Business Discussions

Hello QuickBooks Community,    Just stopping by to share this insightful article from Grey Journal about how entrepreneurs can break into the creator economy. The creator economy has evolved into a dynamic landscape, offering entrepreneurs diverse opportunities to monetize their passions and expertise. As of 2025, this sector is projected to reach $480 billion, reflecting its rapid growth and significance. Here are some key trends:     Influencer Marketing ExpansionAdvertisers are increasingly investing in influencer partnerships, recognizing their effectiveness in reaching targeted audiences. Nearly half of advertisers plan to boost their creator economy spending in 2025, with an average increase of 25%.   Community BuildingSuccess now hinges on cultivating loyal communities. Creators fostering genuine connections with their audiences can drive engagement and sustain long-term growth.   Technological IntegrationLeveraging advanced tools like AI-driven edi

Welcome to the QuickBooks Community! I hope you are doing well. We understand that small business insurance is crucial for protecting your company from risks like liability, theft, and natural disasters. It offers financial security against unexpected events that could otherwise be costly. Our article from the QuickBooks Blog provides a quick breakdown for common ones. Let’s dive in!   General Liability Insurance What it covers: Protects against third-party claims of injury or property damage. Why you need it: Essential for almost every business to safeguard against common accidents or lawsuits.   Professional Liability Insurance What it covers: Protects against claims of negligence or mistakes in the professional services you provide. Why you need it: Ideal for service-based businesses where errors or advice could lead to lawsuits.   Workers’ Compensation Insurance What it covers: Provides benefits to employees who suffer work-related injur

We use QBDT 2024. We use number and last name for formatting. For example job 101 Evans thru 999 Posante. When trying to add job 1000 and above it populates before our earliest active job 442 Monroe and not after job 999 Posante. We must use this style to differentiate between a new job for the same customer such as 300 Smith and 850 Smith #2. Also same last names. We use number/name for everything, from job creation to material ordering to subcontractor pay request to customer payment. I called QB Support last night and they turned over to IT Support. I have 20 new jobs to enter.

Hello ladies and gentlemen of the Community. I hope you've had a great day so far. Before you head out this evening, I'd like to share an article from the QuickBooks Blog that tells how small businesses are using AI to better manage their time. Let's dive in...   Scheduling The ability to define your availability Team calendar syncing Calendar management optimization Task management task prioritization auto-time blocking Project management Collaborate Assign tasks Set deadlines Track project progress Time tracking Productivity insights Data-driven decisions Workflow optimization Realistic goal-setting   With these uses for AI you'll be able to free up more time to devote to other areas of your business. Check out the full article linked above for even more details. Take care folks!

We use QBDT 2024. We use number and last name for formatting. For example job 101 Evans thru 999 Posante. When trying to add job 1000 and above it populates before our earliest active job 442 Monroe and not after job 999 Posante. We must use this style to differentiate between a new job for the same customer such as 300 Smith and 850 Smith #2. Also same last names. We use number/name for everything, from job creation to material ordering to subcontractor pay request to customer payment. I called QB Support last night and they turned over to IT Support. I have 20 new jobs to enter.

Welcome back to the Business Discussion page! Today, let's delve into a fundamental principle that drives successful businesses: solving real customer pain points, according to Entrepreneur.com. This concept isn't just a strategy, but it's the very foundation of any thriving enterprise. Identifying and addressing these pain points requires diligent customer validation and market analysis. By understanding your target audience's challenges, you can tailor solutions that meet their needs.  Here are some key takeaways to guide your approach:     Start with Services: Launching with a service-based model helps you get close to customers, understand their pain points, and iterate based on real feedback.   Validate Before Building:  Ensure there's a genuine demand for your solution through thorough market research and customer validation.   Keep It Simple: Focus on delivering straightforward solutions that directly address customer needs, avoiding unnecessar

Excited to start a business in 2025? It's thrilling but challenging! Whether you have a unique idea or want to profit from a passion, now is the time. According to our QuickBooks Blog, over half of those surveyed plan to launch their businesses this year. So you're not alone! Here’s a quick rundown of the steps to take:   Refine your idea: What problem are you solving? Make sure your business fills a gap in the market. Create a business plan: Outline your goals, strategies, and financials to stay on track. Register your business: Choose the right business structure and register with the appropriate authorities. Set up your finances: Get an accounting system, open a business bank account, and keep track of expenses. Market your business: Build your brand and start promoting with digital marketing strategies.   Just know that starting a business is like baking a cake.....sometimes it’s a little messy, but when it all comes together, it’s sweet success! Good luck with your ent

