Small Business Trends

Hospitals as businesses, surviving the worst business mistakes, better hiring tips and surviving turbulent times. They are all part of today’s small business roundup for March 23, 2010 collected by the Small Business Trends team. We hope you’ll enjoy and leave comments. We are always interested in your feedback.

Operations

Think hospitals aren’t businesses? A timely question in these days of health reform, but the answer may just teach you something about your own business. The Yonatan Maisel Blog

So, you’ve made some dumb business mistakes? Megan Hughes could tell you some stories…and about what she learned. SmartBusinessStupidBusiness.com

Hiring missteps that will cost you. Tips on finding the right people for your small business PsyMaxSolutions.com

Who isn’t experiencing turbulent times these days? Here are some ideas that will help your business survive. Zane Safrit

Marketing

Need direct mail tips for your next campaign? Here are 23 ideas for how to make your next effort more profitable immediately. Understanding Marketing

Growing your business through community. Groupon founder Andrew Mason talks about his company’s rapid success by bringing customers and merchants together. Duct Tape Marketing

What kinds of customers is your business targeting? Why sales strategy can define the people you serve. NYTimes.com

Forget social networking. Say hello to social capital. And learn why understanding its value may be a key to any business relationship. The Huffington Post

Legal

Selling your business. When the time comes, what process should you follow and what things will you need to ensure a successful sale. Kalish Law Office

It’s almost here. But believe it or not tax time need not be a major headache with the right approach Grow Smart Business

Development

U.S. officials want to boost exports. But small businesses face challenges with foreign trade. BusinessWeek

What’s so special about April 16? And why could it be important for your business. Flying Pig Communications

Do you have a “golden touch mindset”? What exactly is it and where can you get one? Tweak Your Biz

Tech

Have you updated your e-commerce software lately? Here are six reasons it should be on your to-do list. SmallBizTechnology.com

Keyword basics for your online marketing campaign. Don’t wade into the deep water of Internet marketing without this easy to understand primer. Sales Tip a Day