• Twitter
  • LinkedIn
  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • Youtube
Login  | Call now: (800) 780-7133
Kapitus
  • Problems We Solve
  • Products We Offer
  • Partner With Us
  • Blog
  • APPLY NOW
  • Search
  • Menu Menu
Ted Talks Small Businesses

Seeking Inspiration? Check Out the 10 Best Ted Talks of 2021 for Small Businesses

February 10, 2022/in Featured Stories, Living Your Best SBO Life, Uncategorized/by Vince Calio

Every small business owner, whether they are just starting out or are established, needs inspiration and advice – and there are few sources that are better at providing both than Ted Talks. For years, Ted Conferences LLC has been distributing free video lectures online from experts under the slogan “Ideas Worth Spreading.”

Kapitus has chosen the 10 most inspiring and educational Ted Talks lectures from the recent past that can help small business owners with everything from motivation and marketing to sales and being a great leader.

#10 Dorie Clark, Business Professor at Duke University, “The Real Reason We’re All so Busy”

Most people thought working from home would create more personal time. In many cases, however, remote work as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic created less personal time because people are literally working and living in the same space. Dorie Clark, a business professor for Duke University and keynote speaker, explores ways people can make better personal decisions to find that work-life balance.

#9 Kiki Ayers, Founder of Ayers Publicity, “How to Know if You’re Meant to be an Entrepreneur”

Being an entrepreneur means having grit and determination, having the ability to overcome failure and having the passion to pursue your dreams. Do you fit that bill? Kiki Ayers, founder and CEO of Ayers Publicity, talks about the difference between “9-to-5ers” and entrepreneurs, and how to tell if you have what it takes to start your own business at an early age.

#8 Karim Abouelnaga, Founder of Practice Makes Perfect, “The Small Business Hustle”

Boxer Mike Tyson once said “Everybody has a plan until they get punched in the face,” and that’s figuratively true for most aspiring small business owners – their idea for a business may be brilliant, but figuring out the logistics of turning that idea into a successful enterprise may be monumentally challenging. Karim Abouelnaga, founder and CEO of Practice Makes Perfect, talks about the common mistakes he made as an entrepreneur such as over-projecting and overspending.

#7 Marcos Aguiar, Senior Partner at BCG, “Seven Tools for Building a Business That People Trust”

One of the most difficult tasks for any small business owner is creating a brand that people trust. Achieving this brings great rewards, but it also often involves connecting to consumers on a personal level and communicating through multiple channels. Marcos Aguiar, senior partner at BCG, talks about ways to elevate your business so that it can be seen in a positive light in the public.

#6 Adam Biddle, Co-Founder of GHO5T, “Defining the ROI of Social Media”

The importance of communicating your brand through social media skyrocketed during the pandemic, and that meant that businesses that didn’t have a strong social media presence faced being left in the dust. Social media expert Adam Biddle, co-founder of GHO5T, brilliantly simplifies the oft-confusing world of social media sites and explains how to use them to your advantage.

#5 Patty McCord, Independent Executive Coach, “Four Lessons the Pandemic Taught us About Work, Life and Balance”

Few people can deny that the COVID-19 pandemic has permanently changed the way we work and how we balance our professional and personal lives. Patty McCord, an independent executive coach, expertly gives four key insights that employers and employees gained from working from home. She also said that many companies need to stop referring to their employees as “family” and must stop being stubborn about creating a work from home policy.

#4 Julissa Prado, CEO of Rizos Curls, “Three Rules to Help you Build a Successful Business”

Operating a small business means having to effectively spend limited resources and having a lot of grit, especially when you are an immigrant or person of color. Entrepreneur Julissa Prado. CEO of Rizos Curls, talks about the rules she herself followed on her way to becoming a successful Entrepreneur.

#3 Julia Skupchenko, Co-Founder of AlterContacts, “Behind Every Small Business There is a Story”

COVID-19 disrupted the notions and beliefs upon which many businesses are run, and in order to adjust and survive, we have to let go of “past conditioning.” Julia Skupschenko is a world-renowned entrepreneur who co-founded AlterContacts, a consulting firm for small businesses. She also created Lockdown Economy, a think tank dedicated to helping small businesses face the challenges of the pandemic. In her Ted Talks lecture, she outlines the current challenges small businesses face and how to overcome them.

#2 Simon Sinek, Best-Selling Business Author, “The Right Way to do Work-Life Balance”

The very definition of work-life balance was permanently skewed as working from home became the norm during the pandemic. How do we strike that perfect balance when our home office and our work computer are always present? Simon Sinek, a former advertising executive and small business guru, gives some much-needed pointers on how to achieve that.

#1 Linda Chiou, CEO of IVY Swimwear, “How to Cultivate an Entrepreneurial Mindset”
We are living in an unprecedented time in which a record amount of people are rejecting the doldrums of working in the corporate world and, instead, want to follow their passions by becoming their own boss. Linda Chiou, a successful entrepreneur and CEO of IVY Swimwear, gives a powerful talk that reminds us that being an entrepreneur is as much of a mindset as it is a job.

https://kapitus.com/wp-content/uploads/Ted-Talks-Feature-Image.jpg 1240 2100 Vince Calio https://kapitus.com/wp-content/uploads/Kapitus_Logo_white-2-300x81-1-e1615929624763.png Vince Calio2022-02-10 16:37:572022-02-16 19:36:06Seeking Inspiration? Check Out the 10 Best Ted Talks of 2021 for Small Businesses
Couple sitting in beach chairs facing the water and sunrise.

Preparing Your Small Business for Retirement

August 3, 2021/in Accounting & Taxes, Featured Stories, Financing, Human Resources, Living Your Best SBO Life, Operations/by Vince Calio

Thinking about an exit strategy may be the last item on your priority list as you work hard to successfully run your small business. But no matter how young you are or how new your business is, life moves fast. It’s never too early to think about retirement, because being old and broke is the last place you want to be in a few decades (or a few years) from now. 

