A Few Things Small Business Owners Can Learn From the Guy in Red....Santa!

We ran across a fun article over on the NFIB website about some tactics small business owners can glean from Ol' Saint Nick. The advice comes from the book, The Leadership Secrets of Santa Claus, read on for some of our favorite tips...

"Choose your reindeer wisely," or in other words, spend the time and expend the effort to hire the right people.

"Make a list and check it twice... It’s no accident the big man manages to deliver millions of toys, year after year, without any kinks in the process. His secret is simple: He plans his work and works his plan."

Set a goal and stick to it - and don't hesitate to lean on your "elves." Santa manages to deliver gifts to people all over the world, so we know he has the whole goal thing down pat.

"Build a wonderful workshop." This means you should not only create an inspiring workplace aesthetic, but a cultural environment that nurtures both creativity and productivity.

"When your small business responds to change wisely, your sleigh can weather any storm—take it from good ol’ Santa Clause, the world’s savviest business owner."

Now that we've covered some tips for a successful small business, let's talk about funding your small business. Small business loans are a great option for small business owners and companies like SilverRockFunding.com are a great resource. Apply today and you could receive up to $500,000 for your small biz!

Creating a Business Plan? Here's Where to Begin...

In past blog posts, we've mentioned the importance of creating a business plan in order to get your small business where it needs to go. But, where does one begin with a business plan? We ran across a great article in Entrepreneur and thought we'd share some of the highlights.

Here's how to come up with a business plan for your small business:

1. "Begin with a business model canvas (Steve Blank’s blog is a great resource), especially if this is your first time writing a plan." This is, essentially, the brainstorming phase.

2. Detail your canvas. Now that you have the general layout of your business plan, go back and detail it and make it as thorough as possible. "There is a section for each major area of consideration: product description, target market, sales, marketing, operations, team, etc. You'll want to address the who and how of each component of your business." Just keep in mind that "thorough" doesn't necessarily mean "lengthy."

3. "As you write your plan, think about what will make both your company and product or service distinct from your competitors'. You'll want to capture your unique offering, and your business plan should emphasize this."

4. While we've discussed the importance of cash flow in past blogs, when you're creating your business plan you don't want to get too caught up with cash flow details. "The purpose of your cash flow and profitability projections isn't necessarily to show exactly what's going to happen; it's to show how, within reasonable circumstances and success, your business is positioned to make money and can afford to keep the lights on."

5. "Once you’ve completed your canvas and the high-level bullet points for the major sections of your plan, consider hiring a business writer if you’re short on time or hate writing."

Once you have your business plan in place, if you find you need some more funding, consider a small business loan. SilverRockFunding.com can help you access the financing you need to grow your business. Don't waste another minute and apply today, you could receive up to $500,000 as soon as tomorrow.

Workplace Bad Habits You Need to Break (Your Small Biz Will Thank You)

We all have bad habits, at home and at work, but there are some bad habits you should probably break in order to get ahead as a small business owner. Here's some of the most common workplace bad habits and how to get rid of them once and for good.

1. Answering emails as soon as you receive them... Answering emails as soon as you see them pop up interrupts the work you're in the middle of and disrupts your train of thought. Set times for checking your email. For example, check your emails at the top of every hour or, if you think you can manage it, every two hours. Or, simply finish one project or task and check your emails once you're finished.

2. Not taking "breathers." Sitting at your desk in front of a computer for hours on end is not good for your eyes, your body, your brain, or your morale. Unless you're lucky enough to have a job that keeps you on your feet, try to get up and walk around once an hour (if not more often). It will keep your mind fresh.

3. Always saying "yes." We tend to say "yes" because we don't want to let our peers/colleagues down. But, always saying "yes" to additional projects, meetings, etc. can easily overwhelm you and, in turn, make your small business suffer. So, before you say "yes" to something, tell the person you'll "get back to them," assess your schedule, and then give them an honest answer.

4. Putting off big projects. It's usually best to just "bite the bullet" and get the hard stuff done first. If you have a huge project you need to accomplish, set aside two hours a day (or whatever amount of time makes sense) to work only on that project. Knowing that there's end in sight each day means less stress.

These are just a few examples of workplace bad habits we all need to break. So, start with one, and go from there. For the complete list of bad habits and their solutions (and the article that inspired this post), visit Entrepreneur.com.

If one of your bad habits is not exploring ways to grow your small business, break it by visiting SilverRockFunding.com. We can help you access the funds you need to grow your small biz; you could receive up to $500,000 as soon as tomorrow.

Why Small Business Owners Shouldn't Ignore the "Issue" of Cash Flow

articles.bplans.com

Everyone has heard "fifty five per cent of start-ups fail within the first five years." One of the biggest reasons small business fail is due to issues with cash flow. So, how do small business owners avoid cash flow problems with their fledgling business? We found a great article on Business2Community.com.

