GST Registration for Canadian Businesses

Most Canadian businesses are required to register for GST.  The exception being some small suppliers – sole proprietorships, partnerships or corporations that have total taxable revenues that are less than $30,000 annually after expenses or if your business only provides GST exempt goods or services (i.e. child care or music lessons).  To determine if you are exempt from GST registration, click here  for the CRA requirements.

Even if you qualify as a small supplier, you may want to consider registering for the GST anyway.  Because you’ll be paying GST on purchased goods for the business, your GST registration will allow you to recoup some of the GST paid out on business purchases through Input Tax Credits. 

Registering for GST is actually quite easy.  The main thing to remember is that it needs to be done within 29 days from the day in which your business exceeds the small supplier amount in revenues ($30,000).   GST registration can be done either online or over the phone with the CRA.  You’ll be given a GST/HST number (also called a Business Number) to be used on invoices, for accounting and on all tax-related paperwork. 

Once you’ve registered for GST, you’ll be assigned a reporting period based on your total annual sales, which can be either monthly, quarterly or annually.   For your reports you’ll need to prepare a GST return showing the amount of GST/HST you’ve charged customers as well as the amount of GST/HST paid to suppliers.  This can get complicated when factoring in your Input Tax Credits as well as the various classes of GST/HST goods and services.  For more information on this, please visit follow the link. 

It’s important not only to keep your records and bookkeeping up to date and accurate, but also to understand the GST registration and reporting process from the outset so that you’re not scrambling to prepare your reports for each period and you’re maximizing your Input Tax Credits as much as possible.  

How to Use Failure to Your Advantage

The word "failure" has negative connotations. It is hard to think of anything positive when discussing failures. Yet, many business leaders will tell you that failure is not the end of the world, nor is it only negative. While a business failure certainly implies setback, it also leaves the door open for improvement, change and opportunity.

American business leaders have embraced the opportunities presented by failures while Canadians lag behind in this respect. The inability or unwillingness to compete is a common denominator of many Canadian business disasters. One of the first lessons to be learned from a business failure is not to cut back but, rather, to dive into the marketplace and compete with all your might. Learn from failure and allow it to be the catalyst that is your driving force. In California's Silicon Valley, business has embraced the concept of "failing well." You made good decisions but circumstances were beyond your control. If you are good at what you do, you'll eventually succeed. In Canada, the opposite is more common. If your business attempt failed, you'll have a very tough time securing capital for another venture.

Failure in business can be one of your greatest teachers. Successful corporate leaders have learned from their mistakes and impart that wisdom to their employees as well. By sharing this wisdom with one's staff, it carries the message that even the boss is not perfect. Moreover, it encourages staff to also learn from their mistakes. Every successful mega-company started small and did not achieve greatness overnight. When your staff appreciates the growing pains of a company, they can become part of the driving force to continue propelling the business forward.

This doesn't mean that one should create a culture that focuses on failure. Just the opposite is true. A business environment should strive for success. Ultimately, that is the goal that we wish to achieve. However, every successful path has setbacks and failures. Learn to appreciate that none of us is perfect and we can learn something new everyday. The only way to avoid failure is to stop trying to achieve. Use every setback to your advantage and ultimately you will win.

Incorporate in Canada with CorporationCentre.ca
Click. You're incorporated ®

What Government Funding Can I Get for my Business?

If you are like most Canadians in business, you've probably wondered if you can ever get something back from the government, after you've paid all those taxes over the years. It seems only fair.

The best situation is discovering that you are eligible for a government grant or contribution. Grants do not need to be repaid and contributions are only repaid in certain cases. The problem is that these are few and far between. Generally, grants are available for specific programs and have very specific criteria. For the most part, grants usually are provided for specific industry sectors or for certain demographic groups.

On the other hand, there may be other government options that are applicable to your business. For example, you may be eligible for a government loan guarantee. This would enable you to get a loan that you might otherwise not receive approval for. With the government behind you, the bank will be far more willing to talk with you.

If you hire employees that have certain characteristics, you may be entitled to wage subsidies to help offset their salaries. Check with your tax advisor who is currently on the subsidy list and whether your business can benefit from these employees.

If your business makes certain investments, you may be entitled to a tax credit or refund. Check the current information with the relevant tax authorities.