To prepare for retirement, the first item on your agenda should be to determine what you want to do with your business when it’s your turn to ride off into the sunset. Do you want to sell your business and use the proceeds to fund part of your retirement, or do you dream of passing along your business to your children or other close relatives? 

Planning For Retirement

No matter what you plan to do with your business once you’re ready to retire, saving money for retirement throughout your career is still your best bet. To do this, you’ll need to ask yourself some important retirement lifestyle questions, including:

  • What will your source of retirement income be?
  • How much money will you need to retire? 
  • What age do you want to retire, and how much will you need to save each month to make it happen?

Easily determine how much you need to save for retirement with the help of free online retirement calculators.

Online retirement calculators, such as this one from Bankrate, can be used for free online. If there is a place where you dream of spending your golden years, try to get an idea of what the cost of living is there. Also factor into the equation that as you get older, medical bills may pile up. If necessary, speak to a financial advisor about these factors. You can find a financial advisor online for free on various personal financial websites, such as SmartAsset.com. 

If You’re Starting Late

If you’re a bit late in the game when it comes to saving for retirement, not to worry. According to a great article from the American Association of Retired People (AARP), there are steps you can take, such as refining your personal budget to eliminate any excesses; setting up automatic savings deposits; maxing out contributions to any individual retirement account (IRA) you may have, and working as long as you can. The fact is, even if you’re starting to save in your 40s or 50s, you can still save enough to retire. 

Saving vs. Selling For Retirement

Selling your business to fund your retirement is an extremely risky proposition because small business owners tend to overestimate the value of their business and often mistakenly believe that selling it will bring in enough income to comfortably retire. Don’t count on it. A business is only worth what a buyer is willing to pay for it, and if you own a mom-and-pop shop with relatively low profit margins, chances are that selling your business will not pull in enough funds for you to retire.

The answer is to save early and often for retirement by setting up a retirement plan for yourself and your employees. Whether you have two or 20 employees, there is a retirement investment plan out there for your business. 

Retirement Investments

You can open a simple IRA which allows employees to contribute money to the plan. Another option is a SEP IRA, in which only the owners can make contributions. You can also fund a solo 401(k), which covers a business owner with no employees, or a 401(k) plan for small businesses.

You may want to seek help from a financial advisor to choose your investment options. The advisor can help you build a diversified investment portfolio that will automatically adjust the financial risk of your portfolio accordingly as you get older, and keep your retirement assets safe and allow them to grow.

Most retirement investment vehicles – be it a 401(k) plan or an IRA – allow you to contribute pre-tax dollars and will not charge you capital gains taxes until you retire or if you take an early withdrawal from it. Even saving just $100 pre-tax dollars per paycheck can add up over the years, so start saving early.

Always Know How Much Your Business is Worth

If you plan to sell your business to fund at least part of your retirement, you should always have a rough idea of what your business is worth. Finding out is a bit of a complicated process, so you may want to work with your accountant or an M&A advisor that specializes in small- to medium-size businesses (SMBs). 

  • The first step is to determine your cash flow by calculating your assets and deducting your liabilities from them. Your assets include current and outstanding invoices, equipment and inventory. If you own the land that your business resides on, that’s an asset as well. Then, subtract any outstanding debt and expenses you have from that figure. This is your cash flow and will at least give you a good starting point in determining the value of your business. 
  • Second, determine how much gross annual earnings your business makes through sales. This is often referred to by large corporations as earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (EBIDTA). A company’s rough value is often calculated by a multiple of gross annual sales or cash flow. 
  • Third, consult with an M&A advisor or accountant on what multiples are used in your specific industry and location. For example, if you own a small tool manufacturing and supply shop in a wealthy location such as New York City, the average multiple of earnings that your business may sell for in the area could be five. Therefore, if your business’ gross annual sales are $500,000, it could sell for $2.5 million. 
  • Fourth, consider your client base. If you’re an accounting or law firm or an independent medical practice and have a base of long-time clients or patients, that should be a negotiating point when you go to sell your business. Typically, companies with long-time clients fetch higher multiples than smaller businesses such a retail store or restaurant. 

Now that you have a rough idea of the value of your business, you should factor that into the amount you are saving and investing for retirement, especially if you are planning to sell your business to fund your retirement.

Passing Your Business to Your Heirs

If you’ve saved enough for retirement and want your child or another close relative to inherit your business, there are several logistical and financial considerations you need to examine:

  • First, make sure your child is properly educated, trained and willing to run your business. It is probably best to introduce your child to the business as early as possible.
  • Second, if you have more than one child and they all want to inherit a piece of your business, make sure you speak with your accountant and your kids about how they will divvy up your business and what tax consequences, if any, each of them will face once you decide to retire.
  • Work with your accountant to avoid paying the gift tax. The gift tax taxes the transfer of property from one person to another. The property does include a business, and this tax applies while you are still alive (this is not to be confused with the inheritance tax, which is what your heirs will owe to the IRS on whatever property you leave to them after you are deceased). 
  • Keep in mind that there is a $15,000 annual exclusion from the gift tax in 2020 and 2021, and a $11.7  million lifetime exclusion. If the amount you are giving to your heirs stays below those amounts, you can avoid having to pay the gift tax altogether..

