Handling payroll deductions

There is some important information you should be aware of when you are handling payroll deductions.

Deductions that are required by Federal and State law:
Employers by law must deduct social security taxes (FICA) and wage withholding taxes from the paychecks of employees. These deductions are made based on the amount of wages that are actually paid to the employee and also at the time the payment is made. If an employer fails to deduct the required taxes they are liable for the amount of tax that should have been withheld. They are also liable for penalties and interest on the amount.

Emotionally preparing yourself for layoffs

When the need for a reduction in staff is unavoidable, a layoff that is executed properly can be a way of fixing the problem and the company excelling. No one looks forward to downsizing, it can be an extremely difficult and emotional task. However, you can prepare yourself emotionally by fully understanding that a layoff is necessary for the company to continue and for its future growth. You can avoid common pitfalls and eliminate problems of downsizing by planning to downsize in an effective manner that is respectful to people's dignity.

Before executing layoff's be sure to have a clear, well-defined vision of what the company wants to accomplish and where the emphasis and focus will be after the layoff. If the company does not share its clearly defined vision among the entire management team, it will most likely will have a negative affect on the company in the future, in which more layoffs will be necessary.

How to keep your small business from getting audited

If you own a small business, there is a good chance you don't have any money or time to spare.Audits will take most of the spare you have got, and maybe then some.

Make sure that you are doing what you can to avoid auditing.There are some keys that can help prevent an audit.

The legal aspect of starting a small business

There are some many things pulling at your attention when you are starting a small business.The legal aspect of small business is just one of the many things that you will have to think about.There are many great resources available to make sure you are complying with all of the many laws and regulations.

Business.gov has all of the state and federal guidelines that you will need to ensure you are doing business legally and ethically.Below is a list of very few of the legal aspects to consider when you start your new business.

How to best prepare in order to get business financing

You want your small business to grow, or maybe you just want to start a small business.If you don't have money hidden under your bed or a rich relative that is getting old, you may need some financing.

How you go about getting that financing will make a big difference in the outcome.There are a few things to keep in mind before you go in to the bank.

A look at atypical small business financing

If you want to start your own small business and you need money there are many places to turn.You may not want to get a bank loan, or maybe you didn't qualify for a bank loan.That's ok, there are still options.

Here are a few options other than your typical bank loan:

Tips for improving staff meetings

For many employees it is the moment they fear the most the announcement of the weekly or monthly staff meeting.Even the mention of these meetings tends to fill employees with dread. If your staff meetings have evolved from a respite for the staff to gather, share and inform to a time when business trips are being scheduled you are not alone. If staff meetings for your company tend to be unhappy, unproductive and sparsely attended there is hope.By simply making a few restructures to your staff meetings you can improve productivity and make your staff much less testy and tense. Read on for some tips for improving staff meetings.

1. Be sure to agree on the purpose of the meeting.Make sure that everyone comes to the meeting on "the same page." If some of your staff think everyone has gathered to go through projects in detail while others are looking for top-level updates, they are all going to be unhappy. Give the members of your group one minute to report on progress made in their area of responsibility. You will find that this results in bullet point reports of essential information. It also prevents people from explaining, justifying, criticizing, and engaging in other unproductive activities. Plan a time budget for this portion of the meeting for no more than 8 to 10 minutes
2. Have an agenda and stick to it. This keeps the meeting on track.

Ways to handle sloppy appearance and poor hygiene among staff

When asked what problem seems the most difficult and delicate to handle among business office managers the answer is invariably the same.The problem that is worst to handle is sloppy appearance and poor hygiene among staff.While this may seem outside the job description of the business manager it is to often a reality that must be dealt with. Potential clients often judge a firms validity by the appearance of its staff and sadly deals have been lost due to poor appearance and hygiene. But before you put your head in the sand read on for some of the best tips on ways to handle sloppy appearance and poor hygiene among staff.

1. Make sure that as the business manager you are setting the proper example.While you may feel that poor hygiene is not an issue consider what you are wearing?If your office has a business casual Friday are you wearing a little too casual?Does your everyday appearance reflect the message you want your staff to be imitating?While everyone may feel a little entitled when they become the boss realize that the best message is often sent through example. Do not be afraid to make some changes to reinforce your own position on this issue.

