SMALL-BUSINESS OWNERS LEVEL THE PLAYING FIELD WITH HELP FROM THE NATIONAL ASSOCIATION FOR THE SELF-EMPLOYED

The statistics are staggering -- almost 15 million Americans are currently self-employed and research shows that self-employment is among the fastest-growing segments of American business. In fact, statistics indicate that independent workers now make up one-third of the labor force and are projected to be a majority of the nations total work force by the year 2005.

The statistics are staggering -- almost 15 million Americans are currently self-employed and research shows that self-employment is among the fastest-growing segments of American business. In fact, statistics indicate that independent workers now make up one-third of the labor force and are projected to be a majority of the nations total work force by the year 2005.

The stunning increase of the self-employed is creating new work environments for people who may be leaving the traditional work environment behind. At the same time, many of these entrepreneurs are finding that they dont have to leave the advantages of traditional work environments behind.

In the past few years, entrepreneurs have been greeted with a vast collection of new resources serving the needs of these small-business people. Among them are associations geared specifically to provide a host of benefits often taken for granted by the traditional work force that are critical resources to success in a competitive marketplace.
Entrepreneurs need every advantage they can get in todays business world," said Shane Reed, a local representative for the National Association for the Self-Employed. It doesnt make sense to compete if you dont start on a level playing field."

To level that field, NASE offers benefits like ShopTalk 800®, a free small-business consultant hotline where experts answer questions about things like start-up advice, financial assistance, marketing ideas and tax questions. NASE members also have access to discounts on printing, bookkeeping systems and office products.

Recognizing that everyone needs a break from their office, the NASE also developed a vast array of personal benefits. Travel services that offer discounts on trip planning and reservations, discount car rentals, amusement park discount coupons and low-cost movie tickets are only a few of the offerings available.

Serving the needs of the smallest of small business, NASEs primary goal is to help small businesses become more competitive by providing benefits and services that will meet its members business, financial and personal needs.

Members also have access to useful information through an award-winning Web site at www.nase.org, an exclusive bi-monthly magazine, and free business and tax advice. In addition, the NASE has a full time legislative staff based in Washington, D.C. to give its members a strong political voice and the negotiating power that comes with group size.

For more information about the National Association for the Self-Employed, call Shane Reed at 408-509-9642 or visit http://www.naseweb.com/shanereed.htm

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