When it comes to planning your retirement, do not listen to the old Rolling Stones song, “Time is on my Side” (notice that Mick Jagger and Keith Richards haven’t retired yet!). Start saving early, because you do not want to be financially struggling in your golden years, and you certainly want your children to be fully prepared for the day when they take over your business. The earlier you start, the better off you will be.

https://kapitus.com/wp-content/uploads/Prepping-your-business-for-retirement.jpg 1399 2100 Vince Calio https://kapitus.com/wp-content/uploads/Kapitus_Logo_white-2-300x81-1-e1615929624763.png Vince Calio2021-08-03 14:01:242021-11-19 22:47:30Preparing Your Small Business for Retirement
best books for small business owners

Best Books for Small Business Owners: Start with Why

January 27, 2020/in Human Resources, Living Your Best SBO Life, Operations, Sales and Marketing, Technology/by Anne Shaw

January Monthly Must-Reads: Best Books for Small Business Owners

It’s easier to say you’ll make time to learn new things that really doing it, especially when you own and operate your own business. But research has shown that continuous learning is essential to business and careers success. So, how do you make time in your busy schedule to think about new ideas and how you might apply them at work? Read—or listen—to great business books. With our pick of the best books for small business owners, you’re sure to find the inspiration you need to succeed.

To help you choose the best business books for your situation, we’ve created our Monthly Must-Reads Series. This series highlights helpful books for small business owners and also save you time. How? For each featured book, we share the main focus, key take-aways, and even reader reviews, so you can quickly determine whether the book is worth your valuable time. We hope this makes it easier for you to keep up with current innovation, management and workforce trends.

To kick off 2020, we’re sharing Start with Why by Simon Sinek. For a list of past Monthly Must-Reads, like December’s Multipliers: How the Best Leaders Make Everyone Smarter, check out the bottom of this article.

Business Book:

Start with Why: How Great Leaders Inspire Everyone to Take Action, by Simon Sinek

Focus:

Identifying how the most influential leaders think about, act on, and communicate their why.

Main Idea:

Understanding the underlying purpose–the why— behind an idea, product or service inspires people to make positive changes in their lives.

Great for Small Business Owners Who:

Want to innovate and inspire by discovering their true mission and operating from it.

Synopsis:

Simon Sinek’s 2009 TED talk, How Great Leaders Inspire Action, is the third most-viewed TED talk of all time. In it, he urges all leaders to start asking, “Why?”

“Why do I get out of bed in the morning?”

“Why does my company exist?”

“And why should anyone care?”

And he named his book with that in mind. Start with Why delves deeper into his central idea, offering real world examples that illustrate what happens when companies successfully communicate their why.

Key Take-Aways:

  • Too many companies start with, focus on, and talk about their what: the product or service they sell.
  • When companies understand their why’ (i.e. their mission and the values that support it; the reason they’re in business), they can better identify appropriate audiences and more effectively market to them, creating a loyal customer base in the process.
  • A company’s why should also influence its culture, its hiring decisions, and its teambuilding strategies. Employees, not just customers, should understand and buy into your company’s why.
  • When you organize everything from your operations to your marketing efforts keeping your why in mind, you build a loyal customer base and an engaged, motivated team.

Reviewers Say:

“[Wow.] I cannot rate this book highly enough to take a different, positive approach to life and work. Like others, I have watched Sinek’s TED Talk on this, and questioned whether the book would add anything more, and, boy, yes it did. Imagine the TED Talk expanded to two hours, with more depth, intrigue and examples. What I like most about the book compared to the TED Talk is that it delves more in to how Starting With Why can influence home life, not just work. [It definitely makes you think], and I’m even finding myself taking a different approach around my team at work. I agree, a lot of the examples are repeated (a lot) throughout the book, in particular Apple. I’m not against Apple and found it useful how the different topics are explained using the same companies as examples. It helps provide the fuller picture. However, let me assure any potential readers that there are also plenty of new examples given too.”

“The author’s TED talk is one of the most-viewed ever; and it’s really quite good. In fact, it’s so good that you don’t need to read this book! He takes a very, very simple concept and expands, and expands, and repeats, and seemingly never edits, and then repeats, and expands, and — well, you get the idea. The whole thing could’ve been done in 50 pages or less. Example: Yes, there’s a difference between WHAT one does in business and WHY one does it. And sometimes they diverge. He calls this the “Split” and has a graphic and whole chapter on it. Really?? Not needed.”

Monthly Must-Read Business Books:

August, 2019 – Blitzscaling

September, 2019 – The E-Myth Revisited

October, 2019 – Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion

November, 2019 – Built to Last

December, 2019 – Multipliers

[skyword_tracking /]

https://kapitus.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/Start-With-Why-1001.jpg 1501 2201 Anne Shaw https://kapitus.com/wp-content/uploads/Kapitus_Logo_white-2-300x81-1-e1615929624763.png Anne Shaw2020-01-27 10:44:012021-09-22 18:10:30Best Books for Small Business Owners: Start with Why
KaneyOneill

Thriving as a Female Veteran Business Owner With a Disability

December 9, 2019/in Living Your Best SBO Life/by Dawn Reiss

Kaney O’Neill, the founder and CEO of ONeill Contractors, was attending community college and working as a waitress when she entered the military at 19 years old. She yearned for more excitement and a chance to see the world. She dreamed of being a search-and-rescue swimmer for the Navy and hoped to jump out of a few airplanes.

After joining the Navy, O’Neill jokes she became a “professional paint scraper.” She spent the next two years as a shipyard worker on the docked nuclear aircraft carrier, the USS Nimitz.

The Life-Changing Accident

When O’Neill was 21 in 1999, Hurricane Floyd hit Newport News, Virginia. She fell off a balcony and severed her spinal cord. The accident rendered O’Neill a quadriplegic. “It was a freak accident,” she says. “I went out on my balcony to take a closer look at the oncoming storm and a gust carried me over the edge of the railing.” In an instant, her life changed forever.

After spending seven months rehabilitating at Edward Hines Jr. VA Hospital in Illinois, O’Neill continued community college and later transferred to Northwestern University to earn a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree. Despite her education, O’Neill couldn’t find any work.

“My resume got me job interviews but when I pulled up in my wheelchair no one wanted to hire me,” she says. Instead, O’Neill says potential employers ardently questioned how she’d be able to handle certain job functions or the type of special accommodations she’d need.

