Smart Business BLOG

Made for sharp business minds—who want clarity, not clutter.

From compliance and payroll to planning for growth, we break down complex topics that shape the decisions behind how you run, invest in, and grow your business.

Smarter business starts here.

Join for the insights. Stay for the “oh, that actually helped.”

It's important to get your payroll right. Calculating overtime in a bi-weekly pay cycle can add another layer of complexity, but there are tools to help!

How to calculate overtime in a bi-weekly pay cycle for Wisconsin and Illinois

A common question we hear from our clients is how to calculate overtime in a bi-weekly cycle. That’s because overtime is calculated in Illinois and...

How to pick an insurance carrier for your small business

How to pick an insurance carrier for your small business

You have a ton of responsibility as a small business owner, but there’s one thing that often gets lost in the shuffle when you’re starting out that...

It’s important for your small business to be ready for anything – which can include economic downturns. Making sure your business is protected should be a top priority as you move into the future.

How small businesses can cut costs & improve cash flow in a recession

Is there a recession coming? We don’t know what the future holds, but it’s always important for your small business to be ready for anything – which...

Before you purchase real estate for your small business, be sure you have the money and the right space.

Should your small business buy property?

For most small businesses, it’s the dream to eventually own the building that your business operates out of. After all, historically real estate has...

It's important to reviewing financial statement to prepare for small business growth.

Creating a foundation for small business growth

Growth is probably one of your goals this year for your small business – and if it isn’t, it should be. That said, not all growth is created equal....

S-corp, Partnership, or C-corp: Which is right for your small business growth?

S-corp, Partnership, or C-corp: Which is right for your small business growth?

According to the Bureau of Economic Analysis, S corporations account for 76.8% of corporations with less than 500 employees and 37.3% of corporations...

How to Grow Your Small Business Through Mergers and Acquisitions

How to Grow Your Small Business Through Mergers and Acquisitions

As part of our continuing series on how to grow your small business the right way, today we look at mergers and acquisitions. Acquisitions can be a...

Young entrepreneur plans for a successful startup

Why a CPA should be the first hire at your startup

It may not be where your hiring strategy goes first, but it should be. 90% of start ups fail. Often that’s because owners see it as their duty to do...

Pieces of the business growth puzzle

Managing your business growth organically

Growth should be a goal of any business. That said, not all growth is created equal. If not done correctly, it can be downright dangerous. One study...

What a recession might mean for your restaurant

What a recession might mean for your restaurant

A recession is bad for all businesses but can be especially rough on restaurants. Margins are already tight, and staffing issues can often compound...

Know how to read your financial statement

How to Read Financial Statements: A Small Business Owner’s Guide

It’s easy to want to skip to the "bottom line" of your financial statements, but like any great story, you’ll need context for the ending to make...

How to Recession-Proof Your Business

How to Recession-Proof Your Business

We’ve got an overheated economy and a bear market. IF we reach a recession this year, is your business ready?