Remember those drawings from science class of how a lever works?
The lever was a long bar that rested atop a triangularly shaped fulcrum. One end of the lever was underneath the object to be raised. The other end of the lever was where downward force was applied to raise the object at the other end. The keys to whether or not the lever could raise the object were: 1) the distance of the fulcrum from the object to be raised, 2) the length of the lever, and 3) the force applied to the fulcrum.
In short, the longer the lever and the more force applied, the easier and faster you can move the object.
When mapping this diagram to the business of an independent professional, we find:
* The professional is the fulcrum
* The object to be moved is the business objective to be achieved
* The lever is the resource to be amplifed
* The downward force can be a body of knowledge or expertise; external resources (such as mentors/coaches, training, experts, etc.); an investment of time or money; the use of skills, tools, or talents; and the use of systems, processes, procedures, and structures.
Here are 3 of the many ways in which you can employ leverage in your business:
* Take your resources and repurpose or reuse them in new and innovative ways to add to your services, products, or resources. Hence, the body of knowledge represented by the original resource is multiplied into several services/products/resources for your business. For example, I could take and use it both in my ezine and on my web site. I could also make it into an eclass by expanding it with calls to action on the part of the reader. Once it is expanded into an eclass, it's just another step into making it a web-based class. From there I could take it into being a multi-session teleclass or an on-site seminar.
Can you see that without much additional effort you can take one resource and multiply it into 5 or 6 additional resources for your business?
* Take a resource and percolate it through multiple businesses for increased visibility.
For example, I could take and post it on several web sites that provided content for others to put in their ezines or on their web sites. I could also directly contact the webmasters at several of the bigger web sites that service my same target market of independent professionals and offer them the use of the article on their web site. Bingo! One article, multiple places of exposure.
* Tap into other forces to achieve a desired objective.
For example, if you want to short-circuit the learning process on a particular business subject, you can hire a mentor or coach, attend a workshop or seminar, or buy a book or tape training series. In this way you are using the power of other people's knowledge and experience to speed your learning. And speed of learning is just another type of leverage.
The ultimate purpose of applying leverage in your business is to achieve your desired objectives with more speed and less effort. Where are you missing opportunities to apply the power of leverage in your business?
11/10/07
5 GREAT WAYS to Gain New Contacts.
There are many ways to use the media to promote your business. You must ultimately decide what is best for your business. It may be all the items you have read about, or it may be only a few, but whatever you choose, you must get a precise and clear message across to your potential buyers. You must also make sure you form an excellent business relationship with those companies before you do business. You want to create an atmosphere of a solid business relationship, so that you will be doing business for the long-term and not just a short-term project here and there. You must be committed to what you are doing and get that commitment message across to your clients and potential clients.
It is entirely up to you how much you want to spend on public relations and promotion. But once you decide how much to spend, you should then plan to spend it wisely and not to flush your hard earned dollars down the drain. I would advise to do all of the above but do it in stages, and sometimes things like sponsorships will only come into play when you can afford it. The key is to get involved and stay involved; this consistency alone will reap rewards in the local community. You will also be able to walk into local businesses and they will recognize you and be willing to talk. It is a give and take process that creates good solid business relationships, they just need to know that you are out there and can be depended on.
You should also take advantage of PR professionals that can take your business ideas and make them news. For a list of these professionals you can check with consulting groups, yellow page ads, and web listings. One thing you need to do before you commit to a PR specialist is to make sure you do your homework and find out what they have done for others in the past. This way you will not be disappointed with the results.
I decided that I wanted to be coached in PR. I wanted to know more about how to do it correctly while having a guiding hand. Many of you may know Jill Lublin (the writer of the Foreword and author of the best sellers Guerilla Publicity & Networking Magic) who has been speaking about PR for several years. It is Jill's coaching that has made me savvier and more PR aware. For more information on Jill Lublin and her coaching, visit her website www.about-internet.com.
Bette Daoust, Ph.D. has been networking with others since leaving high school years ago. Realizing that no one really cared about what she did in life unless she had someone to tell and excite. She decided to find the best ways to get people's attention, be creative in how she presented herself and products, getting people to know who she was, and being visible all the time. Her friends and colleagues have often dubbed her the "Networking Queen". Blueprint for Networking Success: 150 ways to promote yourself is the first in this series. Blueprint for Branding Yourself: Another 150 ways to promote yourself is planned for release in 2005. For more information visit www.about-internet.com
It is entirely up to you how much you want to spend on public relations and promotion. But once you decide how much to spend, you should then plan to spend it wisely and not to flush your hard earned dollars down the drain. I would advise to do all of the above but do it in stages, and sometimes things like sponsorships will only come into play when you can afford it. The key is to get involved and stay involved; this consistency alone will reap rewards in the local community. You will also be able to walk into local businesses and they will recognize you and be willing to talk. It is a give and take process that creates good solid business relationships, they just need to know that you are out there and can be depended on.
You should also take advantage of PR professionals that can take your business ideas and make them news. For a list of these professionals you can check with consulting groups, yellow page ads, and web listings. One thing you need to do before you commit to a PR specialist is to make sure you do your homework and find out what they have done for others in the past. This way you will not be disappointed with the results.
I decided that I wanted to be coached in PR. I wanted to know more about how to do it correctly while having a guiding hand. Many of you may know Jill Lublin (the writer of the Foreword and author of the best sellers Guerilla Publicity & Networking Magic) who has been speaking about PR for several years. It is Jill's coaching that has made me savvier and more PR aware. For more information on Jill Lublin and her coaching, visit her website www.about-internet.com.
Bette Daoust, Ph.D. has been networking with others since leaving high school years ago. Realizing that no one really cared about what she did in life unless she had someone to tell and excite. She decided to find the best ways to get people's attention, be creative in how she presented herself and products, getting people to know who she was, and being visible all the time. Her friends and colleagues have often dubbed her the "Networking Queen". Blueprint for Networking Success: 150 ways to promote yourself is the first in this series. Blueprint for Branding Yourself: Another 150 ways to promote yourself is planned for release in 2005. For more information visit www.about-internet.com
Using Holidays to Put Some Extra Cheer in Your Cash Box.
No matter your age or station in life, we all look forward to holidays. They give us a reason to decorate, celebrate, and most of all, spend.
Think back to any of last year's holidays. Did you buy some new decorations? Probably. Did you plan a party or host a dinner? Likely. Did you buy gifts or take advantage of special sales and promotions? Undoubtedly!
Well, instead of being on the spending end of this year's holidays, why not turn the tables and put on a promotion of your own? During the fall and winter holidays especially, people are jolly, joyous, and a little more willing to open their wallets. Of course, no honest person wants to take blatant advantage of people and their money, but for those who are already ready to buy, why not take advantage of the season by giving them a special deal?
If you have a brick-and-mortar shop, why not have a holiday open house? These events are obviously more common from Halloween to New Year's, but have you ever though of holding this kind of party at your store for the 4th of July? Advertise free refreshments, music, and giveaways, and people will come in droves, no matter what holiday it happens to be. At the very least you'll have a good time showing others a good time, and you'll probably make a lot of extra sales. If holding such a bash requires you to stay open a little later, why not? After all, 'tis always the season to please.
If your business has its only home on the Internet, put some festive touches on your web site. Try decorating it with lights, fireworks, or other festive delights. Play some holiday music, or offer free holiday sounds or screen savers for those who stop by (if you do this, you might want to register your download site with search engines to make sure people can find it). People - to decorate their home or office computers with the free stuff they find online, so why not join the club?