Tips for dealing with frequent tardiness

Are you the business manager of a busy office?If so you may be facing a very common problem- an employee who comes in late.The problem seems to begin with a few times of lateness and lots of excuses and progresses to a chronic everyday problem that can run unchecked through an entire office staff.If you are a busy manager who simply wants to motivate his or her employees to be on time read on for some tips on dealing with frequent tardiness.

1. The first thing a manager should do is examine the why this is happening with this employee.Is the employee suffering from type of illness (depression, chronic fatigue etc.) or is there a home situation (marital problems, lack of child care etc.) that is contributing to the tardiness?If it is determined that the employee is suffering from a medical problem versus an outside situation that is influencing being on time than different tactics will have to be used.

Happy Holidays used more than Merry Christmas in 2007

In the ongoing battle over whether it's better to use the term "Christmas" or "holidays," "holidays" came out the big winner in 2007.

In its fourth annual survey, GiftBasketsDeluxe.com, a major gift baskets and corporate gift baskets supplier, today announced the results of an analysis of holiday gift card messages sent through their company.

The study showed that 60 percent of holiday gift baskets sent used the politically correct term "holidays" on their gift card, as opposed to the more traditional term "Christmas."

This is a stark reversal of the previous three-year trend. Studies of gifts sent through the company in prior years show that:

-- 58 percent used the term "holidays" (as opposed to "Christmas") in 2004
-- 43 percent used it in 2005
-- A record-low level of 27 percent used it in 2006
-- A record-high 60 percent used it in 2007

"The most surprising element of this test is the huge swing from last year," said Don Crowther, president of GiftBasketsDeluxe.com. "For something to more than double in one year indicates that a major factor has changed. Perhaps it is because of the election season (note that the previous high was in 2004, a national election year), or perhaps it is due to the increasing sensitivity to other cultures and their holiday celebrations."

Planning for emergencies as a business manager

Each day the news seems to trumpet another disaster for businesses.Whether man made or natural an emergency that shuts downs business can cost a huge amount and most importantly result in loss of life unless a significant and comprehensive plan in is in place. Recent examples include when hurricanes blasted through South Florida causing more than $25 billion in damages or a fire at a food processing plant that resulted in 25 deaths, a company out of business and a small town devastated.Or this last winter when a blizzard shut down much of the East Coast for days. More than 150 lives were lost and millions of dollars in damages incurred. The good news is this business and industry can limit injuries and damages and return more quickly to normal operations if they plan ahead.

One of the first steps in planning for emergencies is understanding what type of emergency to plan for. An emergency is defined as any unplanned event that can cause deaths or significant injuries to employees, customers or the public; or that can shut down your business, disrupt operations, cause physical or environmental damage, or threaten the facility's financial standing or public image. Obviously, there are numerous events can be "emergencies," including but not limited to:

Happy holidays or Merry Christmas - which used more frequently?

In today's politically sensitive world, one of the key lightning rods is how people refer to the December holidays - do they use terms like "holidays" or "Christmas?"

You know what term you use, but have you ever wondered what term others actually use? Watch this video to learn more, I can almost guarantee that you'll be surprised by the results, especially what happened in 2007!

Just click the > symbol to play!

How to keep an organized and efficient office

Whether your business is newly established or long running at one time or another each office must face the challenges of becoming and staying organized and efficient.The flow of business (and cash) is severely disrupted when an office is running inefficiently.Many times morale among staff suffers as everyday task seem monumental due to lack of organization. By making just a few changes organization can be increased and along with it most importantly productivity.Here are some tips on how to keep an organized and efficient office.

1. Create a defined space.Chaos just seems to flow when there is not real organization or a place where things are supposed to get done.If your office does a lot of copying create a copy space.Group printers, copiers and the needed supplies together so that staff is not running through the office looking for copy paper or toner.If your office needs large spaces for layout have tables and good lighting that allows for items to be laid out and collated quickly and most importantly correctly. If you have staff members whose jobs are interconnected place their offices or cubicles close together so that valuable time is not wasted while trying to track another person down.Take some time to absorb what are the vital functions of your office and see if grouping together or rearranging functions will improve organization and efficiency.And then once an area is established make sure that everyone knows it designated purpose.Insist that staff keep areas clean and organized. Clutter and trash is distracting. A clear workplace makes for clear thinking.

What is an open door policy? Should you have one?

In any business setting, open communication is important for a number of reasons. Employees who feel comfortable going to their managers are able to clarify any misunderstandings and confusion before they get out of hand. This not only goes for business and work or project-related issues, but interpersonal relationships within the office as well.

