Friday, December 4, 2015

US Media Studios Unlocks the Back Door to Small Business Data Breaches

American small businesses are the back door that cyber thieves enter to gain entry into larger companies for troves of data.  US Media Studios unlocks the back door to small business data breaches.

Small businesses are often lax when it comes to cyber security.  Often, it is lack of funds which prevents the entrepreneur from safeguarding their e-commerce site, or other data systems.  As business grows, so does the data the company collects and stores.  The passwords chosen to prevent hacking are simple and usually the same for every bank, vendor or email account.  So what can the small business owner do to keep all data safe and secure?

Create and use a different and strong password for each website or server needed to access daily.
Clear the cookies on Internet browsers weekly.
Don’t save passwords or log in credentials on any computer. Write them down on paper and store offsite.
Regularly remind employees to not click suspicious links in email from unknown sources, even if the sender seems legit.
Add security software to blog sites and websites. Limit who can use it.


US Media Studios realizes that small business data security might not be a top priority. But an easy to access network is the back door hackers use to gain entry to larger pools of customer, client and vendor information.  This can lead to reputation damage, loss of revenue, brand damage and end of the business. Many cyber security packages are not expensive and take a little more than an hour to set up. Ask a trusted IT professional for advice and help, if needed. Peace of mind is valuable.


Monday, November 23, 2015

US Media Studios on How to Avoid Holiday Traffic Jams

Traffic and the holidays go together like a family gathering. There are some rough spots and some smooth spots. Some days are more free flowing than others. And then there are the days when there is nothing but bumper to bumper movement. US Media Studios explains how to avoid holiday traffic jams.

The AAA club in the US estimates that 47 million people will hit the road for Thanksgiving this week. Don’t get stuck in a nightmare traffic jam.

There are many good smart phone apps which direct people away from the worst and heaviest traffic. Turn on the GPS function of smart phones and enter your location and the final location. Change the options to avoid the heaviest traffic routes and to offer alternative routes when accidents block the highway or where the traffic is thickest. WhatsApp is an app which can also re-route drivers for a more expedient route.

The worst traffic jams happen in Chicago, Los Angeles and New York. The American Highway Users Alliance rates the worst traffic jam cities here.  The US Media Studios encourages readers who will get on the roads for the holidays to find and use a good app or two to maneuver around the bottlenecks, avoid accidents, construction spots and other traffic snafus. Everyone wants to get to their destination as quickly and safely as possible. Plan ahead. Take it easy on the road. Get to your destination safely and as quickly as possible.



Monday, September 28, 2015

US Media Studios Explores Small Business Security Strategies

Small businesses can have security issues the same as large businesses. US Media Studios explores the best security strategies.

Small businesses are a hacker’s sweet spot. It’s easy to infiltrate servers as there are not many of them and they are not tied up in heavy security. Breaking a code can be easy. A recent survey found that in the last year, 97 percent of smaller companies neglected to prioritize online security. Failing to do so sets the business up for trouble.

The best security strategies are those that prevent several different types of possible breaches. Some of the most common are: malware attacks, DDoS stoppages, phishing and password hacks. US Media Studios suggests hiring an IT security consultant to find and implement the most useful and effective tools for the prevention of security breaches. Something as small as not having a secure server, or the standard secure server image on business-related websites can wreak havoc on the most earnest entrepreneur.


If the company is small enough, a good anti-virus/malware/firewall software package can help block unwanted visitors with bad intentions. Always back up files and other data to another source, in case of a breach. Implement strong password protection policies and keep on top of them. Small business security strategies don’t have to be expensive or elaborate. But they have to be in place.


Friday, September 25, 2015

US Media Studios Reviews Jobs That Received the Best Pay Raises

Average pay rates did not go up very much throughout the last several years. However, there were some occupations which did get a nice pay bump. US Media Studios reviews the jobs that received the best pay raises, and shares where the best cities are to get them.

Columbus, OH

The average wage growth in the last year was a tiny two percent. Glassdoor, the mega career website, notes that business system analysts got the highest bump with a ten percent increase in pay. Security officers and sales consultants tied for second place with a seven percent increase. Pharmacy technicians and baristas, both low annual income brackets, saw six percent wage increase in the last year. Following them in getting a raise are customer service managers, certified nursing assistants and financial analysts all with a five percent hike.