Another fantastic way to use holidays for marketing is to send out festive cards to your current and past customers. Wish them a happy holiday and thank them for their business. If possible, have them hand-signed for a personal touch. Be sure your company logo appears somewhere on the card.
During the Christmas season, why not buy some attractive but inexpensive tree ornaments or other decorations, and stamp them with a small version of your company logo? Offer them free to those who make purchases, or sell them at your counter (or on your site) for a ridiculously low price. People tend to keep and collect decorations over the years, so your cheap little ornament is bound to make a lasting impression.
Whether it's Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas, Easter, or Ant Farm Harvest, holidays offer a great chance for your business to show its stuff. Let people see your kindler, gentler, jollier side and have a little fun with your promotions. When January rolls around again, your bottom line will be glad you did.
Meredith Pond has been writing marketing copy since 2000. She personally writes your classified ad or sales copy at any time of year! New lower prices and personal service at www.about-internet.com
Think back to any of last year's holidays. Did you buy some new decorations? Probably. Did you plan a party or host a dinner? Likely. Did you buy gifts or take advantage of special sales and promotions? Undoubtedly!
Well, instead of being on the spending end of this year's holidays, why not turn the tables and put on a promotion of your own? During the fall and winter holidays especially, people are jolly, joyous, and a little more willing to open their wallets. Of course, no honest person wants to take blatant advantage of people and their money, but for those who are already ready to buy, why not take advantage of the season by giving them a special deal?
If you have a brick-and-mortar shop, why not have a holiday open house? These events are obviously more common from Halloween to New Year's, but have you ever though of holding this kind of party at your store for the 4th of July? Advertise free refreshments, music, and giveaways, and people will come in droves, no matter what holiday it happens to be. At the very least you'll have a good time showing others a good time, and you'll probably make a lot of extra sales. If holding such a bash requires you to stay open a little later, why not? After all, 'tis always the season to please.
If your business has its only home on the Internet, put some festive touches on your web site. Try decorating it with lights, fireworks, or other festive delights. Play some holiday music, or offer free holiday sounds or screen savers for those who stop by (if you do this, you might want to register your download site with search engines to make sure people can find it). People - to decorate their home or office computers with the free stuff they find online, so why not join the club?
Another fantastic way to use holidays for marketing is to send out festive cards to your current and past customers. Wish them a happy holiday and thank them for their business. If possible, have them hand-signed for a personal touch. Be sure your company logo appears somewhere on the card.
During the Christmas season, why not buy some attractive but inexpensive tree ornaments or other decorations, and stamp them with a small version of your company logo? Offer them free to those who make purchases, or sell them at your counter (or on your site) for a ridiculously low price. People tend to keep and collect decorations over the years, so your cheap little ornament is bound to make a lasting impression.
Whether it's Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas, Easter, or Ant Farm Harvest, holidays offer a great chance for your business to show its stuff. Let people see your kindler, gentler, jollier side and have a little fun with your promotions. When January rolls around again, your bottom line will be glad you did.
Meredith Pond has been writing marketing copy since 2000. She personally writes your classified ad or sales copy at any time of year! New lower prices and personal service at www.about-internet.com
Tips and Tricks for Legal Debt Collections.
If a customer owes your local business money, it's hard not to feel angry, like you want to do anything possible to get your money back. But the days of going all out to collect on a debt over. The Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, designed to protect consumers from - ment or intimidation, sets firm limits on what you can do to collect a debt from a consumer. The federal debt collections law even prohibits practices that were once standard, and that you might not consider - ment at all.
Besides, as a local business, you have an even more powerful reason to be especially careful about legal debt collection issues. You have something much more valuable at stake than a lawsuit: your business's reputation in the community.
Legal Debt Collection Best Practices
There are plenty of articles on the web that lay out in plain English what the Fair Debt Collections Practices Act says you can and cannot do. Just to give you some idea of the law's requirements, here are some of the biggest:
* No telling any third party about the debt (except collection bureaus, collection agencies, or the debtor's attorney).
* No calling on the telephone 9 pm - 8 am, or calling repeatedly in a way that is annoying.
* No postcards or envelopes that mention the debt.
* No threats to take actions you cannot or will not really take, such as seizing property, in the case of an unsecured debt.
* No misrepresenting yourself (e.g., "Hi! This is the Publisher's Clearinghouse Sweepstakes. May I speak to John?").
* No paying down the debt with payments the customer has directed be applied to other debts
Tips and Tricks for Legal Debt Collections
With all these limits on what you can do to collect a debt, what can you do legally?
* Speak with the debtor personally on the telephone; most likely he or she wants to pay but is in over his or her head. Begin by asking what circumstance has kept him or her from paying. Offer to set up a repayment plan.
* You should both send letters and make telephone calls. Many people will only respond to one or the other.
Document every part of the collections process. Take notes for each call and keep a copy of each letter. If the debt does ever go to court, you will have proof you acted legally.
* Look into reporting the debt to credit bureaus. If you can, and are willing to do it, you can tell the debtor that not paying will impact his credit rating.
* Best tip of all: hand over the job to a dedicated collection agency. Small business debt collection services start at as little as $20 per debt. The fight to get paid is a fight no business should have to involve itself in.
Unfortunately, debt collections are a part of business. Just make sure that for your local business debt collection law is followed to the letter, or legal proceedings may become part of your business, too.
If you want to learn www.about-internet.com, then visit www.about-internet.com for the latest information on debt collection laws and collection agency regulation.
Besides, as a local business, you have an even more powerful reason to be especially careful about legal debt collection issues. You have something much more valuable at stake than a lawsuit: your business's reputation in the community.
Legal Debt Collection Best Practices
There are plenty of articles on the web that lay out in plain English what the Fair Debt Collections Practices Act says you can and cannot do. Just to give you some idea of the law's requirements, here are some of the biggest:
* No telling any third party about the debt (except collection bureaus, collection agencies, or the debtor's attorney).
* No calling on the telephone 9 pm - 8 am, or calling repeatedly in a way that is annoying.
* No postcards or envelopes that mention the debt.
* No threats to take actions you cannot or will not really take, such as seizing property, in the case of an unsecured debt.
* No misrepresenting yourself (e.g., "Hi! This is the Publisher's Clearinghouse Sweepstakes. May I speak to John?").
* No paying down the debt with payments the customer has directed be applied to other debts
Tips and Tricks for Legal Debt Collections
With all these limits on what you can do to collect a debt, what can you do legally?
* Speak with the debtor personally on the telephone; most likely he or she wants to pay but is in over his or her head. Begin by asking what circumstance has kept him or her from paying. Offer to set up a repayment plan.
* You should both send letters and make telephone calls. Many people will only respond to one or the other.
Document every part of the collections process. Take notes for each call and keep a copy of each letter. If the debt does ever go to court, you will have proof you acted legally.
* Look into reporting the debt to credit bureaus. If you can, and are willing to do it, you can tell the debtor that not paying will impact his credit rating.
* Best tip of all: hand over the job to a dedicated collection agency. Small business debt collection services start at as little as $20 per debt. The fight to get paid is a fight no business should have to involve itself in.
Unfortunately, debt collections are a part of business. Just make sure that for your local business debt collection law is followed to the letter, or legal proceedings may become part of your business, too.
