The resolution of the standoff in a Wisconsin state-employee union contract “negotiation” has all union locals and contractors paying close attention throughout the country. All have been wondering what the ramifications will be for them. We asked a sheet metal union executive and a unionized HVAC contractor a few questions to compare their points of view.

For many employers, running credit checks on job applicants is a regular part of the hiring process. But employers also need to be very careful when they use background credit checks for job applicants. They must weigh their need to know with a person’s right to privacy.

The last article in this series discussed different survey options that you might employ to collect results. While it’s important that you choose one, it’s also important that you realize each possesses pros and cons. If you have your technicians distribute surveys, some techs may attempt to lobby homeowners for better scores.

It only takes a visionary imagination and an inexpensive hand-held video camera to become a YouTube sensation. While videos on YouTube can become overnight hits with good marketing and originality, some businesses are choosing to market themselves by posting videos both on YouTube and on their own websites.

There are five great reasons to advertise: 1) To reach new customers; 2) To keep your name before current customers; 3) Because it pays over the long term; 4) To generate traffic; and 5) To increase sales and profits. A great way to maximize sales and profits is to complement your advertising with referral marketing.

Mistakes are powerful lesson builders. And nowhere is this more evident than in e-mail marketing. E-mail marketing inherently brings mistakes. That’s because it’s free and everyone who can push “send” can use it. Usually, the more difficult or expensive your marketing media is, the greater the research and testing you put behind it.

Complying with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) has always required employers to walk a fine line. The guidelines aren’t always clear, every disability and particular situation involve a unique set of factors, and the laws are constantly developing. Many are still trying to sort out the implications of the ADA Amendments Act of 2008 (ADAAA).

This country’s recent economic problems have caused strains on most small business owner’s cash flows, making it harder than ever to cover one’s overhead. The result is that many self-employed people are facing lawsuits from creditors, vendors, and suppliers, more so than from unhappy customers.

It’s another year and it will soon be time again for more of the hustle and bustle of contractor shows. It’s time to shake hands, meet new business prospects and - most importantly - sell, sell, sell. If you’re a contractor who plans on going to a local or regional home and garden show in order to round up some new business, be sure to take maximum advantage of your time at the show.

In North Carolina, contractor Greg Crumpton likes to stay ahead of the curve when it comes to technology. His company, AirTight, is based in Charlotte, and serves commercial, industrial, and mission critical customers within a 100-mile radius.