If your business does not qualify for a commercial loan, you may be entitled to a loan from various government departments. Also, these government offices sometimes offer loans to businesses at lower rates than commercial lending institutions. A little research may save you some money.

In general, before assuming that your neighbourhood bank is the only lending option that you have, check what's available from the government. You may be pleasantly surprised.

Incorporate in Canada with CorporationCentre.ca
Click. You're incorporated ®

Female Entrepreneurs - Unite!

No longer can it be said that business is a man's world. Female entrepreneurs are an integral part of the business world. According to a report from the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development, Canadian women comprise 30% of business across the nation. This percentage is larger than any other country. In the United States, during a ten year period beginning in 1997, businesses owned by women grew at double the national rate of all U.S. private businesses.

So, the good news is that women are making their mark on business in substantial numbers. The bad news is that they are not using these numbers for any collective purpose or advantage.

There is power in numbers. However, most female entrepreneurs seem to prefer worrying only about themselves. An umbrella organization, Women Entrepreneurs of Canada, whose mandate is to create a more collaborative climate for women business owners, is fighting an uphill battle, as reported to a small core group of members at a recent meeting of the organization.

Rather than share ideas and efforts, the group reported that female business owners prefer to do for themselves and not share. Sharing resources and ideas is simply not the norm in female businesses, leading to duplication of efforts and a loss of a potentially powerful female lobby.

Men invest more time and energy developing their businesses. Thus, women cooperating with each other could greatly strengthen their businesses by uniting their efforts. Also, women are less confident than men in certain key business tasks and could certainly benefit by supporting each other to get over hurdles.

On the other hand, in a male dominated world, women still encounter certain prejudices in business. A strong female lobby could help push for changes in the business world that would lead to parity in general, while addressing the distinct needs of female entrepreneurship when applicable.

This organization, while small at present, is picking up speed and hopes to build a strong, influential coalition of female entrepreneurs to help the nearly one third of Canada's business community leadership.

Incorporate in Canada with CorporationCentre.ca
Click. You're incorporated ®

Credit Card Code of Conduct

If you own a retail business, you will understand exactly what the issue at hand is all about. How much of your hard-earned money goes to the credit card companies through fees and charges that seem to keep rising?
 

Canadian Finance Minister Jim Flaherty recently announced the implementation of a voluntary code of conduct for the credit card industry. The new Code of Conduct has come in response to increasing complaints by small businesses about the excessive fees that they are being forced to pay.
 

The voluntary Code of Conduct, which may be revised over the next couple of months according to Mr. Flaherty, lists measures to give merchants freedom of choice in regards to which payment vehicle to use. The Code requires posting of online information regarding the interchange fees charged to retailers. It will also require the credit card companies to give retailers 90 days notice of any fee changes.
 

Responding to the announcement of this new Code, retailers view this as a positive development but would also like Ottawa to create an oversight body to ensure adherence. Creation of a parliamentary committee was one possible suggestion.
 

Mr. Flaherty pointed out that this Code of Conduct is voluntary and he hopes that the credit card companies will respond positively by voluntarily adopting the measures set out for the industry. The alternative, according to the Finance Minister, is to regulate the industry through legislation. But, as the credit card industry has objected vehemently to regulatory legislation, it is hoped that they will adopt the voluntary measures.
 

As other voluntary codes of conduct have been adopted by other industries, retailers hope that the credit card giants will similarly adopt these new guidelines.

Incorporate in Canada with CorporationCentre.ca
Click. You're incorporated ®
 

Looking for Startup Money?

Money makes the world go 'round. It also gets your startup business up and running. Many a new business venture has failed due to a lack of cash to get the operation off the ground and get through the initial difficult months until the business starts generating revenue. Unfortunately, there are no guarantees as to where you will find the necessary capital. Many entrepreneurs tend to follow a similar path in seeking funds.
 

The most popular place to look is your own pocketbook. Often, people will mortgage their homes or sell property and possessions. Certainly, there is risk involved but business involves risk and personal commitment to the venture is crucial. Of course, "personal" funds may also extend to family and close friends. Most likely, they will be far more supportive than commercial lenders and their terms are likely to be far more favourable.
 

Next in line is your neighbourhood bank. Assuming that you have a creditworthy relationship, this may be the ideal place to secure a startup loan. Also, a line of credit is most important for your business. You may not need these funds initially but they may come in handy down the line.
 