“After a year of trying, I decided to do something different,” she says. O’Neill followed the mantra, “I don’t allow an obstacle to loom larger than my own determination.” She started O’Neill Contractors, a roofing company in the Chicago suburbs in 2007. It helped that O’Neill’s father, uncle, and brother were all roofers. Still, it took her a long time to gain momentum. “In the beginning, I tried to do everything on my own,” she says.

Looking for Support

Eventually, Kaney O’Neill (who is also a single mother) realized that she was working in a vacuum. She was figuring things out for herself. So, she started networking and meeting other small business owners. She even attended local events held by the Small Business Administration and Women’s Business Development Center.

“It was a game-changer,” says O’Neill. She’s the 2015 recipient of the National Veteran-Owned Business Association Woman Vetrepreneur of the Year Award. She received the 28th Annual Woman Veteran of the Year Award from the Women’s Business Development Center in 2014, too. “For small businesses, there is so much to do and it takes so much time to attend events, but the payback has been extraordinary.”

That’s been especially important for O’Neill, she says.

“I work in a male-dominated industry,” O’Neill says. “To be around other women, to go somewhere to be around other veterans is what gives you the motivation to go back to the office and be excited.”

For any entrepreneur that’s essential, she says. That’s why listening to other speakers talk about their businesses can help with gleaning tips and energize daily routines.

“It’s so important, as entrepreneurs, to keep the spirit of how exciting it is to be running your own business,” she says. “It’s easy to get caught up in the mundane of daily activities.”

Growing an 8(a) Business

When O’Neill first started she “just kind of winged it” without an official business plan. Everything changed when she needed a line of credit and a more formalized plan with financial projections. “That’s when I realized how much I still needed to learn.”

O’Neill soon recognized that owning a business isn’t only about the day-to-day operations. It’s about the marketing, the financials and so much more, she says. She took a class at the Women’s Business Development Center in Chicago. She received help from Bunker Labs, a nonprofit that helps veterans and military spouse entrepreneurs start their businesses and immersed herself in training through the SBA’s Emerging Leaders program. Also, she received training through Operation Hand Salute, a program AT&T offered to help disabled veterans grow their small businesses.

“As I educated myself on all aspects of running a business, I started to have more confidence in how to run a business,” O’Neill says. She began work on her two-minute elevator pitch for potential clients and lenders. “Most people have a very short attention span to hear what you have to say,” she says. “You have to be able to sell yourself and what you’re good at.”

To bid on government procurement projects, Kaney O’Neill became a certified woman-owned, service-disabled, veteran-owned 8(a) business. The idea behind the federal government’s 8(a) business development program is to award at least five percent of contracting funds to entrepreneurs who, among other qualifications, own small, socially and economically disadvantaged businesses.

Part of the application process required O’Neill to write an essay on the disadvantages she faced either as a woman-owned business or disabled, veteran-owned business. “It was difficult,” she says. “You [have] to choose, even though I tried to tie it all together. You have to find concrete examples of [discrimination].”

Positivity Equals Possibility

Too often, O’Neill says many people have questioned her ability to run her own businesses because she is quadriplegic.

“Unfortunately, some people look at someone with a disability they look at all the things we can’t do rather than look at how we’ve overcome our burdens,” says O’Neill, a Veterans Wheelchair Games medalist who mentors young adults in wheelchairs and authored the children’s book “Dream and Reach.”

Eventually, Kaney O’Neill landed a $132,000 roofing contract with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers which helped her land a modest contract with Boeing. Now she runs a 22-person, multimillion dollar contract managing business. ONeill Contractors expanded into a design-build-general contracting firm. They manage government procurement projects for the U.S. Air Force, Department of Veteran Affairs, Coast Guard, U.S. General Services Administration and Naval Facilities Engineering Command (NAVFAC).

“People forget being in business is just as much about the people as [it’s] what you are doing,” says O’Neill.

Kaney O’Neill’s advice to aspiring small business owners? “If you are considering running a business, start hanging around people who are running a business. Go to conferences and attend seminars to learn before making the leap.”

https://kapitus.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/KaneyOneill.jpg 1400 2200 Dawn Reiss https://kapitus.com/wp-content/uploads/Kapitus_Logo_white-2-300x81-1-e1615929624763.png Dawn Reiss2019-12-09 12:21:342022-01-27 19:06:58Thriving as a Female Veteran Business Owner With a Disability
As a Business Owner, Do I Need a Life Coach?

As a Business Owner, Do I Need a Life Coach?

December 4, 2019/in Living Your Best SBO Life/by Erin Ollila

You’ve just returned from a networking event where you learned that a colleague recently hired a life coach. They told you all about the experience, and it seemed to be a good one. It led you to wonder:”Do I need a life coach?” The more you think of it, the more you’d like to have someone on your side, coaching you through your journey. But you’re not quite sure it’s right for you.

We talked with Jenni Schubring, life coach and speaker, to identify what small business owners can gain from working with someone, how it differs from hiring a business coach, and how to determine if a life coach is the right fit for you. Here’s what she had to say.

Do I Need a Life Coach?

As a small business owner, you’re the heart of your business, whether you’re a solopreneur or have a large staff. You wear all the hats. You work early mornings and late nights. You also determine how much risk you’re willing to take to grow your business. Unless you have a business partner, you’re left bearing the weight of all that responsibility.

Wouldn’t it be nice to partner with someone who can help you determine your strengths and weaknesses? They can help you plan to use this knowledge more in your business – and life – so you can work towards your goals and achieve more.

Schubring explains it by saying, “Small business owners throw everything they have into their businesses. If any part of their life is ‘off’ it can — and will — affect their business. A life coach will address the whole person helping them get from where they are to where they want to be.”

