Some would say selling is a complex psychological process. Others would say it is a battle of wills and opinions. Even others like Stephen Covey would say it must be a win win arrangement, where the customer wins and the seller wins. Regardless of your opinion or feelings about selling, this is the truth! If you are insensitive to the customer's words and behaviours, then the sale will not take place!
Often the salesperson is so impatient to make the sale they make a number of mistakes, then they are surprised when the sale does not happen. I have even heard some salespeople comment that they think they control the customer. They feel they can make the customer buy! What nonsense! Who are they kidding, besides themselves?
What I hope to do in this article is to help the reader understand the dynamics of the sale. For many unsuccessful salespeople find closing the sale a very difficult part of the sales process. The successful salespeople have figured out what I am about to share with the reader of this article.
First, let's consider the dynamics of the relationship between the seller and the customer. Each has different objectives. The seller obviously wants to make the sale. The customer wants to determine if there is value in purchasing the product. So each customer as an individual has different objectives or goals. These objectives can only be reached if the seller behaves correctly. This is where the salesperson has the real power. They have power and control to behave correctly and appropriately. If they do so, then everything is possible, like more sales and more referrals. Wouldn't you like to make more sales?
Next, let's consider the various parts of the buying process. When anybody buys anything, whether it is a car, clothes, TV or Life Insurance, that purchase is based on four reasons. Theses reasons are the only reasons why people buy anything. These reasons exist every time a purchase occurs. They are NEED, HELP, MONEY and URGENCY. Let's examine each of these reasons.
NEED
It is not the need of the salesperson to make the sale. It is the need of the customer for the product, or at least for the benefits derived from buying the product. Salespeople need to spend a fair bit of time with the customer, asking questions, taking notes and analyzing the customer's current and desired situation to ensure the salesperson understands the customer's needs. Customers must have an opportunity to verbally confirm that they believe they have a need. This customer verbalization of the need is often overlooked by the salesperson. I believe this is where the sale takes place. Unsuccessful salespeople incorrectly believe the sale takes place during the close. This belief is a big mistake! The salesperson's objective is to get the customer talking about their needs and then they will be building a foundation for the sale. If the salesperson spends enough time gathering correct information, the closing portion of the sale becomes very easy.
HELP
This is where the salesperson connects the product to the need. Again, unsuccessful salespeople talk too much about the product and too little about how the product will solve the needs of the customer. Customers care very little about the name of the product or how it technically works. They do care about the benefits they can derive from the purchase of the product. They are interested about how this product will help them solve their needs . To effectively talk about the product, the salesperson must first understand the customer's need. Next, they must be able to explain to the customer how the product helps solve their need. Often this is explained as features, applications and benefits. What are the features or special additions to the product, how does this apply to the customer's situation and how does it benefit the customer, now or in the future? The salesperson must explain this very well in the customer's terms, not the company's terms. Be very careful not to use industry terms unless you fully explain them.
MONEY
Unsuccessful salespeople make another mistake. They talk too much about how much the product will cost the customer, and too little about the value the customer will receive from purchasing the product. Sometimes the customer does not have enough money to purchase the product. Most times they have the money but see no real or inherent value in the product, so they do not purchase it. At this stage of the sales process the salesperson must clearly explain the benefits the customer will receive by purchasing the product. If a customer has difficulty with the monthly premium, then explain it differently. For some customers it is easier to understand the premium to be paid in terms of a daily cost. This is not effective for all customers, but some benefit from this explanation. If the salesperson explains a small premium on a daily basis rather than a larger one on a monthly or annual basis, it makes the buying decision a little easier for that kind of customer. Others want to know about the value received from the purchase. Value for premium paid may be expressed in terms like; the customer being responsible, taking care of their family, solving a need they have uncovered, or planning and preparing for the future. The salesperson must help the customers understand the value they will receive if they purchase the product.
URGENCY
The final and probably one of the most often over looked reasons why people don't buy is that the salesperson does not assist the customer to embrace a sense of urgency. A sense of urgency drives the customer to take action today, not next week, next year or never take action. This is when the salesperson talks about the concept of risk and reward. The salesperson explains the risk in terms of what happens if the customer does not take action. What risks do the customers or their families face if the customers do not buy the product recommended today. As well, the salesperson must explain the reward for the customer and their family if they take action and purchase the product today. The salesperson must paint a picture as clearly as possible to ensure the customer fully understands the risk and reward. They must help the customer understand the risk and reward in terms of today!
I explain these concepts more clearly and comprehensively in my two books, the Passionate Manager and the Passionate Agent. You can find information about these books by visiting my website at www.heidema.com. Both books are filed with systems, processes, scripts and tools to help make the sale happen.
So what else can salespeople do to improve their chances of making the sale?
First, the salesperson must memorize, practice and master a series of questions that get the customer talking and help the salesperson understand what is important to the customer. I am appalled with the lack of professionalism exhibited by most salespeople. Most do not know what to say and when to say it. They act like amateurs when it comes to practicing their profession. Successful salespeople learn the sales processes and scripts. They memorize the words, practice and role-play, and master all the steps of the sales process so they are always in control of the process. Many salespeople feel that they do not need to be professional. Therefore they get the abysmal results that they get. If they would treat this profession seriously, they would achieve much better results.
Second and foremost, they need to learn to listen to the customer and equally important, learn to shut up! I am amazed at how much the unsuccessful salesperson talks. I am not surprised that the salesperson must see so many people to make one sale. They make it very difficult for customers to buy. When salespeople talk too much, they are telling the customer that they are far more important than the customer. It seems salespeople like to hear their own voices more than the voice of the customer. Successful salespeople love to hear their customers talk. If the salesperson would learn to ask good questions and really listen to the customer, the salesperson would truly understand what drives the customer and be able to find the reasons why the customer might be willing to buy.
Third, salespeople must take good notes. Indeed, they must write down word-for-word whatever the customer says. The customer's words are far more important than the salespeople words. When salespeople reach the point in the sales process when they ask the customer to buy, and the customer responds with a no, salespeople must then go back over the four reasons why people buy (need, help, money and urgency) and determine which of these areas the customers are having difficulty with. Maybe the customers feel they don't need insurance, or your recommendation does not solve their need, or for the premium they must pay they will not get value, or finally, they have no sense of urgency. Any one of these four reasons may cause the customer to say no!
When they say no and you have uncovered the reason they have said no, this is when you repeat back to them the words, as you have written, that they have used earlier in the sales process. You would say phrases like;
- Didn't you say you had no insurance, did you say that?
- Didn't you say that you felt what I was recommending would likely solve your need, didn't you say that?
- Didn't you say that you could afford (?) so much premium per day, week, month, didn't you say that?
- Didn't you say that you felt your family would be at risk if you did not take action, didn't you say that?
Then you say to them, help me understand! You said you have a need, you said you felt my recommended product would solve your need, you said you felt you could afford so much a month, and you said your family would be at risk if you did not take action. Did you say all this? Great, then I only have one question; what is preventing you from taking action today? Now shut up and listen.
If you ask these questions one by one, then shut up after each question and listen, you will make more sales. I promise you will!
So what have we learned from this article. We have learned the value of changing our behaviours. Master this profession, ask better questions, listen more actively, take good notes and feed back the customer's words to them. We now know the four reasons why people buy; need, help, money and urgency! As a salesperson you must ask enough questions to uncover these four reasons and what the customer thinks about these four reasons. With this information you can make more sales. If salespeople change their behaviours, they will improve the chances of changing their results. Remember making the sale is less about closing the sale and more about asking good questions and listening. With these new skills you can become more successful. I wish you good luck!
Good luck!
By: James M. Heidema
Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com
Monday, August 25, 2008
Tactics In Sales – Start Strong!
What is your sales strategy for your small business or sales career? Do you have one?
Often people begin a business because of their knowledge in a specific area. Since their primary motivation for starting the business was their love and knowledge of a specific craft, skill or service, they then consider this function to be the most important part of their business…that is wrong thinking; don’t let it happen to you.
Whether you are a mechanic opening up an auto shop or a fitness expert opening a gym, your primary focus should always be on sales and marketing. An effective sales and marketing plan will keep a reliable influx of new clients coming into your business. Knowledge and quality of your products and services will help you to retain those clients, but there will be no clients on which to hang, if the sales and marketing functions are weak or absent.
This combination will keep your business going, so let’s examine some insight as to the sales and marketing component.
As you create anything to do with sales and marketing, telephone pitches, brochures, write-ups for your website, anything at all, keep in mind that its primary objective is to sell. I have come across many a beautifully arranged website, leaflet or other such advertisement where the business owner uses jazzed up language to describe a subject most interesting to him or her.
This business owner fails to make a sale because he writes text that is merely descriptive of what he does instead of writing text that will focus on getting a customer to buy.
To strengthen the messages you send out to customers through the internet, mail and other advertising media, you must acquire the persuasive skills required to influence prospective customers.
Learn how to color your words with persuasive language; communicate from the perspective of the prospect’s benefits; and, apply other tactics used by the most successful sales people. You will find helpful information on some of the above techniques in the free resource that I have made available in my resource box below.
When you sharpen your persuasive skills, you will greatly increase your ability to sell your products and services. Use the many resources available to you to increase your sales, keep your customers loyal and make your business successful.
By: Alvin Day
Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com
Often people begin a business because of their knowledge in a specific area. Since their primary motivation for starting the business was their love and knowledge of a specific craft, skill or service, they then consider this function to be the most important part of their business…that is wrong thinking; don’t let it happen to you.
Whether you are a mechanic opening up an auto shop or a fitness expert opening a gym, your primary focus should always be on sales and marketing. An effective sales and marketing plan will keep a reliable influx of new clients coming into your business. Knowledge and quality of your products and services will help you to retain those clients, but there will be no clients on which to hang, if the sales and marketing functions are weak or absent.
This combination will keep your business going, so let’s examine some insight as to the sales and marketing component.
As you create anything to do with sales and marketing, telephone pitches, brochures, write-ups for your website, anything at all, keep in mind that its primary objective is to sell. I have come across many a beautifully arranged website, leaflet or other such advertisement where the business owner uses jazzed up language to describe a subject most interesting to him or her.
This business owner fails to make a sale because he writes text that is merely descriptive of what he does instead of writing text that will focus on getting a customer to buy.
To strengthen the messages you send out to customers through the internet, mail and other advertising media, you must acquire the persuasive skills required to influence prospective customers.
Learn how to color your words with persuasive language; communicate from the perspective of the prospect’s benefits; and, apply other tactics used by the most successful sales people. You will find helpful information on some of the above techniques in the free resource that I have made available in my resource box below.
When you sharpen your persuasive skills, you will greatly increase your ability to sell your products and services. Use the many resources available to you to increase your sales, keep your customers loyal and make your business successful.
By: Alvin Day
Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com
Sales Productivity: Manage Your Energy
What affects our energy levels? You already know the answer to that question. Nutrition, sleep, stress, physical fitness, attitudes, emotions, and environment are the major influencers of our levels of energy. How do you improve these aspects of our life so we maximize our level of energy throughout the day? Easier said than done – after all, we all pretty much know that these things affect us but haven’t done much about them so far. Usually we have a hard time making changes because our motivation is lacking. On the other hand, many of us know people who were out of shape, found out their health was in permanent jeopardy, and then found a way to get fit. It’s all a matter of self-motivation.
How would your life be different if you were highly productive in your sales efforts on a
consistent basis? What difference would it make if you had good levels of energy throughout the day – every day?
There is too much information on this subject of becoming highly productive to cover thoroughly in a simple article, but we can touch on some good ways to start improving your energy management.
Nutrition: Most nutritional experts agree that eating a number of modest meals throughout the day is much better than a couple of big ones. Don’t forget to include protein with every meal.
Stress: There are no such things as stressful situations. It’s our reactions to events that cause us to feel stress. You know what works best for you to reduce your feelings of stress. Set time aside to take care of yourself throughout the week. If you don’t take time, soon enough you’ll have no choice due to health issues.
Physical Fitness: Do I really need to go into this? Doing something –anything – is better than doing nothing at all.
Attitude: Our attitude colors our view of our past, present and future. Most people allow the world to determine what we hear and see. Start to take control of what you mentally and emotionally feed yourself. Cut out the negatives and start introducing positives like listening to personal growth tapes or CDs.
Another critical key to effective energy management is to understand the many positive implications of stretching our abilities and then taking time to recover and rejuvenate. Regular recovery and rejuvenation are essential to becoming highly productive. I can’t stress enough the impact that regular - often daily - rejuvenation can have on your energy, attitude, creativity, enthusiasm, and spirit.
The key to being highly productive in sales (or in any endeavor for that matter) is to manage your energy. By attending to your physical, mental, emotional and spiritual needs you can accomplish more with more enthusiasm, more creative and more enjoyment than you ever have before.
By: Michael J. Beck
Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com
How would your life be different if you were highly productive in your sales efforts on a
consistent basis? What difference would it make if you had good levels of energy throughout the day – every day?
There is too much information on this subject of becoming highly productive to cover thoroughly in a simple article, but we can touch on some good ways to start improving your energy management.
Nutrition: Most nutritional experts agree that eating a number of modest meals throughout the day is much better than a couple of big ones. Don’t forget to include protein with every meal.
Stress: There are no such things as stressful situations. It’s our reactions to events that cause us to feel stress. You know what works best for you to reduce your feelings of stress. Set time aside to take care of yourself throughout the week. If you don’t take time, soon enough you’ll have no choice due to health issues.
Physical Fitness: Do I really need to go into this? Doing something –anything – is better than doing nothing at all.
Attitude: Our attitude colors our view of our past, present and future. Most people allow the world to determine what we hear and see. Start to take control of what you mentally and emotionally feed yourself. Cut out the negatives and start introducing positives like listening to personal growth tapes or CDs.
Another critical key to effective energy management is to understand the many positive implications of stretching our abilities and then taking time to recover and rejuvenate. Regular recovery and rejuvenation are essential to becoming highly productive. I can’t stress enough the impact that regular - often daily - rejuvenation can have on your energy, attitude, creativity, enthusiasm, and spirit.
The key to being highly productive in sales (or in any endeavor for that matter) is to manage your energy. By attending to your physical, mental, emotional and spiritual needs you can accomplish more with more enthusiasm, more creative and more enjoyment than you ever have before.
By: Michael J. Beck
Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com
Wednesday, August 20, 2008
How To Improve Your Sales
There is a lot of things that you can do to improve your sales, but you will find that you are going to have to put a lot of hard work into the mix. Keep in mind that there are things that you are going to have to do for yourself as a worker, and for the team. You will want to think about things like how you find success, if you look like success, and how you try to improve yourself. Your sales is not a problem, however, you will have to look deep inside of yourself to figure yourself out.
