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Getting Started in Business
From creating a business plan to navigating the first steps of entrepreneurship, our articles offer practical advice and inspiration, encouragement, and actionable strategies to help you start strong. Take the first step toward achieving your business dreams today!
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Making Connections That Count – Turning Clicks into Real Relationships In business, relationships are everything. Not just transactions. Not just quick likes. Not just business cards exchanged at networking events. Real relationships — the kind that build trust, referrals, collaborations, and long-term growth. At Small Business Showcase Digital Magazine, our website isn’t just a place […]
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The Power of Systems – How Streamlining Your Business Frees You to Grow If you’re a business owner, you probably wear a dozen hats on any given day—salesperson, marketer, accountant, HR manager, customer service rep, and (if there’s time left) visionary. You might even joke that your business would fall apart if you took a […]
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Ignite Your Next Chapter: Why You MUST Be at the Women’s Entrepreneur Summit- Round Tables for Success. Experts agree in today’s economy, isolation is the number one threat to a woman’s entrepreneurial success. The solution isn’t just a networking event; it’s a strategically built ecosystem of support. That is precisely why Cindy Cohen so thrilled […]
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Mary Kay Ash: The Power of Pink and Perseverance By Deb Ammerman, Editor-in-Chief, Small Business Showcase Digital Magazine When people think of Mary Kay, the image that often comes to mind is one of elegance, confidence, and compassion — wrapped in a pink Cadillac and powered by an unstoppable belief in the potential of women. […]
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DineIn – The Catering Partner Local Businesses Trust Before food delivery apps became household names, before ordering takeout meant clicking a few buttons on your phone, there was DineIn. Led by current owner Joshua Railton, this Michiana-based company has been bringing meals from local restaurants to doorsteps and offices since 1993, long before giants like […]
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After more than three decades in leadership, Ryan Woodruff understands what drives healthy teams and what causes them to fall apart. He’s led departments at major banks, retail chains, and credit unions, weathering acquisitions, closures, and culture shifts. But through it all, one truth kept rising to the surface: strong leadership starts with understanding people. […]
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Featured Read – Think & Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill If there’s one book every small business owner should have on their shelf, it’s Think & Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill. Even though it was first published back in 1937, its lessons are just as powerful today as they were nearly a century ago. Why? […]
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Keeping Creativity Alive – Why Making Art Matters More Than Ever In a world that moves faster every day, where emails, deadlines, and endless to-do lists compete for our attention, it’s easy to let creativity slip quietly to the back burner. Many of us think of art as a luxury—something “extra” we’ll get to once […]
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Traci Winston Williams – Building Business, Spreading Awareness, and Creating Community If there’s one word that describes Traci Winston Williams, it’s unstoppable. As the founder of Unique Boutique International LLC, BMWS Housing, and the president of H.O.T. Hear Our Tears, she has created businesses that not only serve her community but also amplify her mission […]
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Social Media Tips for Time-Strapped Business Owners By Deb Ammerman | Small Business Showcase Digital Magazine Let’s face it—running a business is a full-time job (and then some). Between managing customers, handling operations, and trying to have a life, social media often falls to the bottom of the to-do list. But in today’s connected world, […]
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Top 10 Free Tools Every Small Business Should Be Using Save Time, Stay Organized, and Work Smarter—Without Spending a Dime Being a small business owner means juggling everything—sales, customer service, marketing, operations… and somehow still finding time to sleep. The right tools can make your life easier, especially when they’re free. Whether you’re just starting […]
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The Power of Referrals – How to Get Them and Keep Them Coming By Small Business Showcase Digital Magazine If you’re a small business owner, entrepreneur, or service provider, you already know this truth: word of mouth is gold. Referrals are one of the most powerful — and cost-effective — ways to grow your business. […]
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By Small Business Showcase Digital Magazine Staff In today’s fast-paced, scroll-and-go world, it’s easy to overlook one of the most effective and affordable marketing tools available: email marketing. Yep, that trusty old inbox is still one of the best places to build relationships, drive repeat business, and grow your bottom line. But if you’re a […]
