Latest news with #strategicasset
Bloomberg
6 days ago
- Business
- Bloomberg
Trump's U-Turn on Nvidia Spurs Talk of Grand Bargain With China
Only a few years ago, the Biden administration declared export controls a 'new strategic asset' to help the US maintain 'as large a lead as possible' over China in advanced technology. President Donald Trump is now upending that approach. In a reversal this week, the White House told chipmaker Nvidia Corp. it could soon resume sales of its less advanced China-focused H20 artificial intelligence accelerator. Advanced Micro Devices Inc. received similar assurances from the US Commerce Department.
Entrepreneur
11-07-2025
- Business
- Entrepreneur
Want a Reputation People Trust? Start With These 4 Simple Habits
Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own. Your business reputation is more than a feel-good factor — it's a strategic asset that can propel or derail your growth. One misstep, like a scathing review or a breach of trust, can erode customer confidence, weaken your search engine rankings and stifle referrals. Conversely, a reputation rooted in integrity can attract loyal clients, inspire your team and fuel organic expansion. As a business owner, actively shaping a trustworthy reputation isn't just wise — it's essential for long term success. Here's how to build a reputation that opens doors and creates opportunities. Related: The One Mistake Is Putting Your Brand Reputation at Risk — and Most Startups Still Make It Anchor your business with core values A strong reputation starts with values that guide every decision. At my digital marketing agency, our commitment to integrity shapes how we operate, even when it demands tough choices. For instance, we once ended a contract with a high-paying client who consistently disrespected our team, violating our principle of fostering a positive workplace. The financial hit was significant, but the decision strengthened team trust and reinforced our culture. By defining clear values — such as respect, honesty or excellence — and consistently upholding them, you signal to clients and employees that your business stands for something enduring, laying the foundation for a respected reputation. Rise above challenges with integrity Encounters with dishonesty, like a client dodging payment or a partner undermining your business, test your commitment to integrity. Early in my career, I connected a client with a contact who later took their business without acknowledgment. Instead of reacting with anger, I chose to move forward, trusting that new opportunities would emerge. This approach, rooted in an abundance mindset, preserves your professionalism and safeguards your reputation. When faced with betrayal or conflict, prioritize your values over short-term wins. By taking the high road, you earn respect from peers and clients, enhancing your standing as a principled leader. Related: How to Better Manage Your Brand's Reputation in the Digital Age Harness the power of referrals Referrals are a powerful driver of reputation, turning satisfied clients into advocates who bring in new business. Delivering exceptional service to every client maximizes the chance they'll recommend you to others. Equally important is referring prospects to trusted colleagues when their needs don't align with your expertise. For example, directing a client to a better-suited provider may forgo immediate revenue, but it builds goodwill and often leads to reciprocal referrals. Cultivate a network of reliable partners to create a mutually beneficial referral system. This approach not only strengthens your reputation as an honest business but also fosters a cycle of trust that fuels growth. Elevate your reputation with reviews Online reviews shape how customers and search engines perceive your business, directly impacting your SEO and credibility. Proactively encourage satisfied clients to leave detailed Google reviews, aiming for at least two per month to maintain a robust online presence. Providing a direct link simplifies the process, and asking clients to describe their experience incorporates keywords that boost search visibility. Respond to every review — express gratitude for positive feedback and address negative ones with a sincere apology and a commitment to make things right. This engagement demonstrates your dedication to customer satisfaction, reinforcing a reputation for responsiveness and care. Commit to consistent integrity A stellar reputation isn't built overnight — it's the result of consistent, value-driven actions across all facets of your business. From treating clients with respect to fostering a supportive team environment, every interaction contributes to how others perceive you. Upholding integrity, even when it requires sacrifices like turning away a lucrative but toxic client, creates a ripple effect of trust. This trust translates into loyal customers, motivated employees and a stronger online presence, all of which drive opportunities. To start, choose one actionable step — requesting a client review, refining your referral process or clarifying your values with your team — and implement it this week. Take action to build your legacy Your reputation is a living asset that grows with every principled decision. Begin by integrating these strategies into your daily operations: define your values, handle conflicts with grace, nurture referrals and prioritize reviews. These steps don't require a massive overhaul, but their impact compounds over time, positioning your business as a trusted leader. Ready to break through your revenue ceiling? Join us at Level Up, a conference for ambitious business leaders to unlock new growth opportunities.