"Managing your cash flow should be one of your main priorities. Sounds obvious, right? Then why is it that one in ten businesses are failing to accurately forecast their cash flow, or are neglecting this area of their business altogether?"

Here are three of the most common killers of cash flow you should avoid:

1. Paying everyone at one time. The solution? Come up with a payment schedule that works with your cash flow.
2. Unreliable clients/customers. How do you cope? Devise strict payment instructions. And, don't shy away from the idea of penalties or, one a more positive plane, incentives to pay in a timely manner.
3. "Forgetting that cash is king." What to do? "You must have a cash cushion to call upon in the event of unplanned expenses. This might include hiring more staff during a busy period, buying more stock, repairing equipment or covering costs of a late payment."

Starting a small business is no easy task. So, make sure you set yourself up for success by considering your cash flow and making it a priority.

Now, if you could benefit from an immediate cash flow, you should consider a small business loan. There are some great loans out there for small business owners, so head over to SilverRockFunding.com and apply today. You could receive up to $500,000 for your small biz.

How to Run Your Small Biz From Any Corner of the World

The "Internet Age" has brought us many conveniences - from being able to order something at midnight and have it delivered the next day, to speaking face-to-face with loved ones who live far away. But, one of the best things to come from the Internet Age is being able to easily telecommute. And, there's no reason small business owners can't also telecommute. 

Taking a long vacation? Traveling the world? Or, do you just want to test the waters of a permanent home office? If the idea of working from home (or a hotel in Madrid) appeals to you, check out these tips for running your small business from...anywhere!

• Rely on Cloud storage for all you important documents and purchase a hard drive so you have ample storage.
• Learn to network online - social media will become your best friend!
• Utilize Skype to communicate with employees, clients, and etc.
• Create a professional and comfortable work space/office for yourself (and try not to spend your days living in pajamas.
• Spend money on the proper tools - a Microsoft suite, a newer computer, a good scanner, and etc.

Working from home can really improve your life - whether you have young children or caught a case of the travel bug. Follow these tips and you're well on your way to running a successful small business from your apartment, the coast of France, or wherever! For more great advice, check out the original article that inspired this blog post.

Need some extra funding to get your "at home" small business up and running? Check out SilverRockFunding.com. Apply online and we can help you access the funds you need to reach your business (and personal) goals.

Guest Post: "3 Ways a Loan Can Help (or Hurt) Your Business"

Silver Rock Funding was recently featured in an article in the Alexandria Chamber of Commerce in Alexandria, Virginia.

http://www.alexchamber.com/blog/3-ways-a-loan-can-help-or-hurt-your-business

The global economic downturn that began in the second half of 2007 impacted millions, if not billions, worldwide. As jobs were lost, mortgages were abandoned and companies floundered, access to financing became increasingly difficult. Consumer access to credit was one of the first targets as spending limits, loan amounts and mortgage sizes were all scrutinized. Farther down the spectrum were the businesses that themselves needed access to funding to help grow and expand.
As banks looked to protect their returns, they tightened their criteria in lending money to businesses that previously would have been prime applicants. As a result, approval percentages plummeted for applicants. While statistics on the overall approval percentages by banks vary (and aren’t published openly), a number of organizations have pointed to approval numbers below 15%. Cheryl Carner of Crystal Financial, a middle-market lender, suggests, "It will be more challenging for banks to do the transactions that they have historically done, so private equity firms and other middle market companies are going to have to continue to explore alternative lenders, whether that be credit opportunity funds, business development companies, or other entities that are non-regulated, as those lenders will have more flexibility to provide the capital solutions they're looking for." For business owners looking for funding from traditional sources, the climate became clearly inhospitable. From this vacuum came alternative funding sources for small business loans.

Understanding Alternative Lending

 

Key Area #1: Cashflow and Time in Business
This is perhaps the most important factor to understand about the alternative lending space. The lenders that operate in the small business arena want to know that a business is solid, strong and stable before giving them financing. For the most part, lenders use a combination of length of time in business, average sales volume, personal credit score and outstanding debt when making a decision. If a merchant cannot prove that they have been in business at least 6 months and are making at least $10,000 a month, then most lenders won’t lend to them. This isn’t just a byproduct of the lenders’ needs. It also reflects the needs of the merchants because repaying the loans could be tough if you haven’t proven sustainability (especially if you are a seasonal business).

Key Area #2: Types of Loan Product Offered.
Not all loans are equal. Much like how the loans in the housing market are all different (ex: 10-year FHA vs a 30-year traditional), these loans differ dramatically.  The most popular form of financing in alternative lending right now is the merchant cash advance. This is where the lender will debit a small, pre-agreed upon amount from a merchant’s bank account consistently for the term of the loan. Lenders want to make sure a merchant can continue to grow their business while not requiring a large lump sum to repay. Again, this is really a two-way street. If the lender wants to take 10% of your daily receipts and you can’t afford it—don’t take the loan! Additionally, there are different types of loans in alternative lending (including asset-based loans and even credit lines) so don’t take something you don’t want. Obviously consult with a loan officer to understand all of your options.