The first thing that you will want to think about is the way that you present yourself to your clients. You will need to think about the way that you dress, the way you speak, and the way that you carry yourself. You will want to make sure that everything is just perfect. You need to make yourself get regular haircuts and do other things to make yourself look your best. You will also need to think about the clothing that you wear. When you look good, you will feel good, however, you need to dress successful to be successful. You will find that there are a lot of people who do not care about their appearance, and that is why they fail at sales. You will find that you are not only selling the products, but you are selling yourself as well. You will want to keep that in mind when you think about you sales numbers.
The second thing that you will need to focus on is your forcefulness. Can you take no for an answer? You have to find a way with words to be a successful salesperson. You will want to make yourself better with words. You need to learn how to think on your feet and how to think quickly. You need to have an answer for every question. These answers need to come quickly too or the client will not trust you or keep their interest in your products.
There is also another thing that you will want to consider. You will not only need to work on yourself, but you will need to work on the products. You will need to take the time to do your own research so that you can make some good points when it comes to selling. Try to pinpoint what are the strengths of the products and how they are different from the others that are on the market. Make sure that you do your homework, because this will also help you to have the answers and find the answers quickly. You will also find that when you do the proper amount of research, you will be able to find the confidence, but you will have to work for the confidence. You will have to really want to consider all the hard work that you will need to put into each and every sale. You will want to keep in mind that there are some things that must be done. You must do a lot of things and it may include the way that your approach your sales subject, the customer, and the way that you carry yourself.
Keep in mind that you not only have to sell the product, but you will also have to sell yourself. You play a key component in your own success. Make sure that you try to keep that in mind when it comes to each and every sale.
By: Michelle L. Green
Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com
The first thing that you will want to think about is the way that you present yourself to your clients. You will need to think about the way that you dress, the way you speak, and the way that you carry yourself. You will want to make sure that everything is just perfect. You need to make yourself get regular haircuts and do other things to make yourself look your best. You will also need to think about the clothing that you wear. When you look good, you will feel good, however, you need to dress successful to be successful. You will find that there are a lot of people who do not care about their appearance, and that is why they fail at sales. You will find that you are not only selling the products, but you are selling yourself as well. You will want to keep that in mind when you think about you sales numbers.
The second thing that you will need to focus on is your forcefulness. Can you take no for an answer? You have to find a way with words to be a successful salesperson. You will want to make yourself better with words. You need to learn how to think on your feet and how to think quickly. You need to have an answer for every question. These answers need to come quickly too or the client will not trust you or keep their interest in your products.
There is also another thing that you will want to consider. You will not only need to work on yourself, but you will need to work on the products. You will need to take the time to do your own research so that you can make some good points when it comes to selling. Try to pinpoint what are the strengths of the products and how they are different from the others that are on the market. Make sure that you do your homework, because this will also help you to have the answers and find the answers quickly. You will also find that when you do the proper amount of research, you will be able to find the confidence, but you will have to work for the confidence. You will have to really want to consider all the hard work that you will need to put into each and every sale. You will want to keep in mind that there are some things that must be done. You must do a lot of things and it may include the way that your approach your sales subject, the customer, and the way that you carry yourself.
Keep in mind that you not only have to sell the product, but you will also have to sell yourself. You play a key component in your own success. Make sure that you try to keep that in mind when it comes to each and every sale.
By: Michelle L. Green
Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com
Music Posters- A Good Marketing Tool
Music is an indispensable part of the world. You believe it or not, you are always going to experience the music of love, the music of togetherness, the music of sadness or despair. And this exactly is the reason why so many artists are increasingly getting into the business of music creation. There are several music industries that release music albums from time to time on several emotions and occasions.
The music industry of any country is unique and full of hundreds and thousands of talented singers, who are either extremely popular and recognized or are just not visible anywhere in the industry. The reason for this is nothing but promotion and marketing. Singers who are well marketed with music posters, videos, trailers of their album etc. gain popularity and become recognized in the industry, where are others who are less marketed remain not so famous.
There are a number of ways in which, these musicians and their albums can be marketed, one of them is through music posters. They are posters either of the singer or their album or music video that are printed and popularized across the place in order to ensure some popularity for them. This results in more search and query of the concerned person and album, making him the talk of the town, and enabling a strong fan following for them.
As a matter of fact, these music posters have become so popular that they are used not only to promote new singers but also to retain the popularity of existing and legendary singers. Fans are crazy about collecting music posters of their favourite singers or favourite songs or albums. The craze is so strong that they are available at exorbitant prizes. You can find music posters easily online. All you need to do is order them, and they will be shipped to your place. There are quite many options, where you can also download them for a little cost and keep it on your computer for ever.
By: Patrick Arden
Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com
The music industry of any country is unique and full of hundreds and thousands of talented singers, who are either extremely popular and recognized or are just not visible anywhere in the industry. The reason for this is nothing but promotion and marketing. Singers who are well marketed with music posters, videos, trailers of their album etc. gain popularity and become recognized in the industry, where are others who are less marketed remain not so famous.
There are a number of ways in which, these musicians and their albums can be marketed, one of them is through music posters. They are posters either of the singer or their album or music video that are printed and popularized across the place in order to ensure some popularity for them. This results in more search and query of the concerned person and album, making him the talk of the town, and enabling a strong fan following for them.
As a matter of fact, these music posters have become so popular that they are used not only to promote new singers but also to retain the popularity of existing and legendary singers. Fans are crazy about collecting music posters of their favourite singers or favourite songs or albums. The craze is so strong that they are available at exorbitant prizes. You can find music posters easily online. All you need to do is order them, and they will be shipped to your place. There are quite many options, where you can also download them for a little cost and keep it on your computer for ever.
By: Patrick Arden
Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com
Five Simple Tips For Successful Investing
You don't need to read thousands of books about the stocks market to be a successful investor. Investing is not about reading charts or being a soothsayer. Neither it is about watching screens with numbers all the day and night. Successful investing is about being patient, having reasonable expectations and sticking to the main investment principles.
Sounds complex? Here are five simple tips that will help you to do all of this:
1. Use smart diversification. Everyone says you should diversify but only few people warn about the pitfalls of over diversification. When you diversify so much that you almost own equal shares of everything in the market, you can't perform better than the market itself. When the market falls, your investment portfolio will fall too.
To avoid this, you should balance between the diversification and the risk. That's what I call smart diversification. Choose enough different assets so you don't depend on only one, but don't try to have everything. If no investment holds more than 15% of your overall portfolio, you should be fine.
2. Invest in different kinds of assets. Many investors make the mistake to buy only stocks, or only mutual funds or only real estate etc... you got the idea. Sure, they diversify in different stocks, funds, properties etc, but what happens if the property market crash?
If you want to be safe, invest in different kinds of assets.
3. Don't follow the crowd. Another mistake that many investors make is to do what everyone else does. What happens then? The price of the "hot" investment goes up and up much above its real value, because everyone wants to buy it. Just see the homes market in USA and Europe.
Sooner or later this balloon bursts and a large part of the mass investors end up losing big time.
Your path to successful investing goes through some creativity. Avoid doing what everyone else is doing and find what works best for you.
4. Invest regularly. How many times you've heard someone saying that they made a big investment but it didn't work out? Often such people complain that investing is useless activity in general. Would you agree with them? I would not.
Investing does work, but it's not one time effort. It must be done regularly - even if only with small contributions. The real power of investing can be revealed after you invest month after month, for years. No one says it's easy and quick way to build wealth.
5. Use the power of compounding. Persistence is one of the most important keys to investment success. If you invest again and again and don't take out the profits, you will be able to see one of the greatest financial magics - the power of compounding at work.
Take this example: if you invest $100,000 and make 12% profits per year, you will be able to earn $12,000 yearly or $1,000 per month. This will bring you a nice passive income, but wouldn't make you rich. If instead of getting our the profits you let them compound for 25 years and add just $1,000 per year you'll end up having $1,7 millions!
By: Bobby Handzhiev
Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com
Sounds complex? Here are five simple tips that will help you to do all of this:
1. Use smart diversification. Everyone says you should diversify but only few people warn about the pitfalls of over diversification. When you diversify so much that you almost own equal shares of everything in the market, you can't perform better than the market itself. When the market falls, your investment portfolio will fall too.
To avoid this, you should balance between the diversification and the risk. That's what I call smart diversification. Choose enough different assets so you don't depend on only one, but don't try to have everything. If no investment holds more than 15% of your overall portfolio, you should be fine.
2. Invest in different kinds of assets. Many investors make the mistake to buy only stocks, or only mutual funds or only real estate etc... you got the idea. Sure, they diversify in different stocks, funds, properties etc, but what happens if the property market crash?
If you want to be safe, invest in different kinds of assets.
3. Don't follow the crowd. Another mistake that many investors make is to do what everyone else does. What happens then? The price of the "hot" investment goes up and up much above its real value, because everyone wants to buy it. Just see the homes market in USA and Europe.
Sooner or later this balloon bursts and a large part of the mass investors end up losing big time.
Your path to successful investing goes through some creativity. Avoid doing what everyone else is doing and find what works best for you.
4. Invest regularly. How many times you've heard someone saying that they made a big investment but it didn't work out? Often such people complain that investing is useless activity in general. Would you agree with them? I would not.
Investing does work, but it's not one time effort. It must be done regularly - even if only with small contributions. The real power of investing can be revealed after you invest month after month, for years. No one says it's easy and quick way to build wealth.
5. Use the power of compounding. Persistence is one of the most important keys to investment success. If you invest again and again and don't take out the profits, you will be able to see one of the greatest financial magics - the power of compounding at work.
Take this example: if you invest $100,000 and make 12% profits per year, you will be able to earn $12,000 yearly or $1,000 per month. This will bring you a nice passive income, but wouldn't make you rich. If instead of getting our the profits you let them compound for 25 years and add just $1,000 per year you'll end up having $1,7 millions!
By: Bobby Handzhiev
Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com
Managing Your Investment Property
While it is possible to look after your rental property yourself and thus save money, experts recommend getting a professional in to do it. Why? A professional has access to a number of resources that you do not. For a start, he can find out easily if any prospective tenant has a good or bad history of paying and looking after a property. And he will not be emotionally involved as you will be, so he can handle things without the same stress levels.
Managing a property takes time and effort, especially when you are not used to it. Some tenants ring up to complain about every little thing that goes wrong. They expect the landlord to act immediately to fix things even if it's in the middle of dinner or Sunday afternoon. A manager can avoid this because his business is closed at those times and he cannot be contacted.
Whether or not you use a property manager, be sure you have adequate insurance that will cover damage to the property and injury to the tenants. And go easy on those renovations. The idea is to make money, not spend it. It doesn't matter if you hate the colour scheme or carpets if you are not living there yourself.
By: Melanie
Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com
Managing a property takes time and effort, especially when you are not used to it. Some tenants ring up to complain about every little thing that goes wrong. They expect the landlord to act immediately to fix things even if it's in the middle of dinner or Sunday afternoon. A manager can avoid this because his business is closed at those times and he cannot be contacted.
Whether or not you use a property manager, be sure you have adequate insurance that will cover damage to the property and injury to the tenants. And go easy on those renovations. The idea is to make money, not spend it. It doesn't matter if you hate the colour scheme or carpets if you are not living there yourself.
By: Melanie
Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com
Tourism Investment
An investment in the Tourism Industry in Katherine in the Northern Territory of Australia is a sound investment. In the Katherine Times, Katherine's weekly newspaper, on 16/7/08, the front page says TOURIST NUMBER UP.
A manager of one of the Tourist Parks is quoted as saying that it has been a bumper season. His park and others have been booked out every night, serving 100 meals each night to the hungry tourists. The caravan park in question has a capacity for 500 and they have even had to let caravans camp in areas that have been designated as no parking areas due to lack of available accommodation at other Tourist Parks in the area.
If this doesn't prove that an investment in Elvira's Paradise is a wise investment then what will. Elvira Loquias has a 79acre property with approval to develop a Tourist Park. She is looking for an investor to contribute $300,000 to help complete the development.
The difference between her Tourist Park and the others in Katherine is that it is the only Park in the Katherine area that didn't get flooded in the 1998 flood, so not only will the Park be successful during the tourist season it will also be the best place to stay during the wet season. Because of its location you can be certain that the guests and their property will be safe even if Katherine gets another flood where 6ft of water inundates the main street.
In the same article it says that the Tourism Authority believes that visitors are staying in Katherine longer due to the ever increasing attractions of the region, even the huge upswing in fuel prices hasn't deterred the tourists from coming to Katherine. The Authority itself encourages investors to consider and investment in the accommodation industry in the region.
It also states that one problem facing the tourist industry is limited accommodation options, Elvira's Paradise will help solve this perceived problem. Elvira with the help of further investment, will be providing Bali Hut style accommodation and quality furnishings. The quality of accommodation has not been seen in a Tourist or Caravan Park in the Northern Territory before now.
By: Emil
Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com
A manager of one of the Tourist Parks is quoted as saying that it has been a bumper season. His park and others have been booked out every night, serving 100 meals each night to the hungry tourists. The caravan park in question has a capacity for 500 and they have even had to let caravans camp in areas that have been designated as no parking areas due to lack of available accommodation at other Tourist Parks in the area.
If this doesn't prove that an investment in Elvira's Paradise is a wise investment then what will. Elvira Loquias has a 79acre property with approval to develop a Tourist Park. She is looking for an investor to contribute $300,000 to help complete the development.
The difference between her Tourist Park and the others in Katherine is that it is the only Park in the Katherine area that didn't get flooded in the 1998 flood, so not only will the Park be successful during the tourist season it will also be the best place to stay during the wet season. Because of its location you can be certain that the guests and their property will be safe even if Katherine gets another flood where 6ft of water inundates the main street.
In the same article it says that the Tourism Authority believes that visitors are staying in Katherine longer due to the ever increasing attractions of the region, even the huge upswing in fuel prices hasn't deterred the tourists from coming to Katherine. The Authority itself encourages investors to consider and investment in the accommodation industry in the region.
It also states that one problem facing the tourist industry is limited accommodation options, Elvira's Paradise will help solve this perceived problem. Elvira with the help of further investment, will be providing Bali Hut style accommodation and quality furnishings. The quality of accommodation has not been seen in a Tourist or Caravan Park in the Northern Territory before now.
By: Emil
Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com
How Do I Start Investing?
If you want to start investing, you’re probably wondering where to begin. There are so many things that could be going through your head, as to what you should invest in, how much you should invest, and exactly how you should go about investing the money. Here is a basic guide that will help you decide exactly what you need to do and learn before you start investing.
