Purchasing framed art to many can even affect the decision they make in purchasing the artwork itself. However art is fairly simple to frame and is relatively inexpensive. Many of the art frames can be purchased to match your décor and/or other artwork adjacent. There are endless amounts of choices when it comes to finding the right frame online or offline.
My personal preference is to purchase my artwork of choice without the frame if given a choice. As beautiful as the painting might be, the artist and myself might have opposing tastes when it comes to framing. If you can find the artwork with a frame you enjoy then that is a bonus. If you are purchasing an unframed work directly from the artist it never hurts to ask if they have a connection to get you a good priced frame. Artists that sell a lot will not purchase frames at a premium price. They usually have a friend or a good business connection that deals with frames, so talk to him or her and see if you can get you a discount. It never hurts to ask.
If you prefer to look for yourself then I’m sure you will agree that there are several professional framers in your area. As with any service or profession some are good and some are not so good. Shop around for the best service, best price, and look for value as you would for any other product or service.
If you know your frames you will not hesitate to purchase an ugly painting as long as the frame is worth the asking price. This is more on the lines of bargain hunting. So for most of us we will not be buying a frame to resell it for a higher value, we are simply purchasing it to enjoy the painting.
Below are just a few tips to help you choose your frame.
Size – Making any sized frame "work" with a piece one must ultimately control the proportions with matting. A wide frame requires more matting than a narrow frame.
Style – by looking at your artwork you will see how the coloring, theme and medium will most often direct you toward an appropriate selection of frames. Generally the frame should go with the theme, medium and style of the artwork. If you are still having a hard time with choosing your frame you can also use the décor of your room in which the piece will hang as your guide.
Type - wood frames will look good on almost any piece of art. We use walnut, cherry, oak, ash, basswood, poplar, and pine - all domestic woods - in our frames. Stained wood can be plain, carved, simple or ornate. And, many wood frames are available in lacquer finishes, faux finishes, and gold or sliver leaf. Metal frames, which work well with certain décor, or with modern pieces and posters is often a good choice.
Wednesday, December 28, 2011
How To Find The Perfect Dancewear
If you are into dancing, you need the perfect dancewear. Dancewear is the term used to describe the clothing worn by dancers. Dancewear includes: tap shoes, slippers, pointed shoes, tights, leotards and unitards, tutus, legwarmers and cardigans. These are the perfect clothes to wear when dancing.
There are different types of dances and each requires certain types or dancewear. For example, in ballet you are going to need ballet shoes. A ballet shoe lets a ballerina dance freely. Ballet shoes have no hard cloth or rubber at all. This is important because a ballerina stands and tiptoes. Soft ballet shoes allow her feet to bend and stand pointed. Ballet shoes must fit properly and not be loose on the feet. Some steps require the ballerina to jump and make fast movements. If the shoes are not compact with her feet, she might fall or stumble.
In ballroom dancing, dancers use different dancewear. Ballroom dancers wear high-heels or stilettos to give impact to the dropping of their feet. It also gives an elegant impression and gives emphasis to the legs of the dancer. For the female, the perfect dancewear would be skirts which are not below the knee. Short skirts will help them move freely. Wearing long skirts can cause them to step on their costume. If not, the male partners might step on it and ruin the scene. Wearing tank or short sleeved tops that shimmer are the perfect match to skirts. Wearing glimmering dancewear will help you stand out among the rest. With the lights circling, your shimmering dancewear will surely be the highlight.
In dancing, the shoes are the most important item of all. After all, it is your feet that make your body move. Your feet carry you so it is important to choose your shoes seriously.
In choosing the perfect dance shoes, go for quality. It may be more costly but there are a lot of shops and stores that offer great discounts on dance shoes. With dancing’s popularity, there are a lot of affordable shoes on the market. Don’t go for the cheap ones because they will not last for long. Your dance shoes will undergo a lot of stress. It is best to choose one that is durable.
If you want to find the perfect dancewear that suits you, you can have your own costume designed by a professional. Ask a designer to make a dress exclusively for you. Matching your dance shoes to the color and design of your dancewear will give you that prosperous look. So get your dancewear on and do the groove.
