Smart Motivation

At the SBDC and CITD, we came across this cool video on the TED website.  It’s a speech from Dan Pink, a career analyst. During his talk, he deconstructs the puzzle of motivation using social science and humor. According to the TED site, “Traditional rewards aren’t always as effective as we think. Listen for illuminating stories — and maybe, a way forward.” Could be good for a small business owner…

IRS Help on YouTube

The Internal Revenue Service today announced the availability of video and audio products to help taxpayers take full advantage of the 2009 tax provisions in the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.

“O” Yeah- Small Business Opportunities from Proposition O

As part of the Sweetwater School District’s implementation of the Long Range Facilities Master Plan funded by Proposition O, they have established a great website for contractor’s interested in business opportunities: http://www.buildingpropo.com/

Social Media: Pros and Cons

Many SBDC and CITD clients are asking questions about social networking. Facebook, Twitter, Youtube, and other sites are being used successfully by small businesses to maintain relationships with customers and increase sales. But are they always a good idea?

Greenwashing

At the SBDC and CITD we’ve been trying to make green changes around the office: turning off the lights, recycling plastics, and more. But buying green products can be confusing… every store is full of products touting environmental features in the hope that our conscience will choose. But when it comes to products and packaging, how do claims like “environmentally safe,” “recyclable,” and “biodegradable” really translate?