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The Zany World of Mindset: A Survival Guide for Small Business Owners! Attention, entrepreneurs of the small business realm! Welcome to the circus of success, where the tightrope of entrepreneurship meets the trapeze of mindset. Grab your popcorn and prepare for a ride as we uncover some zany secrets of mastering the entrepreneurial mindset! Embrace […]
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The Pros and Cons of Freelancing Freelancing is a great way to have more flexibility, freedom, and control over your work. You can choose your own hours, work from anywhere in the world, and take on projects that you’re passionate about. But freelancing also comes with its own set of challenges, such as finding clients, […]
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Note from Deb Ammerman – Editor In Chief: Every year, thousands of college grads enter the workforce with high hopes… and faceplant into frustration. Why do some get multiple job offers while others get radio silence? This eye-opening article breaks down the real reasons behind that divide — and it’s not just about grades or […]
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WHY C2 YOUR HEALTH WOMEN’S INITIATIVE? “Individually, we are one drop. Together, we are an ocean. With action a tidal wave. – Ryunosuke Satoro I would like to share my experience of creating Why “C2 Your Health” Women’s Initiative, a non-profit organization designed to support women entrepreneurs. At the beginning of my entrepreneurial journey, finding local […]
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Things a business owner needs to know about finances. As small business owners we know first hand how important it is to have a good understanding of finances. Without a solid financial foundation, it’s difficult to grow your business and achieve your goals. Here are a few things we’ve learned along the way… Set a […]
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The Virtual Shift – A Journey through the Perks & Pitfalls of Working from Home Introduction Hello fellow business owners, entrepreneurs, and visionaries. In a world where flexibility and adaptability are paramount, the concept of working from home has taken center stage. As a team who has come to appreciate the array of benefits and […]
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Embracing Harmony – A Guide to Navigating Workplace Conflict and Stress In the hustle and bustle of our professional lives, the undeniable truth is that conflict and stress often find their way into our workplace. As someone who has tread through these turbulent waters, I’ve come to realize that these challenges can either break us […]
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Essential Reads for Small Business Owners In the ever-evolving world of entrepreneurship, achieving success goes beyond sheer determination. It calls for a blend of knowledge, foresight, and an openness to embrace change. For small business owners like you, the journey toward success is a mosaic crafted from various experiences, strategies, and insights. To enhance and […]
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Unleashing the Leader Within – Wisdom from the Greats In the grand scheme of history, leaders have always played a pivotal role in shaping the course of our world. These visionaries, thinkers, and doers have left behind a treasure trove of wisdom that continues to inspire and guide us in our own leadership journeys. As […]
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Tradeshow Booth Advice from Zipp Printing It’s Tradeshow Season! That magical time when booths pop up like spring flowers, swag flies through the air, and networking happens over tiny cups of coffee. Let’s be honest—trade shows can be awesome… or awkward. If your booth looks like a nap trap and your team is counting ceiling […]
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**Stop Fearing the Robots: 5 Free Ways Your Small Business Can Actually Use AI Right Now** Heard about Artificial Intelligence? It’s not just for tech giants with server farms the size of a small country anymore. The robots have arrived, and lucky for you, many of them are willing to work for free. If you’re […]
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Use It or Lose It: Finding Your Voice in Business By Mike Ronchetti Five simple words that contain a universal truth: “Use it or lose it.” This principle especially applies to your voice as a local business owner, team leader, or influencer in Michiana’s business community. In today’s workplace, we have a greater responsibility than […]
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The Five Cornerstones of Endurance: A Step-by-Step Guide to Recession-Proofing Your Small Business Much like the unpredictable currents of the St. Joseph River flowing through Constantine, Michigan, the economic climate can shift from placid prosperity to turbulent recession with surprising speed. For small business owners, the backbone of our local and national economies, these downturns […]
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Navigating the Freelance Landscape – A Review of Top Platforms In today’s dynamic and interconnected world, the freelance industry has witnessed an unprecedented surge in popularity. Individuals from diverse backgrounds and skillsets are embracing the flexibility and autonomy offered by freelance work, transforming the traditional employment landscape. To cater to this growing demand, a multitude of […]
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Turning Passion into Profit – Transforming Your Hobby into a Thriving Business Many dream of turning their beloved hobby into a flourishing business, but the transition from leisure pursuit to profitable venture requires strategic planning, dedication, and a leap of faith. Whether it’s crafting, baking, writing, or any other passion, here’s a roadmap to guide […]