There are different types of dances and each requires certain types or dancewear. For example, in ballet you are going to need ballet shoes. A ballet shoe lets a ballerina dance freely. Ballet shoes have no hard cloth or rubber at all. This is important because a ballerina stands and tiptoes. Soft ballet shoes allow her feet to bend and stand pointed. Ballet shoes must fit properly and not be loose on the feet. Some steps require the ballerina to jump and make fast movements. If the shoes are not compact with her feet, she might fall or stumble.
In ballroom dancing, dancers use different dancewear. Ballroom dancers wear high-heels or stilettos to give impact to the dropping of their feet. It also gives an elegant impression and gives emphasis to the legs of the dancer. For the female, the perfect dancewear would be skirts which are not below the knee. Short skirts will help them move freely. Wearing long skirts can cause them to step on their costume. If not, the male partners might step on it and ruin the scene. Wearing tank or short sleeved tops that shimmer are the perfect match to skirts. Wearing glimmering dancewear will help you stand out among the rest. With the lights circling, your shimmering dancewear will surely be the highlight.
In dancing, the shoes are the most important item of all. After all, it is your feet that make your body move. Your feet carry you so it is important to choose your shoes seriously.
In choosing the perfect dance shoes, go for quality. It may be more costly but there are a lot of shops and stores that offer great discounts on dance shoes. With dancing’s popularity, there are a lot of affordable shoes on the market. Don’t go for the cheap ones because they will not last for long. Your dance shoes will undergo a lot of stress. It is best to choose one that is durable.
If you want to find the perfect dancewear that suits you, you can have your own costume designed by a professional. Ask a designer to make a dress exclusively for you. Matching your dance shoes to the color and design of your dancewear will give you that prosperous look. So get your dancewear on and do the groove.
Monday, December 26, 2011
Speech Topics That Capture The Full Attention!
First, if you are looking for a persuasive speech topic, you must know that the more controversial the speech topics, are the more response you will get from your audiences.
The topic sentence has to be short, declarative sentence that states the central idea of your speech. Your persuasion speech topics should zero in on one main idea rather than focusing on entirely different areas.
If you are looking for science related speech topics, there's plenty of those in the science forums. It is relatively easy to join forums. A visual presentation is sure to bring your informative speech topics to a whole new level of interest.
Choosing a persuasive speech topic for your presentation is not an easy task. Introduce the topic with a statement of fact and support that statement with the main points of your speech. Write a purpose statement by stating the goal and topic for a speech and specifying the method to be used in developing the speech. This means you will have to research your topic and work your sources into your speech and outline.
The more controversial your persuasive speech topic, the harder challenge your creating for yourself, and the more you'll learn. Interest the listeners in the topic, purpose, and issues of the speech. Developing a topic and identifying the purpose of a speech will aid in the organization and direction of the overall performance. You will get enthusiastic applause...perhaps even a standing ovation, every time you speak if you develop informative speech topics which are slightly controversial in nature!
If you should emphasize both the positive and negative characteristics of your topic in order to provide a well-balanced speech, you will definitely make your speech more interesting! So, the idea here is to first pick a topic and then list down the positive and negative characteristics of your topic. It will stimulate your mind in more ways than you can imagine, and could easily spawn dozens of speech topic ideas.
The topic sentence has to be short, declarative sentence that states the central idea of your speech. Your persuasion speech topics should zero in on one main idea rather than focusing on entirely different areas.
If you are looking for science related speech topics, there's plenty of those in the science forums. It is relatively easy to join forums. A visual presentation is sure to bring your informative speech topics to a whole new level of interest.
Choosing a persuasive speech topic for your presentation is not an easy task. Introduce the topic with a statement of fact and support that statement with the main points of your speech. Write a purpose statement by stating the goal and topic for a speech and specifying the method to be used in developing the speech. This means you will have to research your topic and work your sources into your speech and outline.
The more controversial your persuasive speech topic, the harder challenge your creating for yourself, and the more you'll learn. Interest the listeners in the topic, purpose, and issues of the speech. Developing a topic and identifying the purpose of a speech will aid in the organization and direction of the overall performance. You will get enthusiastic applause...perhaps even a standing ovation, every time you speak if you develop informative speech topics which are slightly controversial in nature!
