Read the Fine Print

August 19, 2009 by suites

caught fish

If a price sounds too good to be true, it probably is.  Getting caught in a bait and switch scam is frustrating, particularly for small business owners who imbue all deals with personal integrity.  No one likes to be surprised by hidden fees.  To protect yourself you must read all contracts carefully and know who you are doing business with.

Be alert for clues that a shady deal may be going on behind the scenes.   Was the source of this vendor reliable?  Already today I’ve received three unsolicited faxes offering me deals on medical plans and vacations.  The numbers look great, but they are not likely to be quality arrangements.   Another question to ask is who is making decisions about your deal?  The farther away the executives are from the base of operations, the greater the chance that your offer is based on quotas and top down pressure, rather than transparency suitable for a beneficial relationship.   Find out if they have dissatisfied customers by using Rip Off Report. 

At The Suites Collection, our contracts are personalized for your company and your deal.  We are a small business and one of the first independent executive office operations established in Chicago.  Our longevity is reinforced by successful relationships we have with long term tenants, some of whom have been with us for over a decade.  We are known for superb service because we tailor our offerings to fit the needs of our tenants.  Schedule a tour of our unique office centers and get to know our team of support professionals.  We are here to help you grow your business. 

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Are you ready to stop working from home?

August 11, 2009 by suites

crowded house

Working in your living space can be burdensome on your family and your business.   Certain aspects of the arrangement that appeal to you at first may not seem so beneficial once the interruptions and expenses add up.  Personal matters can become a distraction.   Cost savings disappear when equipment fails.  You may not have appropriate meeting space for clients.  Maintaining the efficiency of a home office can drain your resources.   Don’t let the value of your business suffer because you are not in the right place to get the job done.

Furnished offices in a professional atmosphere are move-in ready at The Suites Collection.  If you are weighing the decision to leave your home office for a new one, arrange a tour for any or all of our three convenient business centers.  Rents start at under $1000 per month.  Your furniture, telephone and high speed internet connection are included in your rent.    Our centers are equipped with conference rooms, copier, fax and secretarial support.   We have a wide variety of office sizes and layouts to suit your style and our experienced staff will work with you to select the right one.  If your office needs change in the future, you can transition to another one with minimal disruption. 

Studio 7

model law office

If you do plan to continue working from a home, The Suites Collection offers another service that can enhance your business.   Our virtual office program will allow you to have a prestigious mailing address and personalized telephone reception with 24/7 access to voice mail.  Our flexible office program offers part time use of an office for when you need focused time to prepare for a meeting or require privacy with a client.   Meeting and conference rooms that hold up to 20 people are available for half or full day rental and are located close to public transportation and parking.

For more insight on the ways individuals and businesses make the most of shared office environments, see these recent articles from Wall Street Journal and Washington Post.  Or, for a fun international perspective, read how the Germans are also enjoying the benefits!

Posted in Conference & Meeting Facilities, Small Business Advice, Starting a Business?, Virtual Offices, Why Choose Shared Offices? | Leave a Comment »

Time management

July 31, 2009 by suites

time_rush

The Suites Collection’s business centers are located in River North and the North Loop, two of Chicago’s hottest neighborhoods for dining, theatre and shopping.  Tourists are ubiquitous in these areas.  On sidewalks, they pause for sightseeing or stop to get their bearings.  Because they are operating on leisure time, their casual gait sets a conflicting pace with business people rushing by.   The contrast reveals how the choices we make every day determine the speed in which we live out our lives.

“Time is money.” - Benjamin Franklin

When you are running your own business, effective time management is crucial.  Not only will it make you more productive, but it will allay burn out from impeding your success, happiness and health.  The expectation that we will multi-task from anywhere has removed boundaries that used to shelter our leisure time for ourselves. 

A balanced approach to time management incorporates goal setting, prioritization, managing interruptions, avoiding procrastination and effective scheduling.  How do you feel about your time management skills?  Take this test at mindtools.com to identify areas for improvement. 