However, in some cases the needs of employees aren't met through their immediate managers or supervisors and they need to go above their manager's head. Companies that have an open door policy will allow them to do so.

Tips for resolving inter-office conflict

As a manager, part of your job involves solving a variety of problems, either with clients or equipment or, sometimes, other employees. At times, it may seem like you're more a referee than a manager.

Conflicts within the office occur for a number of reasons. They could come from personality clashes, poor communication and misunderstandings, or anger for legitimate reasons, such as an employee not doing his or her work or taking credit for things he or she didn't do.

Tips for cutting down on socializing and stepping up the work ethic

It's great when employees within an office get along well. Having employees who socialize and chat in a friendly manner with each other is far better than the drama that ensues in a workplace where no one gets along.

However, too much socializing can compromise the overall productivity in the office. Employees need to remember they are not at work to socialize; they are they to work. If you find you are having problems with this in your office, the following are some tips for cutting down on socializing and stepping up the work ethic:

Making a positive impact daily

Most people who have experience working in an office have seen firsthand the difference between one that has a positive environment and one that doesn't. A positive office environment has a better productivity rate, happier workers overall, better morale, and a lower turnover rate.
There are a number of things that can contribute to a more positive working environment. As a manager, you have in your power the ability to make a positive impact on your employees on a daily basis.

The following are a few ideas on how you can make a positive impact daily:

Free internet marketing information to build your website traffic

Are you interested in doubling the traffic to your website?How about tripling your sales at the same time?!?

Here's a great video that demonstrates one easy way to accomplish just that, by getting a second, indented listing on Google.

No catches, no signups, nothing.Just watch and learn!

How to stop people from milking the time clock

At one point or another, most managers have to deal with the issue of their employees milking the time clock. This phrase refers to employees who waste time until their allotted hours for the day are up, or it could mean putting in overtime for extra pay when it is really not necessary.

This can be a problem for employers for a number of reasons. First of all, it is not productive. If employees are putting off work because they don't feel like it, not as much gets done. Second, it results in lost money. You are paying employees for their time, when they are not really working.

How to set up a policy about inter office relationship

Given that about 20% of married couples met at work, it is not uncommon for employees to begin relationships in the office. However, not all employers are open to dating within the workplace.

If you have a business, this is an issue that may very well present itself sooner or later. The best thing you can do to handle interoffice relationships is to have a policy in place before the need arises.

How to keep employees in line without being obnoxious

A manager wears many hats. Not only is he or she responsible for the business affairs of the office, but it is also the responsibility of the manager to make sure the office runs in a smooth and efficient manner.

This may, at times, make the manager more like a babysitter or referee. Employees can get out of line at times, whether it's by being tardy, spending too much time socializing instead of working, missing deadlines, or causing other problems within the office.

How to handle an employee with poor personal hygiene

If you've ever worked with someone who has poor hygiene, whether it's bad breath, smelly feet, or body odor, it can be distracting and unbearable to the point it is difficult to even function when that person is around.

If you handle a number of employees, there may come a time when this issue comes up. Because these issues can't go ignored, as the boss or manager of your company or department, it will usually fall to you to tell the person that they have an offensive odor. This is important because if you don't, other employees might take it upon themselves to do so, and chances are they won't be kind about it. This could open you up to a host of legal problems, including a hostile work environment or harassment. So it's best to address the problem as soon as possible.

How to cut costs by reducing overhead

Starting up a business is an expensive venture. Many people don't realize the high costs that often go into starting up a new business. Expenses like advertising, equipment and machinery, office space, and licensing and fees to make your business legal all add up, sometimes turning out to be more money than expected.
However, these overhead costs don't necessarily mean you have to take out a loan or deplete your life savings in order to start your business. The following are some ways you can cut costs by reducing your overhead:

Hire the right number of people.
Your largest expenses will typically be your employees. If you hire too many people, you will have to go through expenses such as severance. Look at your busiest times and days and figure out the number of employees you will need by averaging the two. Start with the minimum amount needed without compromising on service or making your employees work longer or harder than you need to.

How to create an open line of communication between you and your employees

Creating and maintaining an open line of communication between you and your employees is crucial for a successful business. Doing so will not only foster good relationships between you and your employees, but it will also encourage employees to come to you with any problems that may adversely affect your business.