If you want to learn www.about-internet.com, then visit www.about-internet.com for the latest information on debt collection laws and collection agency regulation.
Successfully Adding a Service To Your Business.
There will come a time in your business where you feel ready to add another service offering. To make this successful, there are ten tips to consider before moving ahead.
1) Revisit your business plan. If you don't have one, write one for your business as it currently exists (even a one-page, brief summary will work fine). Compare how your business plan will be the same or different with the addition of this new service.
2) Will this new offering build adequately on what you already have in place? This refers not only to your resources, but also to your own skills and those of your staff. Does this new offering extend further what you've already been doing? Or is it a detour into a new area?
3) Is the addition going to be cost effective? For example, if you're building on what you already have in place, you're probably going deeper into your current market rather than trying to start a whole new business from scratch. Generally speaking, it's almost always going to be more cost effective to add a related service line than it is to start a new one.
4) Have your customers asked you about this or expressed a need for something new? If you regularly consult with your customers you will know what they need and want. If they continually ask you whether you provide a particular service, use this information to guide what you next add to your business. Your bottom line will thank you.
5) If you are a solo professional, how will the new service improve what you're doing now? Will it provide you additional income or additional freedom? Is it an area that is more interesting to you? Just be sure that adding the service is likely to provide you with definable personal benefits otherwise, you might stretch yourself too thin.
6) How will your customers benefit from this new service? If you don't have a built in market for what you're offering be sure to think about what this new service will do for your existing customers. Will it allow you to serve more people? Fewer people? Will it cost less? Are the results going to be - ter?
7) Ask yourself: Why this and why now? What is driving your decision? Is this the right time to implement this new plan? Timing, sometimes, is the main difference - ween success and failure.
8) Give adequate notice. Be sure to give your customers adequate notice of these changes if this addition is going to impact your existing customers (as in you might be less available for a while or your prices might increase). Customers are very resilient when they know what's going on and why.
9) Communicate your enthusiasm. If you are excited about a new offering be sure to share this with everyone you know. Once you've decided to go ahead get as much help and support as you can. As the business owner, you have a lot of influence on your customer's view and response to this change.
10) Set some goals and revenue projections for the new offering. Create a marketing plan and decide how you will reach your targets. Measure your results. This will assist you in gauging if you're on the right track.
Most of all, have fun with this process. One of the best parts of owning your own business is that you can make adjustments which make your business - ter for your customers and yourself.
1) Revisit your business plan. If you don't have one, write one for your business as it currently exists (even a one-page, brief summary will work fine). Compare how your business plan will be the same or different with the addition of this new service.
2) Will this new offering build adequately on what you already have in place? This refers not only to your resources, but also to your own skills and those of your staff. Does this new offering extend further what you've already been doing? Or is it a detour into a new area?
3) Is the addition going to be cost effective? For example, if you're building on what you already have in place, you're probably going deeper into your current market rather than trying to start a whole new business from scratch. Generally speaking, it's almost always going to be more cost effective to add a related service line than it is to start a new one.
4) Have your customers asked you about this or expressed a need for something new? If you regularly consult with your customers you will know what they need and want. If they continually ask you whether you provide a particular service, use this information to guide what you next add to your business. Your bottom line will thank you.
5) If you are a solo professional, how will the new service improve what you're doing now? Will it provide you additional income or additional freedom? Is it an area that is more interesting to you? Just be sure that adding the service is likely to provide you with definable personal benefits otherwise, you might stretch yourself too thin.
6) How will your customers benefit from this new service? If you don't have a built in market for what you're offering be sure to think about what this new service will do for your existing customers. Will it allow you to serve more people? Fewer people? Will it cost less? Are the results going to be - ter?
7) Ask yourself: Why this and why now? What is driving your decision? Is this the right time to implement this new plan? Timing, sometimes, is the main difference - ween success and failure.
8) Give adequate notice. Be sure to give your customers adequate notice of these changes if this addition is going to impact your existing customers (as in you might be less available for a while or your prices might increase). Customers are very resilient when they know what's going on and why.
9) Communicate your enthusiasm. If you are excited about a new offering be sure to share this with everyone you know. Once you've decided to go ahead get as much help and support as you can. As the business owner, you have a lot of influence on your customer's view and response to this change.
10) Set some goals and revenue projections for the new offering. Create a marketing plan and decide how you will reach your targets. Measure your results. This will assist you in gauging if you're on the right track.
Most of all, have fun with this process. One of the best parts of owning your own business is that you can make adjustments which make your business - ter for your customers and yourself.
Starting is the Hardest Part.
You can't imagine how many people ask me how I did it. To turn my back onto convention, to turn a deaf ear on the people who wants what is best for me, to snub my nose at people who thinks I am making one of the biggest mistakes in my life?etc. Hey, this is what I do best, so, I am really good at this. Granted, not everyone is as good at defying convention (and logic) as me, so, I'll keep that in mind. :-)
I can't explain how it happened and I cannot pin point when it was that I decided to quit my job and work from home, but it happened because I wanted to be with my kids (Then, it was a lone Joshua but the resolve to have another child while working from home only went on to cement my decision).
I receive at least 10 to 15 emails EVERY SINGLE DAY from people telling me how much they wanted to do what I am doing right now ? they ask me how I did it, what was required, how was it in the beginning, how to deal with loved ones, how much money they would need to reserve to start their own business, what kind of business they should start and how to spot a scam, etc. And I always answer very definitively, JUST DO IT, ok?
Yes, you need to have some kind of a financial reserve in your bank account for stormy days. You'll need a couple of butcher knives to scare those debt-chasers away when they try to shoulder their way through your door ? but other than that, you don't need to have any more reserve that what you already have right now!
Pure gall and gut. (If I were a man, I would use other words, but I am not?so, sue me!)
Look, all I can is this: if you think you would rather work at home where you are free to divide your time - ween your family and you, decide when to work, how you work and what you work on, just do it.
First of all, think about what you would like to do. For example, if you like scuba diving, do you think it's possible for you to work from home teaching scuba diving or selling scuba diving gear? If you like to read, do you think it's plausible for you to sell books online? If you type really fast, you think you can sell your secretarial or typing services to others?
Put yourself into your potential clients' shoes ? do you think you will pay for your own kind of services? Remember, you're good at what you do so, you have to imagine that you're NOT good at what you do. For example, if you are good at typing, you have to imagine those two-finger-peck-by-peck typers who ARE willing to spend some money to get someone to type out long documents for them. If you are willing to pay for such services, how much do you think you would pay for it?
And then, the next thing you should do is to go to www.google.com or www.yahoo.com (or whatever favorite search engine it is of yours) and type in a relevant keyword. Research out our competitors. If I had to be really honest with you, I'd say send them emails and pretend to be a potential customer/client. Get a quote from them ? not one but maybe, like, TEN of them.
If this is the kind of money others are making from their own businesses, then you SHOULD be earning that kind of money as well.
I don't have a lot of space to go into details today but I will divulge more information later on, so, do come back for Part II!!
I can't explain how it happened and I cannot pin point when it was that I decided to quit my job and work from home, but it happened because I wanted to be with my kids (Then, it was a lone Joshua but the resolve to have another child while working from home only went on to cement my decision).
I receive at least 10 to 15 emails EVERY SINGLE DAY from people telling me how much they wanted to do what I am doing right now ? they ask me how I did it, what was required, how was it in the beginning, how to deal with loved ones, how much money they would need to reserve to start their own business, what kind of business they should start and how to spot a scam, etc. And I always answer very definitively, JUST DO IT, ok?
