September 2011

Uncertainty is the key factor retarding hiring by small business leaders.

Right now they face a three part whammy --- bad economy, healthcare reform and divided leadership.
Things do not appear to be getting better as the August job statistics show no gain in total US employment during the month.

Clearly, most small business owners are not hiring because of the general uncertainty in the economy. This publication's parent, Information Strategies, Inc. has polled small firms for more than eight years.  The results over those years show the prime motivator for hiring or not hiring is the economic outlook. As the economy tanked, hiring motivation also sank. What is needed now is for the president and Congress is get the economy on the right track.

Healthcare reform is also the elephant in the room for many companies with reluctance to cross a trigger threshold that will place them in another regulatory level. The fact that the law is legally challenged also does not help.

Clearly in Washington there is division on how to end the economic downturn. With division comes uncertainty and the natural reactions is to pull in horns.

Hurricane Irene and the Northeast earthquake have awoken everyone to the need for planning.

After major catastrophes, planning sessions can prevent future losses but managers need to use such occasions to better prepare for the future. This requires thought, time and committed resources.

ASK THE EXPERT Question: What is sometimes overlooked in small business budget planning? Answer: "As more and more regulations and licensing requirements are imposed, business licenses are often overlooked in budget planning and critical dates for reupping are missed." --- Diane Brown Executive Vice President, CT Corp.

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