Key Area #3: The Right Industry for The Right Loan.
We all know a restaurant and a rug store are different, but when you think about the mechanics of the two businesses, it is clear how truly different they are. Restaurants sell thousands of products a day and the register is busy—a high volume transaction business. A rug store hopes to move 7-10 nice rugs a week.  The reality is there are industries that tend to thrive in this space because of their high cash flow and credit card processing capabilities. Make sure the deal is right for you.  For example, Joe’s Pizza is running a strong business but Joe needs to buy a new pizza oven fast—his business can’t survive without it and his 20-year-old Blodgett double oven that he bought for $10,000 is fading. In order to get the funding he needs fast, he gets matched with a lender who is willing to give him $15,000 with repayments of $140 over 125 days. So basically for 7 months, Joe pays $140 bucks out of his credit card receipts and ends up paying a total of $17,500 total. This works out to about an 18% interest rate if all payments are made as scheduled (this is not an annualized rate)*. All this works for Joe because while he doesn’t have $15,000 on-hand, he can certainly afford $140 a day with his new oven cranking out pepperoni pies. The same may not be the case for the rug store owner. Be smart!

Loans aren’t for everyone. With more and more companies advertising alternative funding for merchants, it is important to know the limitations of the loan products available and more importantly, the limitations of your business.


Silver Rock Funding
www.SilverRockFunding.com
Silver Rock Funding is a BBB-accredited business loan marketplace that connects merchants with the funding they need. Silver Rock Funding is based in Alexandria, Virginia.

Making the Most of the Holiday Season to Grow Your Small Business

The holiday season is nearly here! And, we're here to tell you that "the most wonderful time of the year" is a particularly wonderful time for small business owners. Not only are customers spending more money than other times of the year, but they're also more willing to try new products or services. After all, 'tis the season of gift giving! What's important, though, is for small business owners to make sure they're capitalizing on the holidays and making the most of their marketing dollars during a time of year when, arguably, it matters most.

Here are some super simple tips for how to make the most of the holiday season to grow your business:

• Offer a coupon or special offer and "package" it as a holiday gift option, or create a holiday-themed gift bundle.
• Host a holiday event or charitable fundraiser (Toys for Tots is a great one).
• Decorate your business - never underestimate the power of festive decor! It showcases your creativity and makes your business seem warm and inviting.
• Add holiday elements to your branding, this is especially important for your social media channels.
• Speaking of social media, make sure you jump on the holiday hashtag bandwagon and particpate in the "conversation." #HappyHolidays

These are just a handful of super easy ways to make sure your business gets into the holiday spirit. But, it's easy to get wrapped up in the holiday bustle and forget to take advantage of the simple opportunities to grow your small business throughout the holiday season. So try to take advantage of some of the easier opportunities.

Another way to make sure your small business doesn't grow stagnant is considering a small business loan. Small business loans are a great way to access the funds you need to grow your company, whether it needs an aesthetic facelift or another employee. Visit SilverRockFunding.com and find out how much money you can get for your small business!

How to Set Your Small Business Apart From the "Crowd"

Forbes

Does your small business have a “unique selling proposition," or what's also known as a USP. A USP "is key to setting yourself apart from competitors and building a profitable business."

In a large market, your USP is your saving grace. We found a great article on BlackEnterprise.com on this topic and thought we'd share the wisdom. So, here are some tips you, as a small business owner, should consider in order to cultivate your USP:

• Create a list of your business's/product's features, including a detailed list of details about your service/product. Important details include how a product is manufactured, delivery options, price points, and other functional and distinguishable characteristics. Then, convert your service's/products' details into benefits. "Then compare benefits with your direct competitors. Do you have a unique story that adds value to your product? Are there any aspects of your product or service that cannot be easily copied—this may be your competitive advantage."

• Nothing is more important to a successful business, big or small, than understanding your customers' needs. Their needs not include their daily challenges, but also, "what motivates their behavior and buying decisions." And remember, not every customer in your market is your customer. As Gwen Jimmere, CEO of NATURALICIOUS, said, "The riches are in the niches." What does that mean? Find your niche!

• Emotionally connect with your customers. "Identify if your business helps customers feel safe, save time, money, etc." If it doesn't, you need to make some changes.

• At the end of the day, "your USP should drive the development of your advertising and marketing campaigns. All of your marketing efforts should include a succinct and clear statement, which includes your brand promise and customer experience."

So, at the end of the day...figure out what your small business does best, create a message to communicate your business's standout traits, pinpoint your niche customer base it, and then communicate your message to your customer base. Do that, and you're set!

If you do all that and find what you really need is some extra financing to grow your business, consider a small business loan. SilverRockFunding.com can help you access up to $500,000 for your small business needs. Apply today!