Another resource, RescueTime, is a web-based analytics tool for professionals who want to be more productive.  Signing up is free and you’ll be up and running in a minute or two.  RescueTime appears as a dashboard on your computer that monitors the applications and websites you use.  This real-time feedback allows you to make immediate decisions to increase your productivity. 

time_tourists

Other improvements may take longer.  The pursuit of effective time management can be life long.  You won’t always handle everything perfectly, but identifying your personalized strategy and employing it to the best of your ability will improve your business and your life.

Posted in Conference & Meeting Facilities, Small Business Advice, Starting a Business?, Why Choose Shared Offices? | 2 Comments »

Heroes

July 16, 2009 by suites

hand

A Canadian firm recently paid $1.68 million to charity for one lunch with Warren Buffet.  Their CEO cited the value of Buffet’s “wisdom and experience” as the reason they would spend so much money on one meal.  Whose opinions and advice would you pay for?  Is there someone in your life whose advice has value beyond measure but they give it to you for free?  When you are starting or leading a small business, engaging in dialogue with a personal hero is important.  Maintain an open dialogue with a mentor and it will make your business, and your life, better.

Often you will meet a mentor during the natural course of your professional life.  It could be a former boss or someone you know personally.  “At Their Knee” in Inc.com is an interesting article with interviews of successful business owners who were lucky enough to encounter great entrepreneurs in their early careers.  They credit the advice distilled to them from these mentors with their current success.  What’s striking is the way the mentees can recall the one or two snippets of advice that continue to drive their business decisions today.

If necessary, you can deliberately seek out and find a person with whom you can create this particular bond.  SCORE will put you in touch with an expert to answer specific questions that you have within 48 hours.  Another option would be to join a local business alliance.  One of the many unique benefits of working in a shared office environment like The Suites Collection is the networking potential.  Your adjacency to other entrepreneurs and business owners opens up the opportunity for mentorships to occur.   Even if the particulars of your business are distinctive, hearing about lessons learned by others in common situations can help you save time by not reinventing the wheel. 

We all need inspiration and encouragement.  Who are your real life heroes?  Remember to value your time with them and look forward to a day you can hopefully pass on your hard won wisdom and experiences to a younger generation.

eagle

Posted in Small Business Advice, Starting a Business?, Why Choose Shared Offices? | Leave a Comment »

Start up support

July 2, 2009 by suites

support key

Looking for ways to expand or enhance your business acumen? There are plenty of options for support and advice from companies whose business it is to keep you in business. Continuing your education is a great idea. Even if your schedule is busy, you can always find quick tips in magazines, online and by reaching out into your local community.

Reading a magazine is a refreshing way to discover information without having to be in front of a computer screen.  While on the train or waiting at an airport, pick up a copy of Inc. Magazine, “The Magazine for Growing Companies”.  Also referred to as “The Small Business Bible”, Inc. Magazine uses real life examples of business strategies, case studies, successes and failures to highlight real world solutions. The current issue features Paul Graham whose company, Y Combinator, is a hybrid venture capital fund and business school that funds and advises early-stage businesses.  Another article captures and compares the inner workings at Google and Microsoft.   

Toolkit.com is an online business owners toolkit offering “total know how” for small businesses.  We’ve recommended this site in previous blogs, but they’ve revamped and improved their site recently which makes it even better.  News stories and links direct you to the latest developments affecting small businesses.  The 200 free business documents, templates, checklists and official government forms make it easy for you to access those items from one place.

university

Your nearby college or university can also be a great resource.  Business and economics departments often conduct public outreach.  In Chicago, DePaul University’s Entrepreneurship Program at the Coleman Entrepreneurship Center offers consulting services, educational programs and resources for students and entrepreneurs throughout the city in the various stages of what they term the “Entrepreneurial Quest®”.

And if you want a good laugh to relieve you after your studies, read “Every Piece of Start Up Advice Is a Lie Including Mine” , an enlightening blog entry from one of Y Combinator’s participant entrepreneurs, Tony Right. 

