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I have to admit it…I’m sick of the portrayal of business owners as exploiting employees, customers, the poor and those who feel disadvantaged.

I meet with about 150 small business owners every year.

Here is what I’ve learned:

• Small business owners earn a lot less per hour than you think.
• Small business owners routinely sacrifice their personal financial gain to make customers happy.
• Small business owners are the last to get paid; employees are always paid before the small business owner. If any money is left after the business pays vendors, landlords, employees and Uncle Sam..then the business owner gets paid.
• Chains may provide consistent products and services but chains can’t do what a local business owner can… be part of the community.

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