Business & Information Technology Division

Business: Small Business Management

Guy Devitt
(315) 866-0300 or toll free 1-888-GO-4-HCCC, ext. 8744

Karen Evans
(315) 866-0300 or toll free 1-888-GO-4-HCCC, ext. 8649

Program Summary

The Small Business Management program is designed for students who would like to own and operate their own business.
Graduates are prepared to:

• Write business plans
• Work with accountants, attorneys and bankers
• Use business related computer software applications
• Organize a sole proprietorship, form a partnership and/or incorporate a small business
• Prepare budgets to control costs
• Network with federal, state and local agencies that assist small business owners

Program of Study at Herkimer

Click Small Business Management for the current program of study page.

Skill Requirements

Managers should become familiar with the latest developments in management techniques. Participation in conferences and seminars can expand knowledge of national and international issues influencing the organization and can help the participants to develop a network of useful contacts. Courses in management and completion of an internship while in school are highly recommended. Persons interested in becoming small business owners should be mature, creative, highly motivated, resistant to stress, flexible, and decisive. The ability to communicate persuasively, both orally and in writing, is vital. Also needed are tact, good judgment and exceptional ability to establish and maintain effective personal relationships.

Source: www.bls.gov December 2005.

Nature of the Work

All organizations have specific goals and objectives that they strive to meet. Business owners devise strategies and formulate policies to ensure that these objectives are met. In smaller organizations, such as independent retail stores or small manufacturers, the owner is responsible for purchasing, hiring, training, quality control, and day-to-day supervisory duties. To perform effectively, they also need knowledge of administrative procedures, such as budgeting, hiring, and supervision.

Source: www.bls.gov December 2005.

Job Outlook

The program provides students with the essential entrepreneurial tools needed to start a business. Additionally, students learn relevant job skills required by employers to fill entry-level management positions.