If you don't have anything yet - post "Happy Monday!" on your wall and take your five minutes to brainstorm an event for your fans. Be sure to give people a couple of weeks notice of an event. Too far in advance, unless reservations are required, will result in people forgetting about your event. Events are a great way to reinforce that it pays to be a fan of your page. It only takes 5 minutes!

Facebook in 5 Minutes in April from Qlixite

Everyday we will be posting fast and easy (& Free) ways to get more out of your Facebook Business page. Become a Fan so you don't miss out!

We are not affiliated with Facebook in anyway. All of these tips are based on our own knowledge and research of public resources

Facebook in 5 Minutes - Fan of the Month

Today's Tip is centered on promoting your Facebook Business Page by rewarding your most active fans by declaring a Fan of the Month. We mentioned in one of our earlier tips, that fans of your Facebook business page want to feel special. They get first notice of coupons or even exclusive discounts by being a fan of your business. But today we're suggesting you take it a step further. Reward your most loyal and interactive fans by declaring them 'Fan of the Month'.
 

Why Do It?
You want people to interact on your Facebook business page by posting comments, recommending your page to friends and writing referrals. Social media is about sharing - so you want your fans to do some of the leg-work of getting your name out to people they know. (Hint: Most people trust a referral by a friend versus a commercial or advertisment)

Why Will My Fans Care?
Because you are going to give your fan of the month a super great deal. It's just for them - no one else. Obviously the better the deal is - the more likely people will want to earn it. Again, make sure you think about what all of your fans might be interested in - not just what you want to sell.
Examples of Super Great Deals:
• $10, $25 or $50 Gift card - whatever fits in your budget
• Movie tickets
• Free choice of select items from your store - give them variety
• Gas Card
• Use your imagination! 

Who Do I Pick?
Create a checklist for what you will look for in your Fan of the Month...Here's an example.
• How many comments have they posted?
• Have they written a referral?
• Did they share any of my posts?
• Have they purchased from me? (be careful not to make this the sole factor of who you pick) Remember, I might not be a customer but I have friends who could be.

When you choose a winner - make a BIG DEAL about it on your page. You could create a tab that features the winner's profile picture and what they won. (You will need web help if you don't know how to create a tab - it must be hosted on a website. Call us if you have questions 800-596-6218). A tab is visible all the time, so it would continue to show off how your reward your fans. Choose your Fan of the Month on the same day each month so people know when to look for it.

Time for Action

Now is the time - don't put it off until later - take 5 minutes or less to create a post announcing your "Fan of the Month" offer. Be sure to tell people what you are looking for (ie: items from the check list) and tell them what the lucky fan will win. Then Pin it to the top of your business page. Be sure to repeat this post every month or every other week so that fans get a reminder and new fans know about the offer. It only takes 5 minutes!

Facebook in 5 Minutes in April from Qlixite

Everyday we will be posting fast and easy (& Free) ways to get more out of your Facebook Business page. Become a Fan so you don't miss out!

We are not affiliated with Facebook in anyway. All of these tips are based on our own knowledge and research of public resources

Facebook in 5 Minutes - Post with Personality

Today's Tip is centered on promoting your Facebook Business Page by including your own personality into your posting. Social media started as a venue to share personal experiences and preferences. Being a small business owner, much of your business depends on you so if your posts are sterile and solely sales related - your fans never develop a relationship with you.
 

Getting Personal
Most business pages post about products and services as well as helpful information. We encourage you to include a picture or quote that integrates personality into your page. This will also help stimulate your fans to interact with your posts.
Examples:
• Picture of your staff - could even be a goofy pose
• Picture from a local event you attended personally or as a business.
• Favorite quote
• Reiterate your mission statement (keep it to just a sentence or two)
• Personal success or milestone (ie: Finished a marathon, turned 50 or caught a huge fish)

Beware of TMI (Too Much Information)
Occasionally, we see businesses get too personal on their business page. It's okay to post 25 pictures of your new grandkid on your personal Facebook page but not so professional on your fan page. It's okay to mention that you will be traveling but refrain from telling everyone that your sick and contageous. Remember, everything you do is 'Sales'. Always take a mental accounting of how a new or current client could interpret your post. Will it make you look good or bad?

