Assistance For Small Businesses At MCC

The Illinois Small Business Development Center (ISBDC) at McHenry County College is offering opportunities and assistance to small businesses. The following topics and dates being offered are:

Thursday, Jan. 6 --6 to 8 p.m.

Marketing Roundtable group (formerly “Branding Brainstorming”). This is a no-cost seminar to collaboratively discuss various approaches to marketing and apply the strategies to your business. No admission fee, but reservations are requested.

Wednesday, Jan. 12--6 to 8 p.m.

Starting A Business In Illinois is intended for anyone interested in starting their own business.  Our experienced instructor will discuss many of the basics pertaining to entrepreneurship, as well as distribute various handouts about agencies and resources available. Cost: $25.

Tuesday, Jan. 18--6 to 8 p.m.

Brand Development: A brand is the sum of the good, the bad, or the just plan awful strategy. What perception are you communicating to your customers? Good brand development is evident in every aspect of an organization’s business routine, including customer service, direct marketing, website design, teleconferences, and working with employees and strategic partners. Cost: $39.

Tuesday, Jan. 25--6 to 8 p.m.

Hiring Your First Employee will guide you step by step through the process of hiring employees; how much to pay, how to recruit, and how to choose the best person.  From salaries and benefits to personnel policies and being a boss—it is all here. Participants will receive a “Hire Your First Employee” textbook. This class will be held on Cost: $45.

Thursday, Jan. 27--6-8 p.m.

10 Mistakes on Your Website: Your website must do something for you. Does yours? Come learn the top ten mistakes made on small Business websites and how to avoid them on yours. From domain names to search engine optimization—make sure this investment is working for you. Cost: $39.

All classes are held at the McHenry County College Shah Center, 4100 W. Shamrock Lane, McHenry, near Centegra Medical Center.

For more information or to register, contact the Illinois Small Business Development Center at (815) 455-6098 or sbdc@mchenry.edu.