Do you have a solid foundation where you have mastered the elements of successful affiliate marketing? The successful affiliate marketers have mastered the essential core elements of conversion.
Study and Research - Find out what a hungry niche market is looking for. When you know what the market likes to eat it will be easy to feed them your product. So explore, brainstorm and research before selecting a product to market to them. Spend some time on Google Trends and research.
Test it out - Before trying to generate huge amounts of traffic, create a small test campaign with a few ultra targeted keywords to see if it converts. Highly targeted traffic that converts to sales is the sign of a successful affiliate marketer. Testing it out first makes it easy to track because the campaign is small.
Doing your job - Affiliate marketing is all about PRE-selling. Let the merchant do the selling. Your role should be to provide value. Help your audience find what they are looking. Find a solution to their problem. Avoid the concept of sell/sell and embrace the concept of PRE-sell/sell. If you can put yourself in front of your customers pc and visualize yourself as them, you can certainly PRE-sell.
Capture Page - A customized, relevant, keyword rich landing page does two things really well. It creates your brand of high value and allows big daddy (aka Google) to see the keywords you advertise under as relevant. So learn to build it, and they will come.
Seduce Google - Make yourself attractive to Google and all of the other major PPC services out there. Pay less than all of your competitors when Google thinks your style of advertising is attractive. Pay TONS when you use PPC's the wrong way. An understanding of how these services work will help conversions.
Be Specific - Lots of traffic, no conversions and no money in your bank account is the result of bidding on keywords that are to general. Bidding on a term like "fishing gear" is not productive. How about "deep sea fishing gear albacore tuna" or even more specific than that. Specific terms will make your customer say, "Perfect, this is exactly what I was looking for."
Build the list - If you don't capture your customer's email address you're leaving the money on table. It's going to take around 6 or more contacts from you before the purchase so follow-up. Even better, is the option to market to them in the future for free.
I've never underestimated the importance of learning what the successful affiliate marketers are doing. Do it and be much better off.
Article Source: http://www.ArticleBiz.com
Thursday, November 22, 2007
Know what to avoid when choosing an Affiliate Program
It is true that affiliate programs will benefit you with enormous resources with time but there are some potholes which needs careful skipping. Usually what people do is that they only give attention to making extra money, or having a full time job, often with illusions and no idea of how the affiliate program actually works. This is a grave mistake.
Every business have its brighter as well as darker side and therefore people when deciding to join any business or any program should remember to make decision using brain and not heart. But there are many people who make very common and big mistakes it comes to choosing an affiliate program. This article will just serve them as the reminder to avoid these mistakes at all costs so that they are able to be more effective and make more money.
1. The most frequent mistakes that people make when choosing affiliate programs is choosing a program that offers little reward for the individual’s hard work. You should detach yourself from such affiliate programs. The reason is simple because you have joined the affiliate programs to earn more then what is the use to work for those affiliate programs pay too little to the affiliates making their earnings difficult. Instead browse for those affiliate programs that has a good pay rate for your work, making you happy and encouraging you to work more.
2. Affiliates should look for those affiliates programs that promises to take care of their affiliates at any hour of a day. If the affiliates find themselves waiting for answers to any of their queries for too long then it will be wise for them to look for an affiliate program that guarantees you support round the clock.
3. Look for an affiliate programs that do not compete against their competitors thus wasting money and putting affiliates into questions. Instead screen out for an affiliate program that agrees with supporting and growing other affiliates to have a larger network and approach to more affiliates.
4. Screen out for an affiliate program that offers good, solid, real time statistics and not those that still follows the same old statistics or the ones that are invalid. Though there are very few but it depends on the individual’s search to look for an affiliate program that promises you to offer the most.
5. Avoid those affiliate programs that provide few ideas or creative to their affiliates ending with up with the same advertising in thousands of web pages instead look for the affiliate programs that would provide fresh ideas or creative to their affiliates to have a better success rate.If people try to avoid these mistakes then you are safe from falling into the potholes of affiliate programs beaming with success.
make money online
Article Source: http://www.ArticleBiz.com
Every business have its brighter as well as darker side and therefore people when deciding to join any business or any program should remember to make decision using brain and not heart. But there are many people who make very common and big mistakes it comes to choosing an affiliate program. This article will just serve them as the reminder to avoid these mistakes at all costs so that they are able to be more effective and make more money.
1. The most frequent mistakes that people make when choosing affiliate programs is choosing a program that offers little reward for the individual’s hard work. You should detach yourself from such affiliate programs. The reason is simple because you have joined the affiliate programs to earn more then what is the use to work for those affiliate programs pay too little to the affiliates making their earnings difficult. Instead browse for those affiliate programs that has a good pay rate for your work, making you happy and encouraging you to work more.
2. Affiliates should look for those affiliates programs that promises to take care of their affiliates at any hour of a day. If the affiliates find themselves waiting for answers to any of their queries for too long then it will be wise for them to look for an affiliate program that guarantees you support round the clock.
