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Tag: America's Favorite Mom & Pop Shops

  • How Pana Food Truck Started Selling Arepas | Entrepreneur

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    Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

    German Sierra, founder of Pana Food Truck in Santa Cruz, California, never imagined his craving for a childhood comfort food would lead him to build a thriving business with a loyal following and the distinction of Yelp’s Top 100 Food Trucks.

    “My brother and I came to the United States in 2016 [from Venezuela],” he says. “There weren’t any arepas. We actually eat arepas every day in Venezuela, so we needed them. My brother was like, ‘Hey, why don’t we make some arepas and take them to the streets, and maybe people will buy them?’”

    Armed with foil-wrapped arepas and homemade Venezuelan juices, the brothers set up outside a supermarket. They didn’t sell a single one. A police officer stopped them, asking for a permit they didn’t know they needed. Instead of giving up, Sierra gave the food away and kept searching for a way forward.

    Related: They Built Their First Restaurant With Their ‘Bare Hands.’ Now They Have 380 Locations.

    “Sometimes there’s a little miscommunication between entities. Sometimes the health department will [have] different rules than the city,” Sierra says, describing the challenges he faced trying to get his business off the ground. “There are specific places to park. You cannot park everywhere because there’s gonna be competition with restaurants.”

    As a business with one core offering, Sierra had to sell the value of arepas to customers who had never heard of them.

    “It was hard in the beginning — and [is] still hard — to convince people why we don’t have other dishes,” Sierra says. “We wanted to focus on arepas [so] there is no confusion of what we sell, and it’s memorable.”

    Small adjustments, like listing arepas as “chicken” or “beef” on the menu, helped introduce the dish to American diners and reduce confusion without losing cultural authenticity. “When customers come, they want 30-second decisions — no half an hour figuring out the menu and what to get,” Sierra says.

    Related: He Grew His Small Business to a $25 Million Operation By Following These 5 Principles

    As word spread, Sierra focused on making connections with customers, pairing education about the food with free samples to encourage repeat visits. Early on, he recognized that an excellent customer experience made people more likely to choose Pana over another restaurant.

    “I didn’t wanna be just in the food truck business,” he says. “I want to be in the heart-warming business, because the food makes your heart warm. That’s the emotion I want to create every time.”

    Now celebrating six years in business, Pana continues to grow while staying true to its roots. In 2025, Sierra and his wife, Gabriella Ramirez, opened their first brick-and-mortar restaurant in downtown Santa Cruz. “It wasn’t an overnight success, and we’re still growing and improving,” Sierra says. “We are just a baby, and there’s so much that we can change and improve.”

    For Sierra, every arepa is a chance to share a piece of home, and to build what he calls “an arepa empire, one arepa at a time.”

    Related: These Brothers Turned a 2-Man Operation Into One of the Most Trusted Companies in Their Area. Here’s How.

    After turning a craving for arepas into one of Yelp’s Top 100 Food Trucks of 2025 and opening a brick-and-mortar, Sierra’s advice for current and future business owners is clear:

    • Start small but stay consistent. Break overwhelming challenges into smaller steps and commit to showing up for your customers every day.
    • Adapt to your audience while staying authentic. Customer education can help your audience understand new offerings and grow goodwill in your community.
    • Lead with generosity. Warm service and meaningful interactions matter just as much as what’s on the menu. Customers return not only for flavor, but also for connection.
    • Think about the big picture. For Sierra, selling arepas was never just about food — it was about creating heart-warming experiences. Any platform, whether it’s a food truck or restaurant, can be a vehicle to share your mission.
    • Play the long game. Building something meaningful takes time, patience and passion. If your business isn’t an immediate success, research the steps you’ll need to take to achieve smaller goals that get you closer to your vision.

    Watch the episode above to hear directly from German Sierra, and subscribe to Behind the Review for more from new business owners and reviewers every Wednesday.

    Editorial contributions by Jiah Choe and Kristi Lindahl

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    Emily Washcovick

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  • How Cava Grew From One to 380 Locations | Entrepreneur

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    Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

    Ted Xenohristos, co-founder and chief concept officer of Cava, drew inspiration from his immigrant parents’ Greek heritage and the food he ate growing up. What began as a humble restaurant inside an old Russian bakery in Rockville, Maryland, blossomed into a national brand with 380 locations across 28 states and Washington, D.C.

    “We wanted to do it for an affordable price and [offer] something that people could share,” Xenohristos says. “We built that first restaurant with our bare hands. Everything [was] from the Dollar Store, Target, Home Goods.”

    The first few weeks of business were filled with uncertainty and long hours. Xenohristos and Cava CEO Brett Schulman poured their energy into constructing the brand’s first location, building it from the ground up. Without a marketing budget, they relied instead on something more powerful: authenticity and hospitality.

    Related: He Grew His Small Business to a $25 Million Operation By Following These 5 Principles

    “We used our Mediterranean hospitality that we grew up knowing, without a marketing budget, without signs outside, without a POS system,” Xenohristos says. “We gave people free things — free drinks, free food, free dessert — and they eventually told other people, and before you knew it, that little restaurant had a really long line.”

    As word spread and momentum built, the founders realized they had tapped into something much bigger than a single restaurant. In just over six months, they opened a second location and expanded operations to include a retail line of dips and spreads, bringing Mediterranean flavors into grocery stores.

    Despite its rapid rise as one of Yelp’s fastest-growing brands of 2025, Cava never strayed from its core values of generosity and Mediterranean hospitality.

    “One of the reasons we started this business was to take care of people and to change the culture,” Xenohristos says. “We love food, we wanted to share it, but we really wanted to change how people were treated. It starts with that.”

    The brand’s mission statement is “to bring heart, health and humanity to food.”

    The company’s leaders demonstrate heart by caring for guests and staff, health through fresh Mediterranean ingredients and humanity by fostering connection and community inside and outside the company.

    “All those things together keep that culture alive,” Xenohristos says. “We still work hard to execute on that dream, to have a greater culture and restaurant.”

    Related: These Brothers Turned a 2-Man Operation Into One of the Most Trusted Companies in Their Area. Here’s How.

    Making culture a cornerstone of the business includes providing meaningful employee benefits, such as tuition discounts, family planning assistance, accessible healthcare and mental health resources. Cava also hosts an annual conference designed to foster connection and collaboration among general managers.

    This culture extends to the customer experience. Even in the fast-casual dining space, Cava’s team finds ways to create meaningful human connections. One such initiative is the “love button,” a tool that empowers employees to cover a customer’s meal if they notice someone having a rough day.

    Xenohristos says this initiative is all about “giving our team members the tools to be able to share that generosity that’s ingrained in us and our culture.”

    While no journey is without its challenges, Cava’s values continue to push the brand forward, redefining how guests experience food and hospitality. “As we continue to grow, the more we can do what we set out to do, which was change the restaurant industry,” Xenohristos says.

    His advice for current and future business leaders is clear:

    • Lead with purpose and heart. Building a business rooted in hospitality, care and connection creates lasting impact — for both your team and your customers.
    • Make culture your cornerstone. A thoughtful employee experience does more than retain talent; it distinguishes your brand.
    • Grow without losing your roots. No matter how big you scale, stay grounded in the mission that started it all. Authenticity is your most valuable asset.
    • Empower generosity. Give your team tools to care about their work, people and purpose. Small acts of kindness create big ripple effects.
    • Don’t just follow the industry — change it. Cava didn’t just open restaurants. It built a movement around food, humanity and culture, proving that chains can be both scalable and mission-driven.

    Related: Two Industry Leaders Share Their Best Advice for Restaurant Owners – And Reveal the Exact Amount You Can Raise Prices Without Losing Customers

    Watch the episode above to hear directly from Xenohristos, and subscribe to Behind the Review for more from new business owners and reviewers every Wednesday.

    Editorial contributions by Jiah Choe and Kristi Lindahl

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    Emily Washcovick

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  • How This Entrepreneur Went From Small Business to $25 Million | Entrepreneur

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    Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

    It’s hard to imagine modern life without air conditioning, heating and plumbing. For Josh Campbell, founder of Rescue Air and Plumbing, these necessities have been the foundation of his success as an entrepreneur.

    “We may as well be doctors,” Campbell says. “Doesn’t matter what’s happening in this world — we can’t have our quality of life without [these services].”

    Rescue Air and Plumbing doesn’t just rely on necessity for growth, however. The $25 million business has achieved success due to the ingrained, small-town values Campbell grew up with.

    “We treat people like we did when we grew up in the country, and we do what we say we’re gonna do,” he says. “Because if you burned a bridge where I’m from, that burnt bridge is gonna follow you forever.”

    Related: These Brothers Turned a 2-Man Operation Into One of the Most Trusted Companies in Their Area. Here’s How.

    This service mindset gives Rescue Air and Plumbing an edge in an industry where customers often feel like just another transaction.

    “[Businesses in Dallas] tend to move through people a little more. You burn a bridge here, you just move on to a new person,” Campbell says. “So I think having a country upbringing gives us a big competitive advantage in the city.”

    Campbell built his business around the idea that when people feel seen and cared for, not just sold to, they’ll keep coming back. “We do a killer job, and it’s just included in the service,” he says. “Once somebody uses us and they experience how well we do it and how differently we do it, they keep using us.”

    From the start, Campbell had a clear vision for growth. One of his most significant milestones came when he acquired a local plumbing business in 2022, expanding the company to more than 100 employees. “It’s very, very healthy in your company to demonstrate that you’re growing in interesting ways that people want to be a part of,” he says. “If you’re not growing, look for turnover in your company.”

    Related: Two Industry Leaders Share Their Best Advice for Restaurant Owners – And Reveal the Exact Amount You Can Raise Prices Without Losing Customers

    The decision to expand beyond HVAC services wasn’t just about increasing revenue. Campbell sought opportunities that aligned with Rescue Air’s existing customer base, team culture and operational strengths.

    “If you buy a company, you’ve bought an entire system,” he says. “Don’t change anything. Don’t break the machine. It’s already enough discomfort and change [for the employees].”

    The acquisition taught him that timing, resources and a clear purpose are essential when planning an expansion. You must be ready for new responsibilities and understand the workings of the business you’re plugging into your own.

    Campbell’s advice is to take things slow. Acquired businesses come with their own set of procedures and people. He recommends waiting two to three months to make changes, so new employees feel valued instead of confronted by changes to their daily work life.

    “If you’re gonna change the pay plan, it better improve their quality of life,” he says. “Give them wins before you start doing any procedural stuff they might not see any gains out of.”

    That same philosophy shapes his leadership style. Campbell focuses on creating an environment where his team can succeed, because when they win, the company wins.

    Related: This Is What the CEO of Kickstarter Wishes Aspiring Entrepreneurs Knew

    Campbell also stresses the importance of structure, time management and personal discipline. “I think it really is important as entrepreneurs to be mindful about your time,” he said. “So often you’re pulled in a million directions, so having those habits or things you do that are for yourself and for your business on a recurring basis are really important.”

    This discipline extends to finances as well. Although financial oversight might not be every business owner’s favorite task, Campbell views it as essential to informed decision-making.

    “If you don’t know your P&L, there is a ceiling for how far you’re gonna be able to grow your business,” he says. “Truly, if you wanna operate your business successfully and even think about growing, you have to know your numbers.”

    Whether it’s integrating a new acquisition or serving a long-term client, Campbell’s approach centers on transparency and accountability. “Don’t leave anybody in the unknown,” he says. “Over-communicate, as uncomfortable as it might be.”

    It’s this commitment that drives Rescue Air and Plumbing’s reputation and growth and sets it apart in a competitive industry. For Campbell, the equation is simple: Treat people right, follow through, and build customer trust that lasts.

    Related: She Created the Dance Studio She Was Looking For. Now, It’s a Nationwide Brand.

    After growing Rescue Air and Plumbing into a trusted name in the Dallas area, Campbell shares the guiding principles of the company’s success that can help other service businesses thrive:

    • Invest in people first. Whether it’s a customer or a team member, relationships matter. Be honest, keep your word and show people you value them beyond the transaction.
    • Lead with integrity. Always keep your promises to customers. Reliability and consistency are the foundation for long-term customer relationships.
    • Build a team you trust. Surround yourself with people who care about doing the job right. Set employees up for success by outlining clear expectations and processes.
    • Stay resilient through challenges. While navigating the ups and downs of running a business, staying true to your values can help you persevere.
    • Focus on lasting trust. Success in the service industry isn’t just about solving problems. It’s about earning a place in the customer’s life as a trusted partner.