The first thing you need to do before you invest any money, is learn the basics about the types of investments you can make in the stock market. For example, there are individual stocks you can buy. If you want to be a little safer, you can invest in mutual funds, which are a whole bunch of stocks at once. You can also invest in bonds, which are even safer. Until you know what these terms mean, you shouldn’t invest a single penny in the stock market. Once you know some of the basics, then you will know what you feel comfortable putting you money in.
Once you figure out what types of investments you want to make, you’ll need to come up with some specifics. If you want to invest in a few stocks, what type of stocks should you invest in? If you want to invest in mutual funds, which ones should you buy? This research can easily be done on the web. There are many websites (like MorningStar) where you can just type in the name or symbol of the stock or mutual fund, and you’ll learn all about it, as well as get some advice about what others think. Once you’ve learned about the company or mutual fund, then you will be able to decide what you should buy.
As far as how much you should invest, it should only be something that you don’t mind locking up for a while, or something that if you lost wouldn’t make it so you couldn’t pay your bills. If you have no problem keeping the money invested for a while, then it probably isn’t too much. Another great way you can invest is something like a DRIP. This is where you will invest a small amount every month into the same stock or mutual fund. This works well because you will buy at different prices as the stock/mutual fund fluctuates, so the price you spent will even out. You also won’t miss the money from your spending since you’ll only be putting in a little at a time, but over time it will surely add up!
Another thing you’ll have to decide when investing is how to invest. There are many online brokers where you can do everything yourself, and therefore you don’t pay a lot of money per trade. If you’d prefer to get advice however, you can get a brokerage account where you deal with an advisor, but of course you’ll end up paying more money per trade. There are tradeoffs with each one, but you should do what is best for you.
When you decide you want to invest in the stock market, there are many things you will have to figure out. As you can see though, once you learn a few things, you’ll be able to invest like a pro!
By: James Grant
Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com
The first thing you need to do before you invest any money, is learn the basics about the types of investments you can make in the stock market. For example, there are individual stocks you can buy. If you want to be a little safer, you can invest in mutual funds, which are a whole bunch of stocks at once. You can also invest in bonds, which are even safer. Until you know what these terms mean, you shouldn’t invest a single penny in the stock market. Once you know some of the basics, then you will know what you feel comfortable putting you money in.
Once you figure out what types of investments you want to make, you’ll need to come up with some specifics. If you want to invest in a few stocks, what type of stocks should you invest in? If you want to invest in mutual funds, which ones should you buy? This research can easily be done on the web. There are many websites (like MorningStar) where you can just type in the name or symbol of the stock or mutual fund, and you’ll learn all about it, as well as get some advice about what others think. Once you’ve learned about the company or mutual fund, then you will be able to decide what you should buy.
As far as how much you should invest, it should only be something that you don’t mind locking up for a while, or something that if you lost wouldn’t make it so you couldn’t pay your bills. If you have no problem keeping the money invested for a while, then it probably isn’t too much. Another great way you can invest is something like a DRIP. This is where you will invest a small amount every month into the same stock or mutual fund. This works well because you will buy at different prices as the stock/mutual fund fluctuates, so the price you spent will even out. You also won’t miss the money from your spending since you’ll only be putting in a little at a time, but over time it will surely add up!
Another thing you’ll have to decide when investing is how to invest. There are many online brokers where you can do everything yourself, and therefore you don’t pay a lot of money per trade. If you’d prefer to get advice however, you can get a brokerage account where you deal with an advisor, but of course you’ll end up paying more money per trade. There are tradeoffs with each one, but you should do what is best for you.
When you decide you want to invest in the stock market, there are many things you will have to figure out. As you can see though, once you learn a few things, you’ll be able to invest like a pro!
By: James Grant
Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com
Momentum Trading Tips
Getting a Clear Picture about Stock Trading
Many of us like the idea of making money through the stock market, but we are also afraid of the risks involved in investing money there. The reason for this fear is legitimate, because we have seen markets turn for the worst, leaving many people in ruin. A number of individuals who take loss in stock trading make the mistake of rushing into this field without understanding the basic concepts and the trading strategies involved. We cannot expect to win a game when we do not know the rules of that game. We will be losing points because of foul-moves, which of course happen due to our ignorance.
So if you are thinking of getting into the stock market, you must spend enough time to learn the basics of this trading system. When you invest your money, you have to go beyond the basics to ensure that you stay profitable. There are many online courses that you can make use of which teach trading strategies. Bettertrades.com is one of the resourceful sites that can help you. You can also get help from professional traders, such as Markay Latimer.
Let us try to get a clear picture of the stock market. This is a trading platform where a company’s shares are bought or sold at a fixed price. Another term used to refer to the stock market is the equity market. The stocks, securities, and derivatives of companies with shares available for trading will be listed by stock exchange bureaus. Some of the famous US based stock exchange bureaus include Amex, NASDAQ and NYSE. The stock exchanges create a market place for traders, and you can buy or sell the stocks of any company listed in these exchanges. Originally, stock exchanges were only dealing with real time trading but now in this internet era, it is possible to engage in virtual trading. With either real time or virtual trading, it is possible to buy and sell stocks only when the stock market is open. The stock market is open between Monday and Friday, from 9.30 am to 4.00 pm.
Anyone can enter into stock trading. You can be an individual investor or a big institutionalized trader. Anyone can engage in trading directly, or make use of a number of stock brokers at a fee. However, you need to be cautious while getting help from these brokers to save yourself from getting scammed. Many do well by learning the trading strategies themself so that they can analyze the stock performance privately rather than by hiring a broker to trade on their behalf.
When you are ready to start, signup for an online trading account so that you can deal with the stock market directly. As a beginner, do not make impulsive decisions on buying or selling. Get into the discipline of analyzing and having sound reasons for your trading decisions. Only these will help you to succeed in the long-run. If you make impulsive decisions, then you will start treating the stock market as a gambling floor. Real stock trading requires disciplined and analytical decision making skills to be successful.
By: Better 72 Trades72
Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com
Many of us like the idea of making money through the stock market, but we are also afraid of the risks involved in investing money there. The reason for this fear is legitimate, because we have seen markets turn for the worst, leaving many people in ruin. A number of individuals who take loss in stock trading make the mistake of rushing into this field without understanding the basic concepts and the trading strategies involved. We cannot expect to win a game when we do not know the rules of that game. We will be losing points because of foul-moves, which of course happen due to our ignorance.
So if you are thinking of getting into the stock market, you must spend enough time to learn the basics of this trading system. When you invest your money, you have to go beyond the basics to ensure that you stay profitable. There are many online courses that you can make use of which teach trading strategies. Bettertrades.com is one of the resourceful sites that can help you. You can also get help from professional traders, such as Markay Latimer.
Let us try to get a clear picture of the stock market. This is a trading platform where a company’s shares are bought or sold at a fixed price. Another term used to refer to the stock market is the equity market. The stocks, securities, and derivatives of companies with shares available for trading will be listed by stock exchange bureaus. Some of the famous US based stock exchange bureaus include Amex, NASDAQ and NYSE. The stock exchanges create a market place for traders, and you can buy or sell the stocks of any company listed in these exchanges. Originally, stock exchanges were only dealing with real time trading but now in this internet era, it is possible to engage in virtual trading. With either real time or virtual trading, it is possible to buy and sell stocks only when the stock market is open. The stock market is open between Monday and Friday, from 9.30 am to 4.00 pm.
Anyone can enter into stock trading. You can be an individual investor or a big institutionalized trader. Anyone can engage in trading directly, or make use of a number of stock brokers at a fee. However, you need to be cautious while getting help from these brokers to save yourself from getting scammed. Many do well by learning the trading strategies themself so that they can analyze the stock performance privately rather than by hiring a broker to trade on their behalf.
When you are ready to start, signup for an online trading account so that you can deal with the stock market directly. As a beginner, do not make impulsive decisions on buying or selling. Get into the discipline of analyzing and having sound reasons for your trading decisions. Only these will help you to succeed in the long-run. If you make impulsive decisions, then you will start treating the stock market as a gambling floor. Real stock trading requires disciplined and analytical decision making skills to be successful.
By: Better 72 Trades72
Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com
How To Benefit From A Real Estate Investing Book
What information can you get from a good real estate investing book? There are a number of online sites, which can impart you knowledge and tips on how to start make your real estate investments properly. You can also get a number of books, which are essentially on the subject of real estate investing. You can search sites related to books on the net for information on real estate investing books.
If you go for an in-depth analysis of these real estate investing books, you will find that there are a number of chapters covering topics like - how to market your real estate investing business, the secrets of real estate investing, tips & tricks on real estate investing, how to follow business success of tycoon of other fields and how to grow in the real estate business. All these and more are covered as a part of a good real estate investing book.
A number of hidden pitfalls are there that you should avoid for staying in the business. You can get a detailed overview about the dangers, drawbacks and possible ways out. You can also know whether you are ready to step into the business of real estate investing or not. The real estate investing book can give you advice on how to use the books properly so that you get the maximum information out of it.
While on your journey of becoming a successful real estate businessman, you would need a guide who can help you in the right direction. The real estate investing book can be a very good friend in achieving understanding your goals and achieving them. The book would also tell you about the real estate seminars from where you can get hidden benefits.
The real estate investing book also tells you how to set up your own multi billion-dollar empire based on real estate. Some online sites offer you a number of courses, both online as well as normal. You can start your own real estate business with your own home mortgage. If you pay attention to the techniques offered by the real estate investing books you would be able to recover it within seven years.
By: Brad Wozny
Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com
If you go for an in-depth analysis of these real estate investing books, you will find that there are a number of chapters covering topics like - how to market your real estate investing business, the secrets of real estate investing, tips & tricks on real estate investing, how to follow business success of tycoon of other fields and how to grow in the real estate business. All these and more are covered as a part of a good real estate investing book.
A number of hidden pitfalls are there that you should avoid for staying in the business. You can get a detailed overview about the dangers, drawbacks and possible ways out. You can also know whether you are ready to step into the business of real estate investing or not. The real estate investing book can give you advice on how to use the books properly so that you get the maximum information out of it.
While on your journey of becoming a successful real estate businessman, you would need a guide who can help you in the right direction. The real estate investing book can be a very good friend in achieving understanding your goals and achieving them. The book would also tell you about the real estate seminars from where you can get hidden benefits.
The real estate investing book also tells you how to set up your own multi billion-dollar empire based on real estate. Some online sites offer you a number of courses, both online as well as normal. You can start your own real estate business with your own home mortgage. If you pay attention to the techniques offered by the real estate investing books you would be able to recover it within seven years.
By: Brad Wozny
Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com
Creative Real Estate Investment Financing
Creative real estate investment shapes the real estate investment behavior of individuals. Real estate, also known as immovable property, comprises of land or anything permanently connected to the land, like buildings. Real Estate is often viewed and used in contrast to personal property. With the development of private property ownership real estate investment has come up as an emerging area of business.
Creative real estate investment is commonly known as creative realty investment. It comprises of the purchase, sale of residential land and building and non residential buildings. The main conduits involved in this are landlords, tenants, buyers, developers, builders, real estate agents et al. The development in hospitality, entertainment and IT sectors are highly influencing for the creative real estate investment business.
Creative real estate investment as viewed normally is not only the business of the rich strata of the society as even if the investment is low it can reap huge benefits. Certain points are to be kept in mind before go for creative real estate investing in this business like where to invest and how to invest.
The people involved in this business should have a complete and comprehensive knowledge abut the areas, which are risks prone. Success in property is the main cause behind its upsurge in countries like USA, Canada, Australia, Europe and New Zealand. The best way to get stated with creative real estate investment is to advertise.
Creative real estate investment is an art for successful real estate investment. One should start from the initial stage of gathering information and resources. Apart from that getting information from the net, the local newspaper is of utmost help. Information from the bulletin board also helps a lot. The legal section of the newspaper also helps in getting the right kind of information.
A list of the houses, which are fire damaged or abandoned, should be made with notices attached to it so that it may help in getting the buyer. The neighbors should be talked to as they have full information about the buyer and other sell plans. Attending free seminars also gives an insight into the nuances of the creative real estate investment business. Real estate agents and real estate brokers are also there who help getting information on investment.
This way it can be said that creative real estate investment is one of the business ventures, which involves minimum risks, and maximum gains. It has now spread over different fields and segments. There has been a remarkable growth in the real estate prices in recent years. This new area of business is attracting many of the newcomers, who want to make good money.
By: Brad Wozny
Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com
Creative Real Estate Investment Financing
Creative real estate investment shapes the real estate investment behavior of individuals. Real estate, also known as immovable property, comprises of land or anything permanently connected to the land, like buildings. Real Estate is often viewed and used in contrast to personal property. With the development of private property ownership real estate investment has come up as an emerging area of business.
Creative real estate investment is commonly known as creative realty investment. It comprises of the purchase, sale of residential land and building and non residential buildings. The main conduits involved in this are landlords, tenants, buyers, developers, builders, real estate agents et al. The development in hospitality, entertainment and IT sectors are highly influencing for the creative real estate investment business.
Creative real estate investment as viewed normally is not only the business of the rich strata of the society as even if the investment is low it can reap huge benefits. Certain points are to be kept in mind before go for creative real estate investing in this business like where to invest and how to invest.
The people involved in this business should have a complete and comprehensive knowledge abut the areas, which are risks prone. Success in property is the main cause behind its upsurge in countries like USA, Canada, Australia, Europe and New Zealand. The best way to get stated with creative real estate investment is to advertise.
Creative real estate investment is an art for successful real estate investment. One should start from the initial stage of gathering information and resources. Apart from that getting information from the net, the local newspaper is of utmost help. Information from the bulletin board also helps a lot. The legal section of the newspaper also helps in getting the right kind of information.
A list of the houses, which are fire damaged or abandoned, should be made with notices attached to it so that it may help in getting the buyer. The neighbors should be talked to as they have full information about the buyer and other sell plans. Attending free seminars also gives an insight into the nuances of the creative real estate investment business. Real estate agents and real estate brokers are also there who help getting information on investment.
This way it can be said that creative real estate investment is one of the business ventures, which involves minimum risks, and maximum gains. It has now spread over different fields and segments. There has been a remarkable growth in the real estate prices in recent years. This new area of business is attracting many of the newcomers, who want to make good money.
By: Brad Wozny
Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com
Creative real estate investment is commonly known as creative realty investment. It comprises of the purchase, sale of residential land and building and non residential buildings. The main conduits involved in this are landlords, tenants, buyers, developers, builders, real estate agents et al. The development in hospitality, entertainment and IT sectors are highly influencing for the creative real estate investment business.
Creative real estate investment as viewed normally is not only the business of the rich strata of the society as even if the investment is low it can reap huge benefits. Certain points are to be kept in mind before go for creative real estate investing in this business like where to invest and how to invest.
The people involved in this business should have a complete and comprehensive knowledge abut the areas, which are risks prone. Success in property is the main cause behind its upsurge in countries like USA, Canada, Australia, Europe and New Zealand. The best way to get stated with creative real estate investment is to advertise.