Workers that want to live where they can earn a decent living wage and enjoy a pay bump might want to consider looking into these top five cities where wage grow the best:

  • Columbus, OH
  • San Francisco, CA
  • Virginia Beach, VA
  • Louisville, KY
  • Rochester, NY

US Media Studios also notes that three of them, Columbus, Louisville, and Rochester, also made the Most Affordable Cities to Live in the United States. Criteria for this included annual housing and utility costs.


Monday, September 21, 2015

USM Studios on Negotiating Like a Pro

You either like to negotiate or not. Some are better at it then others. In almost every situation, it pays to barter and/or negotiate for something. USM Studios offer tips for negotiating like a pro.

Hopefully, these tips will help you get what you want whether it is a pay raise, a better deal on a new or used car, or for venture capital or other business goal.  

Write down all the points to discuss in the negotiation on paper and keep it in front of you. It looks professional and let’s the other party know you did your homework.

Know who you are negotiating with. Do some background research on the person before joining them at the conference table. This will give you a chance to know if the negotiation will be hard or easy.

USM Studios reminds you to know your worth, and back it up. Print reference points from the Internet and keep them handy. Professionally and politely relay your points and why you are asking for what you want.


Finally, be nice. No one likes to work with an arrogant or aggressive person. Go get what you want and deserve. Life is too short to be disgruntled that you might be getting less than what you want, need or deserve. The old adage of “if you don’t ask, you won’t know” holds true for everyone. 


Friday, September 18, 2015

USM Studios Reviews the Top Five States to Launch a Business

There are many cities and states in the US which are good for starting a business.  What sets one state apart from another is how supportive it is to new business owners. USM Studios reviews the top five states to launch a business.



Entrepreneurs and small business owners need more than just funding to launch their endeavor. Local and state laws can be complex and solid training is needed to fully comprehend how to work with them.  Tax codes can also be confounding if one. When states step up to help people understand what they need to know and do when operating a business, it benefits the new business owner, their company or organization, their customers, clients and vendors. USM Studios takes a look at the top five states, as rated by Thumbtack, a professional marketplace:

  • Texas – Most friendly place to open a business. Lots of opportunity for new endeavors.
  • New Hampshire – One of the easiest states to launch a business, but has some tough environmental laws.
  • Utah – Zoning regulations are easier to grasp and follow in this state.
  • Louisiana – Employment, hiring and labor laws allow for ease of getting staff in place.
  • Colorado – Another friendly state for the prospective business owner to consider.



Entrepreneurs who wish to launch a business in their respective state should take their time and peruse all local and state regulations before opening the doors.  Find the local small business administration office in the area and take advantage of what it offers. Consult with other small business owners at networking events. The more you know, the more success you might have.

Tuesday, September 8, 2015

US Media Studios Reviews Employment Trends



Finding a job is not as easy as it may seem to some people. Employers are also not finding the kind of employee they want either. This situation can lead to a unique new type of job applicant called the boomerang applicant. US Media Studios reviews what this is and current employment trends.

A recent survey found that more than three-quarters of employers are willing to hire back an employee who left the company and wants to come back. Hiring managers in the past have said that their company would not hire back someone who resigned from a job. The so-called “boomerang employees” – those left a company and reapply for the same job or another one are now being considered for open positions.


Employees who return to a former employer do so for the benefits, comparable pay, need to work, and a known career path. Returning employees provide their companies with an already skilled, experienced and knowledgeable worker who needs no training. This trend and others acknowledge that both applicants and employers are having the same hiring problems. People who are out of work may find their former position is advertised and wish to apply for it. In some cases, another job is advertised which the former worker finds desirable. USMedia Studios notes that companies or businesses are seeing a better financial situation now than in previous years. This usually leads to listing jobs once eliminated due to reduction in workforce. Hiring is picking up some momentum. Employers and “boomerang” applicants should determine if rehiring or accepting a job from a former employer is worth it in the long run.  

Friday, September 4, 2015

US Media Studios Offers Information for Business Travelers



For those who are still traveling for business, US Media Studios offers information that can help ease travel snafus.

Many travelers use third party travel websites to find the best rates on hotels, rental cars and flights. While this is pretty much the norm, and also good idea – it is still best to make the reservation with the hotel chain, car rental company or airline itself.