Yes, you need to have some kind of a financial reserve in your bank account for stormy days. You'll need a couple of butcher knives to scare those debt-chasers away when they try to shoulder their way through your door ? but other than that, you don't need to have any more reserve that what you already have right now!
Pure gall and gut. (If I were a man, I would use other words, but I am not?so, sue me!)
Look, all I can is this: if you think you would rather work at home where you are free to divide your time - ween your family and you, decide when to work, how you work and what you work on, just do it.
First of all, think about what you would like to do. For example, if you like scuba diving, do you think it's possible for you to work from home teaching scuba diving or selling scuba diving gear? If you like to read, do you think it's plausible for you to sell books online? If you type really fast, you think you can sell your secretarial or typing services to others?
Put yourself into your potential clients' shoes ? do you think you will pay for your own kind of services? Remember, you're good at what you do so, you have to imagine that you're NOT good at what you do. For example, if you are good at typing, you have to imagine those two-finger-peck-by-peck typers who ARE willing to spend some money to get someone to type out long documents for them. If you are willing to pay for such services, how much do you think you would pay for it?
And then, the next thing you should do is to go to www.google.com or www.yahoo.com (or whatever favorite search engine it is of yours) and type in a relevant keyword. Research out our competitors. If I had to be really honest with you, I'd say send them emails and pretend to be a potential customer/client. Get a quote from them ? not one but maybe, like, TEN of them.
If this is the kind of money others are making from their own businesses, then you SHOULD be earning that kind of money as well.
I don't have a lot of space to go into details today but I will divulge more information later on, so, do come back for Part II!!
How to become a Career Coach for Profit
A career coach could be simply defined your job seeking partner. A career coach could be a career management coach, who helps you in managing your career or a career marketing coach, who helps you build contacts, posts your resumes, tries to find the best jobs for you and helps you secure the best jobs. He basically tries to market you effectively in the job market.
Investment:
Start-up costs could be around $3000 with website hosting, a computer and other promotional materials included.
Financing sources:
# Banks are forefront in providing start up loans
# Business loans from the government
# Business organizations which will consider your initiative and possibly give you start up loans.
# Loans from government sponsored self employment programs are helpful to start up as well as develop your skills as a career coach.
# Loans from venture capitalists and angel investors are also effective. Both will help you financially but expect a higher rate of return. The angel investor is personally interested in the growth of your business.
Pricing guidelines for service:
In today's competitive job market, you have to price your service effectively be it career marketing or career management. Career coaches bill by the hour. Charges range from $50 to $200 an hour with an average of $100-150.
Advertising and Marketing Methods and Tips:
# You can advertise in regional or national newspapers and even post ads in colleges and universities.
# You could promote your 'career coaching' in social clubs, parties, get-togethers.
# You could print and distribute your business cards.
# You could write and distribute press releases locally or online which could include stories with ideas and advice which have worked for students and people in general with their career problems.
Equipment needed:
Typical home personal computer with database software, word processing software and access to research sites through internet.
Income potential:
Billing at the average of $100 per hour, working part-time you would earn from $8,000 and up. Full-time would be from $16,000 and up if you charged the industry average of $100 per hour.
Target market:
There is a big market where there are a lot of people who are at a crossroads in their career. There are lot of teenagers and young people who make wrong career decisions without introspecting themselves and making a decision based on peer pressure and the 'trends' in the job market. A person who changes his or her career goals for whatever reason and is now uncertain about the ways to achieve success in that field, would need the services of a career coach. There are a lot of people who need support and motivation at every stage of their career be it an interview or during a promotion. Job search is a billion dollar industry.
Success tips:
There are a lot of career coaches out there. To be different, upgrade your skills and focus on the entire personality development of the student or the person seeking career coaching. Groom him or her in etiquette, presentation and communication skills as well. Even if you charge a little bit extra, the person seeking your help will hugely benefit from your invaluable guidance.
Investment:
Start-up costs could be around $3000 with website hosting, a computer and other promotional materials included.
Financing sources:
# Banks are forefront in providing start up loans
# Business loans from the government
# Business organizations which will consider your initiative and possibly give you start up loans.
# Loans from government sponsored self employment programs are helpful to start up as well as develop your skills as a career coach.
# Loans from venture capitalists and angel investors are also effective. Both will help you financially but expect a higher rate of return. The angel investor is personally interested in the growth of your business.
Pricing guidelines for service:
In today's competitive job market, you have to price your service effectively be it career marketing or career management. Career coaches bill by the hour. Charges range from $50 to $200 an hour with an average of $100-150.
Advertising and Marketing Methods and Tips:
# You can advertise in regional or national newspapers and even post ads in colleges and universities.
# You could promote your 'career coaching' in social clubs, parties, get-togethers.
# You could print and distribute your business cards.
# You could write and distribute press releases locally or online which could include stories with ideas and advice which have worked for students and people in general with their career problems.
Equipment needed:
Typical home personal computer with database software, word processing software and access to research sites through internet.
Income potential:
Billing at the average of $100 per hour, working part-time you would earn from $8,000 and up. Full-time would be from $16,000 and up if you charged the industry average of $100 per hour.
Target market:
There is a big market where there are a lot of people who are at a crossroads in their career. There are lot of teenagers and young people who make wrong career decisions without introspecting themselves and making a decision based on peer pressure and the 'trends' in the job market. A person who changes his or her career goals for whatever reason and is now uncertain about the ways to achieve success in that field, would need the services of a career coach. There are a lot of people who need support and motivation at every stage of their career be it an interview or during a promotion. Job search is a billion dollar industry.
Success tips:
There are a lot of career coaches out there. To be different, upgrade your skills and focus on the entire personality development of the student or the person seeking career coaching. Groom him or her in etiquette, presentation and communication skills as well. Even if you charge a little bit extra, the person seeking your help will hugely benefit from your invaluable guidance.
Why Clean Mobile Homes for a Business?
Manufactured and Mobile Home owners know that the weather this year will be quite harsh. It's imperative these owners to clean out rain gutters and debris from on top of their homes. They realize that they must thoroughly wash off this summer's dirt so they do not have drip marks on the sides of their cottages this winter. They must eliminate the mold buildup, and unsightly stains. Those mobile homes which have not been cleaned all Winter must have their rain gutters cleaned so when Hurricane remnants dump massive amounts of water in a region the roofs do not collapse. It is equally important to clean the bottom of the eaves and carport to prevent mold spots from forming.
When you show up with a pressure washer in a mobile home park this is your chance to help these folks have the cleanest, most well kept mobile home in their park. Since cleaning mobile homes is such a good business you need to advise customer to act now before the weather gets you past the point of no return. Before more Hurricane weather drives in torrential rains and again in October for the East Coast and December on the West Coast before winter hits. In the West after January most companies will be very busy with emergency rain gutter clean outs and will be booked several weeks in advance. Our company has often had waiting lists and then simply had to turn away customers.
What can you charge for these services? You should offer early customers a 30% Savings and charge them $82.50 for a Double Wide and $102.50 for a Triple Wide. Additionally offer interior windows and screens with the wash for $ 20.00 extra. We recommend charging less for two or more mobile homes or an additional 10% savings each for each with a Senior Citizen Discount of 10%.