Posted in Conference & Meeting Facilities, Court House Executive Offices, Small Business Advice, Starting a Business?, Theatre District Business Center, Tree Studios, Virtual Offices, Why Choose Shared Offices? | Leave a Comment »

Hot Chicago deals

June 26, 2009 by suites

lake sunrise

The arrival of hot weather this year coincided with the summer solstice, a rare coincidence!  Usually we don’t have to wait until the end of June for warmth.  Now that it’s finally here why not make the most of it?   Whether you are determined to be productive or in need of rejuvenation, doing what you want for free is the best way to spend the hot summer days.  Here are several recommendations from the staff at The Suites Collection for free deals near our business centers.

Grant Park July 4th

Celebrate the 4th of July on Millennium Park’s Great Lawn at the Grant Park Music Festival’s first-ever Independence Day concert at the Jay Pritzker Pavilion.  The lively event begins at 1:30 p.m. and will include readings of the Declaration of Independence and other patriotic speeches.  Music performances of ragtime, country music and turn-of-the-century waltzes will be performed by the Northside Southpaws, a Chicago mandolin/guitar duo.  Navy Pier’s fireworks display starts at 10:15 p.m. on the 4th.  This is not to be confused with the official Grant Park fireworks display which will be held on the 3rd of July.  The fireworks are a spectacular display of over 5,000 aerial devices and shells.  Festivities kick off at 7:30 p.m. on July 3rd with a performance by the Grant Park Orchestra at the Petrillo Music Shell and the fireworks display beginning at 9:30 p.m. 

During the long winter, we so often forgo a proper lunch break and stay inside to keep warm.  Now that outside temperatures are inviting, we prefer to step out of the office for our lunch hour and enjoy free downtown tours and museums.  Take a free 45-minute tour of the exhibition A Conversation with Chicago: Contemporary Sculptures from China led by members of the Millennium Park staff and learn more about this spectacular art, never before seen in the United States.  On any given day, choose to explore nature, science, history or culture at one of the city’s Museum Free Days. 

If you are busy being a worker bee this summer, there are great “Summer School” freebies to help increase your business acumen.  Free online business classes available through the US Small Business Association include:

- Small Business Primer: Guide to Starting a Business

- How to Prepare a Business Plan

- Franchising Basics

- Technology 101: A Small Business Guide

bee

The city that never sleeps is keeping busy this summer with, “Chicago Business Works”, seminars hosted by the Chicago Department of Business Affairs.  Now in its third year, this series of free seminars connects entrepreneurs and new business owners with exhibitors who service small businesses, other business owners and government leaders.  Events are free and registration is not required. 

Summer seminar dates:

- June 25 – Harry S. Truman College, 1145 W. Wilson

- September 10 – Harlold Washington College, 30 E. Lake St.

Registration begins at 5:30 p.m. followed by a speaking program, workshops and exhibitors. 

We’d love to find out about any other great deals out there.  Please contact us with your suggestions.  Have a great summer!  

Posted in Chicago, Small Business Advice, Starting a Business? | Leave a Comment »

Financing options for small business owners

June 16, 2009 by suites

handshake

So far in 2009, we’ve seen multiple displays of support for banks, large manufacturers and home owners struggling with the economy.  Thankfully, there is now a push to help small businesses and entrepreneurs get access to much needed funds.  The banks have taken their financial stress tests, why not take yours?  If you find your small business is in need of cash or a line of credit, there are great options out there if you know where to look and whom to ask. 

arc_loan_icon

This week the U.S. Small Business Association introduced a terrific resource for small business owners looking to strengthen their cash flow.  America’s Recovery Capital (ARC) loans are available to established, viable, for-profit businesses that need short-term help.  The best part is that ARC loans are interest-free to the borrower, 100 percent guaranteed by the SBA and have no SBA fees associated with them.

Kiva, a successful international micro-lending website, launched their US lending program this month.  Through partners like Accion USA, Kiva raises money from individual donors to fund diverse small business initiatives. American entrepreneurs who are finding funding through kiva.com include graphic designers, computer technicians and communications specialists.