Do your research well. There are numerous loans and grants available for new small businesses from government agencies and business associations. Your local banker or your accountant may be able to help direct you to sources of funds. Similarly, professional organizations may have helpful information.
 

Investors may be the right answer for you. Although many investors prefer to become involved with established businesses, the right idea at the right time may attract investment funds to you. Your business plan should be designed with investors in mind. Be prepared to change the business plan as necessary in order to interest a potential investor.
 

Finally, don't limit yourself to one source of funds. It may be possible for you to finance your startup form several sources. Decide what is best for your needs and don't be afraid to seek advice from professional advisors. 

Incorporate in Canada with CorporationCentre.ca
Click. You're incorporated ®

Canadian Recovery Indicators

Recent economic records this summer seem to indicate brighter days on the Canadian horizon. Earlier, analysts had predicted a $100 million surplus in July. The reality, though, was quite different. Rather than a surplus, Canada experienced a near record deficit in July 2009 of $1.43 billion. This was surpassed only by the May 2009 deficit of $1.45 billion. Despite these figures, economic analysts seem buoyed by the surge in imports. The sharp rise in imports and exports seem to indicate that recovery from the global financial crisis is on the horizon.

Import figures for July reflected an overall 8.3 percent increase from the previous month. This positive figure included a 10.9 percent increase in machinery and equipment imports, an impressive 18.7 percent rise in automotive products, and a similarly encouraging 18.6 percent rise in energy products.

Exports rose by 3.3 percent in July, primarily due to increased shipments of equipment, machinery, and automotive products. 73 percent of all Canadian exports in July were to the United States but, due to the sluggish American economy, this figure was down a whopping 35.2 percent from July 2008.

In order to stimulate the economy, the Bank of Canada has promised to leave interest rates at their current record low. The recent trade figures have not caused the Bank to change its current position. Responding to the Bank's announcement regarding interest rates, the Canadian dollar rose to 92.46 U.S. cents from 92.10 U.S. cents.

Analysts insist that the increasing deficit is not a prime cause of long term concern. The true indicator is the rapid acceleration in trade volumes. The rises in imports and exports indicate increased commercial activity and the true beginnings of economic recovery.

Incorporate in Canada with CorporationCentre.ca
Click. You're incorporated ®

Joint Canada/B.C. Jobs Program

British Columbia has been seriously affected by the global recession. As a province with many communities heavily reliant on resource-based industries such as mining, agriculture and fishing and manufacturing, the job market is in a severe crisis. Responding to the needs of these western communities, the federal and provincial governments have banded together to create immediate jobs and help workers impacted by the recession.

A $14 million investment has been made recently through the Community Adjustment Fund and the Job Opportunities Program. 45 new projects will be funded, creating more than 470 jobs for laid-off resource workers. The projects are endorsed and supported by local communities. The programs are not stop-gap measures but will hopefully create foundations for long-lasting prosperity.

However, this is but one phase of a much larger program. The Job Opportunities Program was first announced in May 2008 with an initial investment of $25 million. In July 2009, the federal government and the B.C. provincial government, both committed to maintaining financial stability and keeping Canadians working during this recession, each committed an additional $30 million to the program. The Community Adjustment Fund, part of Canada's Economic Action Plan, is a two year, $1 billion nationwide program to support job creating projects and maintain employment in rural communities. Nearly one third of the program's funds, $306 million, are being directed to the four westernmost provinces of Canada. The impact of the recession has been felt much more in the west than other provinces across the nation.

Incorporate in Canada with CorporationCentre.ca 
Click. You're incorporated ®

How Canada Prepared for the Crunch

Looking back just a little, the current recession took hold in 2007 when the inflated U.S. real estate bubble exploded. The speed with which the downfall snowballed surprised many but did provide enough time for legislators to take early action. The Canadian government, under Prime Minister Stephen Harper, was one of the first to prepare for the coming financial challenges.

The first step was introducing legislation in 2007 for permanent tax reductions for Canadian homes and businesses. As the recession hit the U.S. in early 2008, these new tax cuts took effect, helping sustain consumer spending and pumping billions of dollars into the Canadian economy. The lower GST is a blessing for individuals who have more of their hard earned dollars to spend. Canadian businesses now benefit from the lowest corporate tax rate among G7 industrialized countries, providing cash for continued corporate growth and creating new jobs.