You should also make all your prices with expiration dates as mobile home dwellers and owners are known for their procrastination. On your advertising you might mention:
"This price is good only until January 15th. Normal prices will be charged after that date. Last chance to get the 30% discount is on January 15th at 5:00 pm."
This is a common practice if you use Money Mailer type coupon direct mail advertising campaigns by zip code. Be sure to alert your customers that you use specially formulated biologically and environmentally safe detergents. Let them know that they won't leave black algae spots on their home three weeks after the job has been completed.
Makes sure they know you are a legitimate business as so many fly by night groups feed of the senior citizens and elderly. You need to mention that your company does maintain current business licenses, wastewater permits and insurance. You are also advised to tell them that your crews are clean cut, all-American, athletic, hard working young men with positive attitudes. Tell those customers of your equipment and that it is state-of-the art and your - your customers. Of course you must make sure all that is true, if it is not perhaps you can lower your price until you build your business up to the point you can wash many mobile homes per day. Wash On !
"Lance Winslow" - If you have innovative thoughts and unique perspectives, come think with Lance; www.about-internet.com
When you show up with a pressure washer in a mobile home park this is your chance to help these folks have the cleanest, most well kept mobile home in their park. Since cleaning mobile homes is such a good business you need to advise customer to act now before the weather gets you past the point of no return. Before more Hurricane weather drives in torrential rains and again in October for the East Coast and December on the West Coast before winter hits. In the West after January most companies will be very busy with emergency rain gutter clean outs and will be booked several weeks in advance. Our company has often had waiting lists and then simply had to turn away customers.
What can you charge for these services? You should offer early customers a 30% Savings and charge them $82.50 for a Double Wide and $102.50 for a Triple Wide. Additionally offer interior windows and screens with the wash for $ 20.00 extra. We recommend charging less for two or more mobile homes or an additional 10% savings each for each with a Senior Citizen Discount of 10%.
You should also make all your prices with expiration dates as mobile home dwellers and owners are known for their procrastination. On your advertising you might mention:
"This price is good only until January 15th. Normal prices will be charged after that date. Last chance to get the 30% discount is on January 15th at 5:00 pm."
This is a common practice if you use Money Mailer type coupon direct mail advertising campaigns by zip code. Be sure to alert your customers that you use specially formulated biologically and environmentally safe detergents. Let them know that they won't leave black algae spots on their home three weeks after the job has been completed.
Makes sure they know you are a legitimate business as so many fly by night groups feed of the senior citizens and elderly. You need to mention that your company does maintain current business licenses, wastewater permits and insurance. You are also advised to tell them that your crews are clean cut, all-American, athletic, hard working young men with positive attitudes. Tell those customers of your equipment and that it is state-of-the art and your - your customers. Of course you must make sure all that is true, if it is not perhaps you can lower your price until you build your business up to the point you can wash many mobile homes per day. Wash On !
"Lance Winslow" - If you have innovative thoughts and unique perspectives, come think with Lance; www.about-internet.com
What is in an information plan?
Before you even meet with a potential customer, you should have an action plan in place. The action plan should consist of 5 areas. Each area will deal with certain aspects of any potential deal and information that will need to be gathered. Let's look at each of the areas and see what you need to learn about the client. First, the contact information for the decision maker and the personality type (we will deal with personality types later in the book). You will also need information on two other levels within the company. Who is the influencer in the situation, their name, title, and to whom they report to, plus their personality type? You will also want to know about anyone else that will be able to sway the decision for hiring your company or purchasing your products. You now have the first step in the process.
Second, information about sales volume should be gathered. This information is readily available if they are a publicly traded organization. If they are a privately held company, you may need to find other sources for getting the information. The information is not hard to get as most companies like to boast about their sales record.
Third, you will want to know what type of problems they are encountering. In other words, what is their business pain? You will need to make note of some solutions that you can provide that may help, but make sure that this is not cast in stone until after the meeting with the client.
Fourth, you will need to know something about their customers: are they happy, what do they see as the strengths and weaknesses? Once again you may have to ask for some leads or wait until you do an analysis of their perceived value.
The fifth and last thing to record is birthdates, anniversaries, special interests, and hobbies for each of the contacts. This last piece will help cement the bond. You will have created a place for a touch point with the client that is outside the scope of the contract. It will put you in a place where they will think of you when a similar project comes along.
You have now filled in your information plan. You should have enough background data to be able to make comments when in a meeting with the client. You will want the client to do most of the talking and you most of the listening. It is extremely important that you are taking mental notes while listening. Record your notes on your power page after you leave the meeting but do reiterate the major points that you heard before moving on.
Bette Daoust, Ph.D. has been networking with others since leaving high school years ago. Realizing that no one really cared about what she did in life unless she had someone to tell and excite. She decided to find the best ways to get people's attention, be creative in how she presented herself and products, getting people to know who she was, and being visible all the time. Her friends and colleagues have often dubbed her the "Networking Queen". Blueprint for Networking Success: 150 ways to promote yourself is the first in this series. Blueprint for Branding Yourself: Another 150 ways to promote yourself is planned for release in 2005. For more information visit www.about-internet.com
Second, information about sales volume should be gathered. This information is readily available if they are a publicly traded organization. If they are a privately held company, you may need to find other sources for getting the information. The information is not hard to get as most companies like to boast about their sales record.
Third, you will want to know what type of problems they are encountering. In other words, what is their business pain? You will need to make note of some solutions that you can provide that may help, but make sure that this is not cast in stone until after the meeting with the client.
Fourth, you will need to know something about their customers: are they happy, what do they see as the strengths and weaknesses? Once again you may have to ask for some leads or wait until you do an analysis of their perceived value.
The fifth and last thing to record is birthdates, anniversaries, special interests, and hobbies for each of the contacts. This last piece will help cement the bond. You will have created a place for a touch point with the client that is outside the scope of the contract. It will put you in a place where they will think of you when a similar project comes along.
You have now filled in your information plan. You should have enough background data to be able to make comments when in a meeting with the client. You will want the client to do most of the talking and you most of the listening. It is extremely important that you are taking mental notes while listening. Record your notes on your power page after you leave the meeting but do reiterate the major points that you heard before moving on.
Bette Daoust, Ph.D. has been networking with others since leaving high school years ago. Realizing that no one really cared about what she did in life unless she had someone to tell and excite. She decided to find the best ways to get people's attention, be creative in how she presented herself and products, getting people to know who she was, and being visible all the time. Her friends and colleagues have often dubbed her the "Networking Queen". Blueprint for Networking Success: 150 ways to promote yourself is the first in this series. Blueprint for Branding Yourself: Another 150 ways to promote yourself is planned for release in 2005. For more information visit www.about-internet.com
Small Business Success - It?s a Matter of Confidence.
I was floored! I couldn't believe what they were saying! But there they sat -- three of the biggest film stars of our age -- telling the world they had issues with confidence. I was watching an interview where Meryl Streep, Nicole Kidman and Julianne Moore were talking with Oprah Winfrey. Their conversation gave me a lot to think about in regard to small business success.
It started with Meryl making a comment about a movie she'd starred in. Her joke was about the fact that she actually quit the movie before it began filming and then ended up following through with her commitment after all. At this point, Nicole and Julianne chimed in. "I do the same thing!" was the cry. As I watched these three huge film stars go back and forth with their issues of insecurity, it dawned on me that I had something in common with these movie icons.