If you should emphasize both the positive and negative characteristics of your topic in order to provide a well-balanced speech, you will definitely make your speech more interesting! So, the idea here is to first pick a topic and then list down the positive and negative characteristics of your topic. It will stimulate your mind in more ways than you can imagine, and could easily spawn dozens of speech topic ideas.
Public Speaking Tips
Any public speaking involves delivering information to people who are, in one way or another, waiting to get some information. This is a key reason why you should pay careful attention as you prepare to make you speech and as you plan to meet your audience.
Some people are naturals at public speaking and getting to audiences, you may think of politicians or a good college professor you took some classes with, the fact of the matter is most people are not good at making speeches and the vast majority of people are terrified of delivering a speech. This should not discourage you in any way, since many experts have studied this and worked hard for you to deal with these problems in speech making.
If you are at a point that you are going to deliver a speech, you probably got to a stage in your life your thoughts are worth something to other people, this means that in principle, people want to get into your head and they appreciate your talent or skill in some particular field, the people that will listen to you have something to learn from you. But you are not thinking of these people, are you? You are thinking of the few people that probably know more than you and will be in the crowd. This is a big mistake, first because you should think of the person that will profit from your knowledge and get to him, and secondly because you have something in you that will benefit even the ones that you fear.
The key to all this is simple, its preparation, it’s the most basic, banal and trivial thing, but it is the base of any success in any field. Lets think about speech making preparation.
First think about your audience, who is the average person coming to your speech, what does he know, what does he need to know, what will inspire him and make him listen carefully to what you have to say, and how will you get him to appreciate your speech. It is not that difficult, its actually good to start at this point, remember – people want to know what you are thinking, you just need to keep them interested, and I am sure you got interesting thoughts.
Rehearse, this seems clear to me, practice the speech again, and again, and again. Obviously I know that you don’t have all the time in the world to perfect it, but, there is a value to this, timing your speech, and pre setting spots in which you know you need to change your tone, your speed and rhythm, will make you a better speaker and a better speech planner. So rehearse your speech and listen to yourself while doing it. Start strong, confident, talk about things you know no one can beat you or undermine you, let the confidence and the experience shine through, people feel that, and if you do this right, you will own your audience.
Think about your entrance and the first 3 minutes of the speech, pay attention to the way you walk in, project confidence and calm, do not rush into anything, even if you are late or under a tight schedule do everything slowly and thoughtfully, show the room that you are entering your speech zone and that no one is allowed in, they can sit and wait for a few seconds (which seem like hours) – its only a few seconds. Make sure you got the attention of the crowd, and start strong. Pick the words of your opening carefully, and trust yourself.
In the next article I will review more of the speech making basics. Good luck.
Some people are naturals at public speaking and getting to audiences, you may think of politicians or a good college professor you took some classes with, the fact of the matter is most people are not good at making speeches and the vast majority of people are terrified of delivering a speech. This should not discourage you in any way, since many experts have studied this and worked hard for you to deal with these problems in speech making.
If you are at a point that you are going to deliver a speech, you probably got to a stage in your life your thoughts are worth something to other people, this means that in principle, people want to get into your head and they appreciate your talent or skill in some particular field, the people that will listen to you have something to learn from you. But you are not thinking of these people, are you? You are thinking of the few people that probably know more than you and will be in the crowd. This is a big mistake, first because you should think of the person that will profit from your knowledge and get to him, and secondly because you have something in you that will benefit even the ones that you fear.
The key to all this is simple, its preparation, it’s the most basic, banal and trivial thing, but it is the base of any success in any field. Lets think about speech making preparation.
First think about your audience, who is the average person coming to your speech, what does he know, what does he need to know, what will inspire him and make him listen carefully to what you have to say, and how will you get him to appreciate your speech. It is not that difficult, its actually good to start at this point, remember – people want to know what you are thinking, you just need to keep them interested, and I am sure you got interesting thoughts.