She continues, “People see life through their own lens. That lens is usually tinted by life events. A life coach is an expert in helping people become more self-aware. This is such an important skill as a small business owner because our intent can be misunderstood. Those misunderstandings can be detrimental to our business. We can’t fix what we don’t know. A life coach will speak truth when it’s hard to hear. A life coach will help you see a more accurate picture of your reality.”

But, Wait. Why Not Hire a Business Coach?

Business coaches have their purpose for sure! Schubring says, “A business coach’s focus is on the business and performance. They will give you action steps on how to step up your business and help you meet your business goals.”

She then explains how the two fields differ, and says, “A life coach focuses on the whole person and the coachee’s personal development. A life coach’s process is to work on the coachee as a whole so they can better impact their world, which also includes their business.”

For example, when working with a new client, Schubring might start off with a personal assessment. She says, “My personal favorite is the Gallup Strengths Finder. This tool, and others like them, can help small business owners uncover a personal awareness that can lead to positive change.”

She then shares in more detail, “We know that to have a good business we need to have good relationships. It is important to recognize how we interact with others. We can then make the appropriate changes to positively impact those relationships. While the results of these assessments can help with that personal awareness, having [someone] walk you through the results and teach you how to apply them is a powerful piece that could be missed without a coach.”

How Can Business Owners Find the Right Life Coach?

If you’re wondering, “Do I need a life coach?”, the best approach to finding that answer is to interview life coaches and see how those meetings make you feel. Schubring recommends starting your search by looking for a life coach who is licensed or certified. In addition to that, she says that finding someone who feels “right” is so important, too. But how do you know when there’s a match?

Schubring says, “Find that out by taking coaches up on their free discovery calls, follow them on social media, watch their videos. Do the research. I also highly recommend making sure your life coach has their own life coach. We need to walk the talk.”

[skyword_tracking /]

https://kapitus.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/JennySchubring.jpg 1400 2200 Erin Ollila https://kapitus.com/wp-content/uploads/Kapitus_Logo_white-2-300x81-1-e1615929624763.png Erin Ollila2019-12-04 15:28:192019-12-04 15:28:19As a Business Owner, Do I Need a Life Coach?
woman listening to the ultimate small business playllist

The Ultimate Small Business Owner Playlist

November 19, 2019/in Living Your Best SBO Life/by Erin Ollila

It’s important to make your own soundtrack that will take you through your good days and your bad when you’re a small business owner. Certain songs encourage, motivate, and inspire. Though there isn’t one ultimate small business owner playlist that is universal, each individual business owner needs to choose songs that mentally prepare them to lead their business every day.

To get you started, we asked ten professionals what they’re currently listening to, and they chose the number one song that would make it on their personal ultimate small business owner playlist. Here is what they had to say.

10 Songs that May Find Their Way To Your Ultimate Small Business Owner Playlist

“Lose Yourself” by Eminem

Cristin Downs, co-founder of Much More Media, says, “Lose Yourself, in my opinion, is the perfect come-from-behind song. When you feel down and out, or [if] someone else has counted you out, it’s the perfect song to buckle down and work hard to.”

“Good Riddance (Time of Your Life)” by Green Day

“I definitely listen to songs from when I was in college,” says Robin Walker, owner of Women’s business Workshop. “It reminds me of when I was young, energetic, and carefree, and after listening to it, I feel like I can take on anything. ‘Good Riddance’, reminds me to live in the moment because this is the time of our lives!”

“You Say” by Lauren Daigle

Life coach Jenni Schubring says, “Sometimes it’s easy to lose myself in my work, whether it is from someone’s difficult story or recognizing where I am lacking in my business. ‘You Say’ reminds me of the truth of who I am and why I do what I do.”

“Good Life” by Zhu

When you’re choosing your ultimate small business owner playlist, think about what you like more — the beat or the lyrics. Some songs have both. “I love listening to “Good Life” by Zhu,” says Greta Reid, owner and operator of Layerfied Designs. The beat is catchy and the lyrics are upbeat and empowering.”

“Play That Song” by Train

Here’s another song with lyrics and a beat. “When I work, fun music motivates and de-stresses me,” says Carrie Sharpe, communications consultant and speaker. “Train’s ‘Play That Song’ is upbeat and light, which helps me not get bogged down by tasks and heavy projects.”

“Better When I’m Dancing” by Meghan Trainor

Need a tune to liven up your day? Melissa Droegemueller, former early-childhood educator and founder of Rolling Prairie Readers, says, “When I need a bit of energy, I like to play “Better When I’m Dancing’ and have an impromptu dance party with my kids. It never fails to improve my mood!”

“Try Everything” from the Zootopia soundtrack by Shakira

Suzanne Brown, author and marketing consultant, says, “I heard ‘Try Everything’ while watching Zootopia with my young boys and thought the words spoke to entrepreneurs. So often, we need to continue to try and make effort without giving up. And, let’s be honest, it’s Shakira!”

“I’m Coming Out” by Diana Ross

Downs says, “I’m Coming Out” is the perfect song for when you’re feeling like you’re riding high. In my head, I see a montage of me walking down the street with an entourage and back-up singers. I want the world to know I crushed it, and this song does that for me.”

“Days Like This” by Van Morrison

Every day isn’t perfect as a small business owner, so sometimes, you need a song that will get you out of a funk. “Days Like This” does just that. Attorney and Realtor, Kate Berard says, This song’s perfect. It gets you out of a downward frame of mind so you can start feeling better and accomplish what you need to get done. It reminds me that if you’re struggling, it’s only temporary.”

“September” by Earth Wind and Fire

Mallika Malhotra, brand mentor and photographer says, “Every time I listen to “September”, it instantly puts me in a better mood! The music, the beat, the lyrics never get old and always has my body moving and shaking off any stress or fatigue.”

