Today’s business environment is a complex place to be, regardless of business size, type, or location. As a new business owner, you need to keep the big picture in mind, keep an eye on the future, stay abreast of the competition, and be grounded in day-to-day realities. At the same time, even as a brick-and-mortar company or home-based business, you must have an Internet presence. And, you must do it right. Not only do you need to attract customers to buy your products and services, you need to attract stakeholders and financial partners to raise capital and thrive. You also need to know what kind of business owner you are, have a candid view of your strengths and weaknesses, and know when it’s time to hire experts, delegate, and get out of the way. To balance these variables in a highly competitive marketplace, you need to draw upon a wide variety of management skills and know-how to manage your business profitably and sustain solid financial viability.

This certification course introduces the essential components of managing a business. We’ll dig into business strategy, business planning, budget management, marketing strategy, operations, employee engagement, customer service, and business ethics. If your business is in the idea stage, you’ll build a solid foundation for your future. If you’re already running your business, you may be looking for ways to expand your capabilities and improve business performance. In all this professional certification will give you the credentials and competitive advantage to succeed in your market.

The course is designed to prepare learners for the Skilled Now Certified Small Business Owner test and earn the designation, Certified Small Business, Skilled Now-SBO. The goal is for the learner to be ready to open and manage a sustainable small business.

• Apply best practices for creating, leading, and managing the day-to-day operations of your own business.​
• Define a viable business strategy, mission, and vision.​
• Develop strong branding that conveys your business values and identity.​
• Define organizational and operational structures that match your goals.​
• Develop marketing and sales strategies that help your business maintain a healthy bottom line.​
• Define essential financial terms and apply key financial concepts.​
• Produce standard financial reports and realistic budgets.​
• Define the skills and qualifications for the workforce you need to achieve your goals.​
• Hire the right people and minimize costly turnover.​
• Establish a customer-focused team and foster a culture of customer service excellence.​
• Develop a comprehensive business plan.

The business owner is part visionary, part entrepreneur, part expert, part front line worker, part manager, and can be a jack of all trades. However, your primary responsibilities are to lead the way, build a sustainable business model, and effectively manage your team. Business owner responsibilities include:

• Apply the best practices for creating, leading, and managing your own business.​
• Develop an organizational framework for managing business operations and budgets.​
• Continuously evaluate your business to ensure financial viability and sustainability.​
• Develop and share your business vision, values, goals, and ethics.​
• Research, analyze, and develop a strategic plan.​
• Clearly explain your business vision and strategy in terms stakeholders will understand
• Develop marketing, sales, operations, and distribution plans​
• Set up a framework for hiring and retaining employees.
• Establish a customer service focus and team.​
• Establish contingency plans, be prepared for disaster, adjust for market downturns, and have an exit strategy.​
• Be vigilant and prepared for new opportunities and markets