Small Business Advice from Entrepreneur Robert Herjavec

Reuters

Our favorite pieces of small business advice come from entrepreneurs who have "been there, done that." You've probably heard the name "Robert Herjavec" once or twice, he's not only a super successful entrepreneur but a host of the ABC's Shark Tank. He recently gave any interview about a new documentary, Small Business Revolution, "which profiles 100 small businesses around the country and really gets into the essence of what makes these individuals successful." Here are some of our favorite pieces of advice from his Fox Business interview:

• "You can have passion but without opportunity you won’t likely succeed. He explains that 'success doesn’t see color, gender, race, or size. It’s a benchmark you set for yourself.'

• "Failure is an inevitable part of the learning curve in business. The fact is you always have to be excited about tomorrow."

• "One of the mistakes he often sees in small business start-ups is too much reliance on the hiring of friends. Although it may seem comfortable and convenient at the time it can often come back to haunt you. The fact is you have to find people who get you, but also have the competence and drive to get the job done. Then, of course, you have to be prepared to lead them."

Now that you're officially motivated (and inspired), maybe you're wondering how to actually "get the ball rolling" financially. If you're a small business owner who just needs a bit of funding to reach your business goals, you might consider a small business loan. Visit SilverRockFunding.com today and learn how we can help you access the finances you need to grow your small business!

Cosmetics Company Business Loans - A Definitive Guide

Cosmetics Company Business Loans

Cosmetics will never go out of style. People all around the world love makeup, perfume and skincare, products and use them everyday. And, contrary to what many people might think, cosmetics are not unique to women; the male cosmetics industry is actually growing with each passing year. And, while the cosmetics industry as a whole suffered during the economic downturn of 2007/2008, the industry is only improving and continuing to grow. So, with that in mind, there's no better time to invest in your small cosmetics business.

First, if you're the owner of a fledgling cosmetic company, check out this information from CosmeticTestLabs.com and avoid some of the most common cosmetics industry pitfalls.

Need some more incentive to grow your cosmetics business (or, maybe even start one)? Click here, or on the below picture, and learn about some of the advantages small cosmetics brands have over the "big guys."

Of course, running a small cosmetics company comes with a set of costs... To help with the costs and take your cosmetics company to the next level, you might want to consider a small business loan. However, knowing what you're qualified for and which financing option best suits your small business needs can be tricky.

Whether you have an actual store front, or sell your cosmetics products on an e-commerce site like Etsy, accessing the funds you need for ingredients, packaging, salaries, marketing, and etc. doesn't have to be difficult. Getting cash for your small cosmetics business needs through Silver Rock Funding can help get your business flowing and growing. You could be approved for up to $500,000 as soon as the next day!

If you don't already have your own small cosmetics business, but you're interesting starting one, check out this article from SmallBizClub.com.

Comparison shopping: Small business loans

We've all done it. Whether it's online or in the store, we've compared prices, rates, deals, etc. It's smart shopping. If I could get a grill cover on Amazon.com for $35 or pay $50 bucks directly to

Comparison shopping is the name of the game

Home Depot, I think I'll go with Amazon. For small business owners looking for business loans, the process has been the opposite for too long. They go on Google and search for a business loan and click on the first offer available. Problem is many of those direct lenders are simply not providing you with the full marketplace of business loans available.

With SilverRockFunding.com we come into the mix like Expedia for business loans. You don't just go to Delta and book a flight---you search around. We do the same thing in our marketplace of lenders. You will be provided with the opportunity to look around and compare opportunities. This gives the power to the merchant and you remain in control.

All it takes to get going on a business loan is a business that has been operating for at least 6 months and a minimum monthly revenue of around $10,000. Your credit history is important, but our lenders will work with you if your credit puts you in a position for a bad credit business loan. Regardless, our network is standing by and ready to help get your business the funding it deserves. With options in our marketplace you will be able to decide what works (or doesn't work) for your business.

New lenders, new opportunities...

Silver Rock Funding is constantly looking for ways to get merchants access to new funding. From changing our lending network, to offering different types of loans for different small business loan needs. We've helped people get food truck loans, dentist office loans and so much more. This Fall we are pleased to be able to add a new lender who can help businesses of all types and sizes. Our new lender can help businesses that have only been in business for 6 months and that allows you as a developing entrepreneur the chance to fuel your business and its growth.

Mobile? No problem.

We've also developed a great way to keep in touch with so many touchpoints to access Silver Rock Funding and our network of lenders. Whether it's thru Facebook, Twitter or even Tumblr, our team is ready to help you around the clock. We've helped businesses get funded in so many different industries since we opened our doors 2 years ago and we are ready to help you too! Know someone who could benefit from the excellence of the Silver Rock team? Send them our way. We've also spent time telling you the stories of some great business owners in our Business ROCKstar series. Check them out!