Hello Community! Thanks for stopping by the Business Discussion space. I'd like to share some details from an article I read earlier from tnj.com this week that covers the inside scoop on sales secrets. Let's look...This is inbound vs. outbound marketing. Inbound marketing meaning, the idea of simply existing the customers will flock to you. Adversely, outbound meaning "boots on the ground", go out and get it, type of marketing.   Some inbound marketing myths include: Inbound marketing creates customers. Social media presence equals sales. The cost of relying solely on inbound marketing.   The reality of outbound sales: Outbound sales create customers. Building relationships. Control over the sales process.   Other outbound sales benefits include higher conversion rates, faster sales cycles, and targeted approach.   The article goes on to discuss ways to incorporate outbound sales, measuring success, common mistakes, etc. If you think it's time to swit

For many small business owners, the road can feel lonely and overwhelming, but it is also one of the most rewarding paths you can take. The courage to take the leap and create something of your own is an achievement, which is worth celebrating every step of the way.     If you're feeling uncertain or discouraged, let these powerful words from successful entrepreneurs and thought leaders reignite your motivation and help you stay focused on your goals."Success is not the key to happiness. Happiness is the key to success. If you love what you are doing, you will be successful." – Albert SchweitzerThis quote reminds us of the importance of passion. When you start a business, it's easy to get lost in the to-do lists, deadlines, and endless tasks. But at the heart of it, passion is what drives the entrepreneurial spirit. Do you love what you're doing? Are you excited to wake up each day and tackle the challenges ahead? If your work is fueled by genuine enthusiasm, success will fol

Hello, Community! Thanks for stopping by the Business Discussion board. Today I'd like to share with you a post from the QuickBooks Blog that talks about success for small business equates to success for their communities as well. Let's take a look at some of the key points:   Small businesses improve mental health in the community"Not only does a thriving main street get people outside and connecting with one another, small businesses often provide the resources necessary to keep us healthy. Your local yoga studio, therapist, vitamin shop, book store, and gym are all small businesses that play a role in holistic well-being. Even having a space like a coffee shop to meet with friends can improve your day."   Small businesses are better for the environment"The larger the business, the bigger the carbon footprint. According to the World Green Building Council, building operations alone account for 39% of all global emissions. Small businesses often operate within smal

As a small business owner, when you're your own boss, I'm sure it can be tempting to do all of your banking within one account. This article from bankrate.com breaks down the reasons why that may not be a great idea...   Key features    Personal Personal checking accounts are designed to meet everyday financial needs with straightforward features and easy access to money. A personal checking account provides essential tools for everyday money management such as check-writing, ATM access, debit card purchases and direct deposit for your paychecks. These accounts may also have features like automatic bill-paying, easy transfers to other accounts and the ability to send and receive funds electronically.     Business Business checking accounts offer the same features as personal accounts, but they are designed to help you run and grow your business. Some banks offer merchant services that let you accept credit card payments. They ma

Welcome back to the Business Discussion board! Today I'd like to share an article from the QuickBooks Blog that offers an informative guide to all social media platforms for small business. Let's take a look...   Did you know time spent on social media is at an all time high? Internet users are spending an average of 2.5 hours a day scrolling through their various platforms. I believe it's safe to say that even more time is spent for some. "For small businesses looking for new ways to build positive connections with consumers, social media can be an invaluable digital marketing tool."   When utilizing the tool(s) of social media, businesses benefit from low-cost marketing and increased brand awareness. "But with so many social media platforms available, it’s important for small businesses to understand the different channels and how they align (or not) with their unique business goals."   The post goes on to say that it can be tricky to determine which platform

I want to alert fellow ProAdvisors about another scam going around. The scammer, posing as a potential client, reached out via email requesting help with accounting, capital management, and QuickBooks consulting.Red Flags:Generic, scripted-sounding inquiry with no specific business details.Urgent request for a Zoom meeting to "present documents."- the zoom link looked legit. I clicked on it it was malware- dumb- I know!A fraudulent file disguised as business documentation, leading to malware installation.What Happened:Despite being suspicions, I engaged with the scammer and discovered they were attempting to install remote access software and malware. Fortunately, I had IT support and was able to fully reformat my system.Protect Yourself:Do not download or execute files from unknown sources.I did verify potential clients—checked their website, LinkedIn, and business presence. The scammer used a Gmail- I know- red flag, red flag! Be cautious of unsolicited meeting links—they may le