As a small business owner, I constantly question myself. I wonder if I have the imagination, the talent, the skills, or the drive to make it online. Yes, I'm earning a full-time living on the Web. I've done so for quite some time now. But that fact seems to play a tiny part in the establishment of my self-esteem.
Like most small business owners, and apparently at least three giant film stars, there is a constant struggle with what we *think* we can do, and what we can actually achieve. Self-doubt creeps in and - if we let it take hold - we want to quit. We question our abilities and even our successes. It has the potential to be devastating.
There is something else I learned from this interview, however. While all three of these ladies had gone so far as to call their agents and tell them they weren't making the movies they were contracted for, they still did them. Even with high levels of insecurity, they got themselves together and marched onward.
What was the end result? Most of the time, a box-office hit and millions of dollars! Yes, there have been a few "failures" for each of them. However, generally speaking, each time they made an effort something wonderful happened.
There are three things I don't think I'll ever forget about that interview.
# Everybody - even the "rich and famous" - doubts himself or herself from time to time. Small business owners are no different. Wearing all the different "hats" of a small business owner creates the perfect environment for insecurity to creep in. It's something you will likely not completely rid your life from, but it IS something you can overcome.
# If the risk is a calculated and reasonable one - suck it up and move onward toward your goal. Take into consideration the "logical" aspects of success. Is the risk you're about to take (expanding your services, taking on a new client, launching a new product) one that stands a good chance of success? Weigh your options. If you decide the risk is worth taking, then don't let fear stand in your way.
# Oprah DOES have some good shows from time to time! :) So many small business owners quit before ever "making it." That's a shame. They let their doubts and fears take over, and it drives their dreams right out of the picture. If you - something - if you truly want to do a particular thing and earn an income from it - don't let anyone (including yourself) tell you that it can't be done. I think Meryl, Nicole and Julianne would agree!
It started with Meryl making a comment about a movie she'd starred in. Her joke was about the fact that she actually quit the movie before it began filming and then ended up following through with her commitment after all. At this point, Nicole and Julianne chimed in. "I do the same thing!" was the cry. As I watched these three huge film stars go back and forth with their issues of insecurity, it dawned on me that I had something in common with these movie icons.
As a small business owner, I constantly question myself. I wonder if I have the imagination, the talent, the skills, or the drive to make it online. Yes, I'm earning a full-time living on the Web. I've done so for quite some time now. But that fact seems to play a tiny part in the establishment of my self-esteem.
Like most small business owners, and apparently at least three giant film stars, there is a constant struggle with what we *think* we can do, and what we can actually achieve. Self-doubt creeps in and - if we let it take hold - we want to quit. We question our abilities and even our successes. It has the potential to be devastating.
There is something else I learned from this interview, however. While all three of these ladies had gone so far as to call their agents and tell them they weren't making the movies they were contracted for, they still did them. Even with high levels of insecurity, they got themselves together and marched onward.
What was the end result? Most of the time, a box-office hit and millions of dollars! Yes, there have been a few "failures" for each of them. However, generally speaking, each time they made an effort something wonderful happened.
There are three things I don't think I'll ever forget about that interview.
# Everybody - even the "rich and famous" - doubts himself or herself from time to time. Small business owners are no different. Wearing all the different "hats" of a small business owner creates the perfect environment for insecurity to creep in. It's something you will likely not completely rid your life from, but it IS something you can overcome.
# If the risk is a calculated and reasonable one - suck it up and move onward toward your goal. Take into consideration the "logical" aspects of success. Is the risk you're about to take (expanding your services, taking on a new client, launching a new product) one that stands a good chance of success? Weigh your options. If you decide the risk is worth taking, then don't let fear stand in your way.
# Oprah DOES have some good shows from time to time! :) So many small business owners quit before ever "making it." That's a shame. They let their doubts and fears take over, and it drives their dreams right out of the picture. If you - something - if you truly want to do a particular thing and earn an income from it - don't let anyone (including yourself) tell you that it can't be done. I think Meryl, Nicole and Julianne would agree!
Virtual Assistance for Healthcare Professionals
Administrative and clerical tasks are the bane of every industry. No matter how small or large your business is, you will eventually find yourself with stacks of paperwork that need your attention and phone calls that need to be made. And when will you find the time? If you are busy seeing your clients during the day, then the paperwork waits until the evenings and weekends. This can make for some very long days and total exhaustion. Hiring a virtual assistant is becoming the best option for many professionals.
Virtual assistants are administrative professionals who, for a variety of reasons, have chosen to work from home offices. Virtual assistance is an industry that is swiftly - ging its way into the outsourcing arena. There are currently about 2,000 virtual assistants worldwide, and this number is growing daily. There are virtual assistance accreditation schools, chat groups, professional organizations, and annual conferences. As a virtual assistant, these administrative professionals are independent contractors who provide office support remotely, using current computer technology and the Internet.
Let's look at the differences - ween hiring staff and working with a virtual assistant:
When you hire support staff, you will need to provide some amount of training. You also will provide a space for that person, and supplies needed to do the job. In addition, your staff expenses will include taxes, insurance, vacation and - pay, raises, overtime pay, and usually a pension or some type of retirement plan. You will also be paying that person for idle and non-productive time; you will be expected to do annual performance reviews; and you are expected to manage and supervise.
In comparison, when you hire a virtual assistant, you are hiring someone who already specializes in the type of work that you do, so you automatically eliminate the need for training. Virtual assistants work from their own offices and use their own supplies and office equipment. Virtual assistants pay their own taxes and insurance. And best of all, you only pay a virtual assistant for the hours worked.
Virtual assistants are flexible enough to be able to work only the hours that you will need them, on an as-needed basis. Some businesses contract for a certain amount of hours a month and are assured of having those hours reserved for them. Other people hire a virtual assistant on an occasional basis, perhaps if they have a project, mailing, or campaign coming up and need the extra assistance.
You can go on the Internet and find an unlimited number of people who provide office support services; the difference is that virtual assistants have not only the administrative background, but also the training in how to use that background in a global marketplace. Working with a virtual assistant gives you the benefits of having your own personal assistant without the extra costs and associated managerial headaches. Most virtual assistants are very flexible and will do whatever is needed to fulfill your administrative needs. For a lot of businesses, it is the most practical and cost-effective way to get the administrative work done.
Healthcare professionals who find themselves in the position of having an overflowing to-do box and wondering what to do about it, may be well advised to consider hiring a Virtual Assistant.
Virtual assistants are administrative professionals who, for a variety of reasons, have chosen to work from home offices. Virtual assistance is an industry that is swiftly - ging its way into the outsourcing arena. There are currently about 2,000 virtual assistants worldwide, and this number is growing daily. There are virtual assistance accreditation schools, chat groups, professional organizations, and annual conferences. As a virtual assistant, these administrative professionals are independent contractors who provide office support remotely, using current computer technology and the Internet.
Let's look at the differences - ween hiring staff and working with a virtual assistant:
When you hire support staff, you will need to provide some amount of training. You also will provide a space for that person, and supplies needed to do the job. In addition, your staff expenses will include taxes, insurance, vacation and - pay, raises, overtime pay, and usually a pension or some type of retirement plan. You will also be paying that person for idle and non-productive time; you will be expected to do annual performance reviews; and you are expected to manage and supervise.