We recommend avoiding posts that...
• Are political or overly religions - your fans may not agree with you and this could alienate them.
• Reference bodily functions - aside from mentioning how you spit out your soda when you won the lottery, most of us don't want these kinds of details.
• Are long 'journal-type' entries - if it relates to business, then write a blog and post a link. If it's about what you did that day, keep it on your personal page. 
• Are depressing - Yes, the economy is tough and business might be slow but this will NOT help your business. Always make your fans believe your products and services are in demand.

Time for Action

Now is the time - don't put it off until later - take 5 minutes or less to post a picture, mission statement or quote that adds personality to your business page. It only takes 5 minutes!

Facebook in 5 Minutes in April from Qlixite

Everyday we will be posting fast and easy (& Free) ways to get more out of your Facebook Business page. Become a Fan so you don't miss out!

We are not affiliated with Facebook in anyway. All of these tips are based on our own knowledge and research of public resources

Facebook in 5 Minutes - Pin to the Top

Today's Tip is centered on promoting your Facebook Business Page by 'pinning' a post to the top of your business page. Let's say you post an article once a week or you're running a limited time promotion - Facebook allows you to anchor a post or story to the top of your page for up to 7 days.
 

Why should I Pin a Post?
You have 7-10 seconds to make an impression on a vistor to your page. To make the most of your time, you might want to consider 'pinning' a post for the following reasons.
• You post often to Facebook but you want one story to remain first.
• You want new visitors to see a specific post
• You're offering a limited offer or special that you want everyone to be reminded of when visiting your page.
• You have an upcoming event.
• You have an AWESOME post that you want everyone to notice.

How to Pin a Post?
For this exercise, we suggest you take yesterday's tip (post an incentive to become a fan) and pin it to the top of your page. Of course, you can choose to pin a different post.
• Go into your Facebook Business Page
• Find your post from yesterday that offered your fans an exclusive savings, special, etc.
• Hover on the post with your mouse - two buttons will appear in the left corner (star & pencil)
• Click on the pencil
• Click 'Pin to Top'

A little orange flag will appear in the corner of the post and it will be moved to the top of your wall. That's it - you're done!

Time for Action

Now is the time - don't put it off until later - take 5 minutes or less to pin a valuable post to the top of your page. Remember this will only last for 7 days. As you continue, pick posts that offer valuable content for new and current visitors. Providing exclusive content, specials, etc makes your fans feel special and informed which is crucial to retention and maximizing the power of social media. It only takes 5 minutes!

Facebook in 5 Minutes in April from Qlixite

Everyday we will be posting fast and easy (& Free) ways to get more out of your Facebook Business page. Become a Fan so you don't miss out!

We are not affiliated with Facebook in anyway. All of these tips are based on our own knowledge and research of public resources

Facebook in 5 Minutes - Just for Fans Incentives

Today's Tip is centered on promoting your Facebook Business Page by treating your fans 'differently' than regular customers. Fans (People who 'Like" your page) want to be treated differently.  Fans like to think they have "insider" information. A Facebook business page is the perfect place to reward fans because they have specifically chosen to associate themselves with your brand in front of all their friends. In the offline world, this is equivalent to putting your bumper sticker on their car.
 

How Can I Make Fans Feel Special?
Give your visitors a reason to become a fan that gives them an advantage over regular customers or even non-customers. 
Examples:
• 'Like' Us for exclusive offers
• Facebook Fans Get 15% Off
• First Look at Coupons for Fans
• Free givaway for Fans with Purchase

Always put yourself in your fans shoes - make the posts valuable and worth their loyalty and their time and you will reap the rewards


Why is it Worth it?
• You're giving a reason for people to 'Like' your page
• When they 'like' your page - they will see your posts on their newsfeed
• Their friends will see that they 'Like' you and any interaction they have with your page
• They will be more likely to 'Share' with their friends so their friends can save too

This is your opportunity to get the feedback that is so critical for a business owner.  Test the waters and offer a loss leader to see who's watching and who is sharing about you.

Time for Action

Now is the time - don't put it off until later - take 5 minutes or less to create an exclusive offer just for your fans. This doesn't have to be complex or a huge savings but make it something you think your customers would be interested in. Then go into your page and post your exclusive deal. Be sure to say that ONLY fans get the discount. You should also promote this at your place of business with a sign or even on your company vehicle.

Providing exclusive content, specials, etc makes your fans feel special and informed which is crucial to retention and maximizing the power of social media. It only takes 5 minutes to get rolling!

