Off the Ground Blog

How Cultured Is Your Company?

Mar 3, 2012

The Sergay Group defines company culture as "the collective way we do things around here. It involves a learned set of behaviors that is common knowledge to all the participants. These behaviors are based on a shared system of meanings which guide our perceptions, understanding of events, and what we pay attention to."

Backing Up Your Business Data

Mar 3, 2012

How often do you back up data from your small business? What technology do you use to do it? How do you decide what information needs to be archived? Your data is as much a part of your business as your products, services, and customers -- and it's nearly impossible to replace once it's gone. You may rely on a server or software program to run regular backups of your data, but you'll still need to pay attention to what gets archived, where, and how.

Why Use Web Analytics

Mar 3, 2012

Having a website is a cornerstone to creating an identity and presence for many businesses. It’s your calling card and the first impression that many customers will have of you and your business. Therefore you want to make sure that your website is effective in supporting your goals and the needs of your customers.

Is Group Buying Right For Your Business? - TD Web Seminar

Mar 3, 2012

In February, TD Canada Trust hosted a webinar  called ‘Are deal sites right for your business?' which discussed the phenomenon of group buying and for what businesses it would work best. Group buying is the trend known from sites like Groupon where businesses offer products and services at deep discounts if a minimum number of people buy.

Is Your Elevator Pitch Ready?

Feb 2, 2012

Sometimes you only have a few seconds — for example, the length of an elevator ride — to make a good impression. Can you summarize your business and its value to a potential customer confidently and quickly? If not, you need to work on your elevator pitch.

Entrepreneur 2012 Franchise 500®

Feb 2, 2012

Curious about franchise opportunities? If so, then you must review Entrepreneurs annual ranking of American franchises. They've created many lists including:

Small Business Advice from Enterprize Canada 2012

Feb 2, 2012

The 2012 Enterprize Canada Conference in downtown Vancouver brought together more than 350 university and high school students from throughout BC, and even across Canada. Students networked with professionals in seven-minute personal sessions, lunches, and the Saturday evening Gala Dinner. They received first-hand business advice in a series of panel discussions. SBA had a chance to sit in on several.