During the country's strong economic years in 2005-2006, the government wisely reduced the national debt by $37 billion. By entering this recession period with a low debt burden, the government has had flexibility to run a short term deficit and provide funds for job creating investments and other economic stimulus programs.

Another preventive measure undertaken by the Harper government was regulating the mortgage market. The maximum term was reduced to 35 years and a minimum 5 percent down payment is required for government-backed mortgages.

Finally, responding to a cautious banking sector, the government has enacted programs to provide access to financing for consumers, households, and businesses. The government has not replaced private lending but, rather, is working in a cooperative effort with financial institutions to encourage lending and provide a network of guarantees.
 
Incorporate in Canada with CorporationCentre.ca
Click. You're incorporated ®

It's Start-Up Time

The recession is in bloom. People fear for their jobs. The economic future is questionable. It may be the perfect time to start your own business. Though it sounds rather absurd, this may be the ideal time to become self employed. True – self employment is not easy but, in a climate where one is never certain how long they will be guaranteed a regular salary, being your own boss may provide the best security for the present and the future.

Starting your own business carries certain risks. However, by following a basic blueprint, you will start with the right foot forward.

Before all else, prepare a business plan. Put your ideas, thoughts, research, and projections in writing. This will help you review your proposal as well as become an important document for outside investors.

The best idea can fall flat if you can't sell your product or service. Conduct your market research before you hang out your shingle. Carefully identify your potential customers and calculate whether a viable market exists. Don't be shy about seeking advice from more experienced players in the field.

Small businesses can readily get bogged down in government bureaucracy. It is wise to consult with experts who have dealt previously with the red tape.

Prepare a realistic cash flow projection. In the early stages of your business, check your financial statements daily. Consult with seasoned financial professionals to ensure that your projections are on the mark. You should be projecting the first two years in advance.

It may be difficult to raise the initial seed capital for your business. Most likely, friends and relatives will be the best address, as will former entrepreneurs who can appreciate where you are. The banks will likely wait until you are up and running.

Finally, we live in a world dominated by the internet. However, keep in mind that it is merely a technical tool. The success of your business depends on your personal effort and input.

Incorporate in Canada with CorporationCentre.ca
Click. You're incorporated ®

The Price of Ending the Recession

Government officials and economic analysts are in common agreement that Canada is headed out of the recession. While there are disagreements as to the exact timeframe, there is a fact that is common to all parties – the price tag.

For a country that proudly presented a balanced budget for twelve consecutive years, Canada had to revise its budget projections for the thirteenth year and for several years to come. Canadian Finance Minister Jim Flaherty recently announced his department's projection of a $50.2 billion deficit for the current fiscal year. He was quick to add, though, that this figure is "consistent" with meeting the deficit target. The government projects that it will present deficit budgets for the next four years, adding nearly $100 billion to the national debt. The current deficit is due primarily to several factors: falling tax revenues, both personal and corporate; a massive 47% increase in unemployment insurance premium payouts; and huge bailouts to the auto industry as well as other business subsidies.

While Mr. Flaherty is holding to his optimistic prediction of returning to a balanced budget in 2013-14, Prime Minister Stephen Harper, and several leading economists are somewhat more realistic in their forecasts. However, both the Prime Minister and the Finance Minister are in agreement that tax increases and major spending cuts are not being considered in order to expedite a balanced budget.

Some analysts have suggested that drastic changes to the budget are not advisable. Rather, once the stimulus programs spending has been depleted, the government should adopt a program to control spending growth. This will enable the government to eliminate the deficit over a period of several years.

Incorporate in Canada with CorporationCentre.ca
Click. You're incorporated ®

Cyber-Shopping Anyone?

In a country that is so highly attached to Internet access and the latest high-tech gadgetry, Canadians are slow to adopt the trend of cyber-shopping – shopping online. Online sales have certainly been growing at a steady pace - a 61% rise in three years – but they still lag behind online sales in the United States.

Analysts attribute Canadian reluctance to become cyber-shoppers to several factors. High shipping costs in Canada have caused a large number of shoppers to abandon their online purchase before completing the transaction. Additionally, when it comes to security, Canadians are far more sensitive than most other nations around the world. Simply put, many Canadians have an abiding fear of credit card fraud and are skeptical about revealing their credit card details online.