    Watch the episode above to hear directly from Josh Campbell, and subscribe to Behind the Review for more from new business owners and reviewers every Wednesday.

    Editorial contributions by Jiah Choe and Kristi Lindahl

    This article is part of our ongoing America’s Favorite Mom & Pop Shops™ series highlighting family-owned and operated businesses.

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    Emily Washcovick

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  • How Miami’s Pest Brothers Got Its Start | Entrepreneur

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    Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

    Jose Rodriguez wanted to follow in his father’s footsteps and build a career in the pest control industry, so it was a dream come true when his brother, Michael, teamed up with him to start Pest Brothers. Their strong bond set the tone for a thriving business focused on building lasting relationships with customers.

    “I don’t think there are a lot of options where you get to work with your best friend and your biggest cheerleader,” Michael says. “For me, that was really the most important thing.”

    Related: Two Industry Leaders Share Their Best Advice for Restaurant Owners – And Reveal the Exact Amount You Can Raise Prices Without Losing Customers

    It turns out, going into business with your best friend can be your key differentiator. The two exhibit excellent teamwork, which is reflected in their customer interactions and many five-star reviews — securing their spot on Yelp’s Top 100 Local Businesses of 2025.

    “[Customers] find us well-tempered, well-mannered,” Michael says. “And the reason for it is we’re enjoying what we do and who we do it with. I think that’s really the basis for it all. And then from there, good things come.”

    Joined by their brother-in-law, John, each member of the Pest Brothers brings something different to the table, including recruiting, marketing and industry experience.

    Old-school relationship-building was key to their early growth. The team sponsors golf tournaments for local schools and attends community events to not only create visibility for Pest Brothers but also to honor their roots.

    “We were sponsors at the golf tournament for [my son’s] high school, where we get a lot of leads,” Jose says. “We advertise wherever we can because those are the folks who have fed us when we weren’t necessarily getting to Yelp’s Top 100.”

    Related: This Is What the CEO of Kickstarter Wishes Aspiring Entrepreneurs Knew

    Still, the brothers knew there was more they could do to boost online visibility. They saw Yelp as an opportunity to attract more leads, and the investment paid off quickly. “We tried out the free trial [of Yelp Ads], and it was an absolute success — almost like we flipped a light switch, and [leads] tremendously started flowing in,” Michael says.

    They received such an influx of attention from homeowners that they decided to stop sending out snail mail advertisements, which can have a low success rate.

    “Whenever we receive a lead on Yelp, it’s about speed to lead,” Michael says. “The more quickly we can reach out, the more quickly we can get to that house, service it and win that lead.”

    Its Yelp presence does more than lead generation, however. It also builds trust and helps turn potential customers into loyal, long-term regulars. Especially in the pest control and home service industry, a new customer doesn’t always mean one job. Every new lead is a chance to create a recurring customer — and the opportunities are rolling in for Pest Brothers.

    “These are folks that if you do a good job, they’re gonna reward you for a long period of time,” Michael says. “In terms of the Yelp leads I saw on our dashboard, views on our page have increased by 576% over the past 30 days [since winning Yelp’s Top 100]. You talk about market awareness — that’s tremendous. That’s viral if I’ve ever seen it, so it’s been awesome for us.”

    Once you have your audience’s attention, Jose emphasized how important it is to set clear expectations, such as how long a treatment will take or when the customer will see results. It’s this type of transparency that builds credibility, prevents confusion and earns five-star reviews.

    When mistakes inevitably happen, the brothers acknowledge them with grace, reaching out personally to customers to make things right. “If somebody calls you, you can definitely rectify their issue as soon as you can,” Jose says. “That’s literally the whole point of being a small business, [being] able to do that.”

    Related: She Created the Dance Studio She Was Looking For. Now, It’s a Nationwide Brand.

    After building Pest Brothers from a two-man operation into one of the most trusted pest control companies in the Miami area, co-founders Michael and Jose share what’s helped them succeed in the competitive home service industry:

    • Lead with trust. Customers extend trust when they let you into their homes and workplaces. Be reliable, show up when you say you will and treat every space with respect.
    • Invest in relationships. Repeat customers and referrals are the lifeblood of a service business. Learn people’s names, remember their concerns and treat every job as an opportunity to strengthen the connection.
    • Use tools to work smarter. From routing software to online reviews, technology can save time, improve efficiency and help you better serve customers. Leverage different platforms and tools to stay organized, respond faster and build your reputation.
    • Stay adaptable. Every job is different. Be ready to adjust your approach and keep learning new methods to stay competitive and efficient.
    • Build a reputation that lasts. Home services are about more than solving a specific problem. They’re about creating peace of mind. When people know you genuinely care about their home or business, they’ll trust you for years to come.

    Watch the episode above to hear directly from Michael and Jose Rodriguez, and subscribe to Behind the Review for more from new business owners and reviewers every Wednesday.

    Editorial contributions by Jiah Choe and Kristi Lindahl

    Ready to break through your revenue ceiling? Join us at Level Up, a conference for ambitious business leaders to unlock new growth opportunities.

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    Emily Washcovick

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  • Looking for a Place to Stay? Check Out Top Local Hotels | Entrepreneur

    Looking for a Place to Stay? Check Out Top Local Hotels | Entrepreneur

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    Entrepreneur asked Foursquare to dig into its data, to reveal which small businesses America loved the most. Together we created America’s Favorite Mom & Pop Shops™, a list of 150 local, independently owned and operated businesses across 10 categories — including, yes, lodging establishments.

    To see every category, as well as the methodology behind the list, click here. Below are the 15 companies included in the lodging category.

    1. Abakee Cottages

    Laconia, NH | Company website

    If you’re looking for a vacation away from the hustle and bustle of city life, Abakee Cottages is the perfect lakefront destination for you and your family. Situated on the sands of Lake Winnipesaukee, Abakee Cottages gives you views of the White Mountains, Mt. Chocorua, the Ossipee Range, and Mt. Washington. This destination inn is located at the end of a private road and gives you access to a protected beach area safe for children. With a 58-year history, this mom-and-pop business has been providing families with a memorable place to vacation for generations.

    The cottages themselves are private, well separated, beautifully furnished, and provide access to outside grills and picnic tables. If you need a laundromat or a supermarket, or want to visit the nearby church or the Weirs Beach recreation area, all are located a short drive away. You can also easily make a day trip to the nearby mountains, as well as local golf courses and restaurants. A gallery of the Abakee cottages can be found on its website if you want to check out the architecture and amenities before your stay.

    2. Perry’s Ocean Edge Resort

    Daytona Beach, FL | Company website

    If you’re looking to land in one of Florida’s favorite vacation spots, Perry’s Ocean Edge Resort could be your perfect destination. With 214 rooms, this large resort offers everything from complimentary homemade donuts in the morning to putting greens and shuffleboard courts, heated pools and hot tubs both indoor and outdoor to outdoor BBQ grills. Vacationing with your furry friend? Perry’s Ocean Edge Resort is also pet friendly for dogs up to 40 pounds.

    Perry’s Ocean Edge Resort offers a variety of different room styles to fit whatever type of stay you’re looking for. Just you and your honey? Check out the King Garden rooms for a comforting, romantic stay. If you’re bringing the family along, this resort offers various suite options so that everyone has a place to sleep. Order colorful and whimsical beach-themed drinks at the outdoor tiki bar, which gives you a sublime view of the ocean. Perry’s Ocean Edge Resort also has larger banquet-style rooms if you’re looking for a place to host a birthday party, a corporate event, a reunion, or whatever you’re needing to celebrate.

    3. Blue Mountain Bed & Breakfast

    Missoula, MT | Company website

    At Blue Mountain Bed & Breakfast, you will be hosted by Brady and Elaine Anderson-Wood, native Mountanans who have been working for years to preserve and educate people on the wildlife and history of the area. The lodge itself is three stories, offering gorgeous views of the Bitterroot River and Missoula Valley. This bed and breakfast is decorated to highlight the region, offering guests an inside look into Missoula’s history through a vast selection of books and family heirlooms.

    The second floor of the lodge houses two private guestrooms, named The Sagebrush Suite and The Bitterroot Room. Because this B&B is so small, it’s a great vacation spot for your family to have a private, remote, and comforting experience all to yourselves. Then you can walk down to Hawk Hill House, the main facility, where you’ll find a gift shop, the kitchen, and dining areas. If you want to see the space before you book, photos of the wooded, spacious, themed rooms can be found on the B&B’s website.

    4. Paniolo Ranch Bed & Breakfast Spa

    Boerne, TX | Company website

    Occupying 100 acres of lush hills and forests. this spot is perfect for a weekend break from city life, with several options of private cottage-style rooms. Paniolo Ranch has also become well known for hosting weddings and other types of events, offering all-inclusive packages to help take the planning stress off your shoulders. This inn also has an onsite spa, gym, and art studio to keep you active and creative during your stay.

    Paniolo Ranch gets its name from the Hawaiian word for cowboy, which perfectly captures the aesthetic of this inn — a marrying of “Hawaiiain aloha spirit with Lonestar traditions.” You can view the different rooms on their website in order to pick the best one for your stay. All are beautifully decorated with a rustic, vintage, homely style, each suite alive with its own character. The spa offers services like therapeutic massages, hot stone massages, and scalp passages. Local activities not far from the B&B include local vineyards, trails, caves, shops, and theme parks, so there is lots to do on the property and in the surrounding area.

    Related: How New, Small Business Owners Can (and Should) Be Protecting Their Brand

    5. GreenTree Inn

    Sedona, AZ | Company website

    GreenTree is a spacious inn with a variety of rooms, and a welcoming place for those visiting beautiful Sedona. Lounge by the pool that’s decorated with cabanas, a large fire-pit, a hot tub, and grand views of Thunder Mountain. The hotel is located near famous Arizona attractions like Red Rock State Park, where you can explore hiking trails, ride horseback, mountain bike, and more. If you’re looking for a water-based excursion, the hotel is also not far from Oak Creek Canyon, where you can swim and fish.

    GreenTree rooms include a deluxe king option (if you and your spouse are looking for a romantic getaway) and suites and rooms with double beds (if you’re bringing the family or a group of friends). The rooms are decorated in a clean, minimalist, modern style that highlights Arizona attractions and culture. Here you can enjoy in-room coffee, continental breakfast, flatscreen TVs, and crisp air conditioning (vital for those Arizona heatwaves). GreenTree is the perfect place to rest your head after a day of sightseeing around Sedona, taking in the natural wonders of Arizona.

    6. Mathis House

    Toms River, NJ | Company website

    Mathis House is a Victorian bed & breakfast with an elegant tearoom, where guests can enjoy a weekend retreat or simply dine in for afternoon tea. This inn provides five-star service to any travelers passing through Toms River, NJ, whether you’re looking for a solo stop on a work trip, a romantic getaway with your sweetie, or a fun place to stay with your family. It also rents their larger community spaces for club meetings and events.

    This historic, three-story mansion was built in 1898 and houses a grand porch, portico, parlor room, dining room, library, lawns and a carriage house. But the showstopper is definitely the tea room, where you can be transported back to Victorian times and enjoy a traditional afternoon tea of scones, sandwiches, soups, and aromatic pots of tea. Rooms are decorated with ornate wooden furniture, floral tapestries, beautiful arched windows, and chandeliers.

    7. The Pierpont Inn

    Ventura, CA | Company website

    This historic hotel has been operating in Ventura since 1910, with 79 guest rooms and grand suites. With beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean and sprawling rose gardens and bluffs, The Pierpont Inn is perfect for everything from a weekend getaway to a wedding venue. If your pup enjoys the beach as much as you do, The Pierpont Inn is also dog friendly, so you can enjoy this special hotel together.

    If you’re looking for a little more privacy, in addition to hotel rooms the Pierpont Inn also offers two separate cottages with beautiful exposed ceilings, brick fireplaces, and vintage furniture. If you’re looking to bring the whole family, this hotel also has several suite options so that everyone has a place to stay. Explore the nearby neighborhood of historic Ventura which is full of artisanal restaurants, mom-and-pop shops, bars, and breweries. Information regarding booking the 6,000 square feet of flexible space for events can be found on their website.