Rehearse, this seems clear to me, practice the speech again, and again, and again. Obviously I know that you don’t have all the time in the world to perfect it, but, there is a value to this, timing your speech, and pre setting spots in which you know you need to change your tone, your speed and rhythm, will make you a better speaker and a better speech planner. So rehearse your speech and listen to yourself while doing it. Start strong, confident, talk about things you know no one can beat you or undermine you, let the confidence and the experience shine through, people feel that, and if you do this right, you will own your audience.
Think about your entrance and the first 3 minutes of the speech, pay attention to the way you walk in, project confidence and calm, do not rush into anything, even if you are late or under a tight schedule do everything slowly and thoughtfully, show the room that you are entering your speech zone and that no one is allowed in, they can sit and wait for a few seconds (which seem like hours) – its only a few seconds. Make sure you got the attention of the crowd, and start strong. Pick the words of your opening carefully, and trust yourself.
In the next article I will review more of the speech making basics. Good luck.
Public Speaking or Gargle with Drano? 4 Ways To Prepare...
Which sounds more appealing, getting up in front of a group of strangers and talking, while they all sit there looking at you like a dog watching a ceiling fan...or gargling with Drano? It's no surprise how many would choose the Drano.
Public Speaking has been ranked as the "number one fear" among thousands of us. The anxiety is overwhelming, you start to sweat profusely, your knees are knocking so hard you might break a kneecap, hands tremble like you dipped them in a fryer full of hot oil, voice starts quivering like someone dumped a bucket of ice water on your head and you can't remember what it is you are supposed to be talking about. Why? Because you are scared to death.
I want to share with you some tips on overcoming this fear of Public Speaking.
1. Picture yourself doing it, go ahead picture yourself standing in front of all these people saying what it is you are going to be talking about. Picture yourself from start to finish. Begin with walking up to the microphone or podium, all the way thru your speech, and then finally wrapping it up to a successful outcome.
2. Practice, practice, practice...do your speech 'out loud' over and over again. Now, do the same thing to a real live person..(just make sure they will be honest with you about your presentation). It's been said: "Repetition is the mother of all skill"...it really is and you do it everyday in your real life, because you have done the same thing over and over again. You can just about overcome any fear you have by doing it over and over again. Sports are a good example...you see NBA players almost never miss a free throw, PGA players make 20 foot putts, NFL kickers put it thru the uprights. It's not because they were born with some special skill...it's because they practiced and practiced and practiced some more. The same holds true for Public Speaking.
3. Whip out the camcorder and tape yourself giving your speech. That way you will be able to see what the audience will be watching and listening to.
4. Get a grip...just before you give your speech, RELAX. Take some slow deep breaths and remind yourself that all these people are here to listen to what you have to say. They don't know (or really care) what your personal life is like. Honestly, they could care less about anything going on in your personal life that YOU feel is adding to this anxiety.
The more prepared you are, the less anxiety you'll experience, which in turn, will boost your confidence sky high. Then after you are all "said and done"...you will never look at a can of drano the same way again.
Public Speaking has been ranked as the "number one fear" among thousands of us. The anxiety is overwhelming, you start to sweat profusely, your knees are knocking so hard you might break a kneecap, hands tremble like you dipped them in a fryer full of hot oil, voice starts quivering like someone dumped a bucket of ice water on your head and you can't remember what it is you are supposed to be talking about. Why? Because you are scared to death.
I want to share with you some tips on overcoming this fear of Public Speaking.
1. Picture yourself doing it, go ahead picture yourself standing in front of all these people saying what it is you are going to be talking about. Picture yourself from start to finish. Begin with walking up to the microphone or podium, all the way thru your speech, and then finally wrapping it up to a successful outcome.
2. Practice, practice, practice...do your speech 'out loud' over and over again. Now, do the same thing to a real live person..(just make sure they will be honest with you about your presentation). It's been said: "Repetition is the mother of all skill"...it really is and you do it everyday in your real life, because you have done the same thing over and over again. You can just about overcome any fear you have by doing it over and over again. Sports are a good example...you see NBA players almost never miss a free throw, PGA players make 20 foot putts, NFL kickers put it thru the uprights. It's not because they were born with some special skill...it's because they practiced and practiced and practiced some more. The same holds true for Public Speaking.
