Better Business Bureau of Wisconsin

Feeling stuck in an unfulfilling job? There's a possibility you're stuck in a toxic work environment. Join BBB and guest speaker Dave Molenda, owner of BBB Accredited Positive Polarity, for a free webinar this Wednesday, 8/28.

Register ➡️ https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_f9MBQ1eiQWyGPdFjzjOufA #/

💼 Stepping into the world of entrepreneurship? Make sure you're well prepared for the financial side of things. BBB has compiled a list of start-up costs for aspiring business owners. Get a head start on budgeting and ensure your company's successful lift-off!

New Business Tip: Start-up costs to consider as a new business owner It’s critical to know where you might need to allocate your money as you start to set up your new business. We’ve compiled these lesser-known costs for you to consider as you get your company off the ground.

QR codes can make life so much easier. However, some can lead you somewhere you don’t want to be. Know the telltale signs of fake QR codes.

BBB Scam Alert: Fraudulent QR codes continue to be used in a variety of scams Reports to Better Business Bureau and government agencies detail the various ways scammers are using QR codes to perpetrate fraud. Learn more about how scammers are using QR codes and when to avoid scanning one with these tips from your BBB.

Thinking about tackling a new DIY project, but unsure about your skills? 🤔 Take a look at BBB’s checklist on how to plan for your next steps:

DIY home maintenance vs. hiring a professional When it comes to DIY home maintenance, the first question is: Are you up for it? There are several factors to consider before deciding whether to tackle a project on your own or hire a professional.

How your organization handles of client feedback is key. It becomes especially crucial when handling negative testimonials or grievances in the digital space, as they could potentially influence your business's standing.

Reflect on it from a client's perspective: how often have you experienced subpar service, feeling unheard? What was your emotional response when you obtained a personalized reply from the establishment? Data analysis indicates that majority of customers anticipate a reaction to negative comments within a week.

Learn more at BBB.org!

Once again, the Shawano County PD is warning folks about a fake "found child" scam on Facebook. Learn more:

WBAY TV-2

“Found child” scam on Facebook targets Shawano County again No, Shawano County officers did not find an unclaimed child. Do not share that post.

Preparing for a new school year? 🍎🎒 Remember that safety is paramount, especially on social media. Before you share first day memories, take a moment to read our BBB tips.

Join BBB and Summit Credit Union at ShredFest on Saturday, September 28th from 8:30-11:00 am to safeguard your identity. Don't miss this free opportunity to securely dispose of all your important documents!

Date: Saturday, September 28th
Time: 8:30 - 11:00am
Location: 1709 Landmark Dr, Cottage Grove, WI 53527

Limit 3 boxes or paper bags to shred (paper only, please!)

🌟 We’d like to give a big shout out to the following businesses celebrating milestones of BBB Accreditation in August!

Lisbon Storm, Screen & Door Inc - 45 years of BBB Accreditation
Rosen Ford - 35 years of BBB Accreditation
Rosen Ford Milwaukee - 35 years of BBB Accreditation
Rosen Hyundai Milwaukee - 35 years of BBB Accreditation
Rosen Nissan Greenfield - 35 years of BBB Accreditation
Rosen Nissan Madison - 35 years of BBB Accreditation
Baumgart Tire & Wheel - 30 years of BBB Accreditation
Electrical Contractors of Wisconsin, Inc. - 30 years of BBB Accreditation
J & B Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc. - 30 years of BBB Accreditation
Antique Silver of Waukesha, Inc. - 25 years of BBB Accreditation
APAR Automotive - 25 years of BBB Accreditation
Central Services Co., Inc. - 25 years of BBB Accreditation
Ever Ready Electric Inc. - 25 years of BBB Accreditation

Hurricanes can cause severe damage because of strong winds, storm surge, rip currents and flooding. BBB has tips for individuals and businesses, including:

🎒 Preparing for hurricanes
🛠️ Dealing with damage
🤝 Finding a trusted professional

Visit BBB.org/Hurricane to learn more.

The back-to-school hustle and bustle is here 📚 As parents and students gear up for school shopping, it's important to arm yourself with our top BBB tips. We've got you covered!

BBB recommends the following tips when looking for school-related items, either in person or online:
✅ Create a shopping list
✅ Research big-ticket items
✅ Shop smart with sales and tax-free weekends
✅ Shop wisely and safely online

Feeling stuck in an unfulfilling job? There's a possibility you're stuck in a toxic work environment! Join BBB and BBB Accredited Positive Polarity for a free webinar on August 28. Secure your spot today!

Register ➡️ https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_f9MBQ1eiQWyGPdFjzjOufA #/registration

Take your small business to new heights with BBB Accreditation! Bolster your credibility, earn trust, and become a part of the thriving community of small businesses with BBB. Make the step forward today.

For business owners, cost cutting doesn't always mean layoffs. Discover how small businesses can expand while slimming down on expenses without affecting growth. 💼 🚀

BBB Business Tip: How small businesses can cut costs without sacrificing growth There are many ways that small businesses can continue expanding while reducing their overhead. If you want to reduce your expenses while continuing to grow, consider the following tips.

Don't let the excitement of a festival lure you into a trap! Before buying tickets, do your research to make sure it's a real event. Remember, if a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is. 🎪💔🎫

BBB Scam Alert: Fake events & phony tickets take festival goers by surprise Watch out for festivals and events that promise more than they deliver. Always do your research before buying tickets – no matter how much fun the event sounds.