There are a number of things you can do and resources you can take advantage of that can help create an open line of communication between you and your employees:

Creating and maintaining an open line of communication between you and your employees is crucial for a successful business. Doing so will not only foster good relationships between you and your employees, but it will also encourage employees to come to you with any problems that may adversely affect your business.

There are a number of things you can do and resources you can take advantage of that can help create an open line of communication between you and your employees:

Tips for making meetings more efficient

There are many factors that help make a meeting efficient. These factors include planning and organizing but one very important factor is communicating. If there is no communication involved during a meeting, it is most likely far from efficient and more likely to be just a waste of time. Be sure to speak loudly, do not yell, but use a strong tone of voice. Make an effort to make eye contact at least one time with every person at the meeting while you are speaking, this is not always possible, especially when there is a large number of people. Exhibit confidence in yourself and what you will speaking about. Be sure you really understand the subject matter, do the research needed, if necessary. If you do not fully understand what you will be discussing with others during the meeting, people will know and the meeting will be unproductive, wasting your time and the time of those that are present. Your appearance should be professional. People will take you far more serious. If it is more of a casual meeting, you will want to dress more casually.

Tips for keeping your fiscal year on track

Good business record management can lessen the stress commonly felt at tax time. Here are some record keeping tips to keep your fiscal year on track:
1. Keep your business and personal expenses separate. This is often times not as easy as it sounds, especially if you do not know what qualifies as a legitimate business expense and what does not. To avoid confusion and stress at the end of the year, you will need to know what expenses qualify as a business expense and which do not.
2. Get documentation for all business expenses. Make it a habit to always get a receipt when you make a purchase for your business. Including the small purchases, which canadd up throughout the year. If necessary, label receipts. This will help you determine if the expense is a legitimate business expense, if you are not sure or if the item purchased is questionable.

Interviewing tips and tricks

A big part of the hiring process is interviewing potential employees. There are several different interviewing methods used by employers, some are more structured and scientific while others are not. But whatever method is used, interviewing is not only a big part of the hiring process but a crucial part as well. And you want to hire the best possible person for the job and your company right from the start.

There are a few things that should be done before interviewing a potential employee. These preparations will help you to conduct an effective interview and will also help you to choose the best candidate.

How to work with someone who rubs you the wrong way

It can be extremely difficult to work with others, especially if you just don't like them. Maybe they are obnoxious or maybe they talk constantly but what ever the reason you must handle the situation professionally your career depends on it.

Working with a person that is obnoxious and other people are also affected by their behavior is much easier than working with someone who undermines your professional contributions or is just plain out to get you. This type of situation needs to be addressed because it most likely will get worse. It is best to address the person and the situation when you can maintain some objectivity and emotional control. If you do not address the situation, your anger and resentment will only grow until you are fed up and lose control. You do not want to address the situation irrationally, it is not only unprofessional but may get you fired. Also, if you are involved in constant conflict at work and complain about the coworker or situation, you may be labeled a whiner or complainer that is unable to solve problems like a mature professional. This could be devastating to you and your career.

How to stop people from milking the time clock

Good leadership skills are a key factor in having employees that are productive and efficient. You will often find when there is poor leadership, employees are less motivated and less productive. Many are habitually late for work, take long breaks and continually milk the time clock by not working productively and getting paid for it. This type of employee behavior can cost a company a lot of money.

There are several ways to improve leadership skills and qualities to help lessen negative employee behavior and poor work performance. Here are just a few suggestions;
- Your employees are not children, they are adults and should be treated as such. Set a minimal amount of rules instead of a bunch of rules and regulations. Or even try having only the policies necessary to ensure a fair, consistent work environment that is pleasant for everyone. Many times when adults are treated like children, they will act like children.

How to make work time more productive

If you would like to be more productive at work, avoid engaging in office politics. Making work time more productive is quite easy when you focus on your work instead of focusing your energy on the office drama. There is far too much energy, as well as time wasted on office negativity. Becoming more productive at work is the easy part, the hard part is not being involved in office politics. Here are some tips to help you avoid office politics which will result in higher productivity levels.
1. Make it a point to observe the rules and regulations of the company. Perform your work with dedicated interest and loyalty, it will show.
2. Avoid bragging about your achievements. You will be setting yourself up for failure by continually bragging to co-workers. Let your hard work speak for itself. Your hard work will be noticed and appreciated.
3. Learn to work with people that you do not like. Get along with people who appear to not like you as well. You do not need to be the most popular or liked person at work to perform your job duties effectively.