SMART BUSINESS ARTICLES

For business owners who want to run smarter.

Actionable insights on payroll, taxes, cash flow, leadership, and growth planning — all focused on real-world decisions and better outcomes.

Smarter business starts here.

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

business strategy (2)

A small business owner uses her downtime for self-development to participate in a leadership workshop.

Turn Downtime into Growth: Practical Tips for Small Business Owners

As a business owner, you're used to the hustle—juggling multiple responsibilities, solving problems, and keeping the business moving forward. But...

Worried and frustrated over a business failure, a small business owner holds his face in his hands as two other team members look on. Business owners can learn valuable lessons from mistakes they've made.

7 Lessons Learned from Business Failures

As a CPA, I've witnessed the highs and lows of various businesses. Some soar to incredible heights, while others face the unfortunate reality of...

A football team used to cold, snowy conditions gains an edge in harsh weather over a team used to milder climates. Discover your business's unique competitive advantage and maintain your market edge.

Give A Competitive Advantage To Your Business

As a small or medium-sized business owner, you’re likely always looking for ways to gain an edge over your competition. Just as in sports, where...

A focused businesswoman reviewing financial documents for creating a small business budget in a modern office. She is planning budgets, analyzing expenses, and projecting revenue for better financial management and growth. This image represents budgeting, financial planning, and business strategy for small businesses.

7 Steps to Develop a Budget for Your Small Business

Developing a budget is a crucial aspect of running a successful business. A budget provides a roadmap for allocating resources, making informed...

Leverage small business networking events to develop and nurture strategic partnerships.

How to Build Strategic Partnerships for Small Business Growth

Forming strategic partnerships can be a game-changer for small businesses and entrepreneurs. These alliances allow you to leverage the expertise,...

Hire a CPA for your small business to grow your business with peace of mind.

When to Hire a CPA for Your Small Business

Are you putting in long hours at work, only to come home to continue working late into the night on the books? The truth is many small businesses...

A modern POS system can transform your business financials, streamline operations, and drive long-term success.

How Your POS System Impacts Your Business Financials

In the rapidly evolving landscape of small business management, staying ahead of the curve is crucial. For many entrepreneurs and small business...

Why You Should Buy Real Estate for Your Small Business

Why You Should Buy Real Estate for Your Small Business

When we set out to start or buy a business, our minds are often preoccupied with finding customers, building a team, and scaling growth. Little did...

Discover how to successfully incorporate artificial intelligence into your small business.

How to Use Artificial Intelligence (AI) in a Small Business

In today's fast-paced world, small businesses are constantly seeking ways to improve efficiency and productivity. One tool that has gained...

Learn how transition your small business for a successful exit.

Small Business Exit Strategy: A Guide to Transitioning Your Company

Are you a small business owner considering transitioning out of your company? This is a significant milestone, and careful planning is key to a...

Set realistic and achievable goals for your small business with the SMART goal-setting approach.

How to Set Realistic and Achievable Goals for Your Small Business

No matter the size or industry, every business can benefit from clear goals that align with its vision and values. Delve into the importance of...

Learn about the Paid Time Off Law in Illinois for 2024—exceptions, major changes, and when employees can take PTO.

What You Need to Know About the 2024 Paid Time Off Law in Illinois

Are you ready for some important information about the new paid time off (PTO) law in Illinois? Well, you've come to the right place! Effective...