How Far I’ll Go from the Moana Soundtrack by Auli’i Cravalho

As for me, one of the top songs on my playlist is “How Far I’ll Go” from the Moana soundtrack. It reminds me of my calling as an entrepreneur — something that I toyed with until I jumped in! I remind myself of this when I’m starting a new project or upleveling my business.

 

[skyword_tracking /]

https://kapitus.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/iStock-1136789114-scaled.jpg 1709 2560 Erin Ollila https://kapitus.com/wp-content/uploads/Kapitus_Logo_white-2-300x81-1-e1615929624763.png Erin Ollila2019-11-19 15:25:442019-11-19 15:25:44The Ultimate Small Business Owner Playlist
Best Books for Small Business Owners: Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion

Best Books for Small Business Owners – Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion

October 28, 2019/in Featured Stories, Living Your Best SBO Life, Sales and Marketing/by Anne Shaw

October Monthly Must-Reads: Best Books for Small Business Owners

As a business owner, you likely wear many hats, from human resources to operations and from sales to fulfillment. So, where do you fit in time for learning and professional development?

Keep up with innovation, business and leadership trends by reading the right business books for your small business.

In our Monthly Must-Reads series, we share a featured business book’s main focus and key take-aways, so you can determine within a minute if it’s relevant to you and your small business—really, whether it’s worth your valuable time. This month, we’re covering Dr. Robert Cialdini’s Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion, which seeks to teach you how to use six universal principles of persuasion as well as how to be aware of when others use them on you.

Business Book:

Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion, by Robert Cialdini

Focus:

Understanding the psychology and main principles behind effective persuasion

Main Idea:

There is useful science behind how people are persuaded

Great for Small Business Owners Who:

Want to improve their sales conversations

Synopsis:

Dr. Cialdini identifies and explains six principles of persuasion. He argues that utilizing them ethically will help readers more successfully win people over to their way of thinking. In fact, he says, employing tactics related to each principle to make small, free and practical changes can often improve your results.

While exploring each principle, Cialdini shares research and past studies that illustrate each principle in action. He then uses real-life examples to help readers understand each one in ways that will help them apply these principles to their own efforts.

The six principles are:

  • Reciprocity – The inclination to return favors
  • Scarcity – When people perceive a scarcity, demand tends to go up
  • Authority – People want to believe they’re working with someone who’s credible
  • Consistency – If someone has previously said or done something, they’re more likely to take a similar or related action than those who have not
  • Liking – People are more likely to go along with someone they like
  • Consensus – People are more likely to go along with your points if you can show that others agree with you
Key Take-Aways:
  • Understanding and using these principles empowers you to grow more persuasive—in an entirely ethical way.
  • When trying to persuade people:
    • Build the beginning of a positive relationship by looking for similarities between yourselves and consider genuine compliments you can offer.
    • Always be the first to give. Something unexpected and even personalized works best.
    • Share not only what is unique about your offering or argument, but also what they stand to lose if they don’t consider your ideas.
    • Find ways to present or display proofs of your credibility.
    • Look for ways to tie your ideas to something that they have said or done in the past.
    • Show them that others—especially people similar to themselves—already agree with and/or have acted on your ideas.
Reviewers Say:

“I own perhaps 2,000 books on the subject of selling. This is certainly in the top 5.”

“This book is dated and largely appears to pre-date what we consider the modern internet/TV phenomenon, and that’s obvious in reading it. That’s its only real flaw… and, to be fair, this wouldn’t likely receive much improvement from an updated revision. [The] lessons inside about how we are susceptible to persuasion don’t really need updating… they are solid enough, outlined well enough, and supported with facts and data enough that they withstand the obvious test of time.”

“I read this book when it first came out 25 years ago. It had an enormous impact on my thinking and behavior. Since then, I have recommended it to thousands of people…In return, I have had hundreds of people thank me for recommending it. I recently decided to reread the updated version. It does not disappoint. I will still be recommending it. I would say that this is a book you need to read in self-defense, if for no other reason. You have no idea how many times a day people try to influence you using the techniques described in this book. If you like to think that you are an autonomous person who thinks for yourself, you would be wrong. This book shows just how much you respond to influence cues in your environment without any thought at all. Unfortunately, we all function on autopilot far more often than we realize. This book will help you get off of autopilot, at least some of the time.”


Kapitus Monthly Must-Read Business Books:

August – Blitzscaling

September – The E-Myth Revisited

October – Influence

https://kapitus.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/Influence-Cialdini.jpg 1501 2201 Anne Shaw https://kapitus.com/wp-content/uploads/Kapitus_Logo_white-2-300x81-1-e1615929624763.png Anne Shaw2019-10-28 17:40:532022-01-27 19:04:13Best Books for Small Business Owners – Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion
High-value low cost employee benefits

Supercharge Your Employee Benefits With These 5 Out-of-the-Box Perks

October 7, 2019/in Human Resources, Living Your Best SBO Life/by Wil Rivera

Want to rev-up your employee benefits package? Explore 5 low-investment, high return ideas your team will love.

Read more
https://kapitus.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/Supercharge-your-employee-benefits-with-these-5-out-of-the-box-perks.jpg 1466 2200 Wil Rivera https://kapitus.com/wp-content/uploads/Kapitus_Logo_white-2-300x81-1-e1615929624763.png Wil Rivera2019-10-07 14:01:482022-06-27 14:39:20Supercharge Your Employee Benefits With These 5 Out-of-the-Box Perks
Best Books for Small Business Owners: E-Myth Revisited

Best Books for Small Business Owners Series: The E-Myth Revisited

September 23, 2019/in Featured Stories, Living Your Best SBO Life, Monthly Must Reads, Operations, Sales and Marketing/by Anne Shaw

September Monthly Must-Reads: Best Books for Small Business Owners

Business and careers experts often stress the importance of lifelong learning. But, as a business owner, you have a lot on your plate, making it difficult for you to make time for learning and professional development.

