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BSCAI SmartBrief
April 26, 2012
 

Industry Update

Arbitrator to rule on dispute between U. of Minn., custodians
The University of Minnesota and its custodians are awaiting an arbitrator's decision on whether a new cleaning system violates custodians' union contract. Under the system, custodians are given an individual task to perform instead of being assigned to an area. The arbitrator must rule by May 9. Twin Cities Daily Planet (Minneapolis/St. Paul) (4/17)

Family-run firms are more recession-proof, researchers say
The financial crisis hit family-owned and -operated firms less hard than nonfamily firms, research shows. Firms with founders still on board outperformed nonfamily firms by an average of 2% over five years, and in certain years by as much as 18%, researchers found. That might be because family-firm leaders are more secure in their positions and can afford to take a more measured approach during a crisis. Strategy+Business online (free registration) (4/20)

Other News

Government Affairs

U.S. Supreme Court to hear arguments over Arizona immigration law
The U.S. Supreme Court is set to consider an immigration law from Arizona. The Obama administration contends that the law interferes with the federal government's authority to control immigration. The outcome of the case, from which Justice Elena Kagan has recused herself, could have political implications. Reuters (4/22) The Wall Street Journal (4/22)

Feds unveil training program for long-term unemployed
The Obama administration has announced a job-training program to help the long-term unemployed re-enter the workforce. Up to 10 states can participate in the program, which will let individuals continue receiving jobless benefits and a small stipend for eight weeks while being trained by a potential employer. After the eight weeks, the employer has the option of hiring the worker. The Wall Street Journal/Real Time Economics blog (4/19) The Hill/On the Money blog (4/19)

Business Best Practices

Comb through old contracts to find cost savings
You might be able to identify opportunities for cost savings by evaluating your business' contracts and insurance policies, writes Glen Blickenstaff of The Iron Door. Figure out which agreements are up to date, then go through the rest of them one at a time, he recommends. Inc. online (free registration)/The Turnaround Specialist (4/13)

Google Docs templates that can help you run your business
Small-business owners can find a number of useful templates on Google Docs, writes Lisa Barone. For example, there are templates available to create invoices, time sheets and business cards, she writes. Small Business Trends (4/18)

BSCAI News

Turning Prospects into Clients

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Tackling Your Financial Goals Head On

Bob Langdon, CPA and author of "Managing Your Business for Profit," addresses how to improve your business’ service revenue, margins, and profitability at this year's Executive Seminar in this article, "Tackling Your Financial Goals Head On." To register for the 2012 BSCAI Executive Seminar, visit the Executive Seminar page.

SmartQuote

There are three cures for ennui: sleep, drink and travel."

--D.H. Lawrence,
British novelist


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