3. Look for an affiliate programs that do not compete against their competitors thus wasting money and putting affiliates into questions. Instead screen out for an affiliate program that agrees with supporting and growing other affiliates to have a larger network and approach to more affiliates.
4. Screen out for an affiliate program that offers good, solid, real time statistics and not those that still follows the same old statistics or the ones that are invalid. Though there are very few but it depends on the individual’s search to look for an affiliate program that promises you to offer the most.
5. Avoid those affiliate programs that provide few ideas or creative to their affiliates ending with up with the same advertising in thousands of web pages instead look for the affiliate programs that would provide fresh ideas or creative to their affiliates to have a better success rate.If people try to avoid these mistakes then you are safe from falling into the potholes of affiliate programs beaming with success.
make money online
Article Source: http://www.ArticleBiz.com
Wednesday, November 21, 2007
Stand Out in Business the Write Way
When was the last time you received a handwritten note from a business associate? It may be that it was too long ago for you to remember. On the other hand, if you have gotten one lately, you know exactly who sent it and when. Handwritten notes have become almost extinct in the business world. So if you are looking for ways to stand from the crowd, to be noticed by your colleagues and clients, try putting pen to paper whenever you have the slightest excuse.
There are few acts more impressive than handwriting a letter or a note to someone with whom you do business or would like to. Most people think that writing notes by hand requires extra time and effort. Ironically, it can be quick and painless if you do it frequently and follow these tips:
1. Have writing supplies close at hand. Store stationery and stamps in the most convenient place in your desk. When you need to send a note, all you have to do is reach for your stationary, dash off a few lines, address the envelope, put the stamp in place and mail it.
2. Keep your message brief. These are notes so you only have to come up with three or four sentences. If you attempt to compose more than a few lines, writer's block is liable to set in and you will never get past "start."
3. Develop a system. Before you head out of the office to a business meal or function that someone else is hosting, address an envelop to your host. It will be a breeze to jot down your short message when you return.
4. Use the appropriate professional stationary. Both single-sided correspondence cards and fold-over notes with the company name or logo imprinted on them are business-like and will represent you and your organization well.
5. Poor penmanship is no excuse unless your handwriting is totally illegible. The person who receives your note will appreciate your thoughtfulness and will not be grading your handwriting. If your penmanship does not meet your standards, it is never too late to improve. There are numerous resources at your library or on the Internet to teach you to write legibly.
6. Use any occasion to get noticed with a note. A few of those instances are when...
You have received a gift You were a guest in someone's home You were hosted to a meal You received a business favor You are replying to an invitation You are sending condolences You want to offer congratulations You need to apologize
7. Make your message timely. Whether you are sending a note of appreciation, congratulation or condolence, do it as quickly as possible. A thank you should go out within 24 to 48 hours. However, don't forgo sending a note because you think too much time has elapsed. There is no definite statute of limitations on appreciation.
8. Understand that e-mail is not a substitute for the personal handwritten message. The Internet is fast, efficient and remote. If you are corresponding by e-mail immediately following a meeting with a business associate, include your expression of gratitude, but don't let that stop you from sending a second message by ground.
Successful people pay attention to the details and look for ways to build better business relationships. When you take the time to send handwritten notes, you will stand out from the crowd for all the right reasons. Your next big sale or job promotion may came about as a result of your doing business just a little differently.
(c) 2005, Lydia Ramsey. All rights in all media reserved.Lydia Ramsey is a business etiquette expert, professional speaker, corporate trainer and author of MANNERS THAT SELL - ADDING THE POLISH THAT BUILDS PROFITS. She has been quoted or featured in The New York Times, Investors' Business Daily, Entrepreneur, Inc., Real Simple and Woman's Day.
For more information about her programs, products and services, e-mail her at lydia@mannersthatsell.com or visit her web site http://www.mannersthatsell.com
Article Source: BusinessCurrents.net
There are few acts more impressive than handwriting a letter or a note to someone with whom you do business or would like to. Most people think that writing notes by hand requires extra time and effort. Ironically, it can be quick and painless if you do it frequently and follow these tips:
1. Have writing supplies close at hand. Store stationery and stamps in the most convenient place in your desk. When you need to send a note, all you have to do is reach for your stationary, dash off a few lines, address the envelope, put the stamp in place and mail it.
2. Keep your message brief. These are notes so you only have to come up with three or four sentences. If you attempt to compose more than a few lines, writer's block is liable to set in and you will never get past "start."
3. Develop a system. Before you head out of the office to a business meal or function that someone else is hosting, address an envelop to your host. It will be a breeze to jot down your short message when you return.
4. Use the appropriate professional stationary. Both single-sided correspondence cards and fold-over notes with the company name or logo imprinted on them are business-like and will represent you and your organization well.