    8. Eagle Crest Resort

    Redmond, OR | Company website

    It’s always sunny in the high desert of Central Oregon. This full-service resort typically sees over 300 days of clear skies a year, making Eagle Crest the ideal destination to get your Vitamin D fix. And this destination has everything you could possibly want, including golf courses, a spa, restaurants, and spaces for events and meetings.

    When you stay at Eagle Crest, you can book specific tee times for you and your guests on one of their three distinct courses: the Challenge Course, the Resort Course, and the Ridge Course. The resort also offers golf lessons if you’re looking to improve your swing. The extensive spa menu offers massages, facials, and waxing services, including standout treatments like the “Age Maintenance Facial” and therapeutic massages. Dine in at one of this resort’s many eateries, including the casual Aerie Café, the spacious restaurant Niblick’s & Greene’s, or even dine poolside. Eagle Crest resort has something for everyone in the family and will keep you entertained your whole vacation.

    Related: The Most Common (and Preventable) Mistakes Small Businesses Make — and How to Avoid Them

    9. Capitol Reef Resort

    Torrey, UT | Company website

    Capitol Reef Resort in Torrey, Utah spans 58 acres of beautiful mountain views and close access to the entrance of the nearby national park. This resort is not like other resorts, offering incredibly unique types of stays from Conestoga Wagons to even TeePees! This resort is famous for their wagons, which are based on authentic 19th century designs with wooden bunk beds and traditional textiles, if you’re looking for an authentic Utah experience. If you’re looking for more of a traditional hotel stay, Capitol Reef also offers a variety of cabins, suites, and traditional rooms.

    Dine in at the Pioneer Kitchen which serves guests breakfast and dinner. The standout breakfast dish is the iconic pioneer breakfast which is served with a choice of bacon, sausage, pork chop, vegetarian patty, grilled Utah trout, or sirloin steak. The dinner menu offers an array of classic dishes like short rib, steak sandwich, burger, pork chop al pastor, and even has options for you herbivores, like the vegan stuffed poblano pepper and the spinach & mushroom manicotti. Lounge by the heated outdoor pool that gives you a sublime view of the Red Rock Cliffs. Capitol Reef Resort knows that many of its guests will be staying with them in order to access nearby outdoor adventures, so check out the list on their website of nearby trails and attractions.

    10. Mother Earth Motor Lodge

    Kinston, NC | Company website

    The Mother Earth is a hotel with history, offering guests a fun, retro experience. This lodge was originally built in 1963 as a motel to accommodate downtown shoppers and automobile travelers from the nearby highway. In the 60s, Kinston was a thriving town for food, fair, shopping, and music, with famous musicians like James Brown coming through the lodge. After closing for a few years, the lodge was transformed into the inn it is today in 2008, when it was renamed the Mother Earth Motor Lodge.

    This lodge has a total of 44 rooms including standard rooms, suites, and rooms that accommodate longer stays. Common areas include a kidney-shaped pool, built to replicate the original pool, grills, picnic tables, shuffle board, and a 9-hole mini golf course. Immerse yourself in the past at the Mother Earth Motor Lodge, which is decorated to take you back to the pop art and bright colors of the 1960s. Next to the lobby you will find the Ram Neuse Room, which is big enough to host events and meetings if you’re looking for a place to throw a party in the Kinston area.

    11. Gazebo Inn

    Myrtle Beach, SC | Company website

    If you want a nostalgic experience at affordable prices, as well as the luxury of being right on the beach, the Gazebo Inn is for you. Enjoy access to the luxury experience of laying by the oceanfront pool and hot tub, easy access to the beachfront, and scenic private balconies. The Gazebo Inn is conveniently located near local attractions like Broadway at the Beach, Myrtle Beach State Park, the Market Common, the Boardwalk, and the Promenade. This hotel is the perfect spot for a romantic, beachside getaway, or a school vacation with the whole family.

    The Gazebo Inn offers a variety of accommodations including king rooms, queen studios, double studios, and allows guests to choose what their view will be. If you’re visiting Myrtle Beach with your little ones, some attractions close to the Gazebo Inn you should check out are Ripley’s Aquarium of Myrtle Beach, the Hollywood Wax Museum, Savannah’s Playground, and the Myrtle Beach SkyWheel. And of course, enjoy long days lounging on the sands of Myrtle Beach.

    12. The Equus

    Honolulu, HI | Company website

    Planning your next Hawaiian vacation? The Equus Hotel Honolulu is a charming family-owned and operated boutique hotel that immerses you in authentic Hawaiian hospitality. This hotel is unlike any in the area, carrying on paniolo history with its equestrian-inspired design and antique east-Asian décor. This hotel is located near one of the nation’s biggest shopping centers, Magic Island Beach Park, and the Ala Wai marina.

    Choose from room king rooms, doubles, and even rooms with beautifully crafted bamboo beds. All the rooms have warm yellow walls, comfortable wooden furniture, and equestrian details to highlight the history of the area. In the lobby you will find the Paniolo Bar & Café, where you can get scrumptious breakfast dishes in the morning and enjoy cocktails in the evening. They even host local live music acts throughout the week to immerse you in the island’s artistic culture. Nearby outdoor attractions include the Honolulu Zoo, Pearl Harbor National Memorial, Waikiki Beach, the aquarium, and much more.

    Related: How Small Business Owners Can Maximize Productivity Despite Limited Budgets and Resources

    13. Kenoza Lake View Manor

    Kenoza Lake, NY | Company website

    This charming manor has been in operation since the 1950s, providing guests with a throwback experience in Sullivan County, NY. Decorated in the Pastiche style, it still features original paint colors and historic furniture to transport guests in time. And with over 23 acres of land, it’s the perfect getaway from NYC. Room options include deluxe king, deluxe queen, and mini queen, so that you can customize your experience to your party size.

    Sprawling green fields surround this manor, which makes this inn the perfect destination if you’re looking for a place to enjoy the nature of rural NY. The rooms are adorned with gold-framed mirrors, antique wooden furniture, marbled bathrooms, and ornate curtains. Kenoza Lake View Manor is located directly adjacent to Bethel Woods, Jeffersonville, Callicoon, Narrowsburg, Livingston Manor, and Kenoza Lake itself if you’re looking for a getaway that gives you access to outdoor adventures. In additional to the cozy hotel rooms, enjoy communal areas and fire pits with your friends and family.

    14. Menemsha Inn & Cottages

    Chilmark, MA | Company website

    Established all the way back in 1923, Menemsha Inn & Cottages has made quite the name for itself in Martha’s Vineyard. Originally DeWolf Thompson’s sheep farm, this hotel has become a historic site, with many families returning year after year. Close by you will find attractions like Lucy Vincent Beach, Larsons Fish Market, kayaking in the Pond, and more. The Nixon family have run this inn for 28 years, constantly working to restore the buildings and surrounding farm in order to preserve the location’s history.

    Guests at Menemsha Inn & Cottages have many choices of room types which include one and two-story stand-alone cottages, a whole floor of the original farmhouse, and even larger rental homes if you’re looking to bring a larger group to the property. As a guest, you’re given exclusive access to Chilmark’s Atlantic beaches, reserved for residents of the area, with its clear waters and jaw-dropping sunsets. This inn also offers in-room massages, basketball, tennis, hiking trails, and much more to help you unwind and relax.

    15. Hotel Blue

    Lewes, DE | Company website

    If you’re looking for a getaway in Deleware, Hotel Blue is conveniently located right near Lewes Beach. This is the perfect place to stay if you’re desiring a classy, comfortable hotel with access to the Atlantic Ocean. Bringing the little ones along? Check out the nearby whale-watching opportunities! Once you’ve splashed in those ocean waves, lay by the pool back at Hotel Blue, which offers stunning beachfront views.

    Hotel Blue has excellent amenities like a sauna and pool, and a wide room selection, from queen-bed suites to studio suites, and even tower suites. Hotel Blue’s convenient location situates guests a two-minute drive from the closest ferry, and a twenty-minute drive to the closest airport. With tiled fireplaces, cozy linens, and incredible views, these hotel rooms provide the quintessential romantic weekend away. Prices are unbeatable for beach proximity, so make sure to check this spot out the next time you’re vacationing in Lewes!

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    Sofia Wolfson

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  • How This Texas Farmers Market’s Gamble Paid Off Big | Entrepreneur

    How This Texas Farmers Market’s Gamble Paid Off Big | Entrepreneur

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    Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

    Fall Creek Farmers Market in Humble, Texas, is not just a spot to stop by for your Sunday morning coffee and a fresh vegetable or two. Owners Jonathan and Andrea Haskin built this vibrant space with a vision to change their community’s food shopping habits and educate their customers on the importance of buying fresh and local items.

    The couple came up with the idea for the market in 2015 when they started taking a longer look at what kind of food they had available to them and realized they had to travel far and wide just to source quality ingredients from local farmers. What would happen if they brought their community closer to the source?

    Related: Top Health and Wellness Franchises

    To their delight, the Haskin’s neighbors embraced the concept. Situated in the beautiful Fall Creek neighborhood, the market’s outdoor setup is near a golf course and several walking trails, drawing tons of people and their pets into the space every Sunday morning.

    Jonathan and Andrea prioritize being present in their space and providing a personalized experience for every visitor. Getting set up two hours before the market opens and staying until the last group trickles out, the pair walk around to greet and share their story with customers. In the market’s early days, their daughters sat at the entrance making bracelets for shoppers as they walked in.

    This community feel is what drew in reviewer Forest B., now a regular visitor of Fall Creek Farmers Market. “All of the vendors were so personable, willing to share advice and their specific stories,” his review reads. “I particularly enjoyed the cultural diversity. So much to learn at each booth.”

    With 20+ vendors spanning global cuisines, there is no limit to the kind of food you can sample at Fall Creek Farmers Market. On his first visit alone, Forest tried a Colombian coffee blend, two empanada flavors, Vietnamese egg rolls, and an Italian ice dessert. The cherry on top was getting to engage with the vendors themselves, learning firsthand about their products and journeys.

    Related: 4 Reasons Why You Should Enter the Health and Wellness Industry

    “One [vendor] that’s not mentioned in my review is the Indian couple who serve prepared foods there,” Forest said. “They are a little bit older. That’s completely different, say, from the couple who owns Frostbite, which is the Italian ice vendor. They’re youngsters and [are] actually looking to you to provide them information on your journey here in the United States. So you just learn quite a bit about the people. Sometimes people are a little surprised to find out that you know a lot about topics in their areas, but the way you learn a lot is by talking to people and being open and receptive.”

    Forest’s experience is a perfect example of Jonathan and Andrea’s educational ecosystem in action. First and foremost, the market aims to teach its visitors about the importance of fresh, quality food. The Haskins ensure their vendors share this passion and make an effort to educate every customer who visits their booth. 90% of Fall Creek’s vendors farm and ranch full-time. Some even take agriculture classes at Texas A&M.

    “They live it as we do,” Jonathan said. “And it starts from the inside. We are really passionate about immersing ourselves into the market, and we are very selective with who we allow [to be] a part of our team.”

    Jonathan and Andrea’s goal is to be the tipping point that pushes customers into the world of local food shopping, and they’ve found that preparation is key. They engage with customers online ahead of each sale to make sure they have all the information they need for a smooth visit. Because offerings shift each week to spice things up for shoppers and ensure seasonal produce stays front and center, Jonathan and Andrea provide a list of vendors and produce options in advance to help customers plan their meals and build out their grocery lists before arriving at the market.

    Related: How This Healthy Food App Scored a $200K Investment

    The most faithful customers do around 80% of their food shopping at Falls Creek Farmers Market, which was the vision the owners had in mind when they set out to build a business.

    “It’s not a craft show. It’s not a bake sale. You can actually come and get your pastured eggs and real items,” Jonathan said. “Knowing where your food is from is a big deal. It’s like getting a root canal or heart surgery. So it feels really good to be able to serve and to be able to give them access as we have it.”

    Not only is shopping locally good for your health, but it’s good for the local economy. Forest stressed the importance of spending your money and time at small businesses.

