Devoted to small businesses and those who run them

I'm your hostess, Melonie K. Murray.  I was going to introduce myself as the "hostess with the mostest", but that would be corny and we all know that folks who run small- and home-based businesses are never corny.  Right? 

Well...we'll discuss that one later.  For now, let's chat about what SmallBizMentor.com can offer you.  First of all, I personally have over a decade of experience in retail management, from being the only employee of the owner (and thus automatically the assistant manager!) to being the head of a team of dozens of talented individuals who needed to be trained and, well, wrangled.  Until recently I was telecommuting for an international homeschooling publication, where I filled a variety of positions over the years.  I've also consulted frequently with my parents on their own home-based business and I'm steadily building my own freelance endeavors as a writer/editor.

Needless to say, all of these opportunities have culminated in a lot of lessons for me that I hope will benefit you.  Whether you're dealing with overhead on a brick-and-mortar store or building a team of telecommuting professionals yourself, I can empathize.  Don't hesitate to share the issues you confront daily in your field; we'll work through them together. 

I'm also a divorced homeschooling momma of one incredible Kidling.  If you're attempting to work from home with the kids around, I feel your pain, er, I mean, I share your JOY!  Some days it's difficult, but it can be done.  Let's talk about those trials and triumphs soon too.

Suffice it to say, I'm ready to answer your questions, toss out an opinion here and there (maybe two or three), and help you find the best resources to build and maintain your small business.  Trying to figure out where to go for small business funding?  We'll tackle it together.  Wondering how to create a marketing plan?  Gotcha covered.  Want to market your writing as a freelancer?  No problem.  Leave me lots of comments and let's get a great discussion going here.  I can't wait to "chat" with you and learn from you as I offer my own experiences and resources for your continuing education.