UST Faculty regulary answer questions in the Star Tribune's Ask The Consultant column. Here's a round-up of a few recent questions. Ask your own question.
How to improve visibility on the Internet?
Being in the wig business since 1969, we have seen many changes in our business. We find the Internet the most challenging. To promote our website (www.jacquelynwigs.com) we have been doing search engine optimization and pay-per-click. We have tried in-house and freelance companies to do the work for us but we still feel we are not getting enough qualified leads. Any suggestions?
GEORGE MAYER, JACQUELYN WIG CO., NEW YORK, N.Y
Read the answer from Mike Porter, director of the Master of Business Communication Program
How do I manage family members who work for me?
I have hired family members for my small business and find myself not holding them to the same requirements as non-family employees. I do think they are more loyal than my other employees but also realize they are not always as productive. Do you have some advice on how I can manage this difficult situation?
SANDY ARONS, MBA, ARONS & ASSOCIATES DIVORCE PLANNING, BRENTWOOD, TN
Read the answer from Ritch Sorenson, Ph.D. Professor Entrepreneurship
How can I market my business without spending a lot?
How do you begin to market a small business without having to spend a lot of money? What do you think of pay-per-click advertising?
TAMMY CHRIEST, OWNER, COSMIC ESSENTIALS
Read the answer from Mike Porter, director of the Master of Business Communication Program