Creative real estate investment is an art for successful real estate investment. One should start from the initial stage of gathering information and resources. Apart from that getting information from the net, the local newspaper is of utmost help. Information from the bulletin board also helps a lot. The legal section of the newspaper also helps in getting the right kind of information.
A list of the houses, which are fire damaged or abandoned, should be made with notices attached to it so that it may help in getting the buyer. The neighbors should be talked to as they have full information about the buyer and other sell plans. Attending free seminars also gives an insight into the nuances of the creative real estate investment business. Real estate agents and real estate brokers are also there who help getting information on investment.
This way it can be said that creative real estate investment is one of the business ventures, which involves minimum risks, and maximum gains. It has now spread over different fields and segments. There has been a remarkable growth in the real estate prices in recent years. This new area of business is attracting many of the newcomers, who want to make good money.
By: Brad Wozny
Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com
Top 5 Small Business Ideas For 2008
Running a small business is most people’s dream opportunity – being their own boss, working their own hours and importantly making seriously more money than might have been the case in their day jobs. So for the would-be small business entrepreneur, here are some of the most viable small business ideas for 2008 that you could consider starting.
Local Business Directory
Starting a local business directory is going to be one of the most profitable small business opportunities through 2008. When other markets are likely to be adversely affected by the predicted slowdown in the economy, local businesses are still going to need to find qualified local customers to keep their businesses alive. By providing a quality local directory service that offers good value for advertisers, you can capitalise on this small business opportunity, provided you have the ability to bring in traffic and to program a website of sufficient quality and technical capability. While this might be quite a heavy investment and take a great deal of time, there are franchise opportunities out there that may be more suitable to start with this small business.
EBay Business
Running a business on EBay is a low cost way to get started in the world of small business. An EBay business is a great way to learn and understand how to do business on the Internet, and it can be an easy business to enter with very few barriers to entry. As you go along, of course, you’ll pick up some tips and tricks that might make your small business more profitable, but you should be able to make money from the off provided you do your sums correctly and work out a sufficient margin. Remember to include postage costs and EBay seller’s fees when working out your selling price, and you’ll quickly be off to a profitable start.
Web Design
This one requires a degree of skill, but if you can design websites you can make a serious business out of web design. Of course it’s a pretty crowded market out there, but provided you can find the customers you can make a more than decent living working on your own terms with a web design firm, as a freelancer or with your own fully fledged small business. It might also be a route into online marketing and online media, which both in their own rights are massive, growing markets.
Recruitment Agency
A recruitment agency will be a great small business to start in 2008 because of the likelihood that unemployment will begin to rise. As the economy feels the pinch, businesses will be less willing to commit to full time staff. The solution? Recruitment agencies. All you have to do is find and supply the labour to the customer, and then invoice to cover the wages of your staff and your markup. Obviously, you do have to pay the wages on a recurring basis, however, so cash flow might be a problem initially.
Minicab Firm
A minicab firm is the type of business that looks set to remain strong in 2008 purely because it’s always necessary. People from all walks of life rely on minicab firms for daily transport. What’s more, it’s also more than possible to negotiate contracts with other small business and large business clients in your area, to bring in some steady business and to expand the model.
By: Naz Daud
Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com
Local Business Directory
Starting a local business directory is going to be one of the most profitable small business opportunities through 2008. When other markets are likely to be adversely affected by the predicted slowdown in the economy, local businesses are still going to need to find qualified local customers to keep their businesses alive. By providing a quality local directory service that offers good value for advertisers, you can capitalise on this small business opportunity, provided you have the ability to bring in traffic and to program a website of sufficient quality and technical capability. While this might be quite a heavy investment and take a great deal of time, there are franchise opportunities out there that may be more suitable to start with this small business.
EBay Business
Running a business on EBay is a low cost way to get started in the world of small business. An EBay business is a great way to learn and understand how to do business on the Internet, and it can be an easy business to enter with very few barriers to entry. As you go along, of course, you’ll pick up some tips and tricks that might make your small business more profitable, but you should be able to make money from the off provided you do your sums correctly and work out a sufficient margin. Remember to include postage costs and EBay seller’s fees when working out your selling price, and you’ll quickly be off to a profitable start.
Web Design
This one requires a degree of skill, but if you can design websites you can make a serious business out of web design. Of course it’s a pretty crowded market out there, but provided you can find the customers you can make a more than decent living working on your own terms with a web design firm, as a freelancer or with your own fully fledged small business. It might also be a route into online marketing and online media, which both in their own rights are massive, growing markets.
Recruitment Agency
A recruitment agency will be a great small business to start in 2008 because of the likelihood that unemployment will begin to rise. As the economy feels the pinch, businesses will be less willing to commit to full time staff. The solution? Recruitment agencies. All you have to do is find and supply the labour to the customer, and then invoice to cover the wages of your staff and your markup. Obviously, you do have to pay the wages on a recurring basis, however, so cash flow might be a problem initially.
Minicab Firm
A minicab firm is the type of business that looks set to remain strong in 2008 purely because it’s always necessary. People from all walks of life rely on minicab firms for daily transport. What’s more, it’s also more than possible to negotiate contracts with other small business and large business clients in your area, to bring in some steady business and to expand the model.
By: Naz Daud
Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com
Your Home Base Craft Business
Your home base craft business can be easily operated from home. Most of your tools and components are generally small so that they are easy to store in a cupboard and can easily be transported around from room to room. Materials are generally non hazardous so storing them in your home will not be a great problem. To run your business you just need a room in your home or even just a part of a room to get started. To go from hobbyist to professional will require a little adjustment in the beginning as you would have your workspace already setup and have been manufacturing already but on a smaller scale. As you increase your production you will also need to think out increasing your storage space. You will need to consider where to set up your office so that you can take care of the running of the business. Try not to have your office and work room in the same room. The tasks are different and will require their own attention.
You’re Confidence Level
An important part of building your business is your confidence, you need to have confidence in what you create. Believe that you can not only create the beautiful things that you do but also be able to sell them. You need to begin to change your mindset from being a person that creates a homemade product to a person that creates meticulous handcrafted products.
Handmade Products Are Sought-after
Handmade products provide customers with a quality item that is not mass produced; they are unique and can be personalized to suite an individual. Handcrafted products are normally sold at a premium as people are generally willing to pay for that unique and special item.
Do Your Research
What research do you have to do before you start your business? Here are some things you will need to look into to get an idea of how to set you your own craft business
- Make a list of the types of shops and galleries you would like to see your products sold in. Look at the type of customers that are in the shop and build yourself a customer profile.
- Attend your local markets, arts and craft shows and basically any events that would have a craft booth display set up. Take notes along the way for ideas. Talk to the exhibitors when they are not busy and tell them what you want to do, ask them about their experience both good and bad. They are the experts and generally will be willing to share their knowledge with you.
- Don’t forget to take plenty of notes along the way so that you can review them later. Ideas will spring from your notes so write those down immediately as well. These notes will be the foundation of your business to come.
By: GloriaG
Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com
Your Home Base Craft Business
Your home base craft business can be easily operated from home. Most of your tools and components are generally small so that they are easy to store in a cupboard and can easily be transported around from room to room. Materials are generally non hazardous so storing them in your home will not be a great problem. To run your business you just need a room in your home or even just a part of a room to get started. To go from hobbyist to professional will require a little adjustment in the beginning as you would have your workspace already setup and have been manufacturing already but on a smaller scale. As you increase your production you will also need to think out increasing your storage space. You will need to consider where to set up your office so that you can take care of the running of the business. Try not to have your office and work room in the same room. The tasks are different and will require their own attention.
You’re Confidence Level
An important part of building your business is your confidence, you need to have confidence in what you create. Believe that you can not only create the beautiful things that you do but also be able to sell them. You need to begin to change your mindset from being a person that creates a homemade product to a person that creates meticulous handcrafted products.
Handmade Products Are Sought-after
Handmade products provide customers with a quality item that is not mass produced; they are unique and can be personalized to suite an individual. Handcrafted products are normally sold at a premium as people are generally willing to pay for that unique and special item.
Do Your Research
What research do you have to do before you start your business? Here are some things you will need to look into to get an idea of how to set you your own craft business
- Make a list of the types of shops and galleries you would like to see your products sold in. Look at the type of customers that are in the shop and build yourself a customer profile.
- Attend your local markets, arts and craft shows and basically any events that would have a craft booth display set up. Take notes along the way for ideas. Talk to the exhibitors when they are not busy and tell them what you want to do, ask them about their experience both good and bad. They are the experts and generally will be willing to share their knowledge with you.
- Don’t forget to take plenty of notes along the way so that you can review them later. Ideas will spring from your notes so write those down immediately as well. These notes will be the foundation of your business to come.
By: GloriaG
Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com
You’re Confidence Level
An important part of building your business is your confidence, you need to have confidence in what you create. Believe that you can not only create the beautiful things that you do but also be able to sell them. You need to begin to change your mindset from being a person that creates a homemade product to a person that creates meticulous handcrafted products.
Handmade Products Are Sought-after
Handmade products provide customers with a quality item that is not mass produced; they are unique and can be personalized to suite an individual. Handcrafted products are normally sold at a premium as people are generally willing to pay for that unique and special item.
Do Your Research
What research do you have to do before you start your business? Here are some things you will need to look into to get an idea of how to set you your own craft business
- Make a list of the types of shops and galleries you would like to see your products sold in. Look at the type of customers that are in the shop and build yourself a customer profile.
- Attend your local markets, arts and craft shows and basically any events that would have a craft booth display set up. Take notes along the way for ideas. Talk to the exhibitors when they are not busy and tell them what you want to do, ask them about their experience both good and bad. They are the experts and generally will be willing to share their knowledge with you.
- Don’t forget to take plenty of notes along the way so that you can review them later. Ideas will spring from your notes so write those down immediately as well. These notes will be the foundation of your business to come.
By: GloriaG
Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com
The Types Of Flower Businesses
Flowers play a major part in our life. Their delicate beauty allows us to convey messages to loved ones for all sorts of special occasions. If you love flowers and recognize its role in human relationships, you might want to start your own flower shop. The first step is to determine the kind of service you want to provide. There are three kinds of floral services:
1. A wholesale florist supplies retailers with potted plants and fresh-cut flowers through flower markets or direct delivery to flower shops. Some wholesale florists grow their own flowers as well. This type of service will require years of knowledge, experience, and a larger capital. One should be knowledgeable in the basics of maintaining fresh inventory and the supply chain involved in flower transport. A lot of commitment is involved in this type of floral business and this is recommended for more experienced entrepreneurs.
2. A retail florist service is suitable for entrepreneurs who love flowers and love talking to clients. A florist does more than just sell flowers - they sell the art of arranging flowers. There are several ways to approach flower retailing. The key element is the skills and knowledge in floral design, arrangement, and care. One of the most flexible characteristics this business is it allows you to set up shop in almost any type of location. Flower shops can be located in hospitals, shopping malls, grocery stores, or street stalls depending on your business objectives and available capital. It is also a good complimentary business to restaurants and gift shops. Retail florists also have the option to narrow down their products and services into niche categories for weddings, funerals, or gifts.
3. A Floral products supplier sells complimentary items used by florists in making arrangements. This involves selling items such as vases, ribbons, floral foam, baskets, and other similar supplies. If you are the type of person that wants a flower related business but does not want to deal with the highly perishable nature of flowers, this may be the right business for you. This business type will require an extensive inventory management, distribution and delivery system.
In any type of flower business, expect your clients to ask many questions. You may need some basic knowledge in plant nutrition, soil, light control, and the like. You would be at a greater advantage if you have formal education in floriculture. If you do not have enough education or experience, get a feel for it by working for a flower related business before starting one on your own.
In addition to this, remember that the location of your shop can make or break the business. It has to be placed in an area with enough walk-by and drive-by traffic, or at a location that's convenient for your customers. Look at your budget and try to find the best location you can afford. Try to look out for spaces with parking facilities, space for future expansion, and good neighborhood quality.
Just like any other business, you need understand how business works. Besides making innovative flower arrangements, you will need to know all about buying, selling, accounting, managing costs, planning profits, and marketing for your flower shop to succeed.
By: Timothy Spencer
Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com
1. A wholesale florist supplies retailers with potted plants and fresh-cut flowers through flower markets or direct delivery to flower shops. Some wholesale florists grow their own flowers as well. This type of service will require years of knowledge, experience, and a larger capital. One should be knowledgeable in the basics of maintaining fresh inventory and the supply chain involved in flower transport. A lot of commitment is involved in this type of floral business and this is recommended for more experienced entrepreneurs.
2. A retail florist service is suitable for entrepreneurs who love flowers and love talking to clients. A florist does more than just sell flowers - they sell the art of arranging flowers. There are several ways to approach flower retailing. The key element is the skills and knowledge in floral design, arrangement, and care. One of the most flexible characteristics this business is it allows you to set up shop in almost any type of location. Flower shops can be located in hospitals, shopping malls, grocery stores, or street stalls depending on your business objectives and available capital. It is also a good complimentary business to restaurants and gift shops. Retail florists also have the option to narrow down their products and services into niche categories for weddings, funerals, or gifts.
3. A Floral products supplier sells complimentary items used by florists in making arrangements. This involves selling items such as vases, ribbons, floral foam, baskets, and other similar supplies. If you are the type of person that wants a flower related business but does not want to deal with the highly perishable nature of flowers, this may be the right business for you. This business type will require an extensive inventory management, distribution and delivery system.
In any type of flower business, expect your clients to ask many questions. You may need some basic knowledge in plant nutrition, soil, light control, and the like. You would be at a greater advantage if you have formal education in floriculture. If you do not have enough education or experience, get a feel for it by working for a flower related business before starting one on your own.
In addition to this, remember that the location of your shop can make or break the business. It has to be placed in an area with enough walk-by and drive-by traffic, or at a location that's convenient for your customers. Look at your budget and try to find the best location you can afford. Try to look out for spaces with parking facilities, space for future expansion, and good neighborhood quality.
Just like any other business, you need understand how business works. Besides making innovative flower arrangements, you will need to know all about buying, selling, accounting, managing costs, planning profits, and marketing for your flower shop to succeed.
By: Timothy Spencer
Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com
Adwords Is A Method Of Pay Per Click Marketing
Google Adwords and Google Adsense are so popular in the online marketing world, that they have all but eclipsed the other forms of advertising available to marketers. In their enthusiasm to jump on the bandwagon people are overlooking many other cost effective ways to advertise
Adwords is a method of pay per click marketing. Here is how it works; advertisers are charged a nominal amount every time their ad is viewed. Although the charges are usually less than a dollar, they can accumulate into a larger amount. This is especially true of popular keywords, as these can create a large quantity of worthless leads. It is certainly a risk and if you are not careful your campaign can eat up your advertising budget.