    “Business owners typically are here from other countries. [They] come from backgrounds in which there was virtually no safety net, so they bring their knowledge to the United States. When I’m looking at these businesses, I’m looking at how I can learn more so I can help other people in the community continue to start these small businesses that make our economy run.”

    Beyond making visits, reviewing is a powerful way customers can show support. Jonathan and Andrea take every review they receive to heart, always looking to expand the offerings and inclusivity of their space. They find it important to stay receptive to feedback, keeping the dialogue with customers open, genuine, and full of love.

    In addition to prioritizing customer education and building community, Falls Creek Farmers Market believes:

    • Passion starts from the inside. Put love and care into what you do and it will trickle down to your partners and employees—and ultimately your customers.
    • Preparation is key. Communicate online with your customers ahead of a sale so they know what to expect. Plus, make time to help out with any problems that come up.
    • Supporting local is a great way to learn new things. Opening up your mind and heart to small businesses might just help you discover an important lifestyle change.

    Listen to the episode below to hear directly from Jonathan, Andrea, and Forest, and subscribe to Behind the Review for more from new business owners and reviewers every Thursday.

    Available on: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Pandora and Soundcloud.

    Editorial contributions by Callie Morgan and Kristi Lindahl.

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    Emily Washcovick

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  • 5 Ways SEO Can Help Grow a Mom & Pop Business | Entrepreneur

    5 Ways SEO Can Help Grow a Mom & Pop Business | Entrepreneur

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    Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

    Small, independently owned shops, almost by definition, rely on tighter teams and target smaller markets while providing often niche products or services. And small they may be, but mom-and-pop operations can be mighty: They often bring a family legacy to their customers, along with close customer service — experiences not easily found in larger commercial sectors.

    If you run such a shop, it’s common to rely on local foot traffic and targeted social media for much of your marketing efforts. Fortunately, both of these channels benefit from good search engine optimization practices.

    1. Optimize your Google Business Profile

    Your Google Business Profile is a prime piece of virtual real estate, and it’s free. Simply sign up using an existing Google account and either claim an existing listing or create a new one. Once you can access your profile, you can optimize it to attract local customers — people looking for products/services online and those interested in visiting a physical location. A well-executed one will attract more organic traffic, phone calls, leads and, ultimately, more customers.

    Related: How PR and SEO Can Converge to Supercharge Your Online Exposure

    A few optimization essentials:

    • Be sure to fill out every part of the profile, including business name, address, phone number and hours of operation (all information should be consistent with what’s on your website and other online listings).
    • Choose the most accurate category to describe your enterprise, and add relevant attributes regarding other important details.
    • Consider including high-quality photos or videos of the physical space and products or services. Profiles with photos receive more clicks and calls.
    • Solicit more Google reviews: Encourage customers to leave comments on your profile. Not only does this improve engagement, but it also sends positive SEO signals to Google, meaning potentially higher search results placement.
    • List services or products, including detailed descriptions and pricing.
    • Incorporate booking and/or reservations: If your business takes appointments, integrate booking options (such as Calendly).
    • Keep information updated: Make sure to update your profile to reflect any changes in hours, contact information, services, etc.

    2. Create localized content

    Most small businesses target a specific geographic area — whether they realize it or not. With that in mind, it’s wise to have regionally specific website content to attract relevant traffic, including keywords indicating a particular service area. Consider, for example, geo-specific terms that describe your company, then validate that they receive actual search volume (using a tool like Semrush) and apply them on site pages (including titles and descriptions) according to on-page SEO best practices.

    Related: 4 Ways to Win at Local Content Marketing

    3. Placement in local directories

    There are, of course, other online listings and resources that can earn you organic traffic. These include (but are not limited to) Bing Places for Business, Yelp, The Real Yellow Pages (aka YP), Better Business Bureau, Foursquare and MerchantCircle. You might also find directories specific to your service area, such as the local chamber of commerce.

    In the process, avoid spammy directories, which can be vehicles for unauthorized/unwanted traffic, including malware. These are often characterized by outdated web design, overwhelming pop-up ads, promises for “links” in exchange for a fee and a lack of moderation.

    4. Social media “check-ins”

    You might not consider Instagram a “local” platform, but with its location-tagging feature, it can be! By encouraging customers to “check in” on social media, you can attract potential customers from the area and/or gain more likes or follows, both valuable assets. Any business can benefit from such efforts, especially smaller ones that depend on limited traffic.

    One creative way to encourage customers to engage is by creating an on-site Instagrammable spot or some other kind of selfie station. Ask visitors to tag your location and include a photo with their posts.

    Related: 5 Reasons Why Your Brand Needs a Strong Social Media Presence

    5. YouTube marketing

    This video colossus has more than two billion users, and just like most other online platforms, people use keywords to search it. You can boost YouTube’s organic reach to your company by posting engaging content that provides true value. With the right optimization, it will generate hundreds to thousands of new views and new customers. Concepts could include the story of your business’s foundation, testimonials from happy customers, product demonstrations and tutorials, local events or Q&A sessions with other business owners or thought leaders.

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    Jason Hennessey

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  • This Is the Unconventional Marketing Tactic Small Businesses Need to Try | Entrepreneur

    This Is the Unconventional Marketing Tactic Small Businesses Need to Try | Entrepreneur

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    Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

    If you’ve never heard of guerrilla marketing, it can sound intimidating. After all, it comes from the term guerrilla warfare. The goal of guerrilla marketing is to drive brand awareness through unconventional or shocking tactics for maximum exposure. If you think guerrilla marketing isn’t for you and your business keep in mind that guerrilla marketing campaigns have a 21% higher ROI than more traditional marketing.

    The elements that make guerrilla marketing are:

    Cost-effective: If you think guerrilla marketing is expensive, think again. One of the biggest reasons to do it would actually be to save money you’d normally spend on traditional marketing outlets. Most small business owners like that guerrilla marketers spend 90% less on advertising than other traditional methods.

    Element of surprise: Catching people off guard is a great way to make sure you’re getting their undivided attention. In a world of ads in every direction from bus stops to billboards, make your message garner attention.

    Creative and unconventional: Marketers can distance themselves from the more corporate side of the brand and have more freedom of control to do something more fun, which could be different from what the brand is usually known for.

    Interactive: In the mundane when people are going to and from work and going through the regular motions of a workday, you can lighten up their mood by giving them an activity which they wouldn’t normally do.

    Related: 7 Guerrilla Marketing Tactics That Will Grow Your Business When Money Gets Tight

    Benefits of guerrilla marketing

    Let’s talk about why you should be applying guerrilla marketing tactics to your small business if you’re not yet.

    Guerrilla marketing can become your unique selling proposition (USP) because it’s creative, memorable and unconventional — and if I haven’t convinced you yet how effective guerilla marketing is, take a look at this: “79% of consumers believe companies that provide unique experiences value their business more.” So you’re increasing your brand’s value in your audience’s mind by using a strategy that’s inherently more unique.

    This will also generate word-of-mouth as people will talk about their unique experiences with others. Many times, guerrilla marketing will also garner media attention, which is another part of the low cost-effectiveness of guerrilla marketing.

    Strategies to implement this unconventional strategy

    Ambush marketing: This tactic is not the easiest to execute, and you will most likely need to work with other businesses or organizations as it’s a big undertaking and can easily go wrong. A great way to understand ambush marketing is to think about flash mobs. Let’s say you’re a local dance school; you could go to a baseball game for youths. Parents would be there, so your target market would already be at the event. Next, you’d need to wait for a break in the game and then ambush the field with your flash mob. At the end of the performance, all dancers could take off their jackets/sweaters and showcase a shirt with your dance school’s logo. Use caution once again, because if this isn’t done correctly, you could potentially offend the organizers of the event.

    Undercover marketing: This can be done in two ways. The goal of undercover marketing is for potential customers to be unaware they’re being pitched to. A common example is product placements in your favorite TV shows. Another way to use undercover marketing is by hiring actors or using employees who go undercover to interact with the public. The public is unaware that the agents are actually there on a mission to execute an undercover marketing tactic.

    Ambient marketing: This is the most common form of guerrilla marketing and also one of the most entertaining. It has strong visuals and includes putting a message for your brand out in unusual public spaces. Usually, some form of signage or logo will be used and put out in a clever way that goes with the brand’s offerings. Let’s say you own a small business selling Christmas tree ornaments. Your ambient marketing campaign could be making small round cardboard ornaments where one side is an eye-catching design, and the other side is your logo. You could hang these on trees in busy places where people will walk by them constantly. A word of caution: Make sure you contact your city if you’re unsure of whether or not you’d be allowed to do that so you don’t end up in a conflict.

    Related: 9 Marketing Strategies for Startups to Boost Growth and Visibility

    Experiential marketing: This is when you get the public out of their comfort zone to participate in an activity. Let’s say you own a power washing business. You could put graffiti on a wall and ask the public to participate in removing different types of products such as chalk, markers, paint, etc. Maybe make it a competition by blindfolding them and offering a prize if they’re able to complete the tasks. Make it fun and get people moving! Obviously, just make sure you get permission.

    My company has used this strategy in B2B settings. Many people believe guerrilla marketing should only be reserved for B2C, mostly because they’re worried about the backlash they may receive in a B2B setting, but I recommend getting creative regardless of your audience. At the end of the day, B2B clients are still human and will enjoy the entertainment that comes with it. We went to a trade show once and put cards all over the vicinity. The card had a question mark on one side and instructions to come get a prize on the other side. This was such a low-cost way to get prospects to come to our booth and get free ice cream. We would use the opportunity while they were eating ice cream to teach them about our offerings. Never underestimate the power of free food!

    If you haven’t tried guerrilla marketing yet as a small or medium-sized business, give it a try. Shake up the everyday experiences your town experiences and become the talk at the dinner table. Just remember a few things: Messages can be misinterpreted if they’re too mysterious, you might intimidate your audience or shareholders and it could put potential customers off if it’s too out there or controversial.

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    Jason Miller

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  • 7 Strategies for Dealing with Gender Bias in Family Businesses | Entrepreneur

    7 Strategies for Dealing with Gender Bias in Family Businesses | Entrepreneur

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    Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

    For Janette Silva, having a family business has been both a blessing and a curse. As the sole daughter, her involvement with the family business was never predetermined, in contrast to her brothers, who have enjoyed the security of stable salaries and lifelong perks a family business brings.

    Gradually, Silva took on the mantle of running the company, yet the official CEO title remained out of her grasp. In addition to her professional duties, she shouldered the care of her aging parents and managed her household responsibilities. This burden wasn’t the subject of discussion but rather her family’s unspoken expectation. At her workplace, she often cringed when she heard phrases like, “You don’t know what you’re talking about; let me talk to your dad” or “Ah, I see, you got this job because you’re his daughter.”

    Although women in the broader business landscape contend with various gender biases, those in family businesses grapple with an added layer of complexity and severity that further complicates the picture — and the situation is worse than it might appear.

    Related: Running a Family Business Means You Need to Prepare Your Kids to Take Over — Here’s How to Do It Right.

    Revealing gender discrimination in family businesses

    Regrettably, stories like Silva’s are all too familiar. That should be no surprise, as gender-based expectations persistently permeate family dynamics. Nevertheless, in today’s world, it’s both unjust and unwise to limit the prospects of a capable family member on the basis of their gender.

    A research team composed of experts from my team at Loyola Marymount University’s Family Business Entrepreneurship Program, Business Consulting Resources, the University of San Francisco’s Gellert Family Business Center and Women Leaders in Family Enterprises decided to examine this issue more closely.

    We were curious about the extent to which women face uphill battles and how the experience of bias and discrimination in the family business impacts how they perceive their own sense of work performance and career progressions. We embarked on an extensive three-year study, which entailed conducting qualitative interviews and organizing focus groups in 2019 and 2020. This was followed in 2023 by an extensive survey involving more than 100 women leaders. Our respondents primarily represented multi-generational businesses (77%) consisting predominantly of CEOs or senior managers (74%) who boasted an average tenure of 16 years.

    Remarkable revelations

    Our study revealed that gender discrimination still casts a shadow, manifesting as the infamous “glass ceiling effect,” the persistent “sticky floor impact” and a lack of opportunities in leadership roles. Around 49% of our respondents reported experiencing gender bias (compared to 42% for all businesses in the U.S., according to Pew Research from 2017). Forty percent of the respondents who acknowledged bias also expressed a belief that their gender had hindered their progress within the family business.

