One of the things I’ve learned  is that you appreciate it when resources are pointed out to you — especially free or discounted.  Some of the most popular items on the site are the resources. 

So, here’s what I’ve got for you today:  free trade magazines and white papers.

Those of you who read this site through a feedreader, may not be aware that I have an entire section with free trade publications, downloads and related valuable stuff. 

All of the trade publications and white papers are 100% free.  You just have to meet the publisher’s eligibility.  Usually that means your business has to be in an industry that the publication is targeting.  Sometimes your business has to be of a certain size.  Or you may have to be in a role — example: Chief Financial Officer — that the magazine is intended for.

Trade publications help you stay up to date on your industry.  You can circulate them to your employees, too, for their education.  You might even put some in your lobby for customers, business partners and other visitors. 

What publications are included? 

If you are looking for a publication by name, search alphabetically.  Or you can search by industry or interest, such as Sales and Marketing. 

Small business publications

You’ll find an entire section filled with selections specifically for small businesses. 

Canada, Mexico and International

There’s an entire section set up for international subscriptions.  That means you do not have to be in the United States to get those magazines.  And for those of you who are just a short hop across Lake Erie from me (yes, I am physically closer to Canada than to Kansas), there are publications open to Canadian businesses.  There are also Mexico eligible trade magazines.

Are these print magazines?

Yes, most are print publications.  The white papers and podcasts are electronic downloads — once you are approved you can download them to your computer within a minute or two.

 Why does this sound too good to be true?

If this sounds too good to be true, it is not.  Let me explain why.  Trade publishers want to reach businesses in specific industries.   Trade magazines are “controlled circulation,” meaning they are only available to those in their desired audience.  But if you’re in their target audience, you get them for free.  Same goes for publishers of white papers, downloads, etc.

A tiny percentage may be mainstream business magazines such as BusinessWeek and even free trials of software, such as Microsoft Visio.  This small percentage may be limited-time trials.  However, you will never be asked to input a credit card number. 

What’s in it for you

Small Business Trends gets a small payment for every approved subscription or download.  That small amount helps pay for the many service providers (all small businesses) I hire to work on this site and radio show. 

But remember, YOU get it for free.

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