Facebook in 5 Minutes in April from Qlixite

Everyday we will be posting fast and easy (& Free) ways to get more out of your Facebook Business page. Become a Fan so you don't miss out!

We are not affiliated with Facebook in anyway. All of these tips are based on our own knowledge and research of public resources

Facebook in 5 Minutes - Linking Content

Today's Tip is centered on promoting your Facebook Business Page by including a link in your post. As you navigate the internet you might see buttons and places where you can 'share' a website, an article or feature. For example, we encourage business owners to have a business blog where they add articles. Blog sites like Blogger and Wordpress have the option to easily share your post on your Facebook or Twitter account. If there isn't an option to 'share' content, you can still add a link to your Facebook Post.

How do I Post a Link?
• Go to your business page
• Below the header, you'll see a status box (similar to personal Facebook pages).
• Copy the URL (Ctrl+C) of the website you want to link (Make sure you have the exact link so that people will be directly taken to the specific article, picture or page)
• Paste the link (Ctrl+V) in the Status box (says "Write Something")
• Facebook will automatically create the link with a picture and website description if available.
• Type a message about why they should click the link and then click 'Post'.


What Do I Link to?
• Other businesses or affiliate websites you recommend
• Articles that relate to your industry
• Trending news stories that relate to your business
• Videos and articles you have posted

Time for Action

Now is the time - don't put it off until later - take 5 minutes or less to search for a trending article or video that relates to your industry or pick one of your own. Go into your Facebook Business page and create a post that includes this link. Try to incorporate this into your social media routine as often as possible. Facebook is about sharing and you should be using it as a tool to position yourself as an expert. It only takes 5 minutes!

Facebook in 5 Minutes in April from Qlixite

Everyday we will be posting fast and easy (& Free) ways to get more out of your Facebook Business page. Become a Fan so you don't miss out!

We are not affiliated with Facebook in anyway. All of these tips are based on our own knowledge and research of public resources

Facebook in 5 Minutes - 'Like' Minds

Today's Tip is centered on promoting your Facebook Business Page by liking OTHER Facebook Business Pages. The right hand-side of your business timeline shows several items including the other pages you have 'liked' as your business. This concept of tipping your hat' to other businesses can help build comraderie and support among other businesses who not only might use your service but can also refer you and your Facebook Business Page.

How do I 'Use Facebook' As My Business?
• Go to your business page
• On the 'Admin Panel' - Click the dropdown "Manage'
• Click on 'Use Facebook as [Your business Name]'

Now everything you do will be as your business. If you comment on someone's post - it will be as your business page. If you post something or 'Like' a page - it will be as your business (not you personally).


'Liking' Other Businesses
• What businesses do you use personally or in your business? Are there other local businesses who are members of a mutual organization or located near you? These are the kinds of businesses you might want to search for, visit their Facebook Business Page and 'Like' them.
• People who are admins of the business page will get a notification that you have liked them. And guess what - your name is a direct link back to your business page.
• In many cases - people will go and like you back too! We encourage you to follow this policy. Again, social media is all about sharing so in this case, giving a little attention to
others can help you as well.

Time for Action

Now is the time - don't put it off until later - take 5 minutes or less to go into your Facebook Business page and 'Like' five other businesses. Try to incorporate this into your social media routine every week or as you meet new businesses. It only takes 5 minutes!

Facebook in 5 Minutes in April from Qlixite

Everyday we will be posting fast and easy (& Free) ways to get more out of your Facebook Business page. Become a Fan so you don't miss out!

We are not affiliated with Facebook in anyway. All of these tips are based on our own knowledge and research of public resources.

Facebook in 5 Minutes - About Keywords

Today's Tip is centered on promoting your Facebook Business Page with keyword rich "About" content. When you look at your page, below your profile picture is a light blue bar that includes information like what type of business you are, your address, phone and hours. BELOW that is the word "About" - click on it. Welcome to the section that should tell everyone the details about you. Whether you have a lot written or not much - it's important that you add keywords to this section.

How do I edit the 'About' Section?
• Since you are the Admin of your page - when you hover on a section, an 'Edit' button will appear in the top left corner of the section - click on it.
• Click 'Basic Information' from the left menu.
• You're Here!

