4 Steps to Creating a Great Small Business Website

website

Having a professional website is practically a necessity for independent professionals today. Websites are an effective business investment that can increase brand awareness and help you reach new clients. However, not all websites are created equal. Simply having a web presence is a good start, but you also want to make sure your site lives up to…

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4 Ways a Big 4 Consulting Firm Improved Contractor Compliance (Case Study)

compliance

CASE STUDY Vertical: Professional Services | Type: Misclassification and Compliance When enterprises engage independent contractor talent, they must take steps to comply with relevant laws, policies, and regulations in order to operate legally. Compliance means many things—from preventing harassment and discrimination, to safeguarding sensitive data and building a safe workplace. And, when it comes to…

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How to Be Your Own Boss

Independent worker

One of the biggest perks of becoming an independent professional is getting to be your own boss. While there are a lot of rewards that come with this power, being the No. 1 decision maker is not always easy. Those that thrive as independent professionals often have key traits that contribute to their success. Follow…

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5 Business Negotiation Tips for Independent Professionals

consultant

As an independent professional, one of the most essential skills you can develop is the ability to negotiate business deals. If handled correctly, negotiations can solidify client relationships, set your project up for success, and help you grow your business. If handled incorrectly, you may compromise on something that is ultimately bad for your business, fail…

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Networking Tips to Boost Small Business Growth

networking event

As an independent business owner, who you know can be equally important as what you know. To ensure a steady flow of projects, it’s important to build and maintain a strong circle of business contacts you can rely on for work and referrals. Below, Denise Thomas, owner of The Effective Communication Coach, gives her advice…

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How Enterprises Can Benefit from Engaging an Executive Coach for their Workforce

Enterprises can realize several benefits from engaging an executive coach for their workers. An executive coach can provide support for employees at various levels and help them to establish clear professional and personal goals. While helping the individual worker, the fruits of working with an executive coach will trickle down to help the worker be…

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3 Things to Consider When Implementing a Direct Sourcing Strategy

consultants working

Direct sourcing enables access to and connection with top independent talent by facilitating a direct relationship between enterprise managers and independent workers. With a direct sourcing strategy in place, organizations no longer need to rely on a third party like a consulting firm or staffing company to fill talent needs. Direct sourcing methods will vary…

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How to Build Collaborative Teams of Independent Professionals

teamwork

Finding a way to grow as a small business owner can be a challenge. Teaming up with another independent professional is a great solution—a partnership can bring new skills to the table, help you manage your workload, or even land that big project you’ve had your eye on. Once you’ve decided to partner with another…

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10 Valuable Skills Consultants Need to Succeed

consultant tips

Keeping your skills and knowledge current is important to remain competitive as an independent professional. As the workforce landscape continues to evolve, your skills will need to do so as well. By forming these abilities now, you won’t be caught off guard by future needs and requests from clients. Here are 10 skills for the…

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Pros and Cons of a Defined Benefit Plan for Self Employed

consultant

Retirement planning is a top concern for self employed professionals and a defined benefit plan is one of the options to consider. The best option for you will depend on a number of factors including your personal goals and income level, which you can discuss with a financial advisor. What is a Defined Benefit Plan? Think…

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