5. Poor penmanship is no excuse unless your handwriting is totally illegible. The person who receives your note will appreciate your thoughtfulness and will not be grading your handwriting. If your penmanship does not meet your standards, it is never too late to improve. There are numerous resources at your library or on the Internet to teach you to write legibly.
6. Use any occasion to get noticed with a note. A few of those instances are when...
You have received a gift You were a guest in someone's home You were hosted to a meal You received a business favor You are replying to an invitation You are sending condolences You want to offer congratulations You need to apologize
7. Make your message timely. Whether you are sending a note of appreciation, congratulation or condolence, do it as quickly as possible. A thank you should go out within 24 to 48 hours. However, don't forgo sending a note because you think too much time has elapsed. There is no definite statute of limitations on appreciation.
8. Understand that e-mail is not a substitute for the personal handwritten message. The Internet is fast, efficient and remote. If you are corresponding by e-mail immediately following a meeting with a business associate, include your expression of gratitude, but don't let that stop you from sending a second message by ground.
Successful people pay attention to the details and look for ways to build better business relationships. When you take the time to send handwritten notes, you will stand out from the crowd for all the right reasons. Your next big sale or job promotion may came about as a result of your doing business just a little differently.
(c) 2005, Lydia Ramsey. All rights in all media reserved.Lydia Ramsey is a business etiquette expert, professional speaker, corporate trainer and author of MANNERS THAT SELL - ADDING THE POLISH THAT BUILDS PROFITS. She has been quoted or featured in The New York Times, Investors' Business Daily, Entrepreneur, Inc., Real Simple and Woman's Day.
For more information about her programs, products and services, e-mail her at lydia@mannersthatsell.com or visit her web site http://www.mannersthatsell.com
Article Source: BusinessCurrents.net
Five Stumbling Blocks To Successful Networking And How To Overcome Them
The ability to connect with people is essential to success in any business. Professional networking events present opportunities to interact with others on a personal level and to develop profitable relationships. These occasions are critical for anyone who wants to grow a business or promote a career.
Many people are simply not comfortable walking into a room full of strangers and striking up conversations. Here are five common stumbling blocks that you may face and tips to help you overcome them.
A RELUCTANCE TO TALK TO STRANGERS.
You were taught at an early age not to speak to people you don't know. It's not safe. In certain situations today this is still good advice. In business, however, talking to strangers is a way to generate interest and support for your products and services. If you only talk to the people you already know, you will miss out on opportunities to make new connections and establish valuable contacts.
To get past your discomfort in talking to strangers, set a goal for yourself before you attend any networking event. Decide how many new contacts you want to make or how many strangers you want to meet. In some cases, you may specifically target individuals whom you'd like to know.
Next come up with some icebreakers or conversation starters. Have questions prepared that you can ask anyone you meet at the event. You may want to inquire about other people's business, their connection to the sponsoring organization or their opinion of the venue.
LACK OF A FORMAL INTRODUCTION.
It's much easier to make a new contact when there is someone else to handle the introduction and pave the way. If you wait for another person to make the move you may not meet anyone. At networking events, the goal is to meet as many people as possible.
This is the time to take the bull by the horns, walk up to people you don't know, introduce yourself and start a conversation. You can do this if you have prepared your self-introduction in advance.
You will not introduce yourself the same way on every occasion. Perhaps it is your first time to attend an association meeting. In that case, you might want to say that as part of your introduction. Let people know who you are, why you are there and give them a reason to ask more abut you.
FEAR OF BEING SEEN AS PUSHY.
You may think that you will turn people off if you are assertive and that if they want to talk to you, they will make the first move. If this is your line of thinking you will find yourself spending your time alone at the reception or meeting function and leaving without a single new connection. Being open, friendly and interested does not turn people off.
You will not come across as overly aggressive if you seek out the "approachable" people. These are the ones who are standing alone or who are speaking in groups of three or more. Two people talking to each other are not approachable because they may be having a private conversation and you would be interrupting.
THINKING THAT OTHER PEOPLE MAY NOT LIKE YOU.
There is always the risk that the other person is not interested in you and doesn't want to meet or talk to you. It happens. If that is the case, don't take it personally. Nothing ventured is nothing gained. When you get a cold shoulder, smile, move on and say to yourself, "Next?"
HAVING YOUR INTENTIONS MISUNDERSTOOD.
Approaching someone of the opposite sex to begin a conversation may seem more like flirting than networking. This is more of an issue for women than men. Women have an equal place in the work arena and need to make professional connections the same as men do. Women in business can no longer afford to hold back when there is opportunity at hand.
Neither men nor women will have their motives misinterpreted if they present themselves professionally in their attire and if they keep the conversation focused on business issues or topics that are not personal or private.
Whatever your stumbling blocks, face them before the next networking event and devise a personal plan for getting past them. Once you do, you will find yourself connecting with confidence and courtesy on every occasion and the results will be reflected in your bottom line.