However not everything in the realm of advertising is governed by Adwords. It is a little known fact that not everyone is using this method of advertising. Of course there are many more ways to advertise and the sharp Marketer is going to explore all options. So think outside the box and start to see the sales come in.
Social marketing is a great alternative to Google Adwords. There are many ways to do this but blogs and forums are a couple of the best. Here you will discover groups of people who have a common interest in a subject. These are both powerful promotion tools. In fact just a small blog can reap big profits.
You can also try placing ads on other websites. You will need to be cautious before you do this. One thing to consider is the nature of your market and just whom you are trying to reach. To understand your market you must do some analysis on your potential clients. There are 3 different types of advertising available to you when placing ads on different websites. You can use text or banner ads and either pay for each click through, like pay-per-click advertising, or pay a flat fee to the webmaster for the duration of your ad.
The next 2 methods hinge on website content. This is a very effective way to advertise on a partner's website. Businesses will hire writers to provide them with content for their site. Trust and traffic will be increased by this means. If you are a smart advertiser, you can fulfill this need and get free exposure. They can offer their own articles, with bio to these companies for their website content. Back links will be created by this means.
This form of link building is dependent on the visitor reading all the way through the article and then clicking through on the link at the end of the article. Unfortunately many readers have an extremely short attention span; this means that they will not always use this link. Because you do not want to waste valuable leads you can use a few links within the article. This will allow the visitor to use these links for further information. This kind of content is known as hosted content. Not everybody will accept articles with links but some do. They may ask you to pay for a linked article as this will take visitors away from their site.
When you use all of these tips you will be see your profits soar. In fact by avoiding the risks of Adwords you will very likely save a lot of money
By: Joe Flips
Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com
Adwords is a method of pay per click marketing. Here is how it works; advertisers are charged a nominal amount every time their ad is viewed. Although the charges are usually less than a dollar, they can accumulate into a larger amount. This is especially true of popular keywords, as these can create a large quantity of worthless leads. It is certainly a risk and if you are not careful your campaign can eat up your advertising budget.
However not everything in the realm of advertising is governed by Adwords. It is a little known fact that not everyone is using this method of advertising. Of course there are many more ways to advertise and the sharp Marketer is going to explore all options. So think outside the box and start to see the sales come in.
Social marketing is a great alternative to Google Adwords. There are many ways to do this but blogs and forums are a couple of the best. Here you will discover groups of people who have a common interest in a subject. These are both powerful promotion tools. In fact just a small blog can reap big profits.
You can also try placing ads on other websites. You will need to be cautious before you do this. One thing to consider is the nature of your market and just whom you are trying to reach. To understand your market you must do some analysis on your potential clients. There are 3 different types of advertising available to you when placing ads on different websites. You can use text or banner ads and either pay for each click through, like pay-per-click advertising, or pay a flat fee to the webmaster for the duration of your ad.
The next 2 methods hinge on website content. This is a very effective way to advertise on a partner's website. Businesses will hire writers to provide them with content for their site. Trust and traffic will be increased by this means. If you are a smart advertiser, you can fulfill this need and get free exposure. They can offer their own articles, with bio to these companies for their website content. Back links will be created by this means.
This form of link building is dependent on the visitor reading all the way through the article and then clicking through on the link at the end of the article. Unfortunately many readers have an extremely short attention span; this means that they will not always use this link. Because you do not want to waste valuable leads you can use a few links within the article. This will allow the visitor to use these links for further information. This kind of content is known as hosted content. Not everybody will accept articles with links but some do. They may ask you to pay for a linked article as this will take visitors away from their site.
When you use all of these tips you will be see your profits soar. In fact by avoiding the risks of Adwords you will very likely save a lot of money
By: Joe Flips
Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com
Travel Agent Is The Best Person To Talk About Vacations
People who love to travel, visit exotic locales, foreign lands, dazzling beaches, for them the job of a travel agent is the best suited. They would prefer it infinitely more than any old desk job, however lucrative that may be.
Nowadays many consider that the internet has lessened the viability of the lucrative and interesting job of any tour agent. The internet has made it easy for an individual to make his own plans, his own reservations, and buy his own tickets, instead of rushing to the travel agent every time.
This is the reason why financial analysts feel that the travel agents role being redundant, their wages are also facing a fall. Around the year 2002 the median annual salary of any agent would have been $26,630. The most popular agents in the US were reported to earn as high as $41,660 or even more. But the current trend has been $20,800 to $33,580 as seen by the Department of Labor in the US.
The fact is that the travel agents are not making much of an earning. The only perks they receive are the special privileges and discounts while touring. But the funny part of the picture is that most agents do not even avail these because given the salary they receive, it is a luxury for them to travel far and wide!
But in spite of all these facts there are people who still desire of travel agency as an earning avenue. The following are some tips for them, about how to go about it.
1. For those who are keen on becoming a travel agent, knowing a second language is a must. This is because they have to deal with people from diverse speech communities and knowing another language comes handy.
2. A training of minimum 6-12 weeks is necessary for any aspiring travel operator. From this they come to know about the basic tenets of the job.
3. A functional knowledge of the computers is also needed to handle the transactions and invoices and the reports that are done through computer.
4. The travel agents must always be up-to-date regarding the current trends in the field of functioning. They must also know about the best and the most popular places of tourist’s interest.
5. A certification from the Certified Travel Counselor adds to the value of an agent.
It depends entirely on a persons own ability and aptitude, the quality of his work as an agent. As long as the agent derives full satisfaction from his work, the salary should not be a reason for his/her qualms.
By: Neerja Shukla
Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com
Nowadays many consider that the internet has lessened the viability of the lucrative and interesting job of any tour agent. The internet has made it easy for an individual to make his own plans, his own reservations, and buy his own tickets, instead of rushing to the travel agent every time.
This is the reason why financial analysts feel that the travel agents role being redundant, their wages are also facing a fall. Around the year 2002 the median annual salary of any agent would have been $26,630. The most popular agents in the US were reported to earn as high as $41,660 or even more. But the current trend has been $20,800 to $33,580 as seen by the Department of Labor in the US.
The fact is that the travel agents are not making much of an earning. The only perks they receive are the special privileges and discounts while touring. But the funny part of the picture is that most agents do not even avail these because given the salary they receive, it is a luxury for them to travel far and wide!
But in spite of all these facts there are people who still desire of travel agency as an earning avenue. The following are some tips for them, about how to go about it.
1. For those who are keen on becoming a travel agent, knowing a second language is a must. This is because they have to deal with people from diverse speech communities and knowing another language comes handy.
2. A training of minimum 6-12 weeks is necessary for any aspiring travel operator. From this they come to know about the basic tenets of the job.
3. A functional knowledge of the computers is also needed to handle the transactions and invoices and the reports that are done through computer.
4. The travel agents must always be up-to-date regarding the current trends in the field of functioning. They must also know about the best and the most popular places of tourist’s interest.
5. A certification from the Certified Travel Counselor adds to the value of an agent.
It depends entirely on a persons own ability and aptitude, the quality of his work as an agent. As long as the agent derives full satisfaction from his work, the salary should not be a reason for his/her qualms.
By: Neerja Shukla
Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com
10 Free Or Low Cost Ways To Run Your Business From Your Mobile Phone
Believe it or not there are many web services that give you the power to run your business from your cell phone.
You can use these low cost or free services to:
1. Get personalized business advice and ideas.
The Big Bright Bulb.com offers microconsulting targeted, personalized advice and ideas, for businesses of 1 to 5 people, with questions about doing business online.
2. Check and compare product prices.
About to buy a new office printer at an electronics store and want to make sure you're really getting a bargain? Access the product search on your cell phone to search for lower online prices.
3. Find and connect with local businesses.
Dial 1-800-GOOG-411 (1-800-466-4411) from any phone State the location and business. Connect to the business for free Google's new 411 service is free, fast and easy to use.
4. Copy documents, whiteboards and handwritten notes.
Turn documents, notes and whiteboards into digital copies (PDFs) with your camera phone.
5. Get directions, avoid traffic, and find the nearest 'whatever'.
Never get lost again with Google Maps for mobile a downloadable application that puts local information, directions and maps in your pocket.
6. Monitor your expenses and spending trends.
Automatically and securely aggregates your bank and credit card accounts to easy see what's costing you the most.
7. Print email attachments, data or web pages.
Free mobile printing service for your cell phone, send what you want to print to the virtual print server which converts your data to a PDF.
8. Save time and save your messages.
Read your Voicemail, see your voicemail in text when you can't take the call or listen to the message.
9. Edit your blog.
You can post photos and text from your camera phone straight to the web blog. You can even create one automatically when you send a photo or message from your mobile device.
10. Turn your camera phone into a scanner, copier, and fax.
You can keep digital copies of important documents, save interesting articles from magazines, share documents with remote employees, fax a contract while on the road and/or email signed expense reports.
With the use of these mobile web services there's no reason to tell a customer they have to wait or tell a partner you haven't received a fax someone sent you or missed a voice mail because you weren't in the office.
With today's technology being able to run your business away from the office just as if you were in the office is easy. This means you can access your office email, faxes, files and more--wherever you are, no laptop needed.
By: Tonya R. Taylor
Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com
You can use these low cost or free services to:
1. Get personalized business advice and ideas.
The Big Bright Bulb.com offers microconsulting targeted, personalized advice and ideas, for businesses of 1 to 5 people, with questions about doing business online.
2. Check and compare product prices.
About to buy a new office printer at an electronics store and want to make sure you're really getting a bargain? Access the product search on your cell phone to search for lower online prices.
3. Find and connect with local businesses.
Dial 1-800-GOOG-411 (1-800-466-4411) from any phone State the location and business. Connect to the business for free Google's new 411 service is free, fast and easy to use.
4. Copy documents, whiteboards and handwritten notes.
Turn documents, notes and whiteboards into digital copies (PDFs) with your camera phone.
5. Get directions, avoid traffic, and find the nearest 'whatever'.
Never get lost again with Google Maps for mobile a downloadable application that puts local information, directions and maps in your pocket.
6. Monitor your expenses and spending trends.
Automatically and securely aggregates your bank and credit card accounts to easy see what's costing you the most.
7. Print email attachments, data or web pages.
Free mobile printing service for your cell phone, send what you want to print to the virtual print server which converts your data to a PDF.
8. Save time and save your messages.
Read your Voicemail, see your voicemail in text when you can't take the call or listen to the message.
9. Edit your blog.
You can post photos and text from your camera phone straight to the web blog. You can even create one automatically when you send a photo or message from your mobile device.
10. Turn your camera phone into a scanner, copier, and fax.
You can keep digital copies of important documents, save interesting articles from magazines, share documents with remote employees, fax a contract while on the road and/or email signed expense reports.
With the use of these mobile web services there's no reason to tell a customer they have to wait or tell a partner you haven't received a fax someone sent you or missed a voice mail because you weren't in the office.
With today's technology being able to run your business away from the office just as if you were in the office is easy. This means you can access your office email, faxes, files and more--wherever you are, no laptop needed.
By: Tonya R. Taylor
Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com
Thursday, August 14, 2008
8 Effects Of High Gas Prices On Small Business Owners
Direct Cost Increase
Whenever you drive for a business purpose – even to and from work – you are paying more then you did a year ago. This direct price increase may only be slight for wage earning employees, but small business owners typically drive a lot more. Between trips to the local Office Depot, frequent visits to their place of business, trips to the bank, and trips on behalf of customers, that extra $0.50 - $2.00 per gallon can really add up.
Increased Shipping Costs
One place the cost of fuel has had a direct impact on is the cost of shipping. This increase is passed-down directly to the consumer. This means that the price of everything is going up (i.e. price of supplies, inventory, merchandise, etc.), and the overall cost of running a small business will continue to reflect this problem.
More Reliance on E-mail and Fax
Due to the direct increase in shipping costs, small business owners are increasing their usage of e-mail and fax machines. Paying to ship large documents or contracts just costs too much these days. A lot of businesses are also turning to virtual fax machines that let you scan documents to fax out and receive faxes through one’s e-mail address.
Less Employee Candidates
Due to the high cost of commuting, people are beginning to only seek employment near their homes. This can drastically reduce the number of applicants who will apply for a position. It is especially troublesome for restaurant owners or stores that frequently hire teenagers.
Higher Wages for Employees
When you do find and hire employees, it is likely that you are going to have to pay them higher wages to compensate for the higher commute expenses. This is especially true for businesses located outside of a dense city and your employees must drive long distances to get to work.
Less Face to Face Meetings
Pretty much everyone in the country is looking to reduce his or her gas consumption and save money. This means business owners will need to adapt to more virtual means of communication that avoid the gas of driving to face-to-face meetings. Expect to conduct additional business calls, and even videoconferences. These forms of communication are less personable, thus reducing the chances that you will “win” a contract or a customer based upon your people skills.
Higher Prices for Prime Locations
The housing boom a decade away led the path to sprawl, where middle income Americans moved to the suburbs in record numbers. However, with record fuel costs, they are driving less. This means the cost of prime locations is likely to skyrocket. Consumers are no longer willing to drive long distances to get a good deal. In addition, advertising will waste money if your store is a long drive for potential customers.
Less Drive by Traffic
As consumers drive less and seek-out alternative modes of transportation, the importance of drive by traffic and advertising is going to be less and less effective. Instead, owners of brick and mortar stores are going to need to adapt to more results-driven forms of advertising.
By: roni deutch
Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com
Whenever you drive for a business purpose – even to and from work – you are paying more then you did a year ago. This direct price increase may only be slight for wage earning employees, but small business owners typically drive a lot more. Between trips to the local Office Depot, frequent visits to their place of business, trips to the bank, and trips on behalf of customers, that extra $0.50 - $2.00 per gallon can really add up.
Increased Shipping Costs
One place the cost of fuel has had a direct impact on is the cost of shipping. This increase is passed-down directly to the consumer. This means that the price of everything is going up (i.e. price of supplies, inventory, merchandise, etc.), and the overall cost of running a small business will continue to reflect this problem.
More Reliance on E-mail and Fax
Due to the direct increase in shipping costs, small business owners are increasing their usage of e-mail and fax machines. Paying to ship large documents or contracts just costs too much these days. A lot of businesses are also turning to virtual fax machines that let you scan documents to fax out and receive faxes through one’s e-mail address.
Less Employee Candidates
Due to the high cost of commuting, people are beginning to only seek employment near their homes. This can drastically reduce the number of applicants who will apply for a position. It is especially troublesome for restaurant owners or stores that frequently hire teenagers.
