"How do I grow my business's revenue?" is a question every business owner asks, particularly at the beginning of a new year.  So we're sharing some great ideas to help you answer that question.  Whether it's advice on becoming more proficient in selling, gaining market recognition for your business, or going "outside the box" to find new customers, there's sure to be something in this issue to help you grow your revenue.

Speaking of "outside the box," did you know there are many similarities between managing an National Football League team and managing a business? Be sure to read the "10 Business Lessons From the NFL" to learn how you can apply their successful tactics to your own business.

We've had many positive comments to our new web site, but if you haven't visited us recently, be sure to do so.  (You can visit us now by clicking here.)  While you're there, be sure to visit our blog page to read articles and news stories contributed by our counselors.  We've also created a new workshop designed for those who are starting or are considering starting their own business.  There's a description of the "Start Your Own Business" workshop and a link to register for it in the WORKSHOP section of this newsletter.

So read on and learn, and may you prosper in 2013!

OK, the Super Bowl is over (hope your team won), so there's no football for several months. However, the National Football League is a very successful  business, so read "10 Business Lessons from the NFL" to find corollaries that can help your business.

Many businesses start as a craft or hobby activity, then grow into a real business. However, managing the day-to-day and long term aspects of managing a business can be challenging. It's tempting to spend most of your time creating things, and not enough time marketing and selling them and planning for the future.  This often results in lots of nice products, but few sales. If you find yourself in this situation, or want to avoid it altogether, read "10 Essentials for Handmade Business Success."

SCORE clients Laura Goff and Ben Parham's State Of The Art business were recently featured in the Knoxville News-Sentinel. The firm specializes in creating and restoring stained glass windows and is ranked by the Stained Glass Association of the United State's accreditation sets in the top three percent in the United States for size and unique skills.  Click here to read the article, and visit their web site to learn about this unique business.