Off the Ground Blog

Self-employment and retirement trends in rural BC

Aug 8, 2012

In the recent report, A profile of self-employment in rural and small town Canada: Is there an impending retirement of self-employed business operators?, Statistics Canada describes self-employment in rural Canada and reveals which sectors are expected to experience high levels of retirement in the coming years. Here are a few of the highlights.  Please see the report for details.

Help Wanted: How to attract (and keep) quality staff

Jul 7, 2012

So, you have established your business and it's a roaring success. The only problem is you’re so busy you can’t take a day off to relax! It’s time to hire some help. Although it is exciting, the hiring process can also be daunting, especially if you have never done it before. That's why the SBA has collected some great resources to make the process easier. To find our complete list visit the Management and Human Resources page.   Hiring Staff  

Quick Tips to Start Your Industry Research

Jun 6, 2012

According to a 2010 RBC poll, one-third of Canadians like the idea of starting their own business and one-fifth are actually planning to launch a business in the next five years! Well, it looks like some of our readers are part of that group and are just starting their business research.

2012: Hottest Industries for Entrepreneurs

Jun 6, 2012

Are you eager to start a business, but not sure which industry to tackle? You’re in luck!  Inc. Magazine has just released their annual list of the top industries for start-ups.

Get Your Company in the Spotlight

May 5, 2012

Tips for Connecting with Traditional Media Social media is an excellent way to spread the word about your small business, but what if your audience is not that tech savvy? Or, you simply want to broaden your reach?  Traditional media outlets such as print magazines and television talk shows are another great way to secure exposure for your company.  Before you start contacting reporters consider these tips to grab your target’s attention.

24/7 is never enough! Time saving tips for banking

Apr 4, 2012

Finding the time to build and run a successful business is not easy. Many first-time entrepreneurs can be overwhelmed by their daily volume of ‘to-do’s’, especially during the early stages of business development, when a routine has yet to be established and new time-demanding issues pop up around every corner. What to do?