Higher Wages for Employees
When you do find and hire employees, it is likely that you are going to have to pay them higher wages to compensate for the higher commute expenses. This is especially true for businesses located outside of a dense city and your employees must drive long distances to get to work.
Less Face to Face Meetings
Pretty much everyone in the country is looking to reduce his or her gas consumption and save money. This means business owners will need to adapt to more virtual means of communication that avoid the gas of driving to face-to-face meetings. Expect to conduct additional business calls, and even videoconferences. These forms of communication are less personable, thus reducing the chances that you will “win” a contract or a customer based upon your people skills.
Higher Prices for Prime Locations
The housing boom a decade away led the path to sprawl, where middle income Americans moved to the suburbs in record numbers. However, with record fuel costs, they are driving less. This means the cost of prime locations is likely to skyrocket. Consumers are no longer willing to drive long distances to get a good deal. In addition, advertising will waste money if your store is a long drive for potential customers.
Less Drive by Traffic
As consumers drive less and seek-out alternative modes of transportation, the importance of drive by traffic and advertising is going to be less and less effective. Instead, owners of brick and mortar stores are going to need to adapt to more results-driven forms of advertising.
By: roni deutch
Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com
How Professional Cleaning Services Can Benefit Your Business
If you or several of your co-workers have been handling the cleaning of your office, chances are that you’re wasting valuable time and resources that could be better spent in service of your business. No one wants to have to clean up their own office, especially after a long day on the job! But if you think that your business can’t afford to outsource to a professional cleaning service, think again: affordable office cleaning businesses have significantly grown in the past few years, which is good news for you – it no longer costs an arm and a leg to hire quality cleaning professionals! Need more convincing as to why you should outsource your office cleaning to a professional service? Here are just a few reasons that will make you pick up your phone and call your local cleaning company:
There’s no need to hire another worker. When you have your staff keeping their own offices clean, you’re effectively undermining your business, as the time spent on housekeeping can significantly cut into the average workday. But let’s say that you’re a small business owner who is afraid of the costs of adding another staff member exclusively devoted to office cleaning. And why shouldn’t you be? These days, it’s more expensive than ever to hire quality workers, as you not only have to pay another salary; there’s health insurance, sick leave, and other benefits to be provided for! No wonder more businesses are downsizing, as the cost of maintaining employees has been skyrocketing, with no end in sight.
When it comes to a professional cleaning company, you only need to pay the contracted fees – and that’s it! There’s no insurance to pay, no salary, and no benefits; you’re just paying for affordable cleaning services. In fact, it makes more sense to outsource to a professional cleaning service, as you can protect the valuable time and resources of your employees as well as avoid investing more money in hiring another staff member. This is a rule that any savvy business owner knows: if your return is greater than your investment, take the opportunity!
You can protect employee morale. Let’s say you still want to avoid hiring a cleaning service, and have your own employees cleaning up their own offices. While you may think that it’s a smart way to save a few bucks, you’re really wasting the talents and resources of your staff – as well as running the risk of fostering potential grudges in the workplace. It doesn’t take a whole lot of common sense to realize that if your employees are unhappy – and if they’re cleaning their own offices, they probably are – your business is going to suffer.
When you leave your office cleaning on the shoulders of your employees, you’re also raising their stress levels, as the increased unwanted responsibilities will take its toll on office morale – and we all know that raised stress levels lead to more overall sick leave. Let’s face it – you took the time to hire quality employees who offer your company diverse talents and skills, not because of their ability to clean their desks. Hire a professional cleaning service, and you’ll see an increase in your employees’ overall health and happiness.
Protect your own time. As a business owner, it’s often your responsibility to follow-up with employees to clean up around the office – or it’s up to you to do it! If you started your small business without the expectations of having to clean your office, keep it that way. Your time and resources are perhaps the most valuable assets of all to your business, and shouldn’t be sacrificed in order to maintain a clean workplace. Hire cleaning professionals who will be able to offer you flexible pricing options and will perform a far greater cleaning job than you or your employees could ever do.
As you can see, it doesn’t take much to convince a savvy business owner of the benefits of outsourcing to a professional cleaning service. Save yourself the unneeded aggravation of having to clean your own office by contacting a local professional – and watch how quickly the morale and productivity of your office improves!
By: Redants
Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com
There’s no need to hire another worker. When you have your staff keeping their own offices clean, you’re effectively undermining your business, as the time spent on housekeeping can significantly cut into the average workday. But let’s say that you’re a small business owner who is afraid of the costs of adding another staff member exclusively devoted to office cleaning. And why shouldn’t you be? These days, it’s more expensive than ever to hire quality workers, as you not only have to pay another salary; there’s health insurance, sick leave, and other benefits to be provided for! No wonder more businesses are downsizing, as the cost of maintaining employees has been skyrocketing, with no end in sight.
When it comes to a professional cleaning company, you only need to pay the contracted fees – and that’s it! There’s no insurance to pay, no salary, and no benefits; you’re just paying for affordable cleaning services. In fact, it makes more sense to outsource to a professional cleaning service, as you can protect the valuable time and resources of your employees as well as avoid investing more money in hiring another staff member. This is a rule that any savvy business owner knows: if your return is greater than your investment, take the opportunity!
You can protect employee morale. Let’s say you still want to avoid hiring a cleaning service, and have your own employees cleaning up their own offices. While you may think that it’s a smart way to save a few bucks, you’re really wasting the talents and resources of your staff – as well as running the risk of fostering potential grudges in the workplace. It doesn’t take a whole lot of common sense to realize that if your employees are unhappy – and if they’re cleaning their own offices, they probably are – your business is going to suffer.
When you leave your office cleaning on the shoulders of your employees, you’re also raising their stress levels, as the increased unwanted responsibilities will take its toll on office morale – and we all know that raised stress levels lead to more overall sick leave. Let’s face it – you took the time to hire quality employees who offer your company diverse talents and skills, not because of their ability to clean their desks. Hire a professional cleaning service, and you’ll see an increase in your employees’ overall health and happiness.
Protect your own time. As a business owner, it’s often your responsibility to follow-up with employees to clean up around the office – or it’s up to you to do it! If you started your small business without the expectations of having to clean your office, keep it that way. Your time and resources are perhaps the most valuable assets of all to your business, and shouldn’t be sacrificed in order to maintain a clean workplace. Hire cleaning professionals who will be able to offer you flexible pricing options and will perform a far greater cleaning job than you or your employees could ever do.
As you can see, it doesn’t take much to convince a savvy business owner of the benefits of outsourcing to a professional cleaning service. Save yourself the unneeded aggravation of having to clean your own office by contacting a local professional – and watch how quickly the morale and productivity of your office improves!
By: Redants
Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com
Finding Products To Sell At Wholesale Prices
Alright, here is the most critical part of the eBay process, getting your product. First off, by now you should have done some research on what is selling well on eBay and what is not. For example, Apple iPhone cases are selling much better right now then Sanyo cases. Therefore, you would then want to search for ways to buy Apple iPhone cases at a wholesale rate. How do you do this? Simple, Alibaba!
Alibaba dot com is a worldwide marketplace for items being sold at wholesale. A majority of the suppliers are from China and are serious wholesale businesses. As you can see, there are 1,065 wholesale listings for iPhone cases. A majority of professional eBay sellers find wholesale items such as iPhone cases on Alibaba, setup the deal, and then turn around and sell the items for a nice profit on eBay.
To ensure you stay safe in transactions on Alibaba, be sure to follow these simple rules:
Only deal with good suppliers
Only deal with sellers from legitimate countries (do not do business with sellers from Nigeria)
Deal with sellers that have company websites, are licensed, and have verified transactions.
Always bargain with the wholesaler. Remember, it cost them practically nothing to manufacture the item you are going to sell. I’ve bargained with sellers to get the price as much as 65% lower than listed on the website.
Never buy too much product at one time.
Be sure you are dealing with a professional
Find one good supplier you trust and stick to him!
As long as you stick to those simple rules, you should never get burned or scammed on Alibaba. I’ve dealt with many different suppliers with no problems whatsoever. Always try to negotiate with your supplier on stuff like getting certain sizes, colors, etc. You should have done plenty of research prior to going on Alibaba to understand exactly what is selling on eBay. To get a good idea, go back to eBay and look at the Completed Auctions for the item you are trying to sell.
By searching for auctions that have already ended you can get a good indication as to how the market is reacting to the item you are looking to sell. If there are lots of items not selling, you will see many auctions with red numbers. If they have sold, they will be green.
Do not only use that as an indication. Also take into consideration that you may be able to price yourself considerably lower than your competitors due to the fact that you are getting your product wholesale from overseas. There are many sellers that still resort to United States drop shippers and do not reap the benefits of overseas trade.
By: DCJames
Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com
Alibaba dot com is a worldwide marketplace for items being sold at wholesale. A majority of the suppliers are from China and are serious wholesale businesses. As you can see, there are 1,065 wholesale listings for iPhone cases. A majority of professional eBay sellers find wholesale items such as iPhone cases on Alibaba, setup the deal, and then turn around and sell the items for a nice profit on eBay.
To ensure you stay safe in transactions on Alibaba, be sure to follow these simple rules:
Only deal with good suppliers
Only deal with sellers from legitimate countries (do not do business with sellers from Nigeria)
Deal with sellers that have company websites, are licensed, and have verified transactions.
Always bargain with the wholesaler. Remember, it cost them practically nothing to manufacture the item you are going to sell. I’ve bargained with sellers to get the price as much as 65% lower than listed on the website.
Never buy too much product at one time.
Be sure you are dealing with a professional
Find one good supplier you trust and stick to him!
As long as you stick to those simple rules, you should never get burned or scammed on Alibaba. I’ve dealt with many different suppliers with no problems whatsoever. Always try to negotiate with your supplier on stuff like getting certain sizes, colors, etc. You should have done plenty of research prior to going on Alibaba to understand exactly what is selling on eBay. To get a good idea, go back to eBay and look at the Completed Auctions for the item you are trying to sell.
By searching for auctions that have already ended you can get a good indication as to how the market is reacting to the item you are looking to sell. If there are lots of items not selling, you will see many auctions with red numbers. If they have sold, they will be green.
Do not only use that as an indication. Also take into consideration that you may be able to price yourself considerably lower than your competitors due to the fact that you are getting your product wholesale from overseas. There are many sellers that still resort to United States drop shippers and do not reap the benefits of overseas trade.
By: DCJames
Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com
Finding Products To Sell At Wholesale Prices
Alright, here is the most critical part of the eBay process, getting your product. First off, by now you should have done some research on what is selling well on eBay and what is not. For example, Apple iPhone cases are selling much better right now then Sanyo cases. Therefore, you would then want to search for ways to buy Apple iPhone cases at a wholesale rate. How do you do this? Simple, Alibaba!
Alibaba dot com is a worldwide marketplace for items being sold at wholesale. A majority of the suppliers are from China and are serious wholesale businesses. As you can see, there are 1,065 wholesale listings for iPhone cases. A majority of professional eBay sellers find wholesale items such as iPhone cases on Alibaba, setup the deal, and then turn around and sell the items for a nice profit on eBay.
To ensure you stay safe in transactions on Alibaba, be sure to follow these simple rules:
Only deal with good suppliers
Only deal with sellers from legitimate countries (do not do business with sellers from Nigeria)
Deal with sellers that have company websites, are licensed, and have verified transactions.
Always bargain with the wholesaler. Remember, it cost them practically nothing to manufacture the item you are going to sell. I’ve bargained with sellers to get the price as much as 65% lower than listed on the website.
Never buy too much product at one time.
Be sure you are dealing with a professional
Find one good supplier you trust and stick to him!
As long as you stick to those simple rules, you should never get burned or scammed on Alibaba. I’ve dealt with many different suppliers with no problems whatsoever. Always try to negotiate with your supplier on stuff like getting certain sizes, colors, etc. You should have done plenty of research prior to going on Alibaba to understand exactly what is selling on eBay. To get a good idea, go back to eBay and look at the Completed Auctions for the item you are trying to sell.
By searching for auctions that have already ended you can get a good indication as to how the market is reacting to the item you are looking to sell. If there are lots of items not selling, you will see many auctions with red numbers. If they have sold, they will be green.
Do not only use that as an indication. Also take into consideration that you may be able to price yourself considerably lower than your competitors due to the fact that you are getting your product wholesale from overseas. There are many sellers that still resort to United States drop shippers and do not reap the benefits of overseas trade.
By: DCJames
Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com
Use Your Knowledge And Skills, To Make Money Online
Making money online is now considered to be one of the fastest growing areas for people to invest their time in because they are tired of the 9-5 routine. When you are thinking of ways to make money, you likely want to know immediately what the best way is but everyone is different and what is profitable for one is not for another. Before you can move ahead you need to decide what skills you can offer the Internet; two well tried methods are used in this article. In essence all that is needed is a method to find customers, meet their needs and giving them more than they are expecting.
One of the most popular methods of making money online is by affiliate marketing where a person becomes an unpaid (commissions only) salesperson for a company, internet or otherwise and is paid for sales, or on occasion leads. Affiliates don't have to endure the stresses and strains of running that company but still have the opportunity to earn a cut of it. If an affiliate can find a trustworthy program, in which they will never lose money, there is the chance to earning some serious cash. The idea is to find a company that pays a good percentage on their commissions; seventy five percent is not unusual but try to avoid those where great efforts can be made just to secure five percent. The reason many people like affiliate marketing as a way to make money online is the fact they do not have to own or promote a product of their own so there is very little financial outlay involved.
Google's adsense program is the other major method of making money online where they place adverts on websites they hope will attract people to click on. This is a simple system whereby Google pays each person who has an account with them (it's free) for every time the adverts are clicked although this is a very small amount. This is the system described very simply but you need huge numbers of visitors to your site (probably a number of sites) to generate an income. While almost anyone can join Google's program, care is needed as they are continually updating and amending their terms and conditions which will affect your revenue.
Any one may become partner with Google's Adsense program to work towards a common goal but Google has a whole list of terms and conditions that must be adhered to. Everyone has their own reason for wanting to make money online but you must be sure why you are doing it if you want it to succeed. All you need to do is learn how to get people to 'visit' your site and because this is not an easy thing to learn on your own, you will need some help that will teach you the best tactics.
While there are many places to learn this information, you would be wise to join warriorforum.com because of the wealth of information and experience that other people are willing to share. The great thing about making money online is you do not need to have stock, a computer or even any computing knowledge; where else could you achieve this.
By: Manita PD
Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com
One of the most popular methods of making money online is by affiliate marketing where a person becomes an unpaid (commissions only) salesperson for a company, internet or otherwise and is paid for sales, or on occasion leads. Affiliates don't have to endure the stresses and strains of running that company but still have the opportunity to earn a cut of it. If an affiliate can find a trustworthy program, in which they will never lose money, there is the chance to earning some serious cash. The idea is to find a company that pays a good percentage on their commissions; seventy five percent is not unusual but try to avoid those where great efforts can be made just to secure five percent. The reason many people like affiliate marketing as a way to make money online is the fact they do not have to own or promote a product of their own so there is very little financial outlay involved.
