If your business is involved in social media, you know that listening is an important aspect of it. But, why are so many businesses doing it ineffectively? For starters, it’s not as easy as it sounds. It is also very time-consuming and can be difficult to measure.

With new legislation in place, this year’s tax season might not be so bad after all. In fact, you might even be able to save money. Katie Morell, a contributor to the OPEN Forum compiled a list of potential deductions that Abby Johnson explains in this SmallBusinessNewz report.

Communities are important both offline and online. Offline, it is very important for people to be involved in local events and organizations. Online communities are important as well, especially since they are not geographically limited.

Are you a lucky person? Some people just seem to have all the luck, and others seem to have more than enough bad fortune to spread around. In business, luck is especially coveted. There are some cases in which luck is valued over talent.

While some tactics work for both large and small businesses, most of the time, there are too many differences. Some people “fit” better in the big corporate environment, and there are others that are better suited for startups and small businesses.

The old practice of bartering is coming back in style. Although people aren’t exactly trading milk and eggs for other goods and services, they are actually taking up the old practice due to economic difficulties.