What are your 2016 goals? To grow your business? To start marketing more on social media? To spend more time fishing on Lake of the Woods? If you’re one of the millions who haven’t set their 2016 goals it’s never to late to start. If you did and have already forgotten about them, check out this article with 5 tips to help you “Crush Your 2016 Goals.”
With over 400 million user and millions of groups, it’s time to start making LinkedIn a bigger part of the mix. Check out this article on “Why LinkedIn Must Be a Huge Part of Your Marketing Strategy” by clicking here.
Igloo Bar Lake of the Woods
Check out the article below from the Star Tribune on a local business in Lake of the Woods. If you are interested in opening a business in Lake of the Woods County, contact us for more details.
Stopping for a ‘cold one’ takes on new meaning at Igloo Bar on Lake of the Woods
Best Lakes for Ice Fishing in the Midwest
Tripping.com named Lake of the Woods, MN as one of the best places in the Midwest for Ice Fishing!
“Lake of the Woods offers 65,000 miles of shore line, and is recognized as the walleye capital of the world. It has also been called one of the most scenic lakes in the United States. In addition to its abundance of walleye, the lake also supports a healthy population of northern pike, sauger, muskie, rock bass, largemouth bass, lake trout, and sturgeon. With more that 45 resorts offering all inclusive ice fishing tours, this Minnesota hot spot is a must-visit destination for ice fishing fans. Lake of the Woods has a long fishing season, running from early December through late March.’
To view the full article, click here.
AARP Names Minnesota as the Best State to Retire
According to an article posted on Jan. 3, 2016 in the Duluth News Tribute, the AARP ranks Minnesota as best state to retire in and we couldn’t agree more.
According to the organization, Minnesota has far and away the most senior housing units per elderly resident in the country: 125 housing units per 1,000 older adults, compared to the national median of 27. The next-highest state is Wisconsin, with 58 units per 1,000 older adults.
In fact, AARP rated Minnesota the top state in the country on its 2014 scorecard of “services and support for older residents” (Kentucky and Alabama scored worst).
It was the only state to rank in the top quartile for all five categories AARP measured, including affordability, choice of setting and provider, quality of life and care, support for family caregivers and “effective transitions,” meaning the ability to move someone from a nursing home back into the community.
Minnesota scored first in the nation in two of those categories: choice of setting and provider, and quality of life and care.
If you are thinking of retiring, visit the Lake of the Woods tourism website and consider all Lake of the Woods has to offer.
Read the full article by clicking here.
Buying An Existing Businesses
Thinking about buying an established business? As you begin your hunt for the perfect company, don’t forget to do you research. Ask business associates and friends for leads on similar businesses that may be on the market or coming on the market. Many of the best business opportunities surface by word of mouth and are snapped up before they are ever listed for sale.
According to the SBA, “To run a successful business, you need to learn about your customers, your competitors and your industry. Market research is the process of analyzing data to help you understand which products and services are in demand, and how to be competitive. Market research can also provide valuable insight to help you:
- Reduce business risks
- Spot current and upcoming problems in your industry
- Identify sales opportunities
How to Conduct Market Research
Before you start your business, understand the basics of market research by following these steps:
- Identify Official Government Sources of Market and Industry Data
The government offers a wealth of data and information about businesses, industries and economic conditions that can aid in conducting market research. These sources provide valuable information about your customers and competitors:
- Identify Additional Sources of Analysis
Trade groups, business magazines, academic institutions and other third parties gather and analyze research data about business trends. Use Internet and database searches to find information related to your location and industry.
- Understand the International Marketplace
Today’s economy is a globalized marketplace, so it’s important to understand the international factors that influence your business. These resources will help you to research potential international markets for your products or services:
- Market Research Guide for Exporters
Identifies resources for business owners seeking to sell their products abroad. - Country Market Research
Reports on trade issues in countries across the globe. - BuyUSA.gov
Helps U.S. companies find new international business partners.”