    Given that our survey respondents were mostly top managers, it is not surprising that much of the biases came from the external business environment. They emanated from customers (51%), vendors (37%) and the broader business community (45%), highlighting the pervasiveness of the issue in our society. Astonishingly, family members themselves served as the source of discrimination in over a third of cases.

    One respondent candidly shared, “My father openly says women are no good in business,” while another recounted, “The men in the family are automatically granted the most senior positions, leaving me with limited options.” Additional comments painted a similar picture: “Had I been a boy, I would have been a managing director, but as a girl I wasn’t considered,” and “I was told that the CEO position would always be held by a male.” One woman leader poignantly reflected, “In my family business, I had to work tirelessly compared to my brothers to achieve the same recognition.”

    The consequences of gender biases proved enduring, leaving a lasting impact on those affected. Individuals who experienced bias reported that it had a detrimental effect on their work performance. They were more prone to suffering from imposter syndrome — an affliction characterized by feelings of inadequacy, self-doubt and a haunting fear of being exposed as a fraud. This syndrome had the potential to further erode their performance, making these findings both eye-opening and concerning.

    Related: The Pros and Cons of Hiring Family Members in a Small Business

    Navigating unique challenges in family businesses

    Women in family-owned businesses have traditionally fared better than those in large publicly owned companies. For instance, it was widely celebrated that, as of January 2023, women had exceeded the 10% threshold for Fortune 500 CEOs. On the other hand, it is generally accepted that at least 24% of family businesses are led by a woman CEO or president. This progress is commendable, especially when considering that family businesses often impose distinctive challenges to their female members.

    One key challenge arises from entrenched family traditions rooted in the culture and history of these businesses, which can overshadow an objective assessment of qualifications. Typically, sons ascend to leadership roles, relegating daughters to supportive positions, regardless of their abilities. Furthermore, the familial dynamics and the informal nature of decision-making within these family units — relying more on personal biases and stereotypes than formal policies and procedures — can further perpetuate gender disparities. Compounding the problem is the usual absence of external oversight (e.g., external board members) in family-owned enterprises.

    Adding to the complexity of gender discrimination in family businesses is its deeply impactful nature. Women who experience gender bias often encounter it from their own kin, including parents, siblings and close family associates. This personal dimension can heighten the emotional toll, and confronting family members risks straining vital relationships further.

    Due to their emotional commitment in the legacy of the business, many women find it exceedingly difficult to pursue other opportunities, even when discrimination persists. This predicament is exacerbated by the fact that women in family businesses often have limited external support systems to turn to, as seeking help from external sources can amplify familial conflicts. As a result, women who grapple with gender discrimination in family businesses often find themselves extremely isolated, making the experience all the more formidable.

    This type of situation could sound familiar to you — perhaps you’re the leader of a family business or have experienced it firsthand. But it is possible to break the chains of gender bias and impostor syndrome in family business.

    The following are the strategic steps you can take to not only dispel gender bias but also fortify family dynamics and improve business performance.

    Acknowledge the problem: Collectively agree on the presence of gender bias within the family business and the need for change. Ensure buy-in and commitment from top leadership.

    Revamp the family charter: Revise the family charter or institute a code of conduct that explicitly champions gender equality and nondiscrimination within the family and the business.

    Educate and raise awareness: Educate all family members and employees about the prevalence and significance of gender equality using workshops and other training programs.

    Implement a gender-equal HR policy: Rework the HR policies to ensure fairness, objectivity and transparency across all facets — hiring, evaluation, promotion and compensation.

    Forge an equal opportunity succession plan: Redefine succession planning through an egalitarian lens, focusing on capabilities rather than gender.

    Foster a supportive culture: Establish an inclusive and supportive work culture where every individual can freely voice concerns without reprisal. This culture also acts as a potent antidote to imposter syndrome.

    Tap into external expertise: Consider enlisting the aid of external consultants or experts in diversity and inclusion to provide guidance and offer an objective perspective.

    Related: How to Sustain a Family Business Across Generations

    Transforming family businesses

    Gender bias in family businesses can have a detrimental effect on both the business and the family. On the other hand, breaking free from bias and discrimination and rewriting the rules can have a positive impact on the business, leading to improved morale and a competitive advantage in the marketplace. It also fosters more harmonious family relationships, allowing both the family and the business to truly flourish.

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    David Y. Choi

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  • How to Combat Misinformation as a Small Business Owner | Entrepreneur

    How to Combat Misinformation as a Small Business Owner | Entrepreneur

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    Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

    Technology has provided endless benefits to businesses across the globe and is vital to their growth. Today, data can be shared at breakneck speeds among companies, their leaders, vendors and customers, but this also allows inaccurate and false information to spread at the same rate, most recently by bots powered by artificial intelligence. It has metastasized in society broadly and the internet specifically — whether in the form of social media feeds/online forums, as well as in news articles and other traditional media. Much of it is intentional, including attempts to mislead consumers and gain a competitive advantage.

    While this often affects individuals personally, it can also cause severe damage to enterprises and entrepreneurs who rely upon their reputation and credibility. It’s critical, then, for them to understand the risks of misinformation, how to avoid participating in its spread and how to lessen the damage it can cause to a professional and personal brand.

    How misinformation negatively impacts small businesses

    Whether it comes in the form of rumors, hoaxes, fake news or misleading narratives, misinformation represents a particular danger to small companies: They often lack teams of marketing and public relations professionals to deal with such issues and so are more prone to resulting disruptions, loss of customers, negative press, reduced revenue and legal consequences.

    Let’s explore a few effects in more detail:

    • Reputation damage: Entrepreneurs depend, of course, upon the honesty and integrity of their brands in the minds of customers, investors and partners. Misinformation can tarnish these assets, eroding the trust that’s been so hard to establish. This can be especially difficult for a small business to address since it likely can’t distance itself from an owner or other principal, for example, in a way that a large organization might be more capable of.
    • Poor decisions: Falling for false data/narratives regarding market trends or what’s happening with competitors could lead an entrepreneur to make a poor staffing, sales or customer service move, with potentially disastrous consequences.
    • Loss of customers: Incorrect/misleading information can drive away existing and potential customers, who, understandably, fear doing business with an enterprise or individual associated with it.
    • Legal ramifications: Deliberately disseminating misinformation about a business or individual can lead to defamation lawsuits, among other dangers.

    Related: AI Isn’t Evil — But Entrepreneurs Need to Keep Ethics in Mind As They Implement It

    How to combat it

    As a small business owner, you are likely solely responsible for addressing inaccurate information about your company, customers and suppliers, and having a strategy in place to do so can significantly reduce adverse effects. The correct response will depend on the type and severity of the misinformation being shared — each situation likely requires a customized solution.

    Remember, too, that some incidents may be nothing more than misunderstandings. For example, in the Battle of Constantinople in 1453, mysterious lights were seen over the city. Word quickly spread that they were a sign from the heavens that the Ottomans would be defeated in battle. It turns out what was witnessed was nothing more than St. Elmo’s Fire, a natural and harmless phenomenon in which ionized plasma looks like a bluish flame.

    If the misinformation you are dealing with is analogously harmless, you can address it by simply taking responsibility — issuing an apology or otherwise setting the record straight. Businesses that show accountability will almost always come out on top.

    Related: 7 Ways to Promote a Company Culture of Accountability

    In other cases, misinformation is intentionally malicious. Another historical example involves Benjamin Franklin, who in 1782 created a fake version of the Boston Independent Chronicle newspaper. Within, a false story claimed that the British had hired Native Americans to terrorize American soldiers and civilians across the frontier. Before long, it had been republished throughout the colonies, sparking increased hostility toward Native Americans.

    In severe cases, a business may need to go on the offensive to stay ahead of intentionally malicious storytelling. This might include launching a PR campaign or hiring an attorney.

    Of course, the best way to eliminate misinformation is to avoid it altogether. At the very least, you can minimize damage by catching it early. Here are some best practices that entrepreneurs can apply to do so:

    • Fact-checking and other verification: Before sharing information on websites, social media profiles or other media, entrepreneurs should be vigilant to carefully fact-check it, ideally from at least two reputable sources. It’s much easier to stop misinformation before it starts than to put the genie back in the bottle.
    • Build a solid reputation: Businesses known for being honest, trustworthy and ethical are less likely to be impacted by misinformation. Half the battle lies in the degree to which people are inclined to believe the negative thing they are presented with. If you run a shady operation, people are more likely to act upon something bad they heard, while those who know you run an upstanding enterprise will be more likely to come to your defense.
    • Monitor your online presence: A good practice for catching misinformation before it spirals out of control is to regularly monitor online mentions related to your business or you as a person. Consider setting up Google Alerts to be notified of such new content.

    Related: 7 Tips for Making Quality Business Decisions

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    Nicholas Leighton

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  • The Opportunities We Unlock As Solopreneurs | Entrepreneur

    The Opportunities We Unlock As Solopreneurs | Entrepreneur

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    Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

    When Angela Shen sold her food tour business, Savor Seattle, it wasn’t an easy decision—and it involved many tears. After pivoting her business to curated food boxes during the pandemic, Angela wasn’t feeling challenged professionally or personally, so she decided it was time to move on.

    But the entrepreneurial drive that made her succeed with Savor Seattle never faded. After trying a corporate job and taking time off to travel, she decided to start something new: Savor the Wild Tours. Her new business offers novel food experiences in Washington’s local wilderness, such as mushroom foraging and oyster shucking.

    “You should be a lifetime learner. If you’ve stopped or you feel like, ‘I know enough, I’m a pro at this already,’ that’s no fun,” Angela said. “I’m having way more fun today than I have had in years.”

    At Savor Seattle, Angela had a team of 30 to 35 team members creating and running food tours with her. With her new business, she’s a solo entrepreneur and does all the work herself: finding locations, creating itineraries, and leading tours.

    When creating a new business, Angela also adopted a new mindset—less focus on success in terms of profits and more on providing quality experiences.

    “It won’t be 30,000 [customers] a year like we did before, maybe a couple hundred, maybe even a thousand,” Angela said. “That personal touch and that impact that we have is so much deeper, and it makes me happy. That is a marker of success that never was part of the equation before.”

    After owning and working on Savor Seattle for 17 years, Angela felt her identity was intertwined with the identity of the business. With Savor the Wild, she tries to compartmentalize work from her personal life to avoid stress and burnout. As a one-person operation, she’s able to run the tours on her own schedule, allowing her to spend more quality time with her family and work on other business ventures, such as business consulting.

    “I was lucky as an entrepreneur to have started a successful business early in my career, so I have this privilege now of not having all of that pressure on me to say my success in life is defined by this one business,” Angela said. “I feel really proud of that, and my kids got to see that, and I think now it’s about showing them and myself that I’m capable of more.”

    In addition to Savor the Wild having a similar namesake, Angela maintains Savor Seattle’s values of diversity and inclusion in her new ventures. She makes sure every customer feels welcome at each experience, no matter what they look like or where they come from.

    “I don’t really look like your average mushroom forager. Most people I encounter in the woods look very different,” Angela said. “As someone who is of minority background and had to deal with adversity to get to where I’m today, and will continue to deal with it, I want to make it easier for others to come into this space and to do so in a way that feels safe and welcoming.”

    When debating big business decisions, other business owners can learn from Angela’s journey, including the following tips:

    • Stay true to your values. While Savor the Wild offers different experiences from Savor Seattle, both businesses foster a spirit of adventure and inclusion, representing the business owner’s values.
    • Form valuable partnerships. Throughout her journey, Angela found trustworthy business partners that helped her think through tough business decisions and even connected her with the company that bought Savor Seattle.
    • Listen to your gut. When debating the sale of Savor Seattle, Angela listened to her hunch, leading her to a fulfilling decision that opened doors to new opportunities.

    Listen to the episode below to hear directly from Angela, and subscribe to Behind the Review for more from new business owners and reviewers every Thursday. You can also check out our 2021 episode with Angela.

    Available on: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, and Soundcloud.

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    Emily Washcovick

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  • 7 Ways to Scale Your Small Business and Achieve Long-Term Growth | Entrepreneur

    7 Ways to Scale Your Small Business and Achieve Long-Term Growth | Entrepreneur

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    Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

    As we approach the last quarter of 2023, businesses start assessing their performances, and many consider scaling and expanding their operations. With rapid changes in technology, consumer behavior and market dynamics, it’s crucial that businesses constantly adopt innovative strategies to remain competitive and achieve sustainable growth within their industries.