(c) 2005, Lydia Ramsey.
All rights in all media reserved.
Lydia Ramsey is a business etiquette expert, professional speaker, corporate trainer and author of MANNERS THAT SELL - ADDING THE POLISH THAT BUILDS PROFITS. She has been quoted or featured in The New York Times, Investors' Business Daily, Entrepreneur, Inc., Real Simple and Woman's Day. For more information about her programs, products and services, e-mail her at lydia@mannersthatsell.com or visit her web site http://www.mannersthatsell.com/
Article Source: BusinessCurrents.net
Many people are simply not comfortable walking into a room full of strangers and striking up conversations. Here are five common stumbling blocks that you may face and tips to help you overcome them.
A RELUCTANCE TO TALK TO STRANGERS.
You were taught at an early age not to speak to people you don't know. It's not safe. In certain situations today this is still good advice. In business, however, talking to strangers is a way to generate interest and support for your products and services. If you only talk to the people you already know, you will miss out on opportunities to make new connections and establish valuable contacts.
To get past your discomfort in talking to strangers, set a goal for yourself before you attend any networking event. Decide how many new contacts you want to make or how many strangers you want to meet. In some cases, you may specifically target individuals whom you'd like to know.
Next come up with some icebreakers or conversation starters. Have questions prepared that you can ask anyone you meet at the event. You may want to inquire about other people's business, their connection to the sponsoring organization or their opinion of the venue.
LACK OF A FORMAL INTRODUCTION.
It's much easier to make a new contact when there is someone else to handle the introduction and pave the way. If you wait for another person to make the move you may not meet anyone. At networking events, the goal is to meet as many people as possible.
This is the time to take the bull by the horns, walk up to people you don't know, introduce yourself and start a conversation. You can do this if you have prepared your self-introduction in advance.
You will not introduce yourself the same way on every occasion. Perhaps it is your first time to attend an association meeting. In that case, you might want to say that as part of your introduction. Let people know who you are, why you are there and give them a reason to ask more abut you.
FEAR OF BEING SEEN AS PUSHY.
You may think that you will turn people off if you are assertive and that if they want to talk to you, they will make the first move. If this is your line of thinking you will find yourself spending your time alone at the reception or meeting function and leaving without a single new connection. Being open, friendly and interested does not turn people off.
You will not come across as overly aggressive if you seek out the "approachable" people. These are the ones who are standing alone or who are speaking in groups of three or more. Two people talking to each other are not approachable because they may be having a private conversation and you would be interrupting.
THINKING THAT OTHER PEOPLE MAY NOT LIKE YOU.
There is always the risk that the other person is not interested in you and doesn't want to meet or talk to you. It happens. If that is the case, don't take it personally. Nothing ventured is nothing gained. When you get a cold shoulder, smile, move on and say to yourself, "Next?"
HAVING YOUR INTENTIONS MISUNDERSTOOD.
Approaching someone of the opposite sex to begin a conversation may seem more like flirting than networking. This is more of an issue for women than men. Women have an equal place in the work arena and need to make professional connections the same as men do. Women in business can no longer afford to hold back when there is opportunity at hand.
Neither men nor women will have their motives misinterpreted if they present themselves professionally in their attire and if they keep the conversation focused on business issues or topics that are not personal or private.
Whatever your stumbling blocks, face them before the next networking event and devise a personal plan for getting past them. Once you do, you will find yourself connecting with confidence and courtesy on every occasion and the results will be reflected in your bottom line.
(c) 2005, Lydia Ramsey.
All rights in all media reserved.
Lydia Ramsey is a business etiquette expert, professional speaker, corporate trainer and author of MANNERS THAT SELL - ADDING THE POLISH THAT BUILDS PROFITS. She has been quoted or featured in The New York Times, Investors' Business Daily, Entrepreneur, Inc., Real Simple and Woman's Day. For more information about her programs, products and services, e-mail her at lydia@mannersthatsell.com or visit her web site http://www.mannersthatsell.com/
Article Source: BusinessCurrents.net
How to Overcome Project Paralysis With a Clean Sweep Day!
Do you ever get that sinking feeling that creeps up on you in the middle of the day? That feeling of overwhelm, or maybe it's anxiety, that you have SO much on your plate and you just don't know what to do next.
A couple of weeks ago one of my clients mentioned that he had a desk full of papers but he couldn't slow down to clean them up. I realized that it was kind of like the feeling I was having about technology. I had recently invested in a new computer which in theory is awesome. But now I had spent over fifteen hours between transferring files, loading new programs and trying to get all of my fancy "systems" to work. To top it all off, I've got this fancy Pocket PC phone that I can never seem to get working properly and a full-time affair with their technical support team is blossoming.
Clutter comes in lots of forms. On a call today, one of my clients mentioned the clutter from her friends - friends who always need her advice and ask for crazy favors. This clutter was literally causing her to feel overwhelmed and stressed, simply because of the emotional boundaries that are being pushed.