Starting a business is an exciting adventure, but it can also feel a little overwhelming. Luckily, QuickBooks has made it easier by offering a free business plan template to help you map your vision step-by-step. The best part? It’s super user-friendly and breaks everything down so you can confidently approach it. Here are a few key points from the article to get you started:       Executive Summary: Think of this as your business’s elevator pitch. It’s a short and sweet overview of what your business is all about, your mission, and what you hope to achieve. Keep it clear and catchy! Company Description: This is where you can tell the story of your business. What do you do? Who are your customers? What makes you stand out from the crowd? This is your chance to share what makes your business unique. Market Research: A little research goes a long way. This section helps you define your target market, understand your competition, and figure out exactly who your ideal cust

Welcome, QuickBooks Community peeps! If you're a small-business owner feeling overwhelmed by the never-ending list of tasks, you're not alone. Many entrepreneurs face the same challenge. Fortunately, there are simple yet effective strategies to help you break free from the cycle of stress and start getting things done. In this post by Inc.com, they explore a method that can help you feel more organized and in control so you can focus on what truly matters for your business. Here's how you can start breaking through the overwhelm and boost your productivity:     Identify the thorn in your side – Find a task that has been nagging you for a while. Give yourself a pep talk – Reframe the situation and remind yourself that you’ll get to other tasks later. Tackle the small task – Work on that one task to feel a sense of accomplishment. Notice how you feel post-task – Reflect on how completing the task shifts your outlook and energy.   By taking small, act

   When you’re starting out in business, there’s just so much to learn -- including all the things you don’t yet know you don’t know! We believe a great way to save time, reduce stress, make smart decisions and avoid costly mistakes is by learning from others who have been there, done that. So here are some valuable insights from entrepreneurs in our QB Community who have already experienced the good, the bad and the ugly of starting a small business -- and who are happy to share what they’ve learned. Get excited but stay realistic      Erin Williamson, Founder of Pier Coffee, Co-founder of Engender International: “If a new entrepreneur has a mix of blind faith, enthusiasm and a little bit of doubt all at the same time they will succeed. The drive and excitement to do something regardless of its potential to fail gets everything started. I have enthusiasm and faith in spades, but I don’t have enough of the naysayer. If I started all over again as an entr

Good afternoon everyone, and I hope you guys are having a lovely day. Welcome back to the Business Discussion page! Today, I found an article from Hawaii Business that shares tips from small-business owners who pivoted and prevailed, and I thought this would give you an extra boost of confidence. Here are my top five favorites:   Focus on your purpose in life rather than keeping your store afloat. Many times we get stuck into the business life that we often overlook ourselves. Sometimes it is good to step back and see the bigger picture and go from here.   Collaborate with other businesses to dual-market products. They shared an example where the owner of one company specializing in hot-pot meals collaborated with a donut store, and together they sold desserts with the meals.   Keep innovating, even if just on small things. You never know that what you're doing can lead to big things and even finding your niche in the market. This can then lead to increase sale

Hello QuickBooks fam! How are you doing?  You do often hear that networking is good thing, but do you understand why it matters?  It is a vital component of business success that helps to build relationships that can lead to new opportunities, collaborations, and growth. Here are a few reasons why networking matters:     Expands Opportunities: Networking connects you with potential clients, partners, and investors, opening doors to new business prospects. Enhances Knowledge: Engaging with other professionals allows you to share insights, learn industry trends, and improve your skills. Builds Reputation: Consistently networking builds your credibility and establishes your presence in the industry. Fosters Collaborations: Collaborating with other businesses can lead to mutually beneficial partnerships, expanding your market reach. Boosts Confidence: Regularly interacting with other business professionals strengthens your communication skills and boosts your confiden

Hello QuickBooks Community! TikTok has become an essential platform for small businesses looking to engage with younger audiences and drive brand awareness. With its focus on short, creative videos, TikTok allows businesses to showcase their products and services in a fun and engaging way. The platform’s viral nature, fueled by trends, challenges, and popular music, makes it an ideal space for businesses to gain significant visibility and connect with potential customers. Our QuickBooks Blog shared some tips for small businesses looking to leverage TikTok effectively. Here's what they had to say:     Be Authentic: TikTok users value authenticity. Showcase your brand’s personality and connect with your audience on a personal level. Use Trending Hashtags & Sounds: Take advantage of trending music and hashtags to increase the chances of your content going viral. Post Regularly: Consistency is key. Aim to post content regularly to keep your audience engaged. Create Engaging

