Advice

A growing business is a wonderful thing to own, but it does create challenges. Many small business owners are hesitant to increase payroll even as demand for their products or services grows—after all, each new employee means a significant increase in fixed overhead costs. The solution? Hiring freelancers and independent contractors on an as-needed, project...

In August of 1998, Andy Sherrard and Danny Stevens started O2B Kids and opened the first O2B Kids SuperCenter here in Alachua County. Since this endeavor, the business has grown to have an estimated 500 staff members and has expanded to four additional locations in the county as well as locations in Fleming Island, Altamonte...

Effective communication, a gathering of complementary talents, and an appreciation for what others bring to the table are all hallmarks of a successful team, whether it be on the field, in the boardroom, or in a small business environment. The challenge when trying to create or lead a successful team is understanding that effective communication...

In Florida, we may prepare our homes and businesses to weather the storm during hurricane season, but what about a crisis issue affecting your organization’s reputation that may occur as a result of a hurricane? When a crisis happens to your business or the organization you work for, what happens next? Who will speak for...

The vast majority of pre-retirement Americans have not taken the time to really conceptualize their impending retirement. For starters, one can Google a variety of surveys that discuss the various levels of fiscal confidence heading into retirement. Depending upon the survey, most pre-retirees are not entering or preparing for retirement with the needed degree of...

I’ve long been drawn to examples of leadership – good and bad – and shouldn’t be surprised at the variety of places we find any of those. However, here in Gainesville, thanks to the leadership of the last few athletic directors, we’ve been granted a front-row seat to some of the best leaders in college...

Since opening Cilantro Tacos in Newberry a few years ago, the owners have built a steady following of customers despite having no prior restaurant experience. Their emphasis on fresh foods that are prepared daily (and are never frozen) has catapulted them in local popularity. The Al Pastor here is some of the best you’ll find...

It’s no secret that entrepreneurs are tasked with doing everything in their business. The thought of adding one more thing can seem impossible! But when it comes to continuing education, business owners should look at these opportunities as investments in their future. In the daily press of running a business, it’s tough to step back...

Gainesville is very much a growing city right now, a town that is growing up and doesn’t quite know what it is just yet. Much of that growth is centered around the Archer Road area, with concurrent developments in Celebration Pointe, Butler Plaza North, and the renovated section of the existing Butler Plaza that will...

New Year’s resolutions are always an interesting way to kick off a new year; however, as we all know, many resolutions fall by the wayside, just look at gym memberships. One resolution worth making and keeping is to work on assessing and improving your financial health.  Challenge yourself to make a financial plan this New...