When we feel distracted by this type of clutter, we are 30 - 50% less effective on what matters most - completing our goals and making money. I've personally noticed that clutter in more than one area can take me down faster than a nasty strain of bird flu!
That's where Clean Sweep Day comes to the rescue. Clean Sweep Day is based on a coaching tool I received when I was in my coach training program. It's a great little assessment that points out the areas in which you may be causing clutter in your life with incomplete tasks, energy drains, and the overwhelming "shoulds." A Clean Sweep Day is when you block out a day (or even four hours will do) where you have absolutely no commitments or distractions and you power through all the projects, incomplete tasks and nagging to-do's that are preventing you from performing at 100%.
Back to my technology breakdown. Of course, being a coach, I recognize the early warning signs of an overwhelm melt-down and decided to face this challenge head on! So I scheduled an entire WEEK to being a Clean Sweep Week. Yes, I had clients and meetings. But I scheduled 3 big blocks of time in my calendar, got out my trusty to-do list, prioritized everything that had to get done, and I powered through it.
The most exciting part of all wasn't even that I got so much done; it was how much better I felt at the end of the week. I felt like a super-star!!! My mind was clear, I had so much energy and my mood was ten times better. By simply getting some things wrapped up, I created more energy to get the bigger tasks done.
Now it's your turn. I invite you to join my clients in a Clean Sweep Challenge Day. Here is what you need to do. First, take a quick inventory of what needs to be done. Look for things like this:
Paper, filing or "stuff" clutter in your officeProjects or deliverables that you remember at 4:30 am Half completed ideas that you ruminate aboutEmail, phone calls or letters that you have been putting offBills or situations that you need to spend time resolvingFamily, friends or business situations that need a "discussion" to clear something upTechnology challenges that cause you from being able to work properly.Broken items that bother you when you notice them
Then, make a list of everything that needs to be addressed and prioritize it. I recommend prioritizing based on what is most critical in the next 90 days (for additional information on high-payoff prioritization see the ULTIMATE Wealth & Success Circle High Payoff Activities audio program.)
Then on your scheduled Clean Sweep Day just start powering through! The trick is to stay focused and not answer the phone or get side-tracked with emails. You can even tell everyone in your life what you are doing - I bet they will want to join you for Clean Sweep Day too!
Now here is the best part. Imagine it's the end of your Clean Sweep Day. You have powered through a mountain of projects and you feel like a million bucks. Just see yourself sitting at your desk, smiling, knowing that everything you just accomplished has helped you clear space for more money, more focus and more time to do what's important. You feel excited and energized and ready to take on your bigger game of success!
Want to do your Clean Sweep Challenge with even more power and momentum? Join us for Clean Sweep Challenge Day. I've designated September 1 as Clean Sweep day. It's fr.ee to participate and I provide all the tools to help you through the day!
(c) 2006, Success Connections. Reprints welcome so long as article and by-line are printed intact and all links made live.Do you need a kick-start in your results?
You probably need a Clean Sweep Day. Why not join Melanie Benson Strick, Success Connections, for our Clean Sweep Challenge. It's fre.e to participate, we'll provide all the tools and you could even win a prize! Visit http://www.cleansweepchallenge.com/ for more information and to sign up.
Article Source: BusinessCurrents.net
A couple of weeks ago one of my clients mentioned that he had a desk full of papers but he couldn't slow down to clean them up. I realized that it was kind of like the feeling I was having about technology. I had recently invested in a new computer which in theory is awesome. But now I had spent over fifteen hours between transferring files, loading new programs and trying to get all of my fancy "systems" to work. To top it all off, I've got this fancy Pocket PC phone that I can never seem to get working properly and a full-time affair with their technical support team is blossoming.
Clutter comes in lots of forms. On a call today, one of my clients mentioned the clutter from her friends - friends who always need her advice and ask for crazy favors. This clutter was literally causing her to feel overwhelmed and stressed, simply because of the emotional boundaries that are being pushed.
When we feel distracted by this type of clutter, we are 30 - 50% less effective on what matters most - completing our goals and making money. I've personally noticed that clutter in more than one area can take me down faster than a nasty strain of bird flu!
That's where Clean Sweep Day comes to the rescue. Clean Sweep Day is based on a coaching tool I received when I was in my coach training program. It's a great little assessment that points out the areas in which you may be causing clutter in your life with incomplete tasks, energy drains, and the overwhelming "shoulds." A Clean Sweep Day is when you block out a day (or even four hours will do) where you have absolutely no commitments or distractions and you power through all the projects, incomplete tasks and nagging to-do's that are preventing you from performing at 100%.