We're jumping into the weekend with a for Mr. Funtastic's Bouncy Houses! Now a BBB Accredited Business, Mr. Funtastic offers bounce houses and slide rentals for birthday parties, family reunions, any and all celebrations for young and old. On why they sought BBB Accreditation, business owner John says, "The BBB Standards for Trust speak to me and my customers by insuring quality service and products from companies who take pride in customer satisfaction and quality of service."

Visit their BBB Business Profile to book and leave a review: https://www.bbb.org/us/wi/madison/profile/bounce-house/mr-funtastics-bouncy-houses-0694-1000060404

Rising inflation rates can be a daunting ordeal for small businesses. Here are 7 strategies to help you stay afloat: https://www.bbb.org/article/business/26894-bbb-business-tip-7-ways-small-business-owners-can-cope-with-inflation

Let the Games begin! As the world turns its gaze to Paris for the , remember to stay vigilant for scams. Since 2022, all kinds of Olympics-related scams have been reported to BBB Scam Tracker, including job scams, phishing texts, and counterfeit merchandise.

https://www.bbb.org/article/news-releases/30587-bbb-tip-dont-get-played-during-the-summer-games

🌟 We'd like to give a big shout out to the following businesses celebrating milestones of BBB Accreditation in July!

Foley & Lardner LLP - 65 years of BBB Accreditation
Quarles & Brady LLP - 65 years of BBB Accreditation
Bielinski Homes - 35 years of BBB Accreditation
C&T Siding & Windows - 30 years of BBB Accreditation
Urban Herriges & Sons, Inc. - 30 years of BBB Accreditation
Franklin Financial Planning & Consulting - 25 years of BBB Accreditation
Egyptian International Art LLC - 25 years of BBB Accreditation
Rock-Well Well & Pump Service, Inc. - 25 years of BBB Accreditation

BBB's 2024 Give.org Donor Report aims to pave the path for a future where charity accountability is transparent and trust is paramount. Weigh your expectations, consider your stance, and define your position on hot-button themes from oversight to AI. Join the BBB Wise Giving Alliance conversation and let's shape a future where donor trust never wavers.

https://give.org/donor-trust-report

🎗️

Scammers are exploiting our compassion with a new 'Missing Child' Facebook post scam. Stay informed and report all scams to BBB Scam Tracker 🚨

WSAW NewsChannel 7

‘Missing child’ Facebook post scam targets your heartstrings and your pocketbook The post describes a missing boy with autism who needs medical help, but the sheriff’s office confirmed no such report has been filed with emergency dispatch.

Feeling stuck in an unfulfilling job? There's a possibility you're stuck in a toxic work environment! Join BBB and BBB Accredited Positive Polarity for a free webinar on August 28. Get insights on indicators of a harmful work space and how to turn it around. Secure your spot today!

Register ➡️ https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_f9MBQ1eiQWyGPdFjzjOufA #/registration

BBB Webinar: Signs Your Work Environment Might Be Toxic Join BBB and BBB Accredited Positive Polarity for this fast-paced executive briefing on signs that you might be in a toxic work environment.

Are you a seasoned online shopper? As online shopping maintains popularity, returns also become more frequent. However, many store policies vary, so check out our BBB tips on how to successfully navigate through returns and ensure your refund!

Get ready for Star Spangled Networking, a free business networking event hosted by BBB, Monona East Side Business Alliance, Dane Buy Local, and the Wisconsin Veterans Chamber of Commerce!

Let's connect, learn & grow together! This event is free to all, but a non-perishable food donation for the River Food Pantry in Dane County is appreciated.

Register: https://www.bbb.org/article/events/30370-star-spangled-networking

🌟 Happy to BBB Accredited Builders Command LLC ! BBB Accredited since 2020, Builders Command has an A+ rating on BBB.org and an amazing reason why the BBB seal is so important to them:

"We chose to get BBB Accredited because before Builders Command LLC was founded, the owner would look for the BBB logo to do exactly what the customers we potentially work for do: Find a business that has good morals, does what they say and finishes the job. All too often companies fall short on things because they see a customer as a number. Here at Builders Command LLC, we develop relationships that last longer than the work we perform for our customers. We have gone to events with clients, we have been invited to cook outs and even tailgates from our customers. We take pride in building these relationships as it's not just a project to us, it's a better way of life for all involved."

Builders Command LLC offers general contracting services, including: remodeling, siding, windows and doors, flooring, landscaping and other handyman, home improvement projects for the residential community in Brown County and surrounding areas. Visit their BBB Business profile today to get in touch, and remember to always look for the BBB seal - The Sign of a Better Business.

🛍️ 🛒 July’s deals are a double win for consumers and businesses! But, don't swap the thrill of hunting bargains for online safety. Keep an eye out for phishing scams, misleading ads, and impostor sites during these annual sales. For safe shopping, follow our BBB tips:

It doesn’t matter what the calendar says, scammers impersonate water, electric, and
gas company representatives all year long, threatening residents and business owners with deactivation of service if they don't pay up.

BBB Scam Alert: Utility impostor scam Scammers impersonating workers from the water, electric, or gas company may threaten to cut off of services unless payment is made immediately.