You need a strategy that’s simple and can be folded into your everyday life–try reading. One simple way to keep up with current innovation, management and workforce trends is by reading the right business books for your situation.

With our Monthly Must-Reads series, we aim to save you time by covering well-known and new business books. We share each featured book’s main focus and key take-aways, so you can determine within a minute if it’s relevant to you—really, whether it’s worth your valuable time. This month, we’re sharing The E-Myth Revisited as one of our best books for small business owners, and you can also check last month’s must-read: Blitzscaling.

Business Book:

The E-Myth Revisited, by Michael E. Gerber

Focus:

Exploring why 80% of small businesses fail and what pitfalls new business owners should avoid

Main Idea:

Even if you understand and perform technical work wonderfully, it doesn’t necessarily mean that you can successfully start and run a business around that type of work.

Great for Small Business Owners Who:

Are still in the early stages of business planning.

Synopsis:

Voted as the #1 business book by Inc. 500 CEOs, The E-Myth Revisited opens by dispelling the “entrepreneurial myth” with what author, Michael Gerber, calls the “Fatal Assumption: if you understand the technical work of a business, [then] you understand a business that does that technical work.”

Gerber argues that new business owners must prepare to take on three different roles to achieve success:

  • Technician (e.g. an expert)
  • Entrepreneur (e.g. a “big picture” thinker)
  • Manager (e.g. the one who sees to the details that get things done).

While walking readers through a typical business’s lifespan, Gerber points out that successful companies run on repeatable processes and achieve success using proven business models. Beyond hard work, Gerber argues, business owners must focus on three ingredients to create a thriving business: rules, regulations and a plan.

Key Take-Aways:
  • Successful small business owners balance their time between managing employees, getting things done and performing big picture thinking.
  • Work on your business, not just in it. It can be tempting to let yourself remain distracted by the day-to-day tasks of running your business—think ordering inventory, serving customers and making sales—but in order to succeed and grow their companies, business owners must make time to work on their businesses. Working on your business includes high-level thinking like strategic planning, market research and developing unique selling propositions.
Reviewers Say:

“I own a small service business with around 15 employees. I had been struggling for years doing all managerial work myself so that it was done up to my standards. We did great work but at the expense of my sanity! A mentor told me to read this book. The E-Myth was the driving factor that took my small business, which had been controlling my life, and transformed it into a business I could run remotely. If you own a small business, you need to read this book as soon as possible.”

“I owned my own successful retail business for 12 years and this was the Resource Book that helped the most. Here’s the core message – it’s easy to spend time working IN your business, but If you want it to grow, you need to block out critical time to work ON your business.”

 

Kapitus Monthly Must-Reads:

August – Blitzscaling

September – The E-Myth Revisited

[skyword_tracking /]

https://kapitus.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/Best-Books-for-small-business-owners-emyth-revisited.png 1022 1500 Anne Shaw https://kapitus.com/wp-content/uploads/Kapitus_Logo_white-2-300x81-1-e1615929624763.png Anne Shaw2019-09-23 15:44:232019-09-23 15:44:23Best Books for Small Business Owners Series: The E-Myth Revisited

Small Business Owner Stress: How to Train Your Brain to Reduce Your Worries

September 9, 2019/in Featured Stories, Living Your Best SBO Life/by Wil Rivera

When you run a small business, you’ve got a lot of responsibility. Sometimes that results in small business owner stress that can hurt your company. A study conducted by OnePoll on behalf of Alarm.com found that the average small-business owner in America loses 44 minutes of productive work time every day due to worries about their business, representing an annual cost of about $10,000.

Fortunately, there are some simple things you can do to combat it. Our brains have four natural chemicals that help us feel happier. It’s possible to naturally trigger the chemicals to tap into their power and better handle the stress of being a business owner.

1. Dopamine

Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that’s naturally produced in the brain. It contributes to feelings of pleasure and satisfaction as part of the reward system, according to Psychology Today. When we achieve a goal, our brain releases dopamine. This chemical is also linked to focus, which can be derailed when you’re stressed.

If you’re overwhelmed by a big project, you can get a natural dose of dopamine by setting small achievable goals. For example, break down a large task into tiny steps. When you hit each milestone, you’ll get a release of dopamine that can help you overcome your stress. Be sure to mark each completion in a way that fuels your brain. For example, simply making a list and checking off tasks when you’re done can be all you need.

2. Endorphins

Called “feel good” chemicals, endorphins are the body’s natural way of stress reduction. They boost happiness and act as a pain reliever, according to Medical News Today.

One of the easiest ways to get a natural release of endorphins is through exercise. This can be as simple as a brisk walk, or you can choose another activity that you enjoy. Another way to increase your endorphins is to do something nice for someone else. Volunteering is one idea, or even just giving someone a compliment can work. You can also release endorphins with food. Studies have found that dark chocolate can help. And another way to release endorphins is to laugh. Take a break at work and watch a funny video—anything that gets you to laugh will relieve stress.

3. Oxytocin

Oxytocin is a chemical that is linked to trust and loyalty. It’s known as the “cuddle hormone,” according to Psychology Today. While you probably don’t want to cuddle with your employees, this hormone is also triggered by social bonding. When you release oxytocin, you enhance the sense of camaraderie.

You can naturally release oxytocin by keeping a gratitude journal. Write down three things you’re thankful for at the end of each day. You can also express gratitude to others. Make a point of thanking employees or recognizing them for jobs well done. And make time for bonding experiences with your employees. Work retreats can help release oxytocin, allowing you to get rid of stress and come back strong and refreshed.

4. Serotonin

Finally, serotonin is a chemical that regulates mood and helps with sleep. This is also known as the “confidence molecule,” according to Psychology Today. Higher levels of serotonin are linked to self-esteem and accomplishment. This can be helpful when you own a business and you need to be willing to take risks.