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Ditch the Cubicle, Embrace the Freedom – A Beginner’s Guide to Freelance Marketing Gone are the days of the chained-to-your-desk, fluorescent-lit office grind. Today, the world of marketing is brimming with opportunity for the adventurous souls who crave flexible hours, unlimited coffee breaks, and the thrill of being their own boss. Welcome to the exciting realm […]
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Mastering Your Business – What gives you an almost unfair advantage… Face it, today’s business owners have more resources than ever to model, launch, create profits, scale, and create a legacy for decades. So why do small business closures rates continue to grow? I look to an Indiana Jones movie line “choose wisely” as […]
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Baking Up Sweet Success – Amanda Garman’s Journey to Confection Perfection In the quaint kitchen of Mini Snack Confections, a home-based bakery, the aroma of freshly baked treats fills the air. This cozy space is the heart of Amanda Garman’s thriving business, a dream turned reality born from her desire to balance work and family […]
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Understanding Liability Insurance: Safeguarding Your Business In the world of entrepreneurship, a crucial aspect often overlooked is liability insurance. It’s the invisible shield protecting businesses from potential financial disasters caused by unforeseen circumstances. Whether you’re a budding startup or an established enterprise, comprehending the essence of liability insurance is imperative to safeguard your venture. What […]
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The Secret Sauce of Success: Embracing Company Culture in Small Business Hey fellow small business rockstars! Today, let’s talk about something more critical than morning coffee and Wi-Fi – company culture. Now, I know what you’re thinking, “Culture, schmulture, I’m just here to keep the lights on.” But trust me, my entrepreneurial amigos, the secret […]
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Negotiation Ninja: Mastering the Art of Fair Freelance Rates So you’ve crafted a killer proposal, landed a dream client, and now comes the tricky part: negotiating your rate. Fear not, brave freelancer! With a little preparation and savvy communication, you can secure a fair price that reflects your skills and keeps the client happy. Know […]
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Mastering Your Business: Supercharge Your Team’s Common Vision The rags to riches stories of a Michiana business achieving high success are still too rare. What is the missing factor? Focused common vision. What makes the difference in small businesses that struggle ramping up after their initial startup and those that reach 2-, 3- or 10-times […]
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Manifesting Success: The Alpha Jak Philosophy Spiritual Foundations and Entrepreneurial Vision Alpha Jak is not just a pavement asset management firm; it’s a testament to the power of belief, innovation, and community. Founded by Andre Jackson, a visionary entrepreneur with a deep belief in mentalism, the company stands as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring […]
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People you meet Networking. Dr. Ivan Meisner, Chief Visionary Officer and Founder of BNI once asked these questions…. “By a show of hands, how many of you came to sell something to someone today?” Nearly all the hands in the room went up. “Now, how many of you by show of hands came to buy […]
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Freelancer Frenzy – Conquering Workload, Hitting Deadlines, and Avoiding Burnout Juggling multiple projects, chasing deadlines, and battling the ever-present email monster – freelancer life can be exhilarating, yes, but also utterly chaotic. Before you reach peak overwhelm and spontaneously combust, fret not! Let’s delve into some battle-tested strategies to keep your workload in check, deadlines […]
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Top “X” (Twitter) Profiles Every Entrepreneur Should Follow @garyvee – Gary Vaynerchuk is a serial entrepreneur, author, and speaker known for his valuable insights on branding, marketing, and social media. His energetic and no-nonsense approach to entrepreneurship is both inspiring and educational. @elonmusk – Elon Musk, the visionary CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, is a […]
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So You’re Ready to Hire Your First Employee? Here Are Tips for Interviewing Candidates. Congratulations! You’ve reached a pivotal moment in your business journey: you’re ready to expand your team by hiring your first employee. This decision marks a significant milestone and presents an exciting opportunity for growth. However, the process of finding and […]
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Mastering Your Business – 7 Ways to Increase Influence with Colleagues, Prospects, and Clients. Outstanding small business leaders and successful sales team members draw a roadmap that guides themselves and their target audience closer efficiently and effectively. We have all met a person who can make anyone comfortable, engaged and trusting. What superpower gives you […]