Adding Keywords to Your Content
• Before you make any changes - take a moment to come up with 3 keyword phrases that relate to your business, product or service. Think about what people might be typing into a search engine to find something you offer. Keywords can be one word or 2-3 words that make a phrase. (Stay away from 'stop words' like a, at, I, in, my, and, etc.)
     Examples:
          - DIY Bride Tips for a Florist
          - Tire Rotation Schedule for an Auto Repair Center
          - Identifying New Tax Laws for an Accountant
          - Solar Panel Cleaning for a Window Cleaner
• Take your 3 keyword phrases and add them to your content. Use each phrase at least twice in areas like 'About', 'Description', "General Information" etc. If this seems difficult then work with one or two phrases. The point is to make your page more search engine friendly.
• Be sure to click 'Save Changes' at the bottom of the page when you're done.

Time for Action

Now is the time - don't put it off until later - take 5 minutes or less to go into your 'About' section and add keywords to your general information. It only takes 5 minutes!


Facebook in 5 Minutes in April from Qlixite
Everyday we will be posting fast and easy (& Free) ways to get more out of your Facebook Business page. Become a Fan so you don't miss out!

We are not affiliated with Facebook in anyway. All of these tips are based on our own knowledge and research of public resources.

Facebook in 5 Minutes: Tag You're It

Today's Tip is centered on sharing your Facebook Business Page with your personal friends. Obviously, if you have a personal page - you have friends who see what you post on your personal wall. Do they know what you do? Have you invited them to 'Like' your business page? Another option is tagging which creates a link directly to your business page in one of your personal posts.

What is an @ Tag?
• A tag links a person, page, or place to something you post, like a status update or a photo. For example, you can tag a photo which will link to the people in the photo or post a status update and say who you’re referencing?

Tagging Your Business
• When typing your business name in a post - type the '@' before the name. (ie: Have you checked out the latest coupon from @Qlixite?)
• As you type the name after the '@' symbol - Facebook will automatically drop down suggestions  - when your page appears, you can click on it.
• The '@Qlixite' will appear blue in your post and will link directly to your business facebook page so people can quickly get there.

Time for Action
Now is the time - don't put it off until later - take 5 minutes or less to come up with a post in which you can tag your business. Make sure you are logged into Facebook. Under status - write your post (be sure you place the @ tag before your business page name) and hit enter. That's it! You're done! As a general rule - try to tag your business EVERY time you mention your business in a post - it makes it easier for people to get to your page.

Facebook in 5 Minutes in April from Qlixite
Everyday we will be posting fast and easy (& Free) ways to get more out of your Facebook Business page. Become a Fan so you don't miss out!

We are not affiliated with Facebook in anyway. All of these tips are based on our own knowledge and research of public resources.

Facebook in 5 Mins - Ask & Receive

Today's Tip is centered on Engaging with your Facebook Business Page Followers. One of the easiest ways to engage with the people who have 'Liked' you already is to ask a question.

What kind of Question?
• Quick Response - Post a question that only requires 1-5 words to answer. Make it fast and easy for people to respond to your post.
• Not just a 'yes or no' - Getting a bunch of yes and no answers to your question will not stimulate conversation. Many times people will respond to other comments so make sure you're asking for something more personal than just agreement/disagreement.
• On Topic - If you are a Florist, keep your questions loosely related to your business. This is not the time to get political or ask if people think your dog is cute. Stay professional.
• On Trend - What is happening in your industry right now? Was there a news program that relates to your business? Is there a season-specific item that interests people? What are people interested in today to make them want to respond?

Sample Questions
• From a Dentist - "We love our chocolate bunnies and jelly beans but with the recent reports on the negativity of sugar - will you be cutting down on sweets this Easter?"
• From a Restaurant - "Planning out next week's special menu item - any requests?"
• From an Auto Repair Shop - "Our first car always holds a special place in our hearts - what was your first car (make & model)?"

Time for Action
Now is the time - don't put it off until later - take 5 minutes or less to come up with your question. Make sure you are logged into Facebook and go to your page. Under status - write your question and hit enter. That's it! You're done! As a general rule - try asking a question every couple of days or once a week.

Facebook in 5 Minutes in April from Qlixite
Everyday we will be posting fast and easy (& Free) ways to get more out of your Facebook Business page. Become a Fan so you don't miss out!

We are not affiliated with Facebook in anyway. All of these tips are based on our own knowledge and research of public resources.

How Do I Set Up a Blog?

I get this question from many clients.  If a concept sounds too complicated, people just won’t do it and Blogging sounds difficult -- actually it sounds like a new language so it somehow gets put on the “To Do” list for tomorrow and tomorrow never comes. 