Back to my technology breakdown. Of course, being a coach, I recognize the early warning signs of an overwhelm melt-down and decided to face this challenge head on! So I scheduled an entire WEEK to being a Clean Sweep Week. Yes, I had clients and meetings. But I scheduled 3 big blocks of time in my calendar, got out my trusty to-do list, prioritized everything that had to get done, and I powered through it.
The most exciting part of all wasn't even that I got so much done; it was how much better I felt at the end of the week. I felt like a super-star!!! My mind was clear, I had so much energy and my mood was ten times better. By simply getting some things wrapped up, I created more energy to get the bigger tasks done.
Now it's your turn. I invite you to join my clients in a Clean Sweep Challenge Day. Here is what you need to do. First, take a quick inventory of what needs to be done. Look for things like this:
Paper, filing or "stuff" clutter in your officeProjects or deliverables that you remember at 4:30 am Half completed ideas that you ruminate aboutEmail, phone calls or letters that you have been putting offBills or situations that you need to spend time resolvingFamily, friends or business situations that need a "discussion" to clear something upTechnology challenges that cause you from being able to work properly.Broken items that bother you when you notice them
Then, make a list of everything that needs to be addressed and prioritize it. I recommend prioritizing based on what is most critical in the next 90 days (for additional information on high-payoff prioritization see the ULTIMATE Wealth & Success Circle High Payoff Activities audio program.)
Then on your scheduled Clean Sweep Day just start powering through! The trick is to stay focused and not answer the phone or get side-tracked with emails. You can even tell everyone in your life what you are doing - I bet they will want to join you for Clean Sweep Day too!
Now here is the best part. Imagine it's the end of your Clean Sweep Day. You have powered through a mountain of projects and you feel like a million bucks. Just see yourself sitting at your desk, smiling, knowing that everything you just accomplished has helped you clear space for more money, more focus and more time to do what's important. You feel excited and energized and ready to take on your bigger game of success!
Want to do your Clean Sweep Challenge with even more power and momentum? Join us for Clean Sweep Challenge Day. I've designated September 1 as Clean Sweep day. It's fr.ee to participate and I provide all the tools to help you through the day!
(c) 2006, Success Connections. Reprints welcome so long as article and by-line are printed intact and all links made live.Do you need a kick-start in your results?
You probably need a Clean Sweep Day. Why not join Melanie Benson Strick, Success Connections, for our Clean Sweep Challenge. It's fre.e to participate, we'll provide all the tools and you could even win a prize! Visit http://www.cleansweepchallenge.com/ for more information and to sign up.
Article Source: BusinessCurrents.net
A Quick Guide To Operating Small (S) Corporations
Owning and operating a small business can be a very rewarding experience, emotionally as well as financially. Or it can be an absolute nightmare if you don't structure and operate your business properly.Never underestimate the resources of a good lawyer and accountant. They can help you avoid problems and even get you out of trouble you may stumble into.The law considers your corporate a separate entity. It has a birthdate (the date of incorporation), and can have a death date (the date you close the corporation). It can enter into contracts and agreements and has the same responsibilities as you would.As a separate entity, your corporation can protect you from lawsuits and asset seizures arising from the operation of the corporation (as long as you are not personally negligent or irresponsible). Many people see this protection as the main reason for forming a corporation vs. operating as a sole proprietor without any protection.But in order to be considered a separate entity, you have to run your corporation according to some rule, laws and guidelines. The following information touches on two aspects of operating your corporation as a separate entity: Corporate Accounting and Corporate Minutes.Corporate AccountingYour corporation should have its own bank account and Employer Identification Number (EIN) issued by the IRS. This helps to establish the corporation as an entity, separate from its stockholders and officers.Accounting records should be kept to record income, expenses, assets (equipment, real estate, intellectual property, etc.) and liabilities (debts, loans, mortgages, etc.). It is recommended that you retain an accountant to help with the accounting functions, year-end taxes and payroll taxes.Your accounting system can be as simple as a set of spread sheets (on paper or a computer). Or you can purchase accounting software such as QuickBooks, Peachtree, MYOB, etc. You may want to have your accountant help you set up the computer software so that you have all the accounts you will need. Also your accountant can help you learn how to enter different transactions. (Don't ask them during March, April or October - IRS tax deadlines.)Or consult with your accountant and develop a plan for recording your business activities and turning the information over to your accountant to be put into a computerized system either monthly or quarterly. This costs more for the accountant's services but can save you a lot of time and headaches (and money) if you get in trouble with the IRS or your state/city taxing agencies.Corporate MinutesIncorporated businesses are required to keep minutes of the activities of the business. Minutes are the voice and history of the corporate entity and can be used in court cases. Minutes also show that the officers/stockholders of the corporation are operating the corporation as an entity and not just an extension of themselves. Officers and shareholders can lose the protection of the corporate entity if they do not operate the corporation as a corporation; this includes keeping accurate minutes.These minutes can be as simple as a dated note written on a piece of paper and inserted into a three ring binder. Corporate minutes don't have to be on fancy paper or letterhead and don't have to use any special language style (legalese, corporatese, etc.). Corporate minutes should be clear and understandable.It is recommended that the corporate minutes be typed, include a date, names of participants and signatures of participants or corporate officers.Things to include in the minutes:
Authorization to open a bank or credit account.