    So, businesses looking to bring themselves to the next level in this coming year have a few different strategies they can use to achieve long-term growth.

    Related: How to Scale Your Small Business in 8 Steps

    1. Embrace digital evolution

    In today’s fast-paced business landscape, embracing technology is not an option but a necessity. Small businesses can use it to their advantage to help streamline operations, enhance customer service experiences and even reach new markets. User-friendly ecommerce platforms, efficient inventory management systems and cloud-based drives are different examples of ways to help improve productivity and scalability.

    Also, businesses can use data-driven decision-making technology to help collect and analyze customer data. This can help provide insight into their customers’ preferences and behaviors to tailor marketing strategies, optimize product offerings and provide personalized customer experiences, ultimately driving growth through each quarter.

    2. Expand online presence

    In a post-pandemic world, the importance of a strong online presence cannot be emphasized enough. Consumers are increasingly turning to the internet to discover, research and purchase products and services. Focusing on optimizing your website for search engines (SEO) can vastly improve visibility and drive organic traffic.

    Social media platforms remain a huge player in reaching broader audiences. Developing a robust social media strategy that engages customers, encourages sharing and builds brand loyalty is essential to any business. By being consistent and posting relevant content, small businesses can easily connect with their target audience and build a loyal customer base.

    3. Diversify revenue streams

    Overreliance on a single product or service can become a significant risk to small businesses. If a business can diversify its revenue streams with new offerings, it can help build the business up and give room for scaling. This offering can be a complementary product line or a service that aligns with your core product. This not only provides added value to existing customers but also opens up new markets and revenue opportunities.

    Additionally, strategic partnerships or collaborations with other businesses in the industry are super helpful. These alliances lead to shared resources, increased visibility and access to new customer bases, which ultimately drives growth without a substantial capital investment that not many small businesses have.

    4. Focus on customer engagement and retention

    Acquiring new customers is an essential element for growth, but retaining existing customers is equally vital. Small businesses should try to prioritize customer engagement and retention strategies. By implementing loyalty programs, offering personalized recommendations and providing exceptional customer support, businesses can create a positive customer experience that will keep them loyal.

    With that, businesses should regularly seek honest feedback from customers and use it to make improvements to their products or services. Happy customers are more likely to become brand advocates and refer new business, further fueling growth efforts.

    Related: 3 Crucial Strategies for Sustaining Growth in a Competitive Market

    5. Invest in employee development

    Your team is the backbone of your business, and their growth and development directly impact your company’s success. Investing in training and development programs to build your employees’ skills will empower them to take on new responsibilities as the business expands. A skilled and motivated workforce is essential for maintaining the quality of the products or services as the business scales.

    Additionally, fostering a positive workplace culture can lead to higher employee satisfaction and retention rates. When your employees feel valued and aligned with your company’s mission, they become more motivated to contribute to the business’s success.

    6. Secure financing wisely

    Scaling a small business often requires some sort of capital investment for expansion, marketing and infrastructure development. Securing this type of financing can be challenging, especially for newer businesses. However, there are many different financing options businesses can explore, including traditional bank loans, Small Business Administration (SBA) loans, working capital loans, accounts receivable loans and so much more.

    Before a business even starts seeking financing, they need to ensure they have a well-defined business plan and financial projection that can show the potential for profitability and growth. Also, it’s crucial to assess the terms and conditions of each financing option, considering the impact on your business’s financial health and long-term sustainability.

    7. Monitor and adapt to market trends

    The business landscape is ever-evolving, and staying attuned to market trends is essential for small businesses. Monitoring industry developments and keeping an eye on emerging technologies can help businesses adapt strategies accordingly. This allows them to grow as well as be open to pivoting their business model if market conditions change or new opportunities arise.

    Regular competitive analyses can also help businesses understand their competitors’ strengths and weaknesses. In turn, this helps identify gaps in the market that the business can fill and helps refine products, services and marketing strategies.

    Related: 15 Ways to Scale Your Business and Make More Money

    Scaling a small business today requires a combination of innovative thinking, strategic planning and adaptability. Embracing technology, expanding your online presence, diversifying your offerings, focusing on customer engagement, investing in employee development, securing financing wisely and monitoring market trends are all essential strategies for success.

    These components can help small businesses thrive in today’s competitive business landscape. By continually assessing and adjusting their approaches, businesses can position themselves for sustainable growth and long-term success.

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    Erica Dushey Sarway

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  • Running a Family Business Means You Need to Prepare Your Kids to Take Over — Here’s How to Do It Right. | Entrepreneur

    Running a Family Business Means You Need to Prepare Your Kids to Take Over — Here’s How to Do It Right. | Entrepreneur

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    Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

    Succession planning in family businesses is a topic that often evokes mixed emotions. On one hand, it represents the continuation of a legacy, while on the other, it can be a source of anxiety and uncertainty. Anyone who has seen the HBO show Succession can attest to the roller coaster of emotions that takes place. Preparing your children for the next phase of your business is a complex process that requires careful consideration, communication and planning. In this article, we’ll explore the key steps involved in helping to ensure a smooth transition of your business to the next generation.

    One of the critical mistakes many family business owners make is waiting too long to initiate succession planning. Ideally, this process should begin years, if not decades, before you intend to step down. Early planning allows you to identify and address potential challenges, ensure your children are adequately prepared and create a transition that is as seamless as possible.

    Related: 1 in 10 Leaders Say Succession Planning Is Not Worth the Time and Money It Costs — Here’s Why They’re Wrong.

    Start with open and honest communication

    According to the Family Business Institute, only about 12% of family businesses survive into the third generation. One of the major reasons is lack of communication.

    Effective communication is the cornerstone of a successful succession plan. Begin by having open and honest conversations with your children about your intentions and expectations for the business. These discussions should be ongoing and involve all relevant family members, including those who may not be directly involved in the business but could still be affected by the transition.

    Encourage your children to express their own aspirations and concerns. Listen carefully to their input and be willing to adapt your plan based on their feedback. This collaborative approach can help build trust and ensure that everyone is on the same page.

    Identify and develop key skills

    Once you’ve established open communication, it’s essential to assess your children’s readiness to take over the business. This assessment should go beyond their desire to be involved and focus on their skills, knowledge and experience. Consider the following questions:

    1. Do they have the necessary education and training? Ensure that your children have the qualifications and capabilities required to run the business successfully. If not, provide opportunities for them to acquire the necessary skills.
    2. Have they gained relevant work experience? Working outside the family business can provide valuable insights and experience that can be beneficial when they eventually take the reins. A lot of family businesses require their children to work for other companies before they can join the family business. This gives the children a better perspective of working for others and also, they can gain industry knowledge to help the family business.
    3. Are they familiar with the industry? A deep understanding of your industry, market trends and competition is crucial. Encourage your children to stay informed and engaged in industry-related activities.
    4. Do they possess leadership qualities? Effective leadership is essential for running a business. Assess your children’s ability to lead and manage teams, make tough decisions and handle the challenges of business ownership.
    5. Are they financially responsible? Ensure that your children have a good understanding of financial management, including budgeting, financial forecasting and risk management.

    If your children lack certain skills or experience, consider providing them with mentorship, additional training or opportunities to work in different roles within the company to develop their capabilities gradually. Once you feel that they are ready for the next step, it’s time to create a plan of action.

    Related: 4 Lessons on Succession Planning for Entrepreneurs

    Create a clear succession plan

    A well-defined succession plan is a roadmap for the transition of your business. It should outline the specific steps and timeline for transferring ownership and leadership roles. Your plan should address key aspects such as:

    1. Leadership transition: Specify when and how leadership responsibilities will transfer from you to your children. Be clear about who will take on which roles and how decisions will be made during the transition period.
    2. Ownership transition: Determine how ownership shares will be transferred and at what price. This may involve discussions about equity distribution, buy-sell agreements and estate planning.
    3. Training and development: Outline a comprehensive plan for developing your children’s skills and knowledge in preparation for their new roles. Consider creating a structured training program or providing access to external resources.
    4. Conflict resolution: Anticipate potential conflicts that may arise during the transition and establish a process for resolving them. This can help prevent disputes from escalating and jeopardizing the business.
    5. Contingency plans: Prepare for unforeseen circumstances by developing contingency plans. What happens if one of your children decides not to join the business? How will you handle unexpected challenges or changes in the market?
    6. Legal and financial considerations: Consult with legal and financial advisors to ensure that your succession plan complies with all legal requirements and minimizes tax implications.

    Seek external advice

    While family businesses often benefit from maintaining control within the family, seeking external advice can be invaluable during the succession planning process. Consider involving professional advisors, such as lawyers, accountants, financial advisors and business consultants, who specialize in family business succession.

    These professionals can provide objective insights, help navigate complex legal and financial matters and offer guidance on best practices. Their advice can be particularly useful when dealing with sensitive issues like estate planning and tax implications.

    Gradual transition and mentorship

    A successful transition doesn’t happen overnight. It’s often best to implement a gradual shift of responsibilities and ownership over a period of time. This allows your children to gain practical experience and gradually assume greater leadership roles.

    Mentorship plays a crucial role in this process. As the current business owner, you can provide valuable guidance, share your knowledge and insights and help your children develop the confidence and skills necessary to lead effectively. Encourage them to take on increasing responsibilities and decision-making authority as they demonstrate their readiness.

    Related: Succession Planning: It’s Never Too Early to Start Thinking About the Future of Your Business

    Monitor progress and adapt

    Once the succession plan is in motion, it’s essential to regularly monitor progress and be willing to adapt as needed. Keep the lines of communication open with your children and other key stakeholders. Periodically review the plan to ensure it remains aligned with the evolving needs of the business and the capabilities of your children.

    Be prepared to make adjustments if unforeseen challenges arise or if your children’s interests and abilities change over time. Flexibility is a key factor in ensuring a successful transition.

    Preparing your children for the next phase of your business is a complex and multifaceted process. It requires early planning, open communication and a clear succession plan. By assessing your children’s skills, providing ongoing mentoring, seeking external advice and gradually transitioning leadership and ownership, you can increase the likelihood of a smooth and successful handover. Remember that a well-executed succession plan not only secures the future of your business but also helps to preserve the family legacy for generations to come.

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    Mark Kravietz

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  • Why Long-Term Strategic Planning is the Lifeline For Your Business | Entrepreneur

    Why Long-Term Strategic Planning is the Lifeline For Your Business | Entrepreneur

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    Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

    Business leaders have faced extraordinary challenges over the past several years. Pandemic-related demand changes, workflow shifts, persistent inflation and a tight labor market have left business leaders zigzagging through crisis after crisis. The pace has been unrelenting.

    But we risk getting swept away if we’re constantly hopping from one precarious rock to another across a fast-flowing river of challenges. We risk moving in inches, not miles. We stagnate. What’s worse, we can become enticed by taking the easy path of mirroring competitors’ strategies and being just another company that doesn’t stand out.

    Aspirations alone won’t cut it. For businesses to excel, it’s essential to be intentional in formulating short-, medium- and long-term plans. These blueprints will help future success.

    Related: The 5 Pillars of Thriving Teams and Extraordinary Workplace Cultures

    Step 1: Pinpoint your X-factor

    Every brand has its own X-factor — its unique value. What’s yours? Is it groundbreaking technology, a service that rivals none, or maybe unparalleled cost efficiency? Identifying this competitive edge isn’t just about self-awareness. It’s about amplifying this edge in everything you do. It’s what ensures you’re not just another player on the field, but one recognized, sought-after and admired.

    Finding your X-factor is not a top-down exercise. You might have identified your X-factor, but unless the wider team shares this view, you’re working against the tide. Engaging your team to align with this understanding is crucial. Remember, leadership isn’t about dictating direction but about cultivating a shared vision. You’ve missed the mark if the X-factor only resonates with the C-suite and not the broader team.

    To build an organization that’s resilient and progressive, every team member, from entry-level to senior executives, should have a say in the direction and future aspirations. When everyone sees where the ship is sailing and why, they not only paddle in rhythm but often faster and more efficiently. If it’s just senior leadership dictating the vision, the plan is destined to fail. On the other hand, a collective vision strengthens resolve, determination and commitment.