Note: Every small business owner faces working capital issues. Silver Rock Funding is here to help. We offer a personal touch, with dedicated funding managers standing by to walk you through our application process and get you the cash you need. We can also help with bad credit loans for businesses.Silver Rock Funding can help get you the cash you need on your time and on your terms. The process is simple and you could get the loan within 72 hours. A funding manager is dedicated to you through the entire process. For most small business loans to be approved, you will need to provide six months of bank statements and three months of merchant processing statements. The decision to accept the terms and rates of the loans are completely up to you.

The ONE Trait ALL Successful Business Owners Have in Common

The well-known cliche, "It takes all kinds," might be truest when talking about CEOs and business owners. When it comes to businesses large and small, the men and women who run them couldn't be more diverse. The type of personality it takes to run a successful gym or health club is not going to be the same as the type of personality it takes to run a popular bakery or florist shop. The world is full of different passions and temperates, but there IS one trait ALL successful CEOs/business owners have in common... They're always learning!

Being a "forever student" is vital for a successful business, particularly if you own a small business you are trying to grow. 

"In the 1990s, systems scientist Peter Senge popularized the concept of learning organizations: groups that are engaged in perpetual journeys of self-education. One discipline practiced within such organizations is 'personal mastery,' which Senge described as a distinct kind of proficiency that is associated with a vocation or calling. 'People with a high level of personal mastery are acutely aware of their ignorance, their incompetence, their growth areas,' wrote Senge. 'And they are deeply self-confident.' That is the paradox of successful entrepreneurs - they are flawed but fearless" and always open to new ways of doing things.

So, if you're a small business owner reaching for success, open your mind to new ideas and become a serial learner. 

You might even want to open your mind to the idea of a small business loan. If you need extra financing to grow your small business, SilverRockFunding.com may be the answer. We have the interests of the small business community at heart and with our simple, free application you could access up to $500,000 as soon as tomorrow.

For the full article that inspired this post, click here.

Creating a Culture for Your Small Business

Developing a successful small business is as much about the "company culture" as it is about the product or service you're selling. If you don't create a fun, stimulating and rewarding workplace for your employees, your small business will suffer and you wont attract the top talent. So, how do you go about creating a vibrant company culture? Read on...

Put yourself in your employees' shoes and know how to do each of their jobs. "When you understand the challenges of each job, it’s easier to set reasonable, yet demanding, expectations and goals for everyone."

Contract your new hires for three months or set up some sort of "probationary" period. This gives you and your new employee a reasonable amount of time to decide whether or not you are a good fit for one another. This ensures you don't make a wrong hire and jeopardize your budding company culture.

Express compassion and empathy. It's important to show kindness when your employees are dealing with the inevitable issue. While you must create and maintain boundaries it's important to be flexible if, say, one of your employees' children is sick and needs to be taken to the doctor or their car battery died and they're going to be late.

Create traditions your employees can look forward to throughout the year. "Maybe it’s giving back at the holidays with everyone working in a soup kitchen or collecting gifts for underprivileged kids. Maybe it's an annual camping trip. Whatever it is, separate yourselves from the day-to-day minutiae and bond over other activities."

Encourage humor and laughter - within reason of course. Everyone has a different sense of humor and you don't want to offend anyone, but if you see a funny video on YouTube, email it to everyone in the office...and be sure to kindle inside jokes. Every great company culture involves laughter and not taking yourself too seriously.

These are just a few ways to begin creating the culture you envision for your small business...start here and then continue to build.

Now, on the flip side, if you have your company culture nailed down and are focusing on growing your small business (but lack the extra funds) you should consider a small business loan. SilverRockFunding.com can help you access up to $500,000 for your small business needs - whether that's a bigger office space for your growing team or additional inventory for your growing customer base.

For the complete article that inspired our post, head over to Entrepreneur Magazine.

Getting the Most Out of a Modest Marketing Budget

Marketing is vital to the growth of a small business, but when many people think marketing they see nothing but dollar signs. While marketing can costs a pretty penny, it doesn't have to. In this post, we'll share some useful tips (from Business2Community) on how to get the most out of your marketing budget...big or small.

• Stay top-of-mind with your customers with email marketing. "Email newsletters have the highest ROI of any digital marketing tactic. They are easy to produce, inexpensive, and an effective method for providing clients with relevant and personalized content."
• Lean on social media. Social media is a great, free way to push your product/small business. And, if you do want to throw some money into your social media efforts, Facebook and Twitter have affordable, user-friendly ad buy options. "Facebook Ads is an easy-to-use ad platform and one of the best ways to reach your target audience. The platform includes built-in tools which let you select specific targeting demographics so that your ads are shown to the right people."
• Don't overlook good ol' word-of-mouth... Develop a referral program for your product/small business so you can reward and maintain a relationship your loyal customers while attracting new ones. "Offering a discounted month of service or a free product is a win-win strategy that is sure to boost brand visibility and popularity."
• Claim and revise you Yelp listing. Yelp is an essential tool for businesses, it's how you gain the trust of potential customers through reviews from past customers. Many small business owners are intimidated by Yelp because they fear negative feedback and reviews, but it's a win-win because negative feedback offers an opportunity for improvement, while positive feedback is something customers are more likely to trust over paid marketing.