But….. Blogging is such an integral piece to effectively marketing your business, products and ideas via the internet you need to remove it from the “To DO” list and “DO It” today.  

Step by Step Blogger Instructions...............

So let’s get started. 

I use Blogger offered through Google.  It is easy and free and let’s face it – we want Google to find our page so why not go with their service. Google has other numerous services available and we will discuss those at a later time. 

To use Google’s Blogger you must sign up for a Google account.  If you already have a GMAIL account, you can sign into Blogger and begin setting up your Blog but for our purposes here, we will set up an account from the beginning. 

Go to www.Google.com 

Click on “More” in the black menu bar at the top 

Click on “Blogger” 

Click on “Get Started” (the orange box) 

Complete the form to create your account 

Display name – reflects either the person’s name if the information is coming from a specific person or the business name if the information is business related. 

Example 1:  A blog from Dr Jones may be a medical blog and therefore signed by Dr Jones.

Example 2: A blog focused on car maintenance and repairs should show the display signer to be the business name for the best branding.

Click on “Continue” 

Blog Title - Choose a title that expresses the information you plan to cover in your blogs  

Blog Address:  The address can be either the company name, a person’s name or searchable words that express the content but remember this will be the address – a domain name for your blog.  The address will be:  YourTitle.blogspot.com

Check Availability –   

Choose a Template – any one that suits your fancy – this can be changed later if you wish. 

Congratulations – You have set up your Blog and you are ready to start blogging!

Need a Social Media Marketing Plan? - Check out Qlixite (Click Site)

QUESTIONS - Call me - Toni Ryan - 800-596-6218    QLIXITE - We do it for you at DIY prices!

Next – What do I Blog About?

Create An Easy & Fast Small Business Plan

Every business needs a business plan - no matter how small!

What information needs to be in your business plan? What is the order of information that will make the most sense to lenders and investors? You can answer these questions with the business plan outlines provided below.

What are the standard elements of a business plan? If you do need a standard business plan to seek funding — as opposed to a plan-as-you-go approach for running your business, which I describe below — there are predictable contents of a standard business plan outline.

For example, a business plan normally starts with an Executive Summary, which should be concise and interesting. People almost always expect to see sections covering the Company, the Market, the Product, the Management Team, Strategy, Implementation, and Financial Analysis. The precise business plan format can vary.

Is the order important? If you have the main components, the order doesn’t matter that much, but here’s the sequence I suggest for a business plan. I have provided two outlines, one simple and the other more detailed.

Simple Business Plan Outline

1. Executive Summary: Write this last. It’s just a page or two of highlights.
2. Company Description: Legal establishment, history, start-up plans, etc.
3. Product or Service: Describe what you’re selling. Focus on customer benefits.
4. Market Analysis: You need to know your market, customer needs, where they are, how to reach them, etc.
5. Strategy and Implementation: Be specific. Include management responsibilities with dates and budgets. Make sure you can track results.
6. Web Plan Summary: For e-commerce, include discussion of website, development costs, operations, sales and marketing strategies.
7. Management Team: Describe the organization and the key management team members.
8. Financial Analysis: Make sure to include at the very least your projected Profit and Loss and Cash Flow tables.

Build your plan, then organize it. I don’t recommend developing the plan in the same order you present it as a finished document. For example, although the Executive Summary obviously comes as the first section of a business plan, I recommend writing it after everything else is done. It will appear first, but you write it last.

Standard tables and charts

There are also some business tables and charts that are normally expected in a standard business plan.

Cash flow is the single most important numerical analysis in a plan, and should never be missing. Most plans will also have Sales Forecast and Profit and Loss statements. I believe they should also have separate Personnel listings, projected Balance Sheet, projected Business Ratios, and Market Analysis tables.

I also believe that every plan should include bar charts and pie charts to illustrate the numbers.

Expanded business plan outline

Here’s an expanded full business plan outline, with details you might want to include in your own business plan.