Forbes
30-06-2025
- Business
- Forbes
Who Would Buy My Business?
Unlike large corporations or high-growth startups, small businesses often lack a broad pool of eager ... More buyers. For small businesses with less than $2 million in annual sales—often called Main Street Businesses—the unfortunate truth is that the market of buyers can be illiquid. Unlike large corporations or high-growth startups, small businesses often lack a broad pool of eager buyers. So the question arises: Who would buy my business? The good news is, there are specific types of buyers that might be interested in your business, each with its own advantages and challenges. So, who would buy your small business? The most likely candidates are: Let's take a closer look at each of these potential buyers, their motivations, and the factors you need to consider when deciding if they're the right fit for your business. 1. Selling Your Business to Another Company, Including Private Equity Firms Selling to another company is often the most financially lucrative option. These buyers see your business as a strategic asset that can enhance their own operations. Whether it's a competitor looking to expand market share, a supplier aiming to vertically integrate, or a private equity firm with a roll-up strategy, these buyers often value your business for more than just its financials. Ask yourself: Are you ready to fully let go? Selling to another company can be the most financially rewarding decision, but it requires emotional readiness to walk away and trust that the buyer will take your business in the right direction. Extra Resource: 10 Ways To Grow Your Small Business And Make It Attractive To Buyers 2. Selling Your Business To An Employee If you have a trusted employee who knows the business inside and out, selling to them can be a logical choice. Employees often have a vested interest in the success of the company and may be motivated to build on your legacy. Consider whether the employee has the skills, drive, and resources to successfully run the business. This option works best when you have long-term employees who are deeply invested in the company's success. 3. Selling Your Business To A Family Member For many business owners, keeping the business in the family is an appealing option. It allows you to maintain a sense of legacy and ensures that the business continues to operate in a way that aligns with your values. Ask yourself if you have family members who are both willing and capable of taking on the responsibility. Be honest about their abilities and ensure that all parties are aligned to avoid future conflicts. Extra Resource: 9 Books For Business Owners Planning To Sell 4. Exploring Other Buyer Options While the above categories represent the most common buyers, they're not the only ones. Here are a few additional possibilities: These buyers can be harder to identify, but they often bring unique advantages, such as a strong passion for your business or a fresh perspective on its potential. How to Attract the Right Buyer Regardless of who you sell to, finding the right buyer requires preparation. Here's how to make your business more appealing: Clean Up Financials: Transparent, well-organized financial records build trust and make your business easier to evaluate. Reduce Owner Dependence: Create systems and processes that allow the business to run smoothly without you. Highlight Unique Value: Showcase what sets your business apart, whether it's a niche market, proprietary technology, or a loyal customer base. Work with Professionals: A business broker or advisor can help you identify and approach the right buyers, negotiate terms, and ensure a smooth process. Extra Resources: 8 Essential Steps To Maximize Your Business's Value 4 Ways To Make Your Small Business More Valuable Final Thoughts: Who Will Buy Your Business? Deciding who should buy your business is as much about your goals as it is about theirs. Each type of buyer comes with unique advantages and challenges, and the right choice will depend on your financial needs, personal values, and vision for the future of your business. So, I hope I answered your question: Who would buy my business? Whether you sell to another company, an employee, or a family member, the key is to approach the process thoughtfully and strategically. By preparing your business for sale and understanding the motivations of different buyers, you can ensure a successful transition and a bright future for the company you've worked so hard to build.