In comparison, when you hire a virtual assistant, you are hiring someone who already specializes in the type of work that you do, so you automatically eliminate the need for training. Virtual assistants work from their own offices and use their own supplies and office equipment. Virtual assistants pay their own taxes and insurance. And best of all, you only pay a virtual assistant for the hours worked.
Virtual assistants are flexible enough to be able to work only the hours that you will need them, on an as-needed basis. Some businesses contract for a certain amount of hours a month and are assured of having those hours reserved for them. Other people hire a virtual assistant on an occasional basis, perhaps if they have a project, mailing, or campaign coming up and need the extra assistance.
You can go on the Internet and find an unlimited number of people who provide office support services; the difference is that virtual assistants have not only the administrative background, but also the training in how to use that background in a global marketplace. Working with a virtual assistant gives you the benefits of having your own personal assistant without the extra costs and associated managerial headaches. Most virtual assistants are very flexible and will do whatever is needed to fulfill your administrative needs. For a lot of businesses, it is the most practical and cost-effective way to get the administrative work done.
Healthcare professionals who find themselves in the position of having an overflowing to-do box and wondering what to do about it, may be well advised to consider hiring a Virtual Assistant.
Does Your Company Have a Business Image Manual.
Every business regardless of size needs a "Business Image Manual" to protect their band. Even the smallest companies with only a few employees is well served when there is a business image manual in place. For 15 years I ran a small business, which I eventually franchised and later expanded to 23-states and 4 countries. What I had learned after franchising is that; I should have written my image manual 10-years prior. At first my business was just me alone; like most small businesses, but then due to my hard work and customer service, I had to expand to meet demand. Each time I added people to the team, I seemed to be rehashing over and over again my theories on business image. Often I would have to harp on the issue with part time employees or even summer help. What I needed was a manual. However, being a head strong entrepreneur in those days, I like many entrepreneurs of small businesses said; "What do I need a bunch of manuals or even a business plan for that matter?" After all most of us know our businesses very well and we do not have to write it down. We just know thru intuition what will work and why and surprisingly we end up making few mistakes, but when we do they are usually quite large and costly lessons.
Not having a Business Image Manual can be such a problematic mistake, one, which trust me you do not want to make or need to for that matter. Franchising later taught me how important it was to have the image of my companies under a tight reign and as the company grew larger and larger, I was happy to have learned that lesson, I just wish I had not learned it the hard way. Now mind you I am not in the same industry as you are, in fact my business is not like other businesses at all. It may in fact be quite dissimilar to your business model, but this outline below will help you design your own "Business Image Manual." I recommend you start be re-writing this outline to most mirror your business or company and then write two-paragraphs for each item. It will come to just over ten pages and from there you can elaborate further. In the end you will end up with a 20-30 page Business Image Manual, which will provide you with years of enhanced brand recognition and enough customers to fulfill your business dreams for future years. IMAGE
I. ATTIRE
A. Company Shirts
B. Shorts
C. Hats
D. Grooming
E. Managers
F. Employees
G Independents
II. SPEECH
A. Sales Tapes
B. Positive, Confidence
C. Smile-Caring, Not Phony
D. No-No's (Politics, Religion, Racial)
III. TRUCK
A. Cleanliness
B. Rentals
C. Magnetics
D. Signage
E. Color Codes
F. Tires
IV. EQUIPMENT
A. Stainless Steel
B. Paint, Touch Ups
C. Lights
D. Vacuum Cleaner
E. Extractor
F. Noise
V. TRUCK BED
A. Diamond Plate
B. Boxes
C. Trash
D. Bed Area
VI. PAGER
A. Vibrate Mode
B. Wear It
C. Etc.
VII. MANAGER RESPONSIBILITIES
A. Customer Contact
B. Mannerism
C. Crew
"Lance Winslow" - If you have innovative thoughts and unique perspectives, come think with Lance; www.about-internet.com
Not having a Business Image Manual can be such a problematic mistake, one, which trust me you do not want to make or need to for that matter. Franchising later taught me how important it was to have the image of my companies under a tight reign and as the company grew larger and larger, I was happy to have learned that lesson, I just wish I had not learned it the hard way. Now mind you I am not in the same industry as you are, in fact my business is not like other businesses at all. It may in fact be quite dissimilar to your business model, but this outline below will help you design your own "Business Image Manual." I recommend you start be re-writing this outline to most mirror your business or company and then write two-paragraphs for each item. It will come to just over ten pages and from there you can elaborate further. In the end you will end up with a 20-30 page Business Image Manual, which will provide you with years of enhanced brand recognition and enough customers to fulfill your business dreams for future years. IMAGE
I. ATTIRE
A. Company Shirts
B. Shorts
C. Hats
D. Grooming
E. Managers
F. Employees
G Independents
II. SPEECH
A. Sales Tapes
B. Positive, Confidence
C. Smile-Caring, Not Phony
D. No-No's (Politics, Religion, Racial)
III. TRUCK
A. Cleanliness
B. Rentals
C. Magnetics
D. Signage
E. Color Codes
F. Tires
IV. EQUIPMENT
A. Stainless Steel
B. Paint, Touch Ups
C. Lights
D. Vacuum Cleaner
E. Extractor
F. Noise
V. TRUCK BED
A. Diamond Plate
B. Boxes
C. Trash
D. Bed Area
VI. PAGER
A. Vibrate Mode
B. Wear It
C. Etc.
VII. MANAGER RESPONSIBILITIES
A. Customer Contact
B. Mannerism
C. Crew
"Lance Winslow" - If you have innovative thoughts and unique perspectives, come think with Lance; www.about-internet.com
How To Cut Expenses And Manage Your Business
If you own a small business, you should know that often times it can be the little things, rather than the large expenses, that can eat away at your budget. But many times, small business owners will try and increase their profits by looking around at what larger expenses they can cut.
If you are looking to save some cash in your business, why not pay attention to our "small time" cost cutter ideas. You'll find that if you add them up, they may just save you more than a penny!
And actually together they do save a lot.
#Change Your Plastic Options
If you own a small web site that doesn't do tons of online business, then chances are you don't need a merchant account. These can be costly, and probably won't pay for itself unless you do a robust business. But instead of losing business by not accepting credit cards, you can use one of the other options such as Paypal or - bank. 2checkout.com is another good option for the few countries not accepted by - bank.
With these types of payment systems, clients can use their credit cards, and once the transaction is complete, the money is instantly deposited in your online account. Then you will simply need to transfer it to your bank account. You can even run your own affiliate programme with these services.
They are good and not expensive. You pay per sale rather than annoying monthly charges.
You will need to do some comparisons before switching services. Make sure that the transaction fees won't cost more than the fees you are currently paying.
#Change Your Calling Options
What are you paying for long distance phone calls? Depending on the company, it's possible that you could save hundreds per year if you switched to another. Because of stiff competition, you should be able to go online and find the perfect rate for your needs.
And if you hold a lot of business meetings on the phone, don't forget to check into teleconferencing or web conferencing as a less expensive solution!
#Change Your Internet Options
The days are gone when you have to pay a fortune for an ISP server. In addition to the big boys, there are a great many smaller ISPs that will just as good of a job-if not - ter-for your business.
The key is negotiation and research.
Start by looking online by typing in search terms as "affordable ISP," and "cheap Internet Service." Once you've found a few, begin to compare rates and services.
Now, if you already pay twice as much with one of the larger companies, call them up and tell them that unless they can lower your rate, you'll have no option than to switch to another company.
