DENVER - June 11, 2013 // PRNewswire // - Three out of four small business owners expect sales revenues to increase in the next year, according to the Business Pulse Survey just released by The Alternative Board (TAB). The survey is commissioned by TAB each quarter to provide an accurate pulse on the perspectives, perceptions, and predictions of small business owners. (See infographic.)
The survey gathered responses from 300 private small business owners – half of which are currently members of TAB boards – and focused this quarter on the topics of personnel, business profits, sales revenues, and local economies. The findings point to trends of optimism and profitability for survey respondents:
To read more about these latest findings as they relate to today's small business owner, see today's post by Ilya Pozin, Columnist for Inc, Forbes and LinkedIn Columnist.
TAB's successful impact on its small business owner members is evident in the Pulse survey and reflects the advantages of peer advisory boards and executive business coaching provided by local TAB franchise offices. Results from the survey indicate current and future outlooks by TAB members are far improved over those of non-TAB business owners:
Jason Zickerman, TAB's President and CEO who recently attended America's Small Business Summit in Washington, DC, agrees the survey findings support what he experienced at the U.S. Chamber's event. "Today's small business owners, I find, are far more geared for the possibilities of the future than the obstacles of the past or even the present," Zickerman said. "With a very entrepreneurial spirit, they seem empowered to work on their businesses while remaining prepared for what's to come. They are exhibiting more confidence and control, and it's great to see again."
The survey included findings affecting employees as well as business owners. The biggest challenge owners reported for hiring staff is that candidates are "missing the necessary experience in our industry." When asked to rate different channels for hiring staff, respondents indicated "employee referral" as the best method, followed by "classified ads," "LinkedIn," and their own company website.
The Alternative Board currently operates in seven countries, including the United States, bringing together owners of non-competing businesses in half-day monthly board groups of up to 10 members. Each meeting, under the guidance of a TAB Certified facilitator, is conducted in a confidential "think-tank" atmosphere, and additional one-on-one business coaching is provided as well. TAB delivers real world advice to help business owners stay focused on what matters most. Since its inception in 1990, more than 15,000 businesses have benefited from The Alternative Board services. For more information, visit www.TheAlternativeBoard.com.
Rachel Moore
Social Media & PR Specialist
The Alternative Board – Corporate Headquarters
800.727.0126 x158
PR@tabboards.com
SOURCE The Alternative Board
The Alternative Board brings together owners of privately held businesses to solve challenges and seize new opportunities. Board members meet monthly to learn from one another's successes and mistakes and grow their businesses to the next level.