Nearly every travel consultant and trouble shooter will explain that booking through a travel aggregator site can lead to annoyance should something go wrong with travel plans.  For instance, someone who books a flight booked on a non-airline website that experiences a cancellation may find it hard to change the flight via the third party site. It can be frustrating to try and get a call through to that website’s customer service.  On the other hand, reserving the flight with the airline can result in getting the same fare, but it is also easier to get on another flight should the original one be canceled.


Business travelers who book with a favorite hotel through their website will find the perks well worth it. Digital check in is a nice benefit. Hotel chain loyalty programs can upgrade rooms and provide more perks with the room and the stay. It is often easier to cancel a reservation with the hotel itself than through the third party site.  US Media Studios also learns that business travelers can find terrific upgrades with favorite car rental companies. Use the alternative travel aggregator sites to find the best air fare, hotel room rate and car rental rate. But book the actual reservation with the airline, hotel and car rental agency. There is less stress should something go wrong. 

Monday, August 31, 2015

US Media Studios Highlights Women and Minority-Owned Businesses



The U.S. is lucky to have 10 million businesses owned by women and minorities. These are the innovative companies providing products and services across the country. US Media Studios highlights more information about them.

Women-owned businesses grew by almost 28 percent and continue to make their mark in the business sector. Women are also taking a greater share of companies in the nation. Hispanic women company owners have grown to an impressive 87 percent in five years, and African America women business owners rose 68 percent. These astounding rises in growth give hope to younger generations that they too can aspire to own and operate a business.

US Media Studios also notes that there was an influx of new small business owners in this time frame due to the Recession. People lost jobs and later started home-based businesses. Women and minority-owned companies tend to be small with perhaps 10 percent employing workers.

Small businesses are the backbone of the country. Without them, there would be far less places to find what we’re looking for.



Monday, August 24, 2015

US Media Studios Examines How Work Habits Can Increase Stroke Risk



All work and no rest can add increased likelihood of having a stroke. US Media Studios takes a look at how work habits can increase the risk of stroke, and offers suggestions for reducing the chances.

Long work weeks, those over the standard 40 hours, face a stronger change of developing a stroke, according to a large study from a respected medical journal. While we know that entrepreneurs can put in an extraordinary amount time to their business, time should be set aside for rest and relaxation. The study also noted that workers that cross the 40 hour mark, even by one hour, have a better chance of heart-related medical issues than those that do not. Long work hours do not necessarily mean better work or increased productivity. Often, the more hours one works, the less productive they are due to tiredness and stress. Stress leads to stress-related health concerns, which added with poor lifestyle choices can result in stroke symptoms.

Below are some steps to take every day if one finds themselves working over 40 hours per week:

Stand up and move around when working, if possible. Bend the legs, arms, neck and torso.
Take a brisk walk outside three times a day to get blood flowing.
Lower stress during the day by counting to four, release breath and repeat four times. Don’t answer email or phone calls during that time. This resets the body’s stress hormone back to normal.  
US Media Studios also suggests eating nutritious meals and snacks and drinking plenty of water. These too will also help keep stress levels down and health up.


*************************
Visit the USM Studios Inc Press Room
Behind the Scenes at USM Studios Inc
Follow USM Studios Inc on Tumblr


Friday, August 21, 2015

US Media Studios Shares How to Best Work with Remote Teams



Tele-commuting is not only efficient but is desired by both employers and employees who are spread across time zones.  This way of working does have it challenges though. US Media Studios share how to best work with remote teams.

A recent Forrester Research survey found that 43 percent of the U.S. workforce will be tele-commuting by the year 2016. That’s roughly 63 million people. Working from home is a perk that some employees enjoy, even for one day a week.  Below are some suggestions for keeping remote teams and workers in the loop and productive.

  • Hold daily meetings with all workers. Utilize the best forms of video conferencing and document sharing.
  • Keep records of the meeting to be sure everyone knows what the objectives are and when deliverables are due.
  • Set clear work hours and job responsibilities. Keep in touch throughout the day via phone and video conference to be sure work is being done. Create documents on shared Cloud drives where completed tasks can be recorded.
  • Before hiring a remote worker, ask for and check references carefully. Ask about quality of work, amount of work, and work ethics.