    If you’re struggling to find your special sauces, ask yourself a series of questions. Why are customers choosing you? What resources do you have or can you access that others cannot? Where is the market saturated, and where is the open lane? Knowing and using your strengths wisely is one of the most critical factors to business success.

    Related: 5 Proven Tips for Better Defining Your Business’ Unique Value Proposition

    Step 2: Chart the course with tangible milestones

    With your X-factor identified, the next challenge is progressing toward defined goals. The concept of OKRs, “Objectives and Key Results,” proves invaluable here. It’s about setting objectives, the motivation behind your goals and then determining specific Key Results to achieve them within a set timeframe. This methodology enables businesses to measure success more tangibly.

    For instance, if a substantial portion of your revenue comes from a single product, you’ll likely want to diversify your income stream to ensure stability. Using the OKR methodology, an objective could be to bolster economic security. A corresponding Key Result might involve boosting business from various products or sources, thus reducing dependency on a single one.

    This method isn’t complicated, but it requires a focused approach to the factors that truly drive a business’s growth and success.

    Step 3: Consider your plan at every major decision point

    A dirty little secret of the business world is that many strategic plans fade into obscurity. Employees generate them with enthusiasm. People are inspired. Then, the next crisis emerges, consuming leadership’s time and attention. By the time they survive one — another arises. All the while, the plan ends up collecting dust.

    Successful leaders have to keep multiple plates spinning. What’s more, when responding to an urgent issue, they do so with express reference to the goals and their OKRs. At Fennemore, we relentlessly focus on pursuing our plan’s vision and whether decisions support our broader objectives. Keeping your plan front and center will keep you and your team on course.

    Related: How to Achieve Long-Term Success by Slowing Down Your Business and Creating a Strategic Plan

    Step 4: Recalibrate along the way

    Just as no war plan survives the first contact with the enemy, no strategic business plan remains untouched by the realities of a shifting market. The global landscape is not static. External forces — from market dynamics and technological advancements to geopolitical shifts — can render tactics obsolete. Flexibility, therefore, is not just a value-add but a necessity. This doesn’t mean you deviate from your goals or abandon your X-factor.

    Instead, it’s about reassessing, recalibrating and tweaking the plan to ensure it remains relevant, effective, and aligned with your overarching objectives. Consistent check-ins and feedback loops internally within teams and externally with market trends will help your strategy evolve while remaining anchored to your business’s core purpose.

    Step 5: Embrace the power of resilience

    The journey of strategic planning isn’t a one-off event. It’s a continuous process, one that requires grit, determination and resilience. Challenges will arise, and crises will interrupt, but with a clear strategic direction, such obstacles become surmountable. And here’s the beauty of resilience: it’s contagious. When leadership showcases determination in the face of adversity, it trickles down, motivating every echelon of the organization. By fostering a culture of resilience and tying it directly to your long-term strategic planning, your business can navigate the crises of the day and be better prepared for any that may arise in the future.

    Related: 5 Ways to Adapt to Change and Build a More Resilient Business Model

    Stop winging it

    In today’s world, winging it won’t work. Businesses are complicated, and leaders need to adapt to new challenges constantly. Every decision requires thought, strategy and an honest assessment of where your organization is and needs to go.

    If you already have a long-term plan, it’s time to refine, recalibrate and set bolder metrics. If not, the journey of crafting one should start today.

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    James Goodnow

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  • 3 Ways to Raise Capital as a Small Business | Entrepreneur

    3 Ways to Raise Capital as a Small Business | Entrepreneur

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    Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

    Raising capital can be a challenge for anyone, but particularly for small businesses. Oftentimes, investors are looking to put their money into something with multinational growth potential rather than something more local. In many cases, you may need to raise smaller amounts, possibly in the thousands of dollars or the tens of thousands. Therefore, to raise money as a small business requires a different approach.

    As a multimillionaire real estate investor and trainer, I often teach my students how to raise capital for their first property deal. Many of my students are new to real estate and are looking to purchase a relatively cheap property in the North of England. This is unlikely to be of interest to a seasoned angel investor, but there are lots of people that this type of investment would suit very well. In many ways, this is a similar situation to raising capital as a small businessperson.

    I have found that there are many ways to raise capital for a small enterprise, whether as a joint venture or in the form of debt. Once you have mastered these skills, you will have a world of opportunity in front of you. But first a note of caution: Each jurisdiction has different rules regarding raising capital, so seek independent legal advice to make sure your chosen approach is compliant.

    Related: 3 Ways to Raise Capital and Take Your Business to the Next Level

    1. Talk to people you know

    When I am training my students, they sometimes tell me that they don’t know anyone rich to approach. The reality is, however, that when raising smaller amounts, you don’t actually need to know anyone rich. Many ordinary people have savings in the bank that are sitting there being eaten away by inflation. These people are often willing to lend that money out for a much higher return than they would get from the bank.

    Of course, they will need to know that their money will be safe. In real estate, this often means the debt will be secured against the property. In other areas of business, it might mean securing the debt against product inventory or by other means. Alternatively, depending on the other party’s risk tolerance, you could consider a joint venture partnership where you share the profits.

    Asking people you know for an investment can put both parties in a difficult position, therefore it is important to phrase your request correctly. Rather than asking directly, simply talk about your project and ask if they know anyone who might be interested in investing. If they want to invest, they will let you know. If they don’t want to invest, they can pass on the deal without any awkwardness. In addition, even if they don’t want to invest, there is always the chance that they know someone who might.

    Related: 5 Innovative Ways for Entrepreneurs to Raise Capital in Today’s Market

    2. Connect at business networking events

    The next way to raise capital is to attend business networking events. Business networking events are a great way to get to know people who are potentially interested in investing in new projects. It is important to remember, however, that all the other business people attending the event are also looking to promote their business. You need to listen and learn about what they are doing and find ways for your project to solve their problems.

    There may be people who are looking to deploy capital either to get a fixed return or on the basis of a joint venture partnership. Of course, these people are highly unlikely to want to invest in your project on the basis of a single meeting at a networking event! Your job is to plant a seed.

    Explain what your business is and mention that one way you expand is to raise capital from business owners who want to put their money to work. Explain that they prefer not to keep their money in the bank where its purchasing power is being eaten away by inflation. Don’t suggest that they invest at this stage. Let them think about what you have said and come to you.

    Related: How Entrepreneurs Can Maximize Networking to Increase Funding

    3. Engage on social media

    Another way to get investors’ attention is to document your journey on social media. People invest with people that they know, like and trust — and social media is a great way to get people to know, like and trust you, so long as you’re authentic.

    If you let others see the human being behind the brand, you will find like-minded people who gravitate toward your personality and vision. These people are more likely to want to invest in your business or project. You don’t need millions of subscribers on YouTube or Instagram either, just a few highly targeted followers who care about your brand.

    When raising money from the public on social media, it is especially important to make sure you are following the law. Speak to a lawyer and understand what is and isn’t allowed in your jurisdiction. However, as long as you follow the applicable rules, social media is a great way to connect with investors.

    It’s time to take action

    It can be hard to raise capital for a small local business if you haven’t learned the right strategies. Ultimately, however, raising capital is possible at any level — if you employ the correct approach. If you know how to find and communicate with your target investors correctly, you can easily raise capital for your small business.

    You have just learned everything from how to correctly approach people you know to how to use social media to your advantage. Now that you have read this article, it is time to take action. Those who take little to no action will continue to find raising capital hard. On the other hand, those who apply the lessons above will find that raising capital for their small enterprise is a lot easier than they thought.

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    Samuel Leeds

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  • Square Outage Causes Payment Problem for Small Businesses | Entrepreneur

    Square Outage Causes Payment Problem for Small Businesses | Entrepreneur

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    Square and CashApp, two payment platforms used by many small businesses, have been experiencing outages since Thursday. Users are reporting they have been unable to access their accounts or perform transactions on both payment platforms.

    Both companies are owned by Block Inc. (formerly Square Inc.), a San Francisco-based technology company, co-founded by Jack Dorsey in 2009, which launched CashApp in 2013.

    The outages continued into Friday morning before being resolved, the company said. CashApp and Square shared updates on their websites about the outages that affected thousands of customers, wherein accessing accounts, making payments, and viewing one’s dashboard was unavailable. As of Friday afternoon, CashApp said the issue is mostly fixed, but it will continue to investigate the situation.

    “We’ve resolved a majority of the issues, but you may experience some delays,” CashApp wrote on Friday. “Our team continues to monitor the situation.”

    As for Square, it gave a status update that all systems were functioning back to normal on Friday.

    However, during the outages, some small businesses struggled to carry on amid the glitches.

    Aaron Bergh, owner of Calwise Spirits Co. in Paso Robles, CA, told The San Francisco Chronicle that he was unable to process credit card payments, and had resorted to jotting down credit card details for later processing or accepting cash, limiting customer spending.

    He also added that, unlike previous Square outages where he could at least record credit card information, this time he wasn’t even able to access his account.

    “We’re taking a huge risk by letting product walk out the door with the possibility that their card may be declined when we try to process them,” he told the outlet.

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    Madeline Garfinkle

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  • Building a Successful Business on a Foundation of Feedback | Entrepreneur

    Building a Successful Business on a Foundation of Feedback | Entrepreneur

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    Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

    Alok Ahuja started Trexity, a last mile, local delivery platform, after realizing there was a specific need for a software platform that offers efficient, same-day delivery from small businesses to the doorsteps of customers. This realization came when Alok was juggling the multiple responsibilities that came with being a stay-at-home dad and caring for his ill father, making it impossible for him to step away from home.

    This gap in the market propelled Alok to change the local delivery game. Back in 2019 when Trexity was first created, he sought out the advice of Uber drivers in order to better understand the industry he was breaking into.

    “I went to those driver’s cars, and I knocked on their windows one by one, and I asked them, ‘Why do you do this? What do you love about it? What do you hate about it? What would you do if you were in charge?’” Alok said. “I started to get a tremendous amount of feedback from these drivers… Now, the crazy thing is, those drivers in 2019 are still my same focus group drivers. They’re still working with Trexity, so I love them. But from day one of deciding to build this out, I only made my decisions based on the feedback I got from the couriers that were already doing it.”

    In addition to seeking feedback from those in the business, Alok highlights how crucial it is to dive deep into the needs and wants of your customer base—and the best way to do that is to listen to them.

    “For me, feedback and focus groups are a part of every decision we make as a company. And it’s so important to stay in touch with making sure you’re actually solving a problem that needs to be solved.”

    Although his business is built on feedback, Alok knows that the number of reviews a company receives can be overwhelming. While it might seem impossible to sift through the commentary, Alok’s personal tip is to allocate a small part of your week to read through what your customers are saying.

    The key is to remember that reviews are written by real humans who typically want to help your business improve. While critical feedback can sting, reviews that are three stars or fewer are the ones Alok pays particular attention to when looking for ways to improve his business.

    “Go to the darkest places of your feedback [from] actual shoppers that have constructive feedback on something that you can do to improve. If they truly care about your business or the value of goods that they’re getting, they’ll give you real feedback,” he said. “It’s not hard to get nowadays. So my advice is to those business owners, don’t be overwhelmed by the amount of feedback you get, but try to home in on the ones where you know you can improve as a business.”

    Reading through reviews is only half of the battle. The next step is deciding how to incorporate feedback. Alok’s advice? Never make knee jerk reactions. Instead, take ample time to think about what is being said so you’re never making decisions based on a temporary emotion. Second, don’t try to get a genuine, critical review removed—that’s the equivalent of silencing your customer.

    Creating a dialogue with reviewers humanizes your business and gives you an opportunity to provide great customer service. Not every reviewer will give you a second chance, but other potential customers will see how you responded or tried to resolve any issues. You might even find some reviewers are open to talking about their experience and just need you to listen.

    For example, Alok shared that a customer might say: “‘Listen, thanks for reaching out. I appreciate you guys trying to solve this problem, but I’m still upset.’ And that is an opportunity for you to go offline and show the humility you have as a company for the issue they went through because of something you couldn’t deliver on or something you couldn’t provide them with.”

