Hugh Weber's business is all about developing marketing strategies for other small businesses. He says its that connection that has allowed him to be successful.
And now, he shares some of his tips that might be useful to those looking to get into the game of business.

We've heard the stories of bankruptcy and debt and how this economy has taken its toll on everyone....and its hard to ignore. But Hugh Weber, who runs a small business out of his Sioux Falls home, says despite all that, starting a business in this economy isn't such a bad idea. "If you know...and are deliberate about who your targets are and who your potential customers are, if you're aggressive and have a passion for what it is you're doing; now is a wonderful time to start a small business."

He says identifying that focus, and having a set plan is essential to enjoying success during these tough times. But when weber started Deep Bench, a strategic marketing and consulting business, he knew he was entering risky territory.

"It is akin to jumping off a cliff and wondering if you have a parachute."

But with that risk, can come great reward. "There is no greater job than to wake up every morning knowing that you're going to go to work doing what it is you believe strongly in, what you enjoy, with a bunch of people that share those same values," Weber says.

Weber adds that those risks must be calculated and you've got to avoid putting too much on the line.

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