1.0 Executive Summary
1.1 Objectives
1.2 Mission
1.3 Keys to Success

2.0 Company Summary
2.1 Company Ownership
2.2 Company History (for ongoing companies) or Start-up Plan (for new companies)
2.3 Company Locations and Facilities

3.0 Products and Services
3.1 Product and Service Description
3.2 Competitive Comparison
3.3 Sales Literature
3.4 Sourcing and Fulfillment
3.5 Technology
3.6 Future Products and Services

4.0 Market Analysis Summary
4.1 Market Segmentation
4.2 Target Market Segment Strategy
4.2.1 Market Needs
4.2.2 Market Trends
4.2.3 Market Growth
4.3 Industry Analysis
4.3.1 Industry Participants
4.3.2 Distribution Patterns
4.3.3 Competition and Buying Patterns
4.3.4 Main Competitors

5.0 Strategy and Implementation Summary
5.1 Strategy Pyramids
5.2 Value Proposition
5.3 Competitive Edge
5.4 Marketing Strategy
5.4.1 Positioning Statements
5.4.2 Pricing Strategy
5.4.3 Promotion Strategy
5.4.4 Distribution Patterns
5.4.5 Marketing Programs
5.5 Sales Strategy
5.5.1 Sales Forecast
5.5.2 Sales Programs
5.6 Strategic Alliances
5.7 Milestones

6.0 Web Plan Summary
6.1 Website Marketing Strategy
6.2 Development Requirements

7.0 Management Summary
7.1 Organizational Structure
7.2 Management Team
7.3 Management Team Gaps
7.4 Personnel Plan

8.0 Financial Plan
8.1 Important Assumptions
8.2 Key Financial Indicators
8.3 Break-even Analysis
8.4 Projected Profit and Loss
8.5 Projected Cash Flow
8.6 Projected Balance Sheet
8.7 Business Ratios
8.8 Long-term Plan

Business plan outline advice

Size your business plan to fit your business. Remember that your business plan should be only as big as what you need to run your business. While everybody should have planning to help run a business, not everyone needs to develop a complete formal business plan suitable for submitting to a potential investor, or bank, or venture contest. So don’t include outline points just because they are on a big list somewhere, or on this list, unless you’re developing a standard business plan that you’ll be showing to somebody else who expects a standard business plan.

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What is a QR Code?



A QR code (abbreviation for Quick Response code) is a specific matrix barcode (or two-dimensional code) that is readable by dedicated QR barcode readers and camera telephones. The code consists of black modules arranged in a square pattern on a white background. The information encoded may be text, URL, or other data.

This QR Code Leads to a webpage
so a visitor can watch a Video

Common in Japan, where it was created by Toyota subsidiary Denso-Wave in 1994, the QR code is one of the most popular types of two-dimensional barcodes. The QR code was created to allow its contents to be decoded at high speed.

Although initially used for tracking parts in vehicle manufacturing, QR codes now are used in a much broader context, including both commercial tracking applications and convenience-oriented applications aimed at mobile phone users (termed mobile tagging). QR codes may be used to display text to the user, to add contact information to the user's device, to open a website, link to a video on a server like YouTube, or to compose an e-mail or text message. Users can generate and print their own QR codes for others to scan and use by visiting one of several free QR code generating sites.

QR codes storing addresses and Uniform Resource Locators (URLs) may appear in magazines, on signs, buses, business cards, or almost any object about which users might need information. Users with a camera phone equipped with the correct reader application can scan the image of the QR code to display text, contact information, connect to a wireless network, or open a web page in the telephone's browser. This act of linking from physical world objects is termed hardlinking or object hyperlinking.
Google's mobile Android operating system supports QR codes by natively including the barcode scanner (ZXing) on some models, and the browser supports URI redirection, which allows QR codes to send metadata to existing applications on the device. Nokia's Symbian operating system is provided with a barcode scanner, which is able to read QR codes, while mbarcode is a QR code reader for the Maemo operating system. In the Apple iOS, a QR code reader is not natively included, but more than fifty free apps are available with reader and metadata browser URI redirection ability. With BlackBerry devices, the App World application can natively scan QR codes and load any recognized Web URLs on the device's Web browse this for compliance.

The use of QR codes is free of any license. The QR code is clearly defined and published as an ISO standard. Denso Wave owns the patent rights on QR codes, but has chosen not to exercise them. The term QR code itself is a registered trademark of Denso Wave Incorporated.

Standard QR code is the QR code standard for applications that possess the ability to handle large scans. A standard QR code can contain up to 7089 characters, though not all QR readers can accept that much data.

Read More About QR Codes:
• What is a QR Code?
• How does a QR Code work?
• What kind of QR Code do I need?
• How do I use my QR Code?
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