Many times, they will compensate you in the form of free months, or downright lower your fee. If they won't budge, then you've already researched your other options, so make the move!
Can you see by just taking some time and looking at these areas how you can feasibly save hundreds of dollars per year in your small business? Get creative and figure out other ways to save.
Could you book your trips last minute and save one-half or more on your travel expenses?
Where do you buy your office supplies?
Do you buy in bulk?
Remember, it's great when you can cut the large expenses, but that's not always possible. Don't forget the small stuff, too!
Wish you success.
If you are looking to save some cash in your business, why not pay attention to our "small time" cost cutter ideas. You'll find that if you add them up, they may just save you more than a penny!
And actually together they do save a lot.
#Change Your Plastic Options
If you own a small web site that doesn't do tons of online business, then chances are you don't need a merchant account. These can be costly, and probably won't pay for itself unless you do a robust business. But instead of losing business by not accepting credit cards, you can use one of the other options such as Paypal or - bank. 2checkout.com is another good option for the few countries not accepted by - bank.
With these types of payment systems, clients can use their credit cards, and once the transaction is complete, the money is instantly deposited in your online account. Then you will simply need to transfer it to your bank account. You can even run your own affiliate programme with these services.
They are good and not expensive. You pay per sale rather than annoying monthly charges.
You will need to do some comparisons before switching services. Make sure that the transaction fees won't cost more than the fees you are currently paying.
#Change Your Calling Options
What are you paying for long distance phone calls? Depending on the company, it's possible that you could save hundreds per year if you switched to another. Because of stiff competition, you should be able to go online and find the perfect rate for your needs.
And if you hold a lot of business meetings on the phone, don't forget to check into teleconferencing or web conferencing as a less expensive solution!
#Change Your Internet Options
The days are gone when you have to pay a fortune for an ISP server. In addition to the big boys, there are a great many smaller ISPs that will just as good of a job-if not - ter-for your business.
The key is negotiation and research.
Start by looking online by typing in search terms as "affordable ISP," and "cheap Internet Service." Once you've found a few, begin to compare rates and services.
Now, if you already pay twice as much with one of the larger companies, call them up and tell them that unless they can lower your rate, you'll have no option than to switch to another company.
Many times, they will compensate you in the form of free months, or downright lower your fee. If they won't budge, then you've already researched your other options, so make the move!
Can you see by just taking some time and looking at these areas how you can feasibly save hundreds of dollars per year in your small business? Get creative and figure out other ways to save.
Could you book your trips last minute and save one-half or more on your travel expenses?
Where do you buy your office supplies?
Do you buy in bulk?
Remember, it's great when you can cut the large expenses, but that's not always possible. Don't forget the small stuff, too!
Wish you success.
Dont Let Your Small Business Fall in the FDCPA Trap.
When someone owes your small business money, you certainly feel like a victim. But did you know that if you aren't careful, you could break the law by trying to get the money back?
How to Break a Federal Debt Collection Law
You have a small business, and your bills are coming due soon. You could easily pay those bills if a few thousands dollars of overdue invoices were paid. It's time to give your clients a few friendly reminders:
1] You call up the biggest debtor at his home number. The debtor's girlfriend answers and you leave the message that you were just calling to remind her husband about the invoice you had sent last month.
2] You get into an argument over the phone with the next debtor. In the heat of the moment, you say you're referring the debt to you attorney--when in reality, you know you can't afford to do that.
3]It's getting late--in fact, it's already after 9pm. But you know that debtor number 3 tends to stay up quite late, so it's practically midday for him. So, you cheerfully give him a call and remind him about the invoice of a couple of months ago.
Congratulations, you may have just broken a federal law three separate times. Plus, you could be sued for it.
Collections Laws Finer Points
Have you figured out what collections law you broke yet? It's the Fair Debt Collections Practice Act (FDCPA), the federal law for collections. Meant to protect consumers from - ment, it has a clear list of things you can't do. Let's look at what you did wrong in the last example:
- Never tell someone other than the debtor that you are calling about a bill. You can, of course, leave a message that you called. You can even call someone simply to find out if they know if a hard-to-reach debtor has moved house. But you cannot under any circumstances let on that they owe money. Simply leave your name and phone number as with any other "call me back" telephone message.
-Never claim to be involving an attorney when you are not. Of course, this might seem like a soft area of the law, since intentions are fuzzy. But, for instance, if it's clear that suing to recover the debt would cost as much as the debt itself, your bluff will be obvious in retrospect. To be on the safe side, don't ever claim to have involved your lawyer.
-Never call before 8 am or after 9 pm, unless you have the explicit permission of the debtor. But unless that permission is in writing, you're safer not calling during those hours, anyway. Of course, it's not strictly this simple.
For instance, the law is only supposed to apply to consumer collections, not business collections. But with home business and telecommuting blurring the line - ween work and home, you're - ter off following the law's dictates in every case.
Plus, the law has numerous other protections for debtors--or traps for collectors, depending on your point of view. This is just one reason why you might want to outsource your over-aged accounts receivables to a professional service.
If you want to learn www.about-internet.com, then visit www.about-internet.com for the latest information on debt collection laws and collection agency regulation.
How to Break a Federal Debt Collection Law
You have a small business, and your bills are coming due soon. You could easily pay those bills if a few thousands dollars of overdue invoices were paid. It's time to give your clients a few friendly reminders:
1] You call up the biggest debtor at his home number. The debtor's girlfriend answers and you leave the message that you were just calling to remind her husband about the invoice you had sent last month.
2] You get into an argument over the phone with the next debtor. In the heat of the moment, you say you're referring the debt to you attorney--when in reality, you know you can't afford to do that.
3]It's getting late--in fact, it's already after 9pm. But you know that debtor number 3 tends to stay up quite late, so it's practically midday for him. So, you cheerfully give him a call and remind him about the invoice of a couple of months ago.
Congratulations, you may have just broken a federal law three separate times. Plus, you could be sued for it.
Collections Laws Finer Points
Have you figured out what collections law you broke yet? It's the Fair Debt Collections Practice Act (FDCPA), the federal law for collections. Meant to protect consumers from - ment, it has a clear list of things you can't do. Let's look at what you did wrong in the last example:
- Never tell someone other than the debtor that you are calling about a bill. You can, of course, leave a message that you called. You can even call someone simply to find out if they know if a hard-to-reach debtor has moved house. But you cannot under any circumstances let on that they owe money. Simply leave your name and phone number as with any other "call me back" telephone message.
-Never claim to be involving an attorney when you are not. Of course, this might seem like a soft area of the law, since intentions are fuzzy. But, for instance, if it's clear that suing to recover the debt would cost as much as the debt itself, your bluff will be obvious in retrospect. To be on the safe side, don't ever claim to have involved your lawyer.
-Never call before 8 am or after 9 pm, unless you have the explicit permission of the debtor. But unless that permission is in writing, you're safer not calling during those hours, anyway. Of course, it's not strictly this simple.
For instance, the law is only supposed to apply to consumer collections, not business collections. But with home business and telecommuting blurring the line - ween work and home, you're - ter off following the law's dictates in every case.
Plus, the law has numerous other protections for debtors--or traps for collectors, depending on your point of view. This is just one reason why you might want to outsource your over-aged accounts receivables to a professional service.
If you want to learn www.about-internet.com, then visit www.about-internet.com for the latest information on debt collection laws and collection agency regulation.
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