The list was compiled based on reader suggestions and personal experiences. Some names on the list are indigenous to the Bay Area (SBFM home base) while others have more of a global appeal. SBFM gives me the chance to rant a little bit about some of my pet peeves, particularity business etiquette. For example, have you ever shown up for a prospect meeting only to realize that the potential customer interrupts your presentation every other sentence? How do you handle that? What about someone not showing up for a confirmed meeting at their request,with no apology in sight? Anyone? I'm going to tackle these and other issues in my column(pg 20) "Whatever happened to....? By the way, interrupting someone is the same as letting the person speaking know that what they're saying is of no importance to you and what matters is what you have to say. Just sayin.....
Bartering has become an important and economical way to trade services or products without actually exchanging money. Be sure to check out my thoughts on the barter craze beginning page 21. I've also included a new section for those people looking for work. The job hunter's spotlight(page 58) gives job seekers another opportunity to share their experiences in a new way and employers a new way to find qualified professionals. It's our way at SBFM of helping those looking for work find their next job. Along with these changes, readers are now able to activate links to products and services in the articles and ads(something not previously available). This small change will allow readers to learn more about not only the advertisers (by going directly to their sites) but also the contributors of the magazine. Be sure to learn more about the product and services featured in SBFM with just a click.
Finally, I'm proud of my interview with Mark Sackett who is an inspiration to myself and thousands of other small business owners with his grace,wit and keen business insights. Mark's been a frequent guest on my show for a few years and will continue to have a spot on my show whenever he wants one. And if you'd like to submit a story idea or contribute to one of our future issues, I've listed our editorial calendar for the next few months. Our deadline is the the 10th of every month. Your submission should be 500 words (an article or top ten tips for...) along with a pic of yourself and a bit about your business.It's a great way to promote your business for free. Our upcoming issues include:
April-Finances- With tax season approaching we're looking for tips on making money, saving money ,investment tips from experts and anything that has to do with money.
May-The Women's Issue- This issue is all about women that are making a difference in the world. Know and inspiring woman? Tell us about her.
June- LGBT Issue- We want to tell our readers about interesting LGBT people, places and things
July-Motivational- It's about living your best life now.
August- The Nonprofit issue- With more and more nonprofits struggling to stay open, we want to put a spotlight on those organizations that specialize in helping others.
Please submit to [email protected] no later than the 10th of the month for the upcoming month. And with that in mind, please enjoy The Hip and Trendy Issue of SBFM.
Tony Wilkins
Editor in Chief
Just my opinion.......
Welcome to the third issue of SBFM. I'd like to thank advertisers,partners,contributors and and especially subscribers for your continued support. I can't do it without you. Now that I have a few issues under my belt there are a few things I'd like to address. First to anyone new to SBFM the focus of every issue is in fact small business (I've had a few people ask) on a global scale. Because this is an online magazine,I have an opportunity to tell stories in a way that I can't on my show. I also have an chance to list some of the people,places and things that I think are not as well known to the general public but nevertheless deserve a mention or a second look (be sure to check out our list beginning pg 8).
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