If you feel your small business needs a heavier hand in the marketing department, or maybe your small business needs a facelift in order to really grow, consider a small business loan. There are great services out there, like SilverRockFunding.com, that can help you access the funds you need for your small business needs. Don't waste another minute; apply today and you could receive up to $500,000 for your small business as soon as tomorrow.

How to Juggle Your Day Job and Your Small Business

In a "perfect" world, entrepreneurs could drop everything and throw all their time and resources into their new small business... But, it's not a perfect world. Many entrepreneurs have to keep their day jobs while they get their new business up and running, and sometimes for a while afterward. But, there's no need to stress! Here are some tips on how to keep your day job while you pursue your small business dreams...

Reevaluate your perspective. If you look at your "normal" job as something that's holding you back...don't! Try to be positive and view your current job as a resource that's allowing you to pursue your goal of a successful small business.

Buy an agenda. Or, in other words, plan your days to a tee. Working 24/7 might seem impressive, but you won't put forth your best effort if you're drained. So, schedule your days in advance and be sure you allot time for some relaxation (and 8-hours of sleep).

Maximize your time and become a pro at multitasking. There are probably certain times of the day when you're "wasting" valuable time and don't even realize it... For example, instead of spending your 30-minute commute listening to the radio, make some handsfree business calls. Or, if you take public transportation, shoot out those emails that have been on your to-do list for days.

Outsource! One of the perks of keeping your day job is you still have a steady income. Look at your budget and figure out how much money you have to pay someone else (who will do it better) to manage your social media or send out newsletters. This will save your time and sanity.

If you stay positive, pace yourself and plan efficiently...there's no reason you can't balance your day job AND your entrepreneurial aspirations. For more tips, check out this article on MSN.com (via Entrepreneur magazine).

Now, if your small business is already up and running and you need additional some financing to grow, you might want to consider a small business loan. Visit SilverRockFunding.com today!

E-Commerce Business Loans - A Definitive Guide

E-Commerce Business Loans

E-commerce has taken the world by storm. In fact, the majority of people in big cities do the bulk of their shopping online...and the numbers will only continue to increase. E-commerce has even changed the dynamic of entire industries, the fashion industry being one of the most affected. So, with all that in mind, it's clear there's never been a better time to invest in growing your e-commerce business.

Looking for some e-commerce "inspo?" Take a look at this 60 Minutes interview with the founder of Alibaba, the world's largest e-commerce website.

Or, if your trying to expand your e-commerce website, you might want to take a look at this infographic, which depicts people's online shopping habits.

Running an e-commerce website, like any small business, comes with its own set of costs. To help with the costs and take your e-commerce website to the next level, you might want to consider a small business loan. However, knowing what you're qualified for and which financing option best suits your small business needs can be tricky.

Whether you have an eBay store, you sell products on Etsy, or you just have a great product, accessing the funds you need for salaries, marketing, inventory or whatever else, doesn't have to be difficult. Getting cash for your e-commerce business needs through Silver Rock Funding can help get your business flowing and growing. You could be approved for up to $500,000 as soon as the next day!

If you don't already have your own e-commerce business, but you're interesting starting one, check out this article from Forbes outlining the three most important steps toward launching your first e-commerce website.

Chiropractic Business Loans - A Definitive Guide

Chiropractic Business Loans

Doctors of chiropractic treat approximately 30 million people annually. In fact, doctors of chiropractic "comprise the third largest group of doctorate-level, portal-of-entry primary-care providers in the nation, next to medical doctors and dentists."

Chiropractors offer care to a variety of patients of all ages and health conditions, but doctors of chiropractic are typically sought for back and neck pain, as well as headaches. Chiropractors also help treat a various injuries and musculoskeletal system disorders (you can see many of the other benefits of chiropractic care in the infographic below). It is one of the safest drug-free methods to treat certain maladies and continues to grow in "popularity." Needless to say, it's a great time to own a chiropractic practice.

However, with state-of-the-art technology and equipment, monthly salaries and regular training, running a chiropractic practice can be expensive (not mention the competition is fierce). But, if done well, owning a chiropractic business can be extremely lucrative.

According to recent data, there are approximately 28,000 chiropractors nationwide, and some of the firms have the power of multiple providers. This gives them access to capital that sole practitioners don’t have. The reality is many chiropractors need cash to help their businesses grow, which is where Silver Rock Funding and our network of lenders can help.

So, if you're looking to grow your chiropractic business - whether that means adding specialty services to your "menu" or creating a new marketing campaign - consider a small business loan. And, if you're hoping to start your own chiropractic business, check out the below video.