Have you heard the news? There's a new feature called Intuit Assist that acts as your personal assistant! Oh, what's that you say? - Tell you more? Sure thing! Let's take a look at this article from the QuickBooks Blog for more info...   "Intuit Assist for QuickBooks, our new generative AI-powered financial assistant, now available in beta and rolling out more broadly in the coming months, is designed to help small business owners like you succeed. By surfacing powerful and relevant insights based on your business’s performance and your customers’ behavior, Intuit Assist will help guide you on the spot, enabling you to make informed business decisions."   Let's break it down. There are four key ways Intuit Assist will help and support your business growth:   Show MeA comprehensive view of where your business stands.   Do it for MeAutomates tasks, like drafting invoice reminders and more, saving you time so you can focus on the big picture for your small bu

Hello QuickBooks Community! How’s everyone doing today? I’ve got some fun business facts for you—10 in total—that you might or might not know.     The First Business Card: The first business card is believed to have been used in China in the 15th century, and they were often used as a way to introduce oneself socially and professionally. Google's Name Origin: Google’s name is a play on the word "googol," which represents the number 1 followed by 100 zeros. It reflects the company’s mission to organize a vast amount of information on the web. Apple’s First Sale: In 1976, the first Apple computer was sold for $666.66. Steve Jobs reportedly liked repeating numbers, which is why the price was chosen. Amazon Started as a Bookstore: Amazon originally began as an online bookstore in 1994 before it expanded into a multi-product retailer, eventually dominating multiple industries. The World's First Trademark: The first recorded trademark was created in 1266 in England. The

Trying to get more work as a tradeperson? Well, look no further. Today article from the QuickBooks Community mentioned a few tips. In today’s competitive market, simply doing a great job isn't enough for tradespeople to thrive. To consistently attract new clients and keep existing ones, building a solid reputation and promoting your business are key. Here are eight tips to help you stand out:     Build a Solid Reputation: Consistently deliver high-quality work, be punctual, and communicate well with clients. A strong reputation leads to repeat business and referrals. Promote Your Brand: Create a professional image, from your business cards to your online presence. Clearly communicate what sets you apart—whether it's quality, speed, or eco-friendliness. Leverage Referrals: Encourage satisfied clients to recommend you to others. Consider offering incentives for successful referrals to further motivate word-of-mouth marketing. Establish a Local Presence: Get involved in your c

Thanks for joining us here in the Business Discussion space! I hope this week is treating you well! Today I'm going back to the basics to remind employers and new potential employees of a few skills that all-star workers display.   CommunicationClear speaking, active listening, and concise writing   OrganizationCategorizing, sorting, and prioritizing physical and virtual environments in the workplace   PunctualityManaging your time, showing up on time, meeting deadlines, and completing important tasks   TeamworkWorks well with others, relating to colleagues, and managing conflict   Emotional IntelligenceRecognizing one's own and other people's emotions and using it to guide thinking and behavior   CreativityThinking out-of-the-box by seeing things differently and proposing novel solutions   AdaptabilityAdjusting to abrupt change, managing multiple tasks in a fast paced environment, and persevering through difficulties   You may feel like you have

How can i get the barcode side of things working   So the trial version showed that the advanced inventory worked but when i purchased the 2024 desktop enterprise version now it doesn't work. Look like i need to buy a add on   how do i do that?

Hello QuickBooks Community! Do you feel the LOVE that is in the air? Yes, we are approaching  Valentine’s Day!  In case you haven't started creating a unique opportunity to engage customers and increase sales, here are five quick strategies to make the most of the day:     Offer Special Deals & DiscountsCreate limited-time promotions, such as "20% off" or "Buy One, Get One Free," to attract last-minute shoppers. A countdown timer or "ending soon" message adds urgency to encourage quick decisions.   Leverage Social Media CampaignsUse platforms like Instagram and Facebook to share Valentine’s Day-themed content and run giveaways. A "Tag a Loved One" contest or engaging polls can boost interaction and attract attention to your offers.   Create Gift GuidesHelp customers find the perfect gift with curated gift guides for different recipients—like "Gifts for Her," "Gifts for Him," or "Valentine’s Day Self-Care." These guides make shopping easier and inspire