On the other hand, the rise of specialty brands online is winning over Canadian reluctance. The allure of securing hard-to-get brands or one-of-a-kind items has been a boon for many online retailers.

Some of the nation's larger retail outlets use their websites primarily for marketing and rely upon their sites to attract buyers to their stores. This has allowed a market to open up for smaller retailers whose "primary store" is located on the Internet.

Consumers still expect top service wherever they buy. For online stores, this translates into speedy and affordable delivery as well as reliable customer service. Moreover, online stores must market their sites in a variety of ways if they are to be noticed.

The variables of the economy affect the online stores as much as traditional shopping outlets. When consumers are in a spending mood, they are more likely to shop for items online that may be frivolous or unnecessary. However, when belt tightening begins, online retailers have to rapidly shift their focus to marketing items that are more affordable.

With annual sales in excess of $15 billion, and growing, cyber-sales seem to have carved out a niche with the Canadian consumer.

Incorporate in Canada with CorporationCentre.ca
Click. You're incorporated ®

Visa to the U.S.

Gone are the days when a Canadian family would hop in the car and drive down for a day to the closest city in the U.S. to do a little shopping. But the desire to purchase certain goods in the U.S. still exists. Now, in the world of eCommerce, a British company has made shopping in the U.S. available to Canadians while staying at home.

Borderlinx, headquartered in the U.K. with additional offices in Brussels, was established by experts in eCommerce, logistics management and international trade. The company enables U.S. retailers to sell their products to a global marketplace by providing innovative eCommerce management solutions. Similarly, consumers globally are provided access to the best quality products at the best possible prices.

Canadian Visa credit card holders are now able to purchase goods online from American retailers with relative ease. Through Borderlinx, Canadian shoppers are provided with a U.S. address and shipping services. This makes previously hard to access stores as simple as shopping from the store around the corner. Studies conducted by Visa revealed that 37% of Canadian online shoppers prefer shopping from U.S. stores due to the variety of products available. The Borderlinx service simplifies the shopping procedures and provides an on-screen calculator that allows shoppers to know exactly what will be the final price of their purchase. Additionally, shoppers through this service have the option of consolidating their purchases from several U.S. stores into one shipment, thus reducing shipping prices.

Canada is the first country to utilize this shopping agreement with Visa although other countries are expected to join later this year.

In the current economic climate, when consumers are careful how they spend their money, this new service affords shoppers an excellent way to make informed shopping decisions.

Incorporate in Canada with CorporationCentre.ca
Click. You're incorporated ®

Introducing CanNor, Canadian Northern Development Agency

Following promises made in last fall's election campaign and, more recently, in last November's throne speech, Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper revealed that the headquarters for the new Canadian Northern Development Agency (CanNor) will be built in Iqaluit, capital of Nunavut.

The Prime Minister's announcement was made during a recent tour of the North, his third tour of the region this summer. CanNor will deliver funding for economic development, advocacy, and research. The newly established agency will receive $50 million in federal funds over the next five years.

The decision to locate the new agency's headquarters in Iqaluit has been met opposition from several senior government officials, stating difficulties finding enough housing and staff. Mr. Harper responded that challenges such as these are exactly the reason for establishing an economic development agency and, therefore, the government must place the agency directly where the challenges are the greatest.

CanNor will also have satellite offices located in Whitehorse and Yellowknife, as the agency is designed to work cooperatively with all the Northern territories. The new agency will take over some existing federal programs and will develop new programs adapted to the territories' realities.

As several other nations have their sights on the resource-rich northern territories, the Harper government is determined to concretize Canadian sovereignty over the region. Establishment of this stand-alone regional economic development agency will allow the Federal government to work with the region to help it reach its full potential, both human and economic.

The Premiers of both the Yukon and Northwest territories welcomed Mr. Harper's announcement but added that additional key economic developments are crucial to their respective territories in order to strengthen the entire Arctic region.
 
Incorporate in Canada with CorporationCentre.ca
Click. You're incorporated ®

Is Deflation Good for Business?