US Media Studios recognizes that some people work better in a tele-commute situation than others. These are the people who are organized, goal oriented and thrive in their work.  Remote teams can easily and seamlessly get the job done when everyone is on the same page and communicating with each other. 

Friday, July 31, 2015

US Media Studios on Why Continuing Education Benefits Entrepreneurs



Business owners can set a good example for employees by taking continuing education classes. The benefits of gaining more knowledge, experience and skills can be endless. 
US Media Studios explains how.

There is no set rule that states continuing education has to cost a cent or be taken in a traditional classroom.  Today, there are more online free courses offered from a variety of schools which cater to entrepreneurs, business owners and everyone else.

Small business owners might want to research which online education courses are best for their line of work. Several online educational sites offer a plethora of free classes on topics such as data management, marketing, innovation, and more.  Other niche courses can be found by searching the specific industry or field.  Forums offer entrepreneurs and new business owners guidance and education in managing finances, optimization, digital marketing and human resource management.  Benefits derived from taking online classes: convenience, advancing skills and careers, expanding knowledge, gaining practical business knowledge, and more.

US Media Studios encourages readers who are thinking of starting their own business to find a few free online courses to sample.  Scan the choices for webinars, MOOC lists (Massive Open Online Courses),websites for small businesses, online magazines for entrepreneurs, etc.  The Internet is full of great options that are yours for the taking.  

****************************
Visit the USM Studios Inc Press Room
Behind the Scenes at USM Studios Inc

Follow USM Studios Inc on Tumblr

Thursday, July 30, 2015

US Media Studios Reviews Different Types of Funding for Entrepreneurs



There several different ways entrepreneurs can go to secure funding for a new business venture. 
US Media Studios reviews a few of them.

Traditional banks are becoming harder to deal with for people who want to launch their own business. Fortunately, there are several good resources which might be better than a bank or other financial institution.

Online lenders are a new source of funding for prospective business owners. It takes less than an hour to complete the application, and an approval cane be forthcoming in a matter of days – not weeks or months—as is the case with brick-and-mortar banks.

Product presales are another way to secure funding. Entrepreneurs can sell some products before the actual launch in order to raise some cash to pay for needed expenses, such as more inventory. But note that there are some glitches to work out like timing with suppliers.

Angel investors are another way to go for funding. Typically, angel investors help with start up money, investing in the early years of the company. They generally expect a return on their investment of 20 to 25 percent.

USMedia Studios knows that finding funding is a challenge. But there is funding available. Be creative and find the cash flow needed outside the normal places.

**********************************
Visit the USM Studios Inc Press Room
Behind the Scenes at USM Studios Inc
Follow USM Studios Inc on Tumblr


Monday, July 27, 2015

US Media Studios Reviews the Best Cities for Families in the US

Overland Park, Kansas


America is great, big, beautiful country and within it, there are great cities for families. US Media Studios reviews them.

From coast to coast and locations in between, where we choose to live depends on a few important factors: where are jobs are, the cost of living, safety, health and education. Below are the five top cities (of the top 10) in the United States for families as rated by WalletHub from criteria derived from several sources:

Overland Park, Kansas – Lots of family-friendly activities, good healthcare options, safe, education is better than average

Plano, Texas – Good education system and healthcare, plenty of family-friendly things to do, it is safer, clean and affordable.

Virginia Beach, Virginia – A beautiful coastal city on the East coast with slightly higher than average income from the rest of the state. It is also a clean and safe city with good schools and plenty to do.

Lincoln, Nebraska – A great, affordable city to live in with kids with good schools, healthcare and fun stuff to do as a family.

Sioux Falls, South Dakota – This city is not only beautiful, but it’s also quite affordable, US Media Studios learns. It ranks very well in childcare, safety, health and education. Plus, there is a plethora of exciting options for families.

No matter where we live in the United States, we can always find something good about it from the weather, close proximity to outdoor fun, or a host of other reasons.

*******************************
Visit the USM Studios Inc Press Room
Behind the Scenes at USM Studios Inc
Follow USM Studios Inc on Tumblr


Thursday, July 23, 2015

US Media Studios Reviews Data Security for Small Businesses

Don't keep passwords on note paper around your desk.