Google's adsense program is the other major method of making money online where they place adverts on websites they hope will attract people to click on. This is a simple system whereby Google pays each person who has an account with them (it's free) for every time the adverts are clicked although this is a very small amount. This is the system described very simply but you need huge numbers of visitors to your site (probably a number of sites) to generate an income. While almost anyone can join Google's program, care is needed as they are continually updating and amending their terms and conditions which will affect your revenue.
Any one may become partner with Google's Adsense program to work towards a common goal but Google has a whole list of terms and conditions that must be adhered to. Everyone has their own reason for wanting to make money online but you must be sure why you are doing it if you want it to succeed. All you need to do is learn how to get people to 'visit' your site and because this is not an easy thing to learn on your own, you will need some help that will teach you the best tactics.
While there are many places to learn this information, you would be wise to join warriorforum.com because of the wealth of information and experience that other people are willing to share. The great thing about making money online is you do not need to have stock, a computer or even any computing knowledge; where else could you achieve this.
By: Manita PD
Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com
5 Keys To Creating A Successful Internet Marketing Business
There is no denying the fact that the internet is full of tremendous internet marketing business opportunities to venture into. Unfortunately for many, the dream of living the internet life is short lived. To avoid failing yourself, here are five keys to succeeding with your internet business.
1. Research, Research, Research
No matter how knowledgeable you are on a topic, you can never know enough. The internet is constantly evolving bringing new terms and new topics to learn. It is vital you know anything and everything that has to do with your niche. The last thing you want is for your competitor, or even a visitor to your site to know more than you do.
2. Add new content
No matter how much content you have on your web site, it is not enough. You should be adding pages of content to your web site every day. While it is astonishing to see where your web site goes from day one to three years later, you have to realize that it is still not complete. You should never complete your web site because there is always new content to add.
3. Visually appealing
While content plays a big part in how successful your internet marketing business is, the graphic appeal says a lot as well. You want to create a site that grabs visitor’s attention with visually appealing colors and graphics. But make sure you do not overdo it on the graphics and flashing banners. All this does is distract people from other things on your site.
4. Marketing
The only way you will have people coming to your site is through effective marketing. Nobody knows you exist until you let them know about it. Instead of wasting your time marketing to the whole world, find your target market and focus your advertising efforts on them. And as soon as you have a decent traffic flow, it is vital you continue to market two to three hours every day.
5. Treat the customers
It can be easy to get distracted being that you have so many responsibilities. After all, you are the boss, writer, graphic designer, and marketer. But one of your most important jobs is customer service. Without the customers you have no way of making any money. See to it that you treat every customer with the respect they deserve.
The list of what you can do to run a successful internet marketing business could go on forever. But the keys listed in this article are some of the essential items you will want to take care of with your internet business.
By: Tyrone Roach-11371
Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com
1. Research, Research, Research
No matter how knowledgeable you are on a topic, you can never know enough. The internet is constantly evolving bringing new terms and new topics to learn. It is vital you know anything and everything that has to do with your niche. The last thing you want is for your competitor, or even a visitor to your site to know more than you do.
2. Add new content
No matter how much content you have on your web site, it is not enough. You should be adding pages of content to your web site every day. While it is astonishing to see where your web site goes from day one to three years later, you have to realize that it is still not complete. You should never complete your web site because there is always new content to add.
3. Visually appealing
While content plays a big part in how successful your internet marketing business is, the graphic appeal says a lot as well. You want to create a site that grabs visitor’s attention with visually appealing colors and graphics. But make sure you do not overdo it on the graphics and flashing banners. All this does is distract people from other things on your site.
4. Marketing
The only way you will have people coming to your site is through effective marketing. Nobody knows you exist until you let them know about it. Instead of wasting your time marketing to the whole world, find your target market and focus your advertising efforts on them. And as soon as you have a decent traffic flow, it is vital you continue to market two to three hours every day.
5. Treat the customers
It can be easy to get distracted being that you have so many responsibilities. After all, you are the boss, writer, graphic designer, and marketer. But one of your most important jobs is customer service. Without the customers you have no way of making any money. See to it that you treat every customer with the respect they deserve.
The list of what you can do to run a successful internet marketing business could go on forever. But the keys listed in this article are some of the essential items you will want to take care of with your internet business.
By: Tyrone Roach-11371
Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com
How To Adjust To A New Home Business Opportunity
As the internet continues to grow, more and more people are searching for their chance to jump on a new home business opportunity. Despite the internet flooding with entrepreneurs, there still remains a plethora of opportunities for you to pursue. But it is up to you to make the adjustment of working for yourself if you want to succeed.
For whatever reason, far too many entrepreneurs feel they can start a business and quickly turn it into a high moneymaker. Unfortunately, many do not realize the amount of time and effort that is required to actually succeed on the internet. While the possibility is there for you to succeed, it is up to you to make it happen.
One of the most difficult parts to having a home business opportunity is the amount of freedom you are given. It can be difficult to force yourself to work when you do not have a set schedule. Because of this, create yourself a schedule to work off of so you know exactly when you need to get things done. You still have the freedom of working whenever you want, you just now have a set schedule to go off of.
The next thing you want to do is write out a game plan you want to follow. When working for someone else, you typically just take orders and do not have to worry about what comes next. When you have your own home business, there is nobody there to tell you what to do next. Your plan will certainly change down the road, but it is vital you have a plan to revert to.
In addition to having a plan, it is essential you write out goals you want to accomplish. Because of the freedom given to you, it can be difficult to stay motivated every day. Having goals will give you something to strive for when things get tough. Make sure to write dates you want to accomplish the goals by as well.
Lastly, make sure you have an office to work in. Working from the living room couch or the kitchen table will not cut it. It is too easy to watch some television or get a snack every few minutes. Being in an office secludes you from most distractions so you can get quality work done.
While there are several advantages to going after a home business opportunity, it can be a difficult transition from the 9 to 5 job. It is a completely different atmosphere and far more freedom given to you. Take the tips in this article into consideration and succeed with your opportunity.
Author by: Almir Bojkovic-11371
Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com
For whatever reason, far too many entrepreneurs feel they can start a business and quickly turn it into a high moneymaker. Unfortunately, many do not realize the amount of time and effort that is required to actually succeed on the internet. While the possibility is there for you to succeed, it is up to you to make it happen.
One of the most difficult parts to having a home business opportunity is the amount of freedom you are given. It can be difficult to force yourself to work when you do not have a set schedule. Because of this, create yourself a schedule to work off of so you know exactly when you need to get things done. You still have the freedom of working whenever you want, you just now have a set schedule to go off of.
The next thing you want to do is write out a game plan you want to follow. When working for someone else, you typically just take orders and do not have to worry about what comes next. When you have your own home business, there is nobody there to tell you what to do next. Your plan will certainly change down the road, but it is vital you have a plan to revert to.
In addition to having a plan, it is essential you write out goals you want to accomplish. Because of the freedom given to you, it can be difficult to stay motivated every day. Having goals will give you something to strive for when things get tough. Make sure to write dates you want to accomplish the goals by as well.
Lastly, make sure you have an office to work in. Working from the living room couch or the kitchen table will not cut it. It is too easy to watch some television or get a snack every few minutes. Being in an office secludes you from most distractions so you can get quality work done.
While there are several advantages to going after a home business opportunity, it can be a difficult transition from the 9 to 5 job. It is a completely different atmosphere and far more freedom given to you. Take the tips in this article into consideration and succeed with your opportunity.
Author by: Almir Bojkovic-11371
Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com
A Work At Home Business-6 Vital Tips For You To Succeed
There are a large and vast array of business opportunities available to you, that will allow to work at home and become free from the 9 to 5 routine. It is not a new concept to start a work at home business. There are many older type home based businesses, Such as, child day care, candle making, catering and much more. However the internet has largely improved the home based business opportunities.
If you do consider a home based business as an option, then it is better for you to have a passion for it. You will need to work hard, especially when first starting. If you are dedicated and put the effort in, then you will gain the rewards once your home business is established.
A work at home business does initially require hard work, but at the same time you have the freedom of working at home and spending more time with your family.
Before you start your business, you need to plan well and decide which type is going to suit you. Also consider, what is right for others, may not be right for you.
It is not the easiest of tasks starting a work at home business. First you must consider what the risks are, also does it require a large or small investment to start it. You could always seek the help of an small business adviser, just to be on the safe side.
Here are some essential tips for starting a work at home business.
Before you start a home based business, think about organising it properly. this will save you any unnecessary delays. The following advice is essential for home business success
1. A phone with unlimited long distance calling option, caller Id, Voice mail, call forwarding and anonymous call rejection.
2. It is a absolute must to have a calendar.
3. A Computer with high speed internet connection, flash player, Adobe reader etc, are also important. You can use email software like outlook or outlook express for business email and it looks more professional than the free services.
4. A good filing system is extremely important, this is so you are organised and can work more efficiently.
5. Use a instant messenger service to communicate with your online contacts and getting your questions answered. This will leave your phone line open for incoming calls from prospective customers.
6. If you need to, use a room in your home for business purposes. But make sure you will be able to work peacefully there
These are simple steps, but if you follow them, they will help you start your business and run it successfully.
Author by: Graham Williams
Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com
If you do consider a home based business as an option, then it is better for you to have a passion for it. You will need to work hard, especially when first starting. If you are dedicated and put the effort in, then you will gain the rewards once your home business is established.
A work at home business does initially require hard work, but at the same time you have the freedom of working at home and spending more time with your family.
Before you start your business, you need to plan well and decide which type is going to suit you. Also consider, what is right for others, may not be right for you.
It is not the easiest of tasks starting a work at home business. First you must consider what the risks are, also does it require a large or small investment to start it. You could always seek the help of an small business adviser, just to be on the safe side.
Here are some essential tips for starting a work at home business.
Before you start a home based business, think about organising it properly. this will save you any unnecessary delays. The following advice is essential for home business success
1. A phone with unlimited long distance calling option, caller Id, Voice mail, call forwarding and anonymous call rejection.
2. It is a absolute must to have a calendar.
3. A Computer with high speed internet connection, flash player, Adobe reader etc, are also important. You can use email software like outlook or outlook express for business email and it looks more professional than the free services.
4. A good filing system is extremely important, this is so you are organised and can work more efficiently.
5. Use a instant messenger service to communicate with your online contacts and getting your questions answered. This will leave your phone line open for incoming calls from prospective customers.
6. If you need to, use a room in your home for business purposes. But make sure you will be able to work peacefully there
These are simple steps, but if you follow them, they will help you start your business and run it successfully.
Author by: Graham Williams
Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com
Do Not Hide Behind The Computer With Your Home Based Business
So you have ventured out into the real world on your own and are ready to start your own home based business. Finally, no more dealing with a boss and talking to nagging customers. What entrepreneur newbie’s do not understand is you still have to interact with people to create a successful home business.
Just because you will never see any of your customers and may never even talk to them over the phone does not mean you can hide behind the computer. In order to have success, you have to get out there and make a name for both you and your business. Interact and show people who you are.
The problem with hiding behind your computer is visitors and customers have no clue who you are. All they know is what they see on your web site and read from your content. They have no clue who they are dealing with and quite frankly do not even know if they can trust you.
By getting out and posting in forums and creating a blog, you have the opportunity to open up and show people who you are. You can interact and share your opinions to specific issues while taking in what others have to say. The more people get to know you, the stronger your relationship will grow and they will be able to trust you far more.
Putting up an article or content on your web site is not enough. All it is to visitors is words they can read. They want to hear you tell them about your products and explain how they will benefit from them. In addition, interacting with visitors gives you the opportunity to clarify any questions people may have.
If you think you can get away with writing content and hiding from customers you are wrong. In order to generate traffic, you must get out and promote the heck out of your web site. Do not sit back and expect people to come to your site. There are hundreds of thousands of other sites they can just as easily go to. Do not give them the opportunity to make their way to a different web site. Let them know you exist and make your voice be heard.
Having a home based business is an amazing honor because it is all on you. You have created it from ground up and are offering people something that can truly benefit them. But in order to get your point across and have success online, you must interact and get out of the dark behind your web site.
Author by: Almir Bojkovic-11371
Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com
Just because you will never see any of your customers and may never even talk to them over the phone does not mean you can hide behind the computer. In order to have success, you have to get out there and make a name for both you and your business. Interact and show people who you are.
The problem with hiding behind your computer is visitors and customers have no clue who you are. All they know is what they see on your web site and read from your content. They have no clue who they are dealing with and quite frankly do not even know if they can trust you.
By getting out and posting in forums and creating a blog, you have the opportunity to open up and show people who you are. You can interact and share your opinions to specific issues while taking in what others have to say. The more people get to know you, the stronger your relationship will grow and they will be able to trust you far more.
Putting up an article or content on your web site is not enough. All it is to visitors is words they can read. They want to hear you tell them about your products and explain how they will benefit from them. In addition, interacting with visitors gives you the opportunity to clarify any questions people may have.
If you think you can get away with writing content and hiding from customers you are wrong. In order to generate traffic, you must get out and promote the heck out of your web site. Do not sit back and expect people to come to your site. There are hundreds of thousands of other sites they can just as easily go to. Do not give them the opportunity to make their way to a different web site. Let them know you exist and make your voice be heard.
Having a home based business is an amazing honor because it is all on you. You have created it from ground up and are offering people something that can truly benefit them. But in order to get your point across and have success online, you must interact and get out of the dark behind your web site.
Author by: Almir Bojkovic-11371
Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com
Sunday, August 10, 2008
Dealing With Difficult People
You
You end up spending valuable energy by deciding to tolerate this person/s. It takes energy to tolerate a poor situation – energy which you need for other, more positive and productive efforts. In addition, by tolerating this person, your attitude suffers. Although we decide to tolerate it, we don’t ignore it. Tolerating something that reduces our level of energy and our attitude is unacceptable.
The Other Person
If you reflect back to a time when you became complacent, lost interest, and experienced a drop in attitude (as we all have experienced at one time or another), you’ll find one of two reasons for this shift. One reason is that the work you were doing really didn’t interest you - work was unfulfilling. One of the great revelations in life is that just because you’re good at something doesn’t mean you enjoy it. The other reason we might have become complacent, lost interest, and experienced a drop in attitude is
that we became disillusioned with someone or something. In situations where the reality of the situation is different from the one we first imagined, is there a way to make things better? Maybe.