Major purchases of equipment, assets, other businesses.
Summary of marketing or advertising campaigns.
Summary of business growth initiatives, projections and goals.
Business plan, mission statement, corporate objectives, etc.
Quarterly and yearly financial records.
Major stock sales, purchases or transfers (almost every stock activity in a small business will be "major").
List of stockholders, names, addresses, number of shares and percentage of total shares issued (update once a quarter with quarterly financials if any changes).
Hiring, firing of corporate officers or contractors.
Notes of board meetings and stockholders meetings (at least one official meeting with minutes should be held each year).
Any other significant business events. ConclusionThere are few things more satisfying than building a business from scratch. There are few things more trying than fighting personal lawsuits and the IRS. Operating your corporation properly will allow you to focus on running your business rather than defending it or yourself. It takes an extra investment of time and money, but just consider it additional insurance, both financial and for your peace of mind.
Authorization to open a bank or credit account.
Major purchases of equipment, assets, other businesses.
Summary of marketing or advertising campaigns.
Summary of business growth initiatives, projections and goals.
Business plan, mission statement, corporate objectives, etc.
Quarterly and yearly financial records.
Major stock sales, purchases or transfers (almost every stock activity in a small business will be "major").
List of stockholders, names, addresses, number of shares and percentage of total shares issued (update once a quarter with quarterly financials if any changes).
Hiring, firing of corporate officers or contractors.
Notes of board meetings and stockholders meetings (at least one official meeting with minutes should be held each year).
Any other significant business events. ConclusionThere are few things more satisfying than building a business from scratch. There are few things more trying than fighting personal lawsuits and the IRS. Operating your corporation properly will allow you to focus on running your business rather than defending it or yourself. It takes an extra investment of time and money, but just consider it additional insurance, both financial and for your peace of mind.
A 5-Point Focus on Quality
Henry Ford said that, quality means doing it right when no one is looking. What is doing it? And how well must it be done?
In every industry, competitors find themselves fighting price wars or positioning themselves as the low-cost provider only to find out that in many instances, quality is as important to customers (if not more so) than the cost they pay. Quality can be defined as the acceptable standard of excellence determined by the receiver. But, having a quality product and getting it to market is only part of the challenge; especially if you see quality as one action or an end result.
You cant give lip service to quality. Anytime that there is a handoff, a deliverable, a discussion or even a decision to be made, quality is key. It has to be factored in and measured throughout the organization and considered in all activities of design, development, production, installation, servicing, customer interaction and documentation. The goal is to continually identify standards of quality, evaluate performance, monitor results and make adjustments that will improve the customers perception.
When it comes to improving quality in your organizations you have five points to consider: the product, the processes, every transaction and the thinking that leads to overall performance quality. Achieving quality in an organization is an ongoing pursuit and has to be adopted as a mindset before any significant gains will be realized.
FOCUS #1 - Product Quality is measured by workmanship and reliability. It includes the raw materials, assemblies, products and components; as well as the function or services related to production. To have a quality product output means that you have to continually improve the inputs.
FOCUS #2 - Process Quality includes the quality of work in developing, making, and selling products and services. It is measured by adherence to performance standards, fewer mistakes, fewer rejects and less rework.
FOCUS #3 - Transaction Quality is measured by the effectiveness and efficiency of human interaction. When a products fails to meet the expectations of customers and they in turn seek remedy from the organization that creates a transaction (Ronald Coase, a British economist). Poor quality increase the number of transactions needed to resolve an issue and increases the cost of doing business. Once a customer picks up the phone or walks into your offices to seek resolution, the quality of the transaction itself becomes important.
FOCUS #4 - Performance Quality is within the control of every employee. It is achieved when transactions are handled in a way that delivers ever-increasing value to internal and/or external customers. Performance quality begins with quality of thought. How your people think about their jobs, their roles, your products, and your customers will determine the effort that they will expend.
Quality is achieved only by understanding current needs, future needs and then effectively and efficiently correcting errors and finding solutions that add value. Every internal handoff or customer exchange creates a learning opportunity for the employee involved, the organization, and the system. Employees often detect the first indication of a problem and are in the best position to eliminate it before the situation grows. How they make those decisions is indicative how they think.
FOCUS #5 - Quality of Thought- Rigid, habitual thinking makes product, process, transaction, and performance quality impossible. Without the ability to think strategically, laterally, or critically employees in organizations can never develop the creative ideas that spawn innovation and lead to quality improvements. Stale thinking overrides any opportunity that a company has to outwit the competition or get ahead of change. Breakthrough thinking is needed if organizations are to deconstruct challenges, set goals, construct workable real-time solutions, and accurately identify the right solution for the right situation at the right time.