Data security is vital to the success of any company. But small businesses are especially at risk for breaches which can devastate them. US Media Studios reviews data security tips for small businesses.

A 2013 report from a respected Internet security found that more than thirty percent of attacks targeted in 2012 was at businesses with less than 250 employees. The average cost for one data breach is about $200 dollars per record. Small businesses are susceptible to security breaches and some shut down after one.

Here are some tips to keep data secure in a small business:

Regularly remind employees about Internet security in the workplace. Block social media sites which can distribute malware and viruses.  

Give passwords to only the employees who really need them. Ensure that the passwords are not kept on the computer in the hard drive, and are not written on notes and taped to computer monitors.

US Media Studios also suggests investing in secure conferencing software versus using an online open connection. The more data security features implemented, the safer the small business will be.

*******************************
Visit the USM Studios Inc Press Room
Behind the Scenes at USM Studios Inc
Follow USM Studios Inc on Tumblr


Friday, July 10, 2015

US Media Studios Highlights Overseas Retirement Ideas



If retiring to an over 55 community does not sound like an appealing option, consider relocating overseas. US Media Studios highlights the benefits to retiring overseas.

More Americans are moving to other countries when they retire to live better and enjoy a longer, more fulfilling life. Mexico and Costa Rica are the top two overseas countries people are choosing. Both offer a very affordable cost of living, decent healthcare (near city centers), culture and a plethora of activities. Budget-conscious retired folks might want to think about moving to Nicaragua or Ecuador as both considered prime overseas locations with a very low cost manner of living.  Europe also is a good place to look, as is Panama and Belize.


US health insurance and Medicare does not transfer overseas. But many countries have their own health care plans and medical services are less than what we pay in America.  Housing is one of the biggest budget concerns for retirees everywhere. Some overseas locales offer low-cost rental homes. Living outside of city center is generally less expensive than living in the city itself. But it also means travel costs to the city for more sophisticated medical care, if needed. US Media Studios suggests readers explore and research all living options in other countries before making the move. One of the best resources for cost of living comparisons is Numbeo Cost of Living. Another good site to use is Expatistan Cost of Living.

Thursday, July 9, 2015

US Media Studios Explains the Top Priorities for Entrepreneurs



There are many items of importance on the agenda of any entrepreneur. Making money is one of them. US Media Studios explains the other top priorities for entrepreneurs.

Innovation is a word which is used so often that it takes on a clichéd meaning. Entrepreneurs must always be active in the brainstorming, ideation, creating and trying of new approaches, new strategies, and creation of new products, services and upgraded or enhanced items. To remain stagnant as others grow and expand is the kiss of death for an entrepreneur.

Sustainability is another priority that should be on the top of the list. This includes the ability to make and keep a profit coming in so that the business can keep running. US Media Studios also reminds that sustainability could also be the willingness to take a short term profit loss in order for long-term goals to be reached.

Company culture is an important priority to keep on the plate. Entrepreneurs should consider what kind of culture they want for their business. Employees need and want to know how they should conduct themselves. Finally, don’t let the work load change the dynamic culture of the business. More work can create more stress. But it is how that extra work affects the overall culture of the company.


Visit the USM Studios Inc Press Room
Behind the Scenes at USM Studios Inc
Follow USM Studios Inc on Tumblr


Monday, July 6, 2015

US Media Studios Suggests Questions to Ask Before Buying a Franchise



Becoming a franchisee is not as simple and straightforward as it seems. There are many different aspects to it which should be considered before making any financial commitment. US Media Studios suggests questions to ask before buying a franchise.

How well does the franchisor know his or her franchisees? Did they take time to vet them? It is important for the prospective franchisee to ask the franchisor as many questions about how they run the business, support the others and what are its plans for growth in the next five to ten years.

How experienced are the managers for the franchisor? Do they know how to handle a conference call with 20 people on it, all new to running a business? How are their people skills?

US Media Studios also suggests asking if the franchisor has nay exclusive areas in which they operate? Are there any competitors in the area?

It is also smart to ask if the franchisor has a system in place to supplying needed items, both disposable and non-disposable? Who pays for the upgrade or replacement of equipment when needed?

Be armed with as many questions as possible to protect yourself before agreeing to become a franchisee.


