Do you have what it takes to be an entrepreneur?

What is your strategy for deciding if you have what it takes to become an entrepreneur?
Your Rant: I’m tired of all of the corporate b.s. so I’m thinking about going out on my own. But a friend says I’d never make it in business for myself because I don’t have the temperament. How can I [...]

What to ask franchisees before you buy

Dear WW: I’ve been thinking about buying a franchise. Is it worth the time and trouble to talk to existing franchise holders? And if yes, what should I ask? MY WAY
Dear MY,
Your email reminded me of a 35-year old pastor who insisted to his flock that it was possible to walk on water, if you [...]

How to write a business plan

Dear WW: I’m part of a start up and am frustrated by people who seem to think writing a business plan is the most important step we can take. How necessary is one? (We’re not borrowing from banks.) And if business plans are so darned important, how come no two people can agree on what’s [...]

How to deal with a non-compete

Dear WW: My department was part of a big company-wide layoff. They offered the standard severance package and then suddenly called me in and offered more money if I signed a non- compete agreement. My friends tell me that I should take the money and not worry, that I can still take a job with [...]

Help! I’m going to jump (into my own business)!

What’s your strategy for starting a business?
Your Rant: I’ve finally decided to leave the corporate world.  What do I need to know to create my own business?
Repair 911,
It’s a big leap from a cubicle to your own business, so it’s wise to prepare. And when it comes to being prepared, the Danish army takes [...]

Hang my own shingle, how to build your own consulting business

What are your strategies for building your own consulting business?
Your Rant: I survived this round of layoffs, but I can still feel the guillotine blade hanging over my head. I’d like to try consulting and get more control over my life. But I’ve always been a corporate gal, so what do I need to know? [...]

Part of the problem, becoming a more effective problem-solver

What are your strategies for becoming a more effective problem-solver?
Your Rant: I’ve always been a good problem solver but lately I’m out of steam. Work is full of problems but instead of solving them I’m just feeling anxious about NOT solving them!
911 Repair,
MI5, the British intelligence agency, was looking for ways to spot troublemakers [...]

McEntrepreneur, questions before buying a franchise

What are your strategies for deciding if you should buy a franchise?
Your Rant: My husband wants to buy a franchise. He wants to work for himself and he thinks a franchise will be easy, like paint by numbers business. Isn’t he understating the challenge?
911 Repair,
A few years ago I stayed at a hotel in [...]

‘Buy a business’ the decision has me split!

How would you decide on purchasing a business
Your Rant: I’m thinking about buying a printing business. The business has been doing well. It does good work and has a base of loyal customers. But I worry about the kinds of stuff that could derail it in the future. 
911 Repair,
I once cast my vote in [...]

Now or Never-A business of my own

When and how would you decide to start your own business?
Your Rant: I just took my company up on its offer of a buy-out package. Now I’m struggling to decide if I want to do the corporate thing again or if I should use some of the money to start my own business
911 Repair
Your letter [...]