Energy prices have truly influenced the global economy over the last couple of years. As gasoline prices have moved down in 2009, one result, in June 2009, was a negative annual inflation rate in Canada. This was the first time this has occurred since November 1994. Similarly, the country's Consumer Price Index (CPI) is expected to be down, marking a decline for the second consecutive year. Overall, though, core inflation is expected to remain fairly stable and close out the year at or near two per cent, as predicted by the Bank of Canada.

Analysts predict that this period of deflation is merely transitory and will likely be take in stride by markets. The Bank of Canada is expected to maintain its promise to keep interest rates at a floor of 0.25 per cent until next year, assuming that inflation remains stable.

As the deflation is attributed to the movement in gasoline prices, the effects are not considered to be ominous. The Bank of Canada had predicted that there would be a period of falling prices, but also predicted that the effects would taper off towards the end of the third quarter of 2009.

When the rather volatile gasoline prices are removed from the inflation index, the country's economic factors are fairly stable. During the recession, some economists described to the core inflation rate as "sticky." Despite the weakening of the economy, the Canadian dollar was fairly strong and food prices were slow to come down. Thus, the core inflation rate did not vary much. As food costs begin to drift down in the coming months, they are expected to bring down the core inflation rate.

Incorporate in Canada with CorporationCentre.ca
Click. You're incorporated ®

How to Reduce Your Business Costs

Desperate times call for desperate measures.

This old adage has become the modern modus operandi for many companies. As many companies have had their operating budgets reduced, the time has come to re-think how to operate a business. Specifically, is it possible to continue serving one's customer base on a reduced budget?

The answer is a resounding yes. The key to successful continuation of one's business operations requires re-featuring, not actual cost cutting. Understanding what the customer really wants and what can be done without is the best way to re-feature. This will allow the business owner to provide the goods or service while lowering costs at the same time.

A careful evaluation of one's business is crucial. Take the time to carefully evaluate which areas of the business should be highlighted, owing to their profitability, and which areas should be downplayed, as they truly don't matter as much to the customer. By reducing or removing non-essential services, improved pricing can be offered to the customer, thus strengthening customer loyalty.

It may be time to evaluate your raw materials. Is it possible to change to less expensive raw materials without compromising quality? Similarly, while few people want to dismiss staff, is your staff being utilized to the optimum? Some services can easily be offered to the public via internet services, thus freeing your human staff for tasks that computers cannot perform.

Rarely is cost cutting an enjoyable task. However, by figuring out the best and most innovative ways to improve your productivity and profitability of existing services, products, and processes, cost cutting is an inevitable positive by-product.

Incorporate in Canada with CorporationCentre.ca
Click. You're incorporated ®

Innovation and Technology are Top Priorities

Summing up the recent annual conference of Canadian provincial premiers, the nation's provincial leaders called upon the Federal government to bolster innovation and technology. The premiers are in agreement that removal of provincial tax benefits to companies will seriously dampen research and development. Encouraging R&D, both small and large scale, will eventually translate into economic growth through increased jobs and commerce.

The premiers were also in agreement that the country must adopt a new strategy regarding water management and conservation. Water is the country's most important resource. It was agreed that the nation is not doing enough to protect and manage this vital commodity. A bold innovative strategy must be implemented to protect Canada's water.

Pensions for Canadians were another topic discussed at length by the premiers. There is growing concern among the provincial leaders that the majority of Canadians with annual incomes below $100,000 will have insufficient funds to retire. This includes a large number of baby boomers who are approaching retirement age in the near future. However, the premiers lack unilateral agreement on how to solve this problem. Various measures suggested included increased public pensions and tax credits to bolster and encourage personal savings. The provincial finance ministers are compiling various plans and suggestions. The premiers are hoping that the federal government will convene a pension review summit by the end of 2009. This summit would be attended by both federal and provincial representatives, as well as leaders from the banking community and private pension companies.

The premiers' conference also touched upon the topic of unemployment and benefits. However, no concrete recommendations were made and this area of national concern remains in the hands of the federal government.

Incorporate in Canada with CorporationCentre.ca
Click. You're incorporated ®

It's All in the Cards

Believe it or not, there more to a business card than meets the eye. In the highly competitive market of job searching, a custom designed and creative business card can make the difference between obtaining an interview or just becoming another face in the crowd.

Many people prepare business cards containing personal information and nothing more. However, when your goal is to be noticed, presenting a unique calling card may be just what is needed to get you noticed.