*************************

Visit the USM Studios Inc Press Room
Behind the Scenes at USM Studios Inc
Follow USM Studios Inc on Tumblr




Monday, June 29, 2015

US Media Studios Reviews Online Marketing Tips



Online marketing can help anyone who has something they want to sell. From the top social media sites to review websites, US Media Studios offers marketing tips which bring success.

Social networking is more than being social on the Internet. If done consistently and with a sound strategy in mind, it can bring success to the solo business person. Online marketing can position the seller as an authority on the matter. It can also influence the consumers’ opinion on reviews. It can also help add customers which in turn can generate better comments from people.

Online marketing is not just about posting great photos with colorful descriptions. It is also about making the first YouTube video explaining how to use the product. US Media Studios advises that it’s best to learn how to use keywords when writing online marketing materials so search engines can find the company or product name when a prospective customer is trying to find it. Other strategies include posting interesting articles from different sources, sharing news from clients and consumers and using Instagram, an image posting social forum, to alert and remind the public when a new item is available or how an old was improved.

*************************

Visit the USM Studios Inc Press Room
Behind the Scenes at USM Studios Inc
Follow USM Studios Inc on Tumblr

Thursday, June 25, 2015

US Media Studios with Strategies for Small Businesses



Small businesses want and need to grow in order to stay alive and survive. In order to do that, they’ll need strategies that are created just for them.

When an entrepreneur starts out, he or she may need just one laptop, a smart phone and a simple business plan. But as the business grows with inventory and revenue, the operational strategies must change. US Media Studios suggests researching what resources are available for the small business owner. Many times, the solutions for larger companies are not a good fit for the smaller ones. Marketing, for example, can mostly reach its target consumers via social media or email blasts. Other strategies to consider are hiring, technology needs, accounting and more.

Considering an e-commerce site? There are good resources available for less than what might be imagined. Entrepreneurs should consider getting any intellectual property trademarked.  US Media Studios also recommends find a tax professional to assist with any sales and use tax documentation. It is also important to choose the right e-commerce platform since there are many available. The best strategies are well thought out and fit the small business’s needs best.

*************************
Visit the USM Studios Inc Press Room
Behind the Scenes at USM Studios Inc
Follow USM Studios Inc on Tumblr


Thursday, June 18, 2015

US Media Studios Reviews Capital Funding Approaches for Entrepreneurs



Every entrepreneur hopes to find capital funding which will help launch their business into success. US Media Studios reviews capital funding approaches for entrepreneurs.

Whether it is an angel investor, a crowd funding campaign, or friends and family backing the new endeavor, finding the right kind of capital funding takes time, patience and research. Financial experts suggest running an Internet search on the industry the business is in and add the term for the type of funding wanted. For example: public relations crowdfunding. Toy with the wording until results are produced with information which is useful. Take time to learn the language financial advisers and consultants use so there is no confusion. Choose the right partners or partner to provide back up and support. US Media Studios notes that having a sound business plan can also be of assistance when searching for the best approach for capital funding. Know where the business needs to head and have a strong plan in place for getting there, and then explore the different types of capital funding available. Let possible investors know what your strengths and weaknesses are. Don’t hide personal of professional blemishes. Always be transparent.

*************************
Visit the USM Studios Inc Press Room
Behind the Scenes at USM Studios Inc
Follow USM Studios Inc on Tumblr


Tuesday, June 16, 2015

US Media Studios Offers Location Tips for Small Businesses Owners



Location, location, location. It is not only the mantra for the real estate industry but also for people wanting to open their own business. US Media Studios offers location tips for small business owners.

The main rule of thumb for opening a small business is to know the customer. Know where they live, work, play and like to relax. Know where they shop for food, clothes, gas and home supplies. Once these establishments are known, a small business owner can start looking for a good space to rent or buy.

The U.S. Small Business Administration advises small business owners also look at if the location is right with the image the business wants to maintain. Also get a good look at the other shops or stores in the area to see if there is stiff competition.

Other location factors to consider: traffic patterns, parking, signage, pedestrian and vehicle congestion, public transportation stops in the nearby area, and residential demographics.

USMedia Studios suggests talking to other business owners in the area to determine if there are unknown expenses to opening a business there. Be armed with as much information as possible before deciding on a location for the new small business.