Local resources also abound for small business owners.  At The Suites Collection, we have a special package for entrepreneurs on a budget.  Our “Start-Up Special” provides you with a full time private office in Chicago’s central business district or River North for under $1000 per month.  The low monthly price includes telephone, voice mail, high speed internet and on-site administrative personnel.   These offices are move-in ready so schedule a tour today and be in business tomorrow.

model law office

Another local business resource, SCORE, will host their next small business financing workshop on June 25th.  Sign up to attend the class held at 500 W. Madison and learn about various ways you can finance your business through angel investors, banks and venture capitalists.  This practical workshop teaches you about the documents you’ll need for the different types of funding and there will be a banker available to go over other specific criteria.  There are plenty of people with resources willing to lend a hand.  Take the time to pursue these various revenue streams, and you will likely find one that benefits you. 

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Posted in Court House Executive Offices, Small Business Advice, Starting a Business?, Theatre District Business Center, Why Choose Shared Offices? | Leave a Comment »

Innovation

May 29, 2009 by suites
New Document Review Room at Theatre Districe Business Center

New Document Review Room at Theatre District Business Center

If you are experiencing a bit of “down time” right now, you can still find ways to save or make money.  Grow your business by applying innovative strategies to develop core areas like staffing, technology and marketing.  We are taking our own advice at The Suites Collection this year and are keeping busy while instituting improvements to virtually every area of our company. 

42" Panasonic HDTVs are now located in each center.

42" Panasonic HDTVs are now located in each center.

Offering new technology and upgrading our facilities is an important way we demonstrate our commitment to our tenants’ work environment.  42” HDTVs, new office furniture and personalized artwork have been installed at each location.  Recent renovations at Theater District Business Center include new wall paper, paint and carpet and a document review room a capacity of 36.  The spacious fully furnished work space expands our ability to serve attorneys working nearby at Daley Center, State of Illinois Building, City Hall, the County Buildings and Chicago Title & Trust Center as they provide due diligence services for their clients.

Employing experienced administrative professionals has always been a core component of our business model.  We recently increased the continuity of service in these crucial positions by training all staff in the unique procedures at each location.  Because all employees are now able to accommodate particular services at each center, we can provide our tenants seamless support while strengthening our own internal flexibility.

Our "chicagooffices" profile on Twitter.com

Our "chicagooffices" profile on Twitter.com

Refreshing our marketing campaign this year has meant expansion into new avenues, such as social media sites like Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.com as well as reliable “old school” forms of advertising like installing new exterior signage on each center’s building.  Whether prospects are at home or in our busy neighborhoods, we want to make sure we’re reaching those potential clients. 

We all want our businesses to succeed no matter what outside factors determine.  When the climate improves, we want to be ready and not need to waste time catching up.  It feels good to take stock and give yourself a pat on the back after a job well done.  This especially counts if the job was completed during difficult circumstances.  If you’ve been working hard this year and are feeling proud, maybe it’s time to take that next step and secure an office of your own.  We also encourage you to seek some well-deserved recognition by entering the contest for Entrepreneur Magazine’s “2009 Entrepreneur of the Year Award” contest.  Good luck!

Posted in Conference & Meeting Facilities, Small Business Advice, Starting a Business?, Theatre District Business Center, Why Choose Shared Offices? | Leave a Comment »

Short term solutions

May 22, 2009 by suites

doorway2

Even if right now isn’t the best time to make a long term commitment, you can still position your company wisely in anticipation of future successes. We all look forward to the day that this economy settles down. Until then, you should secure short term solutions for your business. Who doesn’t want flexibility and convenience? Working with The Suites Collection business centers will get you both. We offer three great solutions to protect your business now and provide for it in the future.

Choose from the following packages to fit your needs:

Start-Up Special

  • Private full time office for your new enterprise or your company’s first foray into the Chicago market.
  • Choose from several fully furnished all priced under $1000 per month.
  • Telephone, voice mail and high speed internet connection included.
  • Professional Administrative staff on site to support you.
  • Offices are move-in ready so schedule a tour today and be in business tomorrow.