In a competitive marketplace, quality is the great differentiator that pays impressive dividends. It is never a final destination but an ongoing pursuit to achieve maximum customer satisfaction in the shortest time and the lowest cost.
Quality products and processes begin with quality thinking but here is a list of ten more things that you can do to increase quality:
Understand the nature and communicate the importance of quality to every employee.
Know what matters most to your clients and why.
Develop products and processes that help your clients meet their business goals in the most efficient way.
Make what your customers care about your top priority.
Make sure that dollars spent to improve operations, systems, and products relate to the needs of your current and targeted customers.
Set, enforce, and revise standards to deliver your best (product, process, transaction, performance and thinking) to the marketplace.Work collaboratively to establish quality in all internal processes and interdepartmental hand offs.
Create self-managed teams that focus on continuous improvement strategies.
Increase the learning opportunities and challenge the habitual thinking of employees.
Eliminate the waste and non-value added activities from your processes it will reduce your product development and process cycle-times.
Article Source: BusinessCurrents.net
In every industry, competitors find themselves fighting price wars or positioning themselves as the low-cost provider only to find out that in many instances, quality is as important to customers (if not more so) than the cost they pay. Quality can be defined as the acceptable standard of excellence determined by the receiver. But, having a quality product and getting it to market is only part of the challenge; especially if you see quality as one action or an end result.
You cant give lip service to quality. Anytime that there is a handoff, a deliverable, a discussion or even a decision to be made, quality is key. It has to be factored in and measured throughout the organization and considered in all activities of design, development, production, installation, servicing, customer interaction and documentation. The goal is to continually identify standards of quality, evaluate performance, monitor results and make adjustments that will improve the customers perception.
When it comes to improving quality in your organizations you have five points to consider: the product, the processes, every transaction and the thinking that leads to overall performance quality. Achieving quality in an organization is an ongoing pursuit and has to be adopted as a mindset before any significant gains will be realized.
FOCUS #1 - Product Quality is measured by workmanship and reliability. It includes the raw materials, assemblies, products and components; as well as the function or services related to production. To have a quality product output means that you have to continually improve the inputs.
FOCUS #2 - Process Quality includes the quality of work in developing, making, and selling products and services. It is measured by adherence to performance standards, fewer mistakes, fewer rejects and less rework.
FOCUS #3 - Transaction Quality is measured by the effectiveness and efficiency of human interaction. When a products fails to meet the expectations of customers and they in turn seek remedy from the organization that creates a transaction (Ronald Coase, a British economist). Poor quality increase the number of transactions needed to resolve an issue and increases the cost of doing business. Once a customer picks up the phone or walks into your offices to seek resolution, the quality of the transaction itself becomes important.
FOCUS #4 - Performance Quality is within the control of every employee. It is achieved when transactions are handled in a way that delivers ever-increasing value to internal and/or external customers. Performance quality begins with quality of thought. How your people think about their jobs, their roles, your products, and your customers will determine the effort that they will expend.
Quality is achieved only by understanding current needs, future needs and then effectively and efficiently correcting errors and finding solutions that add value. Every internal handoff or customer exchange creates a learning opportunity for the employee involved, the organization, and the system. Employees often detect the first indication of a problem and are in the best position to eliminate it before the situation grows. How they make those decisions is indicative how they think.
FOCUS #5 - Quality of Thought- Rigid, habitual thinking makes product, process, transaction, and performance quality impossible. Without the ability to think strategically, laterally, or critically employees in organizations can never develop the creative ideas that spawn innovation and lead to quality improvements. Stale thinking overrides any opportunity that a company has to outwit the competition or get ahead of change. Breakthrough thinking is needed if organizations are to deconstruct challenges, set goals, construct workable real-time solutions, and accurately identify the right solution for the right situation at the right time.
In a competitive marketplace, quality is the great differentiator that pays impressive dividends. It is never a final destination but an ongoing pursuit to achieve maximum customer satisfaction in the shortest time and the lowest cost.
Quality products and processes begin with quality thinking but here is a list of ten more things that you can do to increase quality:
Understand the nature and communicate the importance of quality to every employee.
Know what matters most to your clients and why.
Develop products and processes that help your clients meet their business goals in the most efficient way.
Make what your customers care about your top priority.
Make sure that dollars spent to improve operations, systems, and products relate to the needs of your current and targeted customers.
Set, enforce, and revise standards to deliver your best (product, process, transaction, performance and thinking) to the marketplace.Work collaboratively to establish quality in all internal processes and interdepartmental hand offs.
Create self-managed teams that focus on continuous improvement strategies.
Increase the learning opportunities and challenge the habitual thinking of employees.
Eliminate the waste and non-value added activities from your processes it will reduce your product development and process cycle-times.
Article Source: BusinessCurrents.net
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