    More lessons Alok has learned that other entrepreneurs can apply to their businesses include:

    • Don’t take your company so seriously that you can’t enjoy yourself. Never forget the real reason you started—to fulfill people’s needs while being able to do what you love and are passionate about.
    • As the owner of a business, show humility and grace. Talking to your customers yourself can help you understand them on a deeper level and help you build brand loyalty.
    • Set boundaries. Your business is important, but so is work-life balance. Avoid burnout by taking time away from work and delegating important tasks to your team.

    Listen to the episode below to hear directly from Alok, and subscribe to Behind the Review for more from new business owners and reviewers every Thursday.

    Available on: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, and Soundcloud.

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    Emily Washcovick

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  • Building a Business With Customer Care at The Forefront | Entrepreneur

    Building a Business With Customer Care at The Forefront | Entrepreneur

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    Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

    Sometimes the most difficult experiences can push you in the right direction. For Carmen Sturniolo, owner of Ambitious Athletics, that moment came after his father passed away from a medical condition. He realized a desk job wouldn’t satisfy him and began thinking about how he could live his life to the fullest.

    “There’s gotta be something more I could be doing for the world, kind of like my dad did,” Carmen said. “He was a carpenter, also cut hair. He had a small business in his day, and he never had to hand out a business card. Everybody came to him.”

    Inspired by his dad, Carmen quit his job and started working at a gym as a personal trainer, gaining skills and learning more about the industry. Feeling like he could offer more, he pursued his own fitness business, training clients at his house or the park and fostering an unofficial gym community. When it was time to open his first brick-and-mortar business in 2015, he made sure the space was encouraging and inspiring for his clients.

    “With every decision as an entrepreneur, you’re looking to maximize your time and perfect everything right up front. So it was many hours of standing in this shelled out space,” he said. “When you walk in, there’s a big mural with our chevrons up there that says, ‘Strong, fit, athletic.’ And that’s what I always want to bring to our clients, and hopefully our clients want to embody.”

    Yelp reviewer Steven C. said he found Ambitious Athletics on Yelp while reading reviews to find a gym he could feel comfortable going to. Prior bad experiences at other gyms had made him nervous about entering the fitness scene without a lot of experience.

    “What I was really nervous about was, I’ve been to gyms before, and most of the time it’s just like open equipment. So you go and you feel bad about yourself because everyone else is very in shape,” Steven said.

    In order to address common concerns and fears similar to Steven’s, Carmen has a personal conversation with each potential client that comes in and offers a $20 one-week trial period so potential clients have a low risk option to try out the gym.

    “Honestly, it’s so we can just have a conversation with you and be ourselves and demonstrate our quality of training here, our community, and how we carry ourselves and want to actually make a difference in health and fitness,” Carmen said.

    Because he understands how important it is for each client to be cared for, Carmen asks questions during the trial period—ranging from what their fitness goals are to where they are in their life. This creates a safe environment where clients feel understood and less intimidated with a professional to guide them and help them achieve their goals.

    “So you come in for that starter session, and that gives us the opportunity to meet you, understand where you are, who you are as a person, what you’ve done in the past, what you’re currently doing, what you’re currently looking for. What’s your injury history like? Why are you doing this?” he said. “That would be important to me if I walked into any gym, any business where I was investing in myself, to be known as somebody, not just a number, and be a part of the volume of clientele.”

    Backing up that sentiment, Carmen said he and his staff look at a report every Friday to see which clients have been able to come in and which ones haven’t. If clients haven’t shown up, they check in to make sure they’re doing okay.

    “We know that showing up three to four times a week is most beneficial for your goals. And we like to see people. It’s always more fun when there’s more people in here and everyone is in here and laughing and having a great time, ’cause fitness should be fun,” he said.

    When it comes to feedback about the experience his business provides, Carmen takes reviews very seriously and has a process for reading and responding to them.

    “If it’s a one star or a five star, I wanna be able to read it, absorb it, and react logically if there needs to be a reaction, or let it hit me emotionally. So I take the time to carve out like 30 minutes and just absorb it,” Carmen said. “If it’s a current member, I’ll email them and say ‘Thank you so much for taking the time to write this review that you feel is helpful to us, and also helpful to the next person.”

    Other businesses can learn from Ambitious Athletics’s journey, including the following tips:

    • Don’t be afraid to pivot. Carmen wasn’t satisfied with his career and was able to start a business he was passionate about. Oftentimes, your passion can become your competitive advantage.
    • Form relationships with your customers, and let them know you care. Getting to know your clients as people can help them build loyalty toward your business while helping them achieve their personal goals.
    • Make the customer’s comfort and satisfaction a priority. Take the time to understand your target audience to create a personalized experience customers will come back for.
    • Read and respond to reviews. Carmen carves out 30 minutes to read and process his reviews and thanks customers for writing them. Investing in customer engagement can help improve your business’s reputation.

    Listen to the episode below to hear directly from Carmen and Steven, and subscribe to Behind the Review for more from new business owners and reviewers every Thursday.

    Available on: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, and Soundcloud.

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    Emily Washcovick

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  • 3 Investments That Will Transform Your Small Business | Entrepreneur

    3 Investments That Will Transform Your Small Business | Entrepreneur

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    I’ve been fortunate to spend more than a decade of my career serving the small business industry. One thing that I’ve seen consistently over the years — whether it’s a brick-and-mortar restaurant in Missouri, an ecommerce business based in Virginia or a hair salon in Texas — is that in order for a small business to grow and thrive, owners must invest strategically in tools and technologies to help them succeed.

    This extends beyond simply going online to order a laptop for all your business dealings or setting up a company website — although those are good places to start! The right tools can help power a business, taking it to the next level of growth while making the owner’s life easier and more manageable.

    Here are three areas business owners should consider investing in that can help transform their operations and catapult their growth.

    Related: A Small Business Owner’s Guide to Managing Funds and Investments

    1. Unlocking the power of AI and automation

    Artificial intelligence is the hot, new buzzword — the technology trend that’s generating the most excitement around its potential use cases, particularly as more and more people experiment with generative AI like ChatGPT.

    For business owners who are strapped for time, the opportunity to automate tedious and time-consuming tasks is extremely appealing. In fact, according to a recent survey we did, almost all small business owners are eager to automate operational tasks with the help of AI: from expense management (69%), to invoicing (68%) and completing payroll (51%). They look forward to offloading some of these monotonous but important tasks to technology solutions.

    I recommend evaluating key areas of your business operations that are critical to your cash flow, for example, monthly invoicing. Finding ways to improve efficiency by automating repetitive tasks will help save time and money every month, compounding the overall benefit.

    The impact of the potential time savings from AI is huge, with 43% of business owners saying they’d use the time to develop customer relationships and 36% would develop more products and services with the extra time. The true power of AI is it creates the capacity to focus on building relationships, creating new offerings and innovating — areas where the human touch is still essential to success.

    2. Managing the employee experience

    Another area where technology can make a huge difference is the complicated process of onboarding, managing and paying employees. Personal relationships between a business owner and employees are of course crucial, but by investing in a human capital management (HCM) software solution upfront, business owners can greatly simplify some routine tasks.

    Calculating payroll for hourly workers, managing schedules and deducting appropriate taxes are all things HCM solutions can effectively take off a business owner’s plate. This results in significant time savings (similar to the monthly invoicing example above, these are tasks that repeat consistently, compounding the overall benefit). It also ensures greater peace of mind as tax compliance is an area that many business owners struggle to navigate with confidence. Finally, it helps employees, as it provides greater transparency and accessibility to paystubs and other important financial documents.

    Related: Three Reasons Why It’s Never Too Early to Invest in HR

    3. Reach new and existing customers with breakthrough marketing

    According to our recent survey, half of small business owners agree that customer retention is among the most important business metrics for judging the success of a business. Businesses need customers to buy their products and services, but 20% of businesses said acquiring customers is the biggest obstacle inhibiting their growth, second only to the rising cost of inflation.

    Automation tools can help with both of these challenges by making it faster and more efficient to manage your company email and social media marketing. Whether it’s leveraging an email marketing solution to reach new and existing customers or experimenting with paid ads on social media platforms, more and more companies are taking the guesswork out of marketing for business owners so they can better target, reach and communicate with their intended audiences. Now businesses can leverage the templates, insights and best practices that are available to them via these platforms rather than reinventing the wheel with every ad or email blast. Additionally, the metrics and insights provided on the backend can help businesses to test and learn, seeing what resonates with their audiences and truly moves the needle.

    Our survey found that four in five small business owners plan to invest in digital tools this year. That’s great news for all of us who love and support small businesses, as it will undoubtedly help many companies continue to grow and reach new goals. For any entrepreneurs ready to invest in their brand’s future but unsure where to start, I recommend exploring the capabilities of AI and automation and how tools can help streamline the employee management experience, customer communication and marketing. With the help of technology and tools, the sky is truly the limit for small businesses everywhere.

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    Rich Rao

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  • 34 Years of Success: How Sandra’s Next Generation Continues to Impress | Entrepreneur

    34 Years of Success: How Sandra’s Next Generation Continues to Impress | Entrepreneur

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    Sandra’s Next Generation, a soul food restaurant in New Haven, Connecticut, is #56 on Yelp’s 2023 Top 100 Places to Eat in the U.S. It’s been a local staple for 34 years, with owner Sandra Pittman cooking in the same kitchen since 1989.

    Sandra and her husband Miguel have perfected their working dynamic, playing to their own strengths and supporting one another to keep the restaurant running after all these years.

    “The reason why we are where we are today is because we really divide and conquer. He has his role. I have my role. And we respect each other’s role,” Sandra said.

    “When you speak about the restaurant business, the reason why it’s so challenging and it’s forever changing is because it has so many moving parts. And all the parts have to work together as a unit. And I guess that’s part of our success of being in business for 34 years,” Miguel added.

    While solidarity seems to be the secret sauce at Sandra’s, the owners are well aware that their customers expect exceptional food, atmosphere, and service when they visit.

    “You are only as good as your last meal because the people, they’re gonna remember the last meal. So as a business owner, you have to be on the top of your game,” Miguel said.

    According to Yelp reviewer and community manager Alex T., the Pittmans are hitting the nail on the head: “It’s pretty amazing. The second you walk in, you can just feel the vibe and the energy of Sandra’s Next Generation. You are gonna smell so many delicious scents and flavors.”

    Those welcoming aromas are all thanks to Sandra’s 84-year-old mother, who passed down her recipes. However, like many family recipes, there was a history and meaning behind them that Sandra had to discover before she could fully appreciate the legacy she was preserving.

    “As a little girl, I used to always hear my mom’s stories about how hard she worked on a farm growing up, working from sunup to sundown, and how she would raise her own sweet potatoes. She talked about all these stories, but they didn’t really connect to me because I never had an opportunity to really see it until I actually went to the South when I was 16 years old and saw the cotton fields and saw how they grew their vegetables. It connected with me then—just to be able to share her recipes and keep her inspiration going and just keep her fight going. Let her know that everything that she did wasn’t in vain.”

    That fight and inspiration from her mother’s history translates into everything Sandra wants to provide for her customers.

    “When people come, I want them to feel the vibes. I want them to be inspired. I want them to know that any dreams that you have, it doesn’t matter how big it is, you have to believe that you could do it. You have to fight. You have to get up every single day with a mindset. The mindset is everything, no matter what, because there’s gonna be many failures in your life. Where we are today is because of our failures. You can’t quit. You gotta get up. You just gotta keep on going.”

    Restaurants and businesses in any industry can learn more from Sandra’s story, including:

    • Being authentic while also mixing it up. Providing a traditional experience or genuine recipes doesn’t mean you can’t get creative. Explore the trends in your industry that you can incorporate to wow current customers and attract new ones.
    • Becoming a force for good in your community. “Be the change you want to see” can apply to a nation or a neighborhood. Your local business serves a community, so uplifting that community and being a positive influence can be a boon to revenue and everyone around you.
    • Intentionally hiring and supporting your staff. Motivating your team and leading with honesty and empathy highlights the humanity of your business. Everyone has bad days, but if they work in an understanding environment, they’ll be more likely to show up for you and give you their best.

    Listen to the episode below to hear directly from Sandra, Miguel, and Alex, and subscribe to Behind the Review for more from new business owners and reviewers every Thursday.

    Available on: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, and Soundcloud.

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    Emily Washcovick

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