Flexible Office

  • Ideal for mobile professionals who can work anywhere but occasionally need privacy and security.
  • For $300 a month you receive up to 16 hours of private meeting or office space in our center. 
  • Includes high speed internet and flexible accessibility anytime Monday to Friday, 8:30am to 5pm.
  • Additional onsite services include use of copier, fax and secretarial support. 
  • Mail and delivery receipt is also available. 
  • Takes only 24 hours to get started.  Arrangements can be made via telephone, email or in person.

Corporate Identity & Virtual Office

  • “Locate” your business at one of our centers for $200 a month.
  • Perfect for the home based professional or any company desiring a Chicago presence.
  • You are provided with our prestigious business address, dedicated phone number and voicemail.
  • A receptionist will answer your calls using your business name.
  • 24 hour voice mail access, mail receipt and building signage, if desired. 
  • For client meetings, you can rent our conference rooms as needed.
  • Takes only 24 hours to get started.  Arrangements can be made via telephone, email or in person. 

    • earth

We offer flexible terms and a range of spaces to accommodate your changing priorities. Maybe you will start with a virtual office and allow your business to grow enough to require dedicated space. Or maybe life decisions take you out of town but you still want to connect with Chicago clients using our meeting spaces. The Suites Collection staff members are able to build long lasting relationships with our tenants because we support them where they are today, and then meet their needs for the future. We are rooting for your success, in the short and long term. Contact us so we can tell you more. Find out which plan works best for you today.

Posted in Conference & Meeting Facilities, Small Business Advice, Starting a Business?, Virtual Offices, Why Choose Shared Offices? | Leave a Comment »

Summer in our city

May 7, 2009 by suites

bean1

As we bask in the day’s warming sunshine, our minds wander to the entertaining outdoor activities available for those of us lucky enough to live or work in Chicago.  From fountains and festivals to outdoor concerts and markets, we Chicagoans know how to take advantage of the perks that come along in spring and summer.  It is with great pleasure that we present The Suites Collection’s annual installment of warm weather to-dos for our tenants and friends.  Mark your calendars, we’ll meet you there!

grant-park-music-fest

Listen to beautiful music while lounging in Chicago’s “front yard” at The Grant Park Music Festival. This series of free classical music under the stars runs June 11th – August 16th.  No advance purchase needed!  Lawn and general seating in the Pritzker Pavilion is free, or if you prefer to be in the reserved forward seating area, you can make arrangements here.  Grant Park also boasts Jazz Fest, Blues Fest, Taste of Chicago, Celtic Fest, Viva Chicago, and many others, so visit the Mayor’s Office of Special Events to find one to your liking.

rivercruise

Court House Executive Offices, located at 101 W. Grand, is just four blocks north of the picturesque Chicago River.  Catch the great riverside views from a $2 water taxi ride or indulge in a nice evening out with dinner and dancing while cruising along the river and Lake Michigan.  Pick the trip that’s right for you by reading Yelp reviews of Chicago River cruises. 

Another great way to enjoy the river is to Dine al fresco at Fulton’s on the River.  They are now featuring Happy Hour Monday through Friday from 4 – 6pm, where you can enjoy the new bar menu and half price signature snacks in the Murdoch Lounge. 

Across from Theatre District Business Center, Daley Plaza’s farmers market offers a wide selection of fresh and homemade fare for your impromptu casual lunch.  The market is held every Thursday from May 14th to Oct 15th, and is the perfect place to purchase produce, baked goods and flowers for a mid-day picnic.   There are plenty of grassy spots along the lake and river for grabbing a quick bite.  We prefer to enjoy our picnics in the tranquil courtyard at Tree Studios.  Won’t you join us?

tree-studios-courtyard1

Posted in Chicago, Court House Executive Offices, Theatre District Business Center, Tree Studios | Leave a Comment »

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