*************************
Visit the USM Studios Inc Press Room
Behind the Scenes at USM Studios Inc
Follow USM Studios Inc on Tumblr


Thursday, June 11, 2015

US Media Studios Shares Tips for Productive Business Trips

Flight delayed? Get some work done. 


Business trips are inevitable for entrepreneurs, sales managers and CEOs. US Media Studios relays how to make them more productive.

Business travel can be a pain or it can be productive. It’s all in how we prepare for it, manage it and organize it. When we know in advance that a trip is needed, book the flight and make hotel and any conference room reservations ahead of time.  Most frequent travelers have personal care items already stored in the required sizes and clear bags. Keep the overhead suitcase ready to go with smaller items already stored in it such as socks, underwear, belts and etc. Put charging cords in plastic baggies and add them to tote bags or brief cases.

Store important documents on Cloud drives for easy access at airports, hotels and meetings.  Ship product samples and/or heavy files to the hotel before leaving. Call ahead to be sure they will be kept in a secure, safe place.

Make the most of flight time. Write and save email notes and other documents needed for the business trip. Drink plenty of water and take a short nap. Set the alarm on smart phones to ring in 20 minutes. This is all the rest one needs unless they are on an international flight.

US Media Studios also advises to take some time at the destination to enjoy the area. Dine at a local cafĂ©, walk around and see what’s in the neighborhood and soak in some local flavor. This will go a long way in helping the hectic business traveler to relax.

*************************
Visit the USM Studios Inc Press Room
Behind the Scenes at USM Studios Inc
Follow USM Studios Inc on Tumblr


Tuesday, June 9, 2015

US Media Studios Offers Financial Advice for Prospective Franchise Owners



What does it cost to open a franchise? What kind of franchise is most successful? USMedia Studios offers start-up tips for prospective franchise owners.

Many people think that owning and operating a franchise is a good idea for starting a business. It seems like a great entrepreneurial idea which comes wrapped in box of corporate readiness. Every aspect of opening and operating the franchise is available. Marketing, uniforms, and inventory, as well as the budget for them, is given. What is not given is back-up funds to keep operations running smoothly while it takes time to get things off the ground.

Here are a few thoughts to consider about starting a franchise business:
  • How much do you have to invest for the franchise fee and to set up operations? This will help you decide which industry to work in.
  • Which industry do you want to be involved with? For example: cleaning, exterminating, restaurant, or hotel?
  • What franchise brand do you want to join?

The majority of franchises cost about $50,000 to $75,000 to get started. Some cost more. Some cost less depending if the business will be a one person owned and operated company or one which requires employees and equipment.

US Media Studios also suggests considering the other costs which come before franchise expenses. These include legal fees to review contracts, building or space rental for the business, and professional fees for accountants and other business-related consultants. Many people choose to open and run a franchise because it offers them the freedom to run their own business. And it also gives them a valuable safety net which is the corporation in which their franchise belongs.


*************************
Visit the USM Studios Inc Press Room
Behind the Scenes at USM Studios Inc
Follow USM Studios Inc on Tumblr


Friday, June 5, 2015

US Media Studios Offers Business Success Tips for Entrepreneurs





Our everyday lives are full of distractions which can detract from reaching the business success we desire. US Media Studios offers tips for entrepreneurs to help reach those goals.

Perseverance pays off.  No matter what distractions or bumps in the road to success happen, hold steady and plow through them.  There is only one way to advance to business success and that is to move forward.

Make a plan for every aspect of the endeavor.  Then make a fall back plan. Spell out the steps in each plan even there are only a few of them.  People need concrete instructions to follow in each part of the business from accounting to marketing. 

Keep the master vision in sight. Every entrepreneur has the big picture in mind.  It is easy to get mired in the daily tasks of running a new business. It is also easy to lose track of where you’re going.  Keep the master vision in sight all the time.

Once the business is operating smoothly, don’t change the processes. This confuses staff and can produce disastrous results. The same rule also applies to any applications in use. Find the best ones and stick with them.

US Media Studios also suggests take time to keep learning. Listen to staff, read everything about the industry, ask questions, keep what will work and toss out what won’t.  Opportunities for learning are everywhere.

Business success is not only desirable but achievable too


*************************
Visit the USM Studios Inc PressRoom
Behind the Scenes at USM Studios Inc
Follow USM Studios Inc on Tumblr