Car Dealership Business Loans - A Definitive Guide

Car Dealership Business Loans

In 2014, people bought 38.5 million used cars and 16 million new cars, and analysts expect even stronger car sales by the end of this year. Needless to say, this is great news for car dealers.

Even the great Warren Buffet sees the value in the car dealership business! "Buffett has described car dealerships that are run well as 'a very good business.' In an interview with Fortune magazine...he noted dealerships 'have no receivables to speak of, you floor-plan your inventory, you can lease your real estate….So you can have very little capital actually invested in the business, and you do a large volume.'" Check out the whole interview in the video below.

Owning a car dealership, like any small business, comes with its own set of costs...inventory being just one of many. To help with those costs and grow your car dealership to be as profitable and successful as possible, you should consider a small business loan. However, knowing what you're qualified for and which financing option best suits your small business needs can be tricky.

Silver Rock Funding is a great option for car dealers looking to grow their business because Silver Rock Funding has a network of lenders that help small business owners find the loans they need. Whether you need to purchase inventory or expand your operation, Silver Rock Funding can provide you the quick and easy access to the capital you need, even if your might have bad credit. Silver Rock Funding will work to help get your dealership the cash flow it needs for whatever the need...whether it's remodeling, expanding or something else.

If you don't already own a car dealership, but you're interesting in entering the business, check out this article with seven tips for starting your own car dealership. The infographic above also outlines some of the current trends in the automotive market, which is crucial information when starting a business.

Food Truck Business Loans - A Definitive Guide

Food Truck Business Loans

Food trucks started gaining in popularity a few years ago and their success hasn't lost any steam. The food truck business is booming and, if you're a food truck owner, now's the time to invest in growing your business. If you're not a food trucker yet, but want to be, check out one of our earlier blog posts on how to start a food truck business.

There are a lot of reasons the food truck business is a great career path for chefs/cooks... One of the most popular reasons for people to become a "food trucker" is owning a food truck is a fraction of the cost to own and operate than a restaurant. The best part? It's often just as lucrative as a traditional restaurant.

Food trucks do, however, come with their own set of costs; including regular truck maintenance, expensive kitchen equipment and food costs. Probably one of the most imperative costs for a food truck is PR and marketing. Unlike restaurants, food trucks move around, so targeted marketing and PR, and creative social media tactics are essential to develop (and maintain) a loyal customer base.

Today, I'm going to talk about how a small business loan is often a fantastic option for food truck owners to grow their business and take things to the next level.

Financing some of the costs associated with owning a food truck is, as we just mentioned, often a great option...but it can be really hard to figure out what you're qualified for and which option best suits you and your small business needs.

According to RMagazine, "by 2017, food trucks will generate $2.7 billion in revenue." Check out the infographic below for some more stats about the food truck industry's optimistic future." 

There might not be a hotter industry right now than food trucks. What better way to take your successful restaurant idea on the road and cut out the huge overhead costs of running a restaurant? As much as it’s a more affordable option, it still requires a significant investment of capital and time to keep it running. Getting that cash flow to purchase additional equipment, keep staff paid, add additional trucks - it’s expensive. Getting that cash from the bank is a tough proposition in an environment like the one we’re in now. Access to capital is restrictive and small business owners aren’t able to get the financing they need. In response to increased demand from consumers, Silver Rock Funding can get business owners small business loans from some of the nation’s best lending sources.

If you're looking for some inspiration for your food truck business, you should go watch the movie Chef - check out the trailer below. It's a seriously great movie about a chef who leaves a four-star restaurant and starts his own food truck business. Happy food trucking!

Trucking Business Loans - A Definitive Guide

Trucking Business Loans

Trucking can be a lucrative career.

Maybe you are considering entering the trucking business because of the great pay - most seasoned truckers make $45-50,000 salaries -  or because you want to see the country. There are many great reasons to choose trucking as your career!

Unfortunately, the many costs associated with trucking - check out the infographic below - can hold truckers back from being as successful as they'd like...

Today, I'm going to address that problem and tell you how simple it is for you (and your semi truck) to qualify for a small business loan.

Financing some of the costs associated with owning a big rig is often a great option - but it can be really hard to figure out what you're qualified for and which option best suits you and your small business needs.

The American Trucking Association American Trucking Trends 2015 "reports that trucking continues to be the dominant mode of freight transportation in the United States:

• In 2014, trucks moved 9.96 billion tons, or 68.8%, of all domestic freight.
• The $700.4 billion in revenue accounted for 80.3% of all freight transportation spending.
• Trucking employed more than 7 million people, including 3.4 million drivers.
• Combination trucks logged 168.4 billion miles in 2013, or an average of 69,000 per truck.
• Since Deregulation, the number of registered motor carriers has grown by 68 times to more than 1.3 million carriers.
• Commercial trucks paid $16.5 billion in federal highway user fees in 2013."