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Mastering Finances: What Every Small Business Owner Needs to Know Managing finances is one of the most critical aspects of running a successful small business. Whether you’re just starting or have been in business for years, understanding key financial principles can help you make smarter decisions, grow your company, and avoid costly mistakes. Here are […]
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Taking Back the Backyard: How Kelli & Alex Keep Michiana Buzz-Free Kelli Stair and Alex Welsch always knew they wanted to run a business together but weren’t sure what type of business they wanted. As they explored franchise opportunities, one problem kept coming up: evenings in their backyard were anything but relaxing. “We’d spent so […]
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Bookkeeping Today, LLC: Teri Pascone’s Rapid Rise to Success The Bold Leap from Corporate to CEO When Teri Pascone launched Bookkeeping Today, LLC full-time, she thought it would take years to build a business that could replace her corporate salary. Eight months later, she made her dream a reality. Teri walked away from the corporate […]
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Innovate or Evaporate: Building a Winning Michiana Small Business Culture by Mike Ronchetti The local small business landscape is a relentless race, where standing still is akin to moving backward. We are experiencing a hyper-competitive business market, where our companies must relentlessly evolve, adapt, and innovate to not just survive, but to truly thrive. Smart […]
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Smart Investing for Business Owners By Matthew Ammerman, CEO of Small Business Showcase Digital Magazine Running a business requires strategic planning, adaptability, and resourcefulness. While these traits are crucial to day-to-day operations, they also play an essential role in ensuring long-term financial health. One way to bolster your business’s financial stability is by investing in […]
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5 Print Design Tips to Keep Your Printer (and Sanity) Happy From your friends at: Designing for print isn’t just about making things look pretty—it’s about making sure your beautiful creation doesn’t turn into a pixelated, misaligned disaster once it leaves your screen. At Zipp Printing, we’ve seen it all, and trust us, a little […]
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What does your Brand represent? When looking at your Brand, accountability may be the furthest from your mind, however, whether we realize it or not, our accountability can gain or lose us business, thus impacting our Brand. To whom are you accountable? Here are a few of my accountability partners: • Me! I must discipline […]
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The Entrepreneurial Compass: Navigating Small Business with Myers-Briggs Self-Awareness Written by Melissa Rowe-Lane Abstract In the dynamic realm of small business ownership, self-awareness is a critical determinant of success. The Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) offers a structured framework for understanding personality preferences and their influence on decision-making, communication, and leadership. This article explores the significance […]
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The Courage to Succeed: Staying Fearless in Your Entrepreneurial Journey Starting and growing a business takes more than a great idea—it takes courage. Every entrepreneur faces challenges, from financial risks to self-doubt, but success belongs to those who push forward despite fear. Courage isn’t the absence of fear; it’s the determination to act in spite […]
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How To Build A Strong Freelance Network Freelancer Synergy: Connecting, Collaborating, and Conquering the Gig Jungle Let’s face it, the freelance life can be a thrilling rollercoaster. One day you’re basking in the glory of landing a dream client, the next you’re wrestling with rogue invoices and wondering where the next project will come from. […]
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As a business owner, navigating the world of entrepreneurship is like managing a small, unpredictable zoo. Every day brings new challenges and rewards, and I’ve found that focusing on five key goals helps keep things running smoothly: cash flow, profit, growth, satisfaction, and harmony. Let’s dive into these goals with a light-hearted yet informative perspective. […]
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Stockroom East: A Hub of Creativity and Music in South Bend In the heart of South Bend’s East Bank District, you’ll find a dynamic creative community space called Stockroom East. Officially opening its doors in 2021, this multifaceted venue offers a blend of coworking, event hosting, and live music performances, attracting a diverse crowd from […]
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Remembering Names: A Simple Skill That Can Transform Your Networking Game By Deb Ammerman, Editor-in-Chief, Small Business Showcase Digital Magazine As Editor-in-Chief of Small Business Showcase Digital Magazine, I meet dozens of new people every month—business owners, entrepreneurs, and community leaders. Each introduction is an opportunity to make a connection and build a relationship. But […]
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6 Steps to Building a Strong Project Management Process As a small business owner or entrepreneur, managing projects effectively is essential to your success. A well-structured project management process not only keeps you organized but also helps you deliver consistent results for clients and stakeholders. Here’s a straightforward guide to setting up a project management […]