You can naturally release serotonin by simply reliving a moment when you accomplished a goal or tackled and completed a difficult task. It can help to write down your successes in a journal so they’re handy. Sunlight or bright light can also trigger serotonin. Put your desk next to a window or make sure your office is well lit. Using daylight light bulbs can help. Exercise can also increase serotonin. Make time to take a walk outside, especially on a sunny day, and you’ll get yourself a double dose.

 

Small business owner stress can cost you productivity and money, and sometimes a simple solution is the best one. When you’re feeling stressed at work, take a break and do an activity that will release some of your happy chemicals. You’ll recharge your outlook and feel ready to tackle whatever comes next.

https://kapitus.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/small-business-owner-stress-how-to-train-your-brain.jpg 1585 1891 Wil Rivera https://kapitus.com/wp-content/uploads/Kapitus_Logo_white-2-300x81-1-e1615929624763.png Wil Rivera2019-09-09 15:19:232022-01-27 18:52:03Small Business Owner Stress: How to Train Your Brain to Reduce Your Worries

LATEST FROM KAPITUS

  • Small Businesses Give Their 2023 Predictions
  • Building Effective Freelance Relationships
  • BRB Stories: Cafe de Stir It Up and the Fight for Dietary Freedom
  • BRB Stories: Empowering a New Generation of Swimmers and Thinkers
  • BRB Stories: Frères Branchiaux and the Fragrance Revolution

Subscribe To Our Blog For More Tips On How To Grow Your Business

Categories

  • Accounting & Taxes
  • Alternative Financing
  • Business Expansion
  • Business Loans
  • Business Productivity
  • Business Productivity
  • Business Software & Cybersecurity
  • Cash Flow Management
  • Claim Your Corner of the Internet
  • Company News
  • Featured Stories
  • Financing
  • Human Resources
  • Industry Center
  • Leadership
  • Legal
  • Living Your Best SBO Life
  • Making Her Mark – Influential Women Business Owners
  • Monthly Must Reads
  • News
  • Operations
  • Personal
  • Raising Capital
  • Recruitment
  • Risk Management
  • Sales and Marketing
  • Tax Center
  • Tax Legislation
  • Technology
  • Technology Center
  • Uncategorized

About Us

  • Media Center
  • Team
  • Careers
  • Events
  • Success Stories
  • The Kapitus Difference
  • Developer Documentation
  • Blog
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Use

Products

  • Revenue Based Financing
  • Helix® Healthcare Financing
  • Business Loans
  • SBA Loans
  • Line of Credit
  • Invoice Factoring
  • Equipment Financing
  • Purchase Order Financing
  • Concierge Services
  • Resource Center

Contact Us

  • (800) 780-7133
  • Email Us

Signup For Our Newsletter

Copyright 2023 Strategic Funding Source, Inc. All rights reserved. Kapitus and the Kapitus logo are registered trademarks of Strategic Funding Source, Inc.
  • Twitter
  • LinkedIn
  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • Youtube
Scroll to top
  • Whether you want to learn more about our financing options, are interested in becoming a partner or just have a general question, we’re here to help! Simply fill out the form below and we’ll get it directly into the inbox of the right person.

Step 1 of 4 - Tell us about you

25%
  • Sign up for the Kapitus Partner Program!

  • Sign up for the Kapitus Partner Program!

  • Sign up for the Kapitus Partner Program!

  • Sign up for the Kapitus Partner Program!

Step 1 of 10 - TELL US ABOUT YOUR PRIMARY FINANCING NEED

10%
  • Find the right financing product for you.

    Answer a few questions and we’ll match you with the best product based on your needs and current situations.

  • 1. Answer a few questions. You let us know some basic information about your financing needs, so we can find a match.
    2. See your financing matches. You'll get matched with up to four financing options based on your answers.
    3. Apply for financing. You can apply for all of your financing options by completing one simple application and providing a few documents.
    4. Get an Advisor: You have the option to be assigned a financing specialist to help guide you through the application process.
    If you are looking to determine the best financing option for you, our matching tool streamlines the process and arms you with information that you can use before you apply. To match you with your best options, we ask you to answer a series of basic questions about your existing and future needs, current financial health, and your financing preferences – including amount to be financed, ideal terms and financing urgency. Our system then finds you up to four financing options to fit your needs. Once you’re matched, you can expect to be contacted by one of our financing specialists to help you navigate the application and selection processes.
  • Find your financing match


  • Each financing product has its own minimum and maximum requirements around the amount of money that can be acquired through that option.
  • Find your financing match



    • Business Accountants
    • Marketing & PR Agencies
    • Commercial Cleaning Companies
    • Printers
    • Human Resource & Payroll Firms
    • Office Supplies Organizations
    • Salons/Spas
    • Gyms & Other Workout Studios
    • Pet Services Companies
    • Personal Accountants
    • Home Cleaning Companies
    • Residential Landscaping
  • There are financing options created to meet the specific needs of particular industries.
  • Find your financing match

  • Thank you for reaching out to Kapitus. Unfortunately, our financing products are only available for existing businesses and we will not be able to help you at this time.


  • The amount of time your business has been in operation is a deciding factor in the type of financing options available to you.
  • Find your financing match


  • Each financing product has its own minimum requirement for the amount of revenue being brought into a business on either a monthly or an annual basis. In addition, your monthly and/or annual revenue can dictate the length and term on your financing option.
  • Find your financing match


  • Each financing product offers different payback lengths and terms.
  • Find your financing match


  • Each financing product has different paperwork and underwriting processes. As a result, the amount of time it takes to get approved for one type of financing over another can vary significantly.
  • Find your financing match

  • Find your financing match


  • There are financing options for every credit type, however your personal credit score will determine your eligibility for each financing type.
  • We’re finding your match