With all that in mind, this is a great time to focus on growing your trucking business! And, to make that happen, it takes cash. Whether it's purchasing new equipment and parts, like axles, brakes, wheels, or the trailers and tractors themselves, or something smaller like making payroll - whatever the need, Silver Rock Funding can help. With Silver Rock Funding, you could get access to up to $500,000 for your trucking business without draining any money from your savings.

Love this great video on what to expect in your first year of trucking, too!

For more insight on how to make your trucking business successful, consider this advice from Smart-Trucking.com.

Barber Shop Business Loans - A Definitive Guide

Barber Shop Business Loans

We've spent a great deal of time working with a number of small businesses since Silver Rock Funding launched and barber shops are an area we have learned to understand even more. Even though a lot of hair gets cut, its tough to find enough money to really make the business hum. There are tons of daily costs like these and of course, this. 

Side note, no one in our office knew what this stuff truly was and how it worked--so we looked it up. Barbicide is some weird stuff.  Check out this video on it:

Regardless of the amounts of barbicide in the barber shop, the barber industry is a competitive place, with $1.9 billion dollars in incoming revenue estimated each year. We’ve already taken a good look at how barber shops can get small business loans in this great article: detailing how these business can thrive in the current marketplace.

Also, we've told you some great resources to read about success stories in this industry like:

Entrepreneur Magazine's feature on How One Barbershop Built Its Brand in Austin, Texas. 

Kiplinger's did a great look at one barber shop business plan in Louisville, Kentucky, and how this barber built a strong brand.

Barber Shop Resources in Education

We also gave you some great resources on going to become a barber if you want to build your career even further or add new staff:

The Barber School

Paul Mitchell's Barbering program

Plus This Barber School Directory by state

We also told you on our website about how a barbers have leveraged the power of a barber shop business loan or a merchant cash advance to get between $5,000 and $500,000.   

For most small business loans, merchants usually need to submit at least 6 months of bank statements, 3 months of merchant processing statements and potentially some other materials.

Barber Shop Business Loans

We also shared with our customers a behind-the-scenes look at how alternative lending worked in a great e-book. It reveals how small business lending and small business loans work for merchants like barbers, plumbers and even doctors. Give it a read. 

Additionally, we've invited customers to give us their feedback on how our service has helped on Facebook, Twitter, Google+ and elsewhere. Social media loves Silver Rock Funding too.

Success Stories and Business Loans from Silver Rock Funding

Also, we gave away $1000 to a small business owner who told us about her brand and how she could use the money to help her company grow. 

Read more about our #Grand4YourBrand contest here.

Ensuring Your Small Business Thrives Long After You're Gone

Most of us get so caught up in the daily grind, we forget to plan for the future. For small business owners, it's absolutely vital to look ahead and plan for the day you retire or pass away. “Small business owners need to plan for their estate even more than the average person does... Not doing so can destroy your family and business. And a good estate plan can take years to put in place, so this is not a conversation you want to procrastinate on,” CPA Kelley Long said.

We ran across a great article in Money magazine breaking down the "ins and outs" of planning for the future as a business owner. We broke it down and pulled out the best nuggets of information, but you can read the full article here if you're interested.

No one cares about your business quite like the person who built it from the ground up (you), so make sure you take these proactive steps to ensure your small business thrives long after you're gone.

Create a will. "This document allows you to specify how you want your assets to be transferred, and to whom, after you die. It also lets you identify an executor who will take charge of those assets and manage their disbursement according to your instructions."

Set up a trust. "Any items you place under the ownership of the trust will bypass the probate process. Thus assets owned by the trust can be transferred to heirs much more quickly; your estate will remain private; and, depending on the type of trust you set up, it could dramatically reduce the legal fees and estate taxes your estate or heirs will have to pay. And with a revocable or living trust, the terms and assets can be easily changed if your decisions change."

Draft a power of attorney document. This will "allow you to name an individual to carry out your business affairs should you become incapacitated."

A buy-sell agreement is a must if you co-own a business. "This contract establishes an agreed upon plan for the business’s future should one owner die or become incapacitated... It defines a sale price for the business and your share, and allows you to document whether or not you want your partners to buy out your share, whether you want to block certain people from stepping into the business, or if you’d prefer family members to sell your portion."

Establish life insurance, especially if you have a business partner. "To raise the funds necessary to buy out a deceased partner’s share under a buy-sell agreement, the living partners often need life insurance. Each partner should purchase a term life insurance policy and name the other partners as beneficiaries."

Come up with a succession plan. "If you’re a sole proprietor, you need a clear plan for what should happen to the businesses when you die. If you want to pass on the business, you need to begin delegating and preparing a successor."

Now that we've discussed planning for the future - let's discuss the here and now! If you're trying to grow your business, but lack the necessary funds, you might want to consider a small business loan. With our simple, cost-free application Silver Rock Funding can help you access up to $500,000 for your small business. Head over to our website today, we'd love to help.