Potential employers are continually approached by job seekers. In today's recession, the numbers are with the employer. They can take their pick from a large number of qualified applicants. Therefore, it is imperative to make a noticeable first impression.

A standout business card should quickly and effectively communicate who you are and what you can contribute to an organization. The first glance should grab the reader's attention. A tag line or several bullets will get your message across. Don't restrict yourself to one colour. The human eye is attracted to differences so choose a different colour ink to highlight the key points.

Many people forget that a business card is two sided. Quite often, a potential employer will use the back side of the card to jot down notes about the person he has met. Be one step ahead and print a mini-resume on the back. But, don't make it too busy. If the letters are too small, no one will read it.

Think carefully about the look of your business card. Don't cut corners by preparing it at home. The card should be printed on a proper card stock and cut by machine. Maintaining a professional look is crucial. Nothing could harm you more than a well prepared card that has an at-home, arts and crafts look to it.

Look is important but so is size. Most business cards are standard size. Cards that are shaped differently or are too large may be noticed but may also be discarded, as they will not fit into standard card holders.

Investing some thought, time, and money in your business card may be the right step in securing your next job.

Incorporate in Canada with CorporationCentre.ca
Click. You're incorporated ®

Creating Jobs and Saving Businesses

Thanks to the Canadian Government's recent investments in the Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC) through the Business Credit Availability Program, the BDC is experiencing a record increase in loans to businesses across the country.

By improving access to credit for Canadian businesses via the Canada's Economic Action Plan and Business Credit Availability Program, the Government is helping the business community not only weather the current economic slowdown but continue to thrive.

Recent statements by Canada's Minister of Industry, Tony Clement, indicate that the Government is pleased with its economic stimulus program. The various programs are creating jobs and saving businesses.

The BDC's increased lending activity has been felt across the country. In June 2009, the amount of loans accepted exceeded figures for the same period in the previous year by 57%. In the first fiscal quarter of 2009/2010, ending June 30, the total dollar amount accepted by BDC loans escalated by 37% from $738 million in 2008 to slightly more than $1 billion in 2009. The BDC reports that this has been the largest increase in its history.

The Canadian Economic Action Plan was designed to assist businesses and entrepreneurs by improving access to financing through enhanced cooperation between government corporations and private sector financial institutions. Financial experts from the BDC have worked closely with their private sector colleagues to ensure that solutions are found to secure funding for creditworthy businesses. Another branch of the Business Credit Availability Program is Export Development Canada (EDC). Working together, EDC and private sector financial institutions are providing more than $5 billion in loans and other credit support to businesses with viable business models but whose access to financing might be restricted.

Private sector and Government – working together to help Canadian businesses thrive.

Incorporate in Canada with CorporationCentre.ca
Click. You're incorporated ®

The Value of Customer Service

At the end of the day, your product may be outstanding and you may provide terrific value, but, let's face it, times are tough for small businesses. People are spending less today. Many businesses have limited funds available to maintain or increase sales. What, then, is a business to do? The answer lies with your most important resource: your customers.

It all boils down to customer satisfaction and customer loyalty. Maintaining your customer base is vital. Therefore, it's important to know what the customer is thinking. Businesses have to establish methods to listen to their customers and, no less important, to respond. Customer feedback should be viewed as a gift to your business.

Far too many businesses have become unreachable, preferring to communicate with their customers via text messages or e-mails. They have forgotten the importance of the personal touch. When was the last time you initiated telephone contact with a long standing customer to see why they have reduced their orders? One telephone call may be a terrific investment. You may discover that the customer has new needs or has been upset by a small matter that you were unaware of. Informal surveys can provide a wealth of information to help strengthen your business.

Business owners should not fear confrontation with the "disgruntled customer" as opening a Pandora's Box. Studies have shown that most disgruntled customers will not voice their opinion but will simply take their business elsewhere. Only 4% of disgruntled customers have mere complaints. Most have legitimate issues. The same studies have concluded that a 5% increase in customer loyalty can have a direct positive long term increase on a company's bottom line by anywhere from 25% - 125%.

The business owner who invests time in customer service is making a wise investment in these difficult financial times.

Incorporate in Canada with CorporationCentre.ca
Click. You're incorporated ®