Your Team
A manager tolerates a difficult person for an extended time, hoping they’ll “come around” and thereby avoid a confrontation, until something happens – some event or challenge - and they feel they have no choice but to confront and often terminate them. Subsequently, the manager is surprised at the number of team members who come forth and comment on what a drag on the team that person had been. They’ll speak up about their poor attitude or poor work ethic, and often add, “I don’t know why
you kept them so long!” When you don’t address a difficult person - when you decide to tolerate them - your whole team is affected. In addition, ask yourself this: When you keep a difficult person on, what does it say about you as a leader and what does it say about your values and your integrity? Tolerating a difficult person doesn’t work in the long run.
Work to Understand Their Motivation
This option is about being a leader and being an effective communicator. It’s about being compassionate and strong at the same time. It’s about being good for someone rather than being good to them. It’s about understanding rather than telling. This solution is about taking the time to understand the other person’s motivation for acting the way they do. If you’re effective at this, you’ll be able to either help them change their perspective on things
Article Source: http://www.articledashboard.com
You end up spending valuable energy by deciding to tolerate this person/s. It takes energy to tolerate a poor situation – energy which you need for other, more positive and productive efforts. In addition, by tolerating this person, your attitude suffers. Although we decide to tolerate it, we don’t ignore it. Tolerating something that reduces our level of energy and our attitude is unacceptable.
The Other Person
If you reflect back to a time when you became complacent, lost interest, and experienced a drop in attitude (as we all have experienced at one time or another), you’ll find one of two reasons for this shift. One reason is that the work you were doing really didn’t interest you - work was unfulfilling. One of the great revelations in life is that just because you’re good at something doesn’t mean you enjoy it. The other reason we might have become complacent, lost interest, and experienced a drop in attitude is
that we became disillusioned with someone or something. In situations where the reality of the situation is different from the one we first imagined, is there a way to make things better? Maybe.
Your Team
A manager tolerates a difficult person for an extended time, hoping they’ll “come around” and thereby avoid a confrontation, until something happens – some event or challenge - and they feel they have no choice but to confront and often terminate them. Subsequently, the manager is surprised at the number of team members who come forth and comment on what a drag on the team that person had been. They’ll speak up about their poor attitude or poor work ethic, and often add, “I don’t know why
you kept them so long!” When you don’t address a difficult person - when you decide to tolerate them - your whole team is affected. In addition, ask yourself this: When you keep a difficult person on, what does it say about you as a leader and what does it say about your values and your integrity? Tolerating a difficult person doesn’t work in the long run.
Work to Understand Their Motivation
This option is about being a leader and being an effective communicator. It’s about being compassionate and strong at the same time. It’s about being good for someone rather than being good to them. It’s about understanding rather than telling. This solution is about taking the time to understand the other person’s motivation for acting the way they do. If you’re effective at this, you’ll be able to either help them change their perspective on things
Article Source: http://www.articledashboard.com
How To Write A Winning Business Proposal
Many sales people encounter writer's block when they sit down to write a sales proposal. It really is not that difficult if you keep these 5 key tips in mind. A winning business proposal is one that is concise, and focuses on the customer's pain point, value proposition and ROI.
The pace of business is changing in today’s global marketplace. With that the sales proposal becomes ever more important. A strong business proposal can shorten the sales cycle and increase the perceived value of your service or product to the customer (and therefore increase your price). The key thing to remember is to keep it focused. If you take too long getting to the customer’s pain points and your value proposition to them, you may find your client making a buying decision with your competitor before you even have put the proposal in front of them!
A winning business proposal should focus on five key elements:
1. Timeliness!
In many services arenas sales cycles are shortening as business moves to a more services-oriented, subscription-based model (for example, in the software industry as it moves toward a Software-as-a-Service or SaaS model). It used to take 6-12 months or longer to sell software into an enterprise environment. Now business customers can make a software service buying decision in less than three months (often much less). You need to be able to very quickly identify enough requirements and client customization needed to put that proposal together as quickly as possible.
2. Price your Product or Service Correctly
If you're trying to sell the customer on a million-dollar perpetual server software license, and what they're looking for is a hosted web service with a low monthly subscription fee on a per-user basis... you're going to lose the deal, no matter how well your proposal is written. Make sure you're on the same page as your customer on the type of service they need to meet their requirements, and price/position your offering accordingly. You may want to provide a menu of separately-priced services, perhaps on a subscription basis, rather than a more traditional all-in-one option.
3. Speak to Your Customer's Pain Point
Your business proposal must answer a question or address a concern that is top of your customer's mind. Otherwise it will just gather dust on their "things I should read when I have time" pile (we all have them, don't we?). Pick a pain point (if possible, put it in your customer's own words) and specifically address how your product or service will solve their problem. Tie it into your value proposition below. Come back to the pain point when you close with tangible ROI and metrics/benefits at the end.
4. Include a Strong Value Proposition for All Stakeholders
What is the biggest benefit of your product or service to this customer? What is your main advantage against your competition? That is your value proposition. Keep it simple, and make sure it is prominent in the executive summary of your proposal (your proposal does include an executive summary, right?). If you can quantify it (eg, with some ROI messaging) then do so. The more hard benefits you can articulate in the beginning of the proposal, the more likely your customer will keep reading.
Your value proposition must clearly differentiate your product or service from your competition, whether they have a similar business model to you or not. Sometimes the customer may have different types of solutions that could solve the same pain point. Each requires a different value proposition for you to show your product as the best choice.
Finally, make sure you have a value proposition clearly articulated in that executive summary that speaks to each stakeholder in the purchase decision. Make a list of the stakeholders within the client company, and put yourself in each one of their shoes in turn. Read the sales proposal with them in mind. Have you included a benefit statement that speaks directly to them?
5. Reinforce your Value Proposition with ROI and Client Examples
So you've included a strong value proposition and benefits to each of your stakeholders in the executive summary of the business proposal. Good! That means they will keep reading.
But that is not enough for them to take the next step and buy. Your proposal must clearly identify how each benefit is going to be achieved by your product or service, and how you will quantify or measure the outcome (metrics!).
Hopefully you can communicate a strong and convincing ROI, taking into account both hard ($) and soft benefits. A strong ROI methodology is critical to your sales proposal's success. Unless, of course, you have such a stunning value proposition that customers are willing to pay for it regardless. And you should include customer examples or case studies that reinforce your value proposition and ROI message also. Even better if you can include some client references that your customer can speak to directly if they wish to.
If you keep these five points in mind, you will be able to write a winning business proposal for your product or service. Without explicitly focusing on these five areas it is easy to waste your time putting together proposals that don't get read. Always stand in your customer's shoes, and lead them through the proposal thought process from beginning (their needs/pain, and value proposition) to end (tangible ROI and results).
Article Source: http://www.articledashboard.com
The pace of business is changing in today’s global marketplace. With that the sales proposal becomes ever more important. A strong business proposal can shorten the sales cycle and increase the perceived value of your service or product to the customer (and therefore increase your price). The key thing to remember is to keep it focused. If you take too long getting to the customer’s pain points and your value proposition to them, you may find your client making a buying decision with your competitor before you even have put the proposal in front of them!
A winning business proposal should focus on five key elements:
1. Timeliness!
In many services arenas sales cycles are shortening as business moves to a more services-oriented, subscription-based model (for example, in the software industry as it moves toward a Software-as-a-Service or SaaS model). It used to take 6-12 months or longer to sell software into an enterprise environment. Now business customers can make a software service buying decision in less than three months (often much less). You need to be able to very quickly identify enough requirements and client customization needed to put that proposal together as quickly as possible.
2. Price your Product or Service Correctly
If you're trying to sell the customer on a million-dollar perpetual server software license, and what they're looking for is a hosted web service with a low monthly subscription fee on a per-user basis... you're going to lose the deal, no matter how well your proposal is written. Make sure you're on the same page as your customer on the type of service they need to meet their requirements, and price/position your offering accordingly. You may want to provide a menu of separately-priced services, perhaps on a subscription basis, rather than a more traditional all-in-one option.
3. Speak to Your Customer's Pain Point
Your business proposal must answer a question or address a concern that is top of your customer's mind. Otherwise it will just gather dust on their "things I should read when I have time" pile (we all have them, don't we?). Pick a pain point (if possible, put it in your customer's own words) and specifically address how your product or service will solve their problem. Tie it into your value proposition below. Come back to the pain point when you close with tangible ROI and metrics/benefits at the end.
4. Include a Strong Value Proposition for All Stakeholders
What is the biggest benefit of your product or service to this customer? What is your main advantage against your competition? That is your value proposition. Keep it simple, and make sure it is prominent in the executive summary of your proposal (your proposal does include an executive summary, right?). If you can quantify it (eg, with some ROI messaging) then do so. The more hard benefits you can articulate in the beginning of the proposal, the more likely your customer will keep reading.
Your value proposition must clearly differentiate your product or service from your competition, whether they have a similar business model to you or not. Sometimes the customer may have different types of solutions that could solve the same pain point. Each requires a different value proposition for you to show your product as the best choice.
Finally, make sure you have a value proposition clearly articulated in that executive summary that speaks to each stakeholder in the purchase decision. Make a list of the stakeholders within the client company, and put yourself in each one of their shoes in turn. Read the sales proposal with them in mind. Have you included a benefit statement that speaks directly to them?
5. Reinforce your Value Proposition with ROI and Client Examples
So you've included a strong value proposition and benefits to each of your stakeholders in the executive summary of the business proposal. Good! That means they will keep reading.
But that is not enough for them to take the next step and buy. Your proposal must clearly identify how each benefit is going to be achieved by your product or service, and how you will quantify or measure the outcome (metrics!).
Hopefully you can communicate a strong and convincing ROI, taking into account both hard ($) and soft benefits. A strong ROI methodology is critical to your sales proposal's success. Unless, of course, you have such a stunning value proposition that customers are willing to pay for it regardless. And you should include customer examples or case studies that reinforce your value proposition and ROI message also. Even better if you can include some client references that your customer can speak to directly if they wish to.
If you keep these five points in mind, you will be able to write a winning business proposal for your product or service. Without explicitly focusing on these five areas it is easy to waste your time putting together proposals that don't get read. Always stand in your customer's shoes, and lead them through the proposal thought process from beginning (their needs/pain, and value proposition) to end (tangible ROI and results).
Article Source: http://www.articledashboard.com
Being A Modern Salesman
Selling people different kind of stuff might be a quite difficult task. Specially nowadays when the internet took control about the selling business. Sometimes it is only trying to sell something. Without having a proper knowledge it is almost impossible. By knowing a few facts you made make miracles in the selling business.
There are lots of books written about selling, managing, leading people. This knowledge is closed in this books but took also to the internet which might not only be your enemy – if you are a regular salesman. It might be your opportunity to learn something, know the modern market and people's need. And what are the easiest and most short tips that you can get from the Internet to be modern salesman?
The first rule is positive thinking. Very easy to make and giving a great results. Sometimes it is harder than it seems to think optimistic about tough task. And positive thinking is getting problematic in such case. But this is something that we can learn and practise. Mostly positive thinking is sending a good energy to people. It is something that they might feel about you and your product. Your smile and your attitude might give you more clients than a great plan.
The whole subject of emotion and good energy might be a totally separate, second rule. Lots of people making their decisions by having not enough information about the subject but having a good feeling about it. That's why using your emotions might be a key to success. Joking, smiling, flattering might get into your clients heart which means to you that the product will be sold. But you can't do too much of it – you will be seen as not serious person. And of course, you need to be in a great psychical condition, stay focus and the client will have good memories from talking to you.
If you are in a good condition it might have influence on your self confidence. And being confidence and convincing is a rule number three. If we are confident of our products and the arguments that we have it's a really good sign. It means that we have one person that we would sell the product – it's ourselves. And the whole effort at this point is to take this confidence to another people. That's a great starting point attitude – it will make us relax and sure about the quality of our products. We are not giving someone a bad products. We are selling someone a best what we have!
When we think about the product we can't remember also about the client. Tip number four might be not forgetting about the client. Seems simple and easy? Yes! But sometimes simplest things are the one that we are forgetting about...because they are so simple. Filling people's needs is what to salesman should do. And not selling everything to everyone. If we know the clients needs and it is our product the product will sell itself. You will just have to find the right person who will see that you are not trying to cheat but make his/her life better. This way both sides will have their profits.
The last suggestion is getting more knowledge – everyday! Don't be afraid to search for knowledge and ask more wisdom people. You have be up to date with newest techniques and solutions in selling business. You have to develop your skills by attending sales training which might be closer to you and your needs than you think. If you are from Manchester for example you might attend sales courses Manchester. Choosing good training for a salesman might be as much important as attending management course for manager.
Article Source: http://www.articledashboard.com
There are lots of books written about selling, managing, leading people. This knowledge is closed in this books but took also to the internet which might not only be your enemy – if you are a regular salesman. It might be your opportunity to learn something, know the modern market and people's need. And what are the easiest and most short tips that you can get from the Internet to be modern salesman?
The first rule is positive thinking. Very easy to make and giving a great results. Sometimes it is harder than it seems to think optimistic about tough task. And positive thinking is getting problematic in such case. But this is something that we can learn and practise. Mostly positive thinking is sending a good energy to people. It is something that they might feel about you and your product. Your smile and your attitude might give you more clients than a great plan.
The whole subject of emotion and good energy might be a totally separate, second rule. Lots of people making their decisions by having not enough information about the subject but having a good feeling about it. That's why using your emotions might be a key to success. Joking, smiling, flattering might get into your clients heart which means to you that the product will be sold. But you can't do too much of it – you will be seen as not serious person. And of course, you need to be in a great psychical condition, stay focus and the client will have good memories from talking to you.
If you are in a good condition it might have influence on your self confidence. And being confidence and convincing is a rule number three. If we are confident of our products and the arguments that we have it's a really good sign. It means that we have one person that we would sell the product – it's ourselves. And the whole effort at this point is to take this confidence to another people. That's a great starting point attitude – it will make us relax and sure about the quality of our products. We are not giving someone a bad products. We are selling someone a best what we have!
When we think about the product we can't remember also about the client. Tip number four might be not forgetting about the client. Seems simple and easy? Yes! But sometimes simplest things are the one that we are forgetting about...because they are so simple. Filling people's needs is what to salesman should do. And not selling everything to everyone. If we know the clients needs and it is our product the product will sell itself. You will just have to find the right person who will see that you are not trying to cheat but make his/her life better. This way both sides will have their profits.
The last suggestion is getting more knowledge – everyday! Don't be afraid to search for knowledge and ask more wisdom people. You have be up to date with newest techniques and solutions in selling business. You have to develop your skills by attending sales training which might be closer to you and your needs than you think. If you are from Manchester for example you might attend sales courses Manchester. Choosing good training for a salesman might be as much important as attending management course for manager.
Article Source: http://www.articledashboard.com
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