3. Whip out the camcorder and tape yourself giving your speech. That way you will be able to see what the audience will be watching and listening to.
4. Get a grip...just before you give your speech, RELAX. Take some slow deep breaths and remind yourself that all these people are here to listen to what you have to say. They don't know (or really care) what your personal life is like. Honestly, they could care less about anything going on in your personal life that YOU feel is adding to this anxiety.
The more prepared you are, the less anxiety you'll experience, which in turn, will boost your confidence sky high. Then after you are all "said and done"...you will never look at a can of drano the same way again.
Public Speaking Fear? You Should Be Afraid
Like most pubic speaking consultants, I usually hammer all the reasons a person should not be afraid of presenting. However, the more coaching I do, the more I realize the fear is legit. People should be afraid of getting in front of a group.
While there is a lot to gain from speaking publicly, there is also a lot to lose. Here are seven reasons to be scared…
Number One: No skill.
Would you want someone repairing your car that knows nothing about mechanics? The average speaker receives no training, takes no classes, and doesn’t read one book on presenting. He or she expects to do an adequate job with no experience.
Number Two: Not Fearing Death
The OLD adage is that public speaking is the #1 fear. If you would RATHER die than speak, then you don’t need to be speaking. Period.
If you spillover Niagara Falls walking a tightrope, you’re going to die and it will all be over. When speaking you won’t die. You’ll live to face the embarrassment, the whispers, and the snickers. But you’ll still be alive. If you look forward to a Niagara, yet look away from speaking then put on your swim trunks and stay away from the podium.
Number Three: Failing to Organize.
One of my services is critiquing the outlines of speakers. On average the format and structure is elementary at best and confusing at worse. It’s as if the speaker’s brain spewed out on a sheet of paper and left it at that. Organizing does not take long, nor is it difficult, but only a handful do it successfully. Without a proper outline the fear is understandable.
Number Four: Confusing Writing and Speaking
Writing is formal. People rarely forgive errors in spelling and grammar. From this article I’ll get several people attempting to correct me. However, there is room for error when speaking. The ears are very forgiving and the brain is sharp enough to fill in the blanks.
Speakers get tripped up when they try to talk like they write. They become more academic and antiseptic and who wants to listen to someone like that. How many college professors did you find hypnotizing? Do you remind yourself of a monotone bore? Frightening, yes?
Number Five: Trying to Survive.
“I just want to get through the speech and get it over with.” If that is your attitude then be afraid. Chances are extremely high that you will not do well. “Survival” causes you to do and say things you wouldn’t without the duress.
Number Six: Lack of Commitment
This ties into the first point. The majority of speakers do a single presentation and that’s it. No problem. A book can help them. On the other hand, there are thousands of monthly, or even daily presenters who fail to make marked improvement. Why? No commitment.
You can’t take one class and do brain surgery. You can’t attend one seminar and suddenly become a tax expert. The same with speaking. One book, class, or course will not create excellence. To become the best you have to commit yourself to long term achievement.
Number Seven: The Freeze Factor
Chances are high that you will forget something and freeze during your speech. Unless you know how to play it off, or use the moment, you will look uncomfortable, or even stupid. People will talk about it afterwards. They will mention how they felt sorry for you.
It seems that folks are always looking for ways to be afraid. Well, you just got seven reasons. The question is: What are you going to do about it?
While there is a lot to gain from speaking publicly, there is also a lot to lose. Here are seven reasons to be scared…
Number One: No skill.
Would you want someone repairing your car that knows nothing about mechanics? The average speaker receives no training, takes no classes, and doesn’t read one book on presenting. He or she expects to do an adequate job with no experience.
Number Two: Not Fearing Death
The OLD adage is that public speaking is the #1 fear. If you would RATHER die than speak, then you don’t need to be speaking. Period.
If you spillover Niagara Falls walking a tightrope, you’re going to die and it will all be over. When speaking you won’t die. You’ll live to face the embarrassment, the whispers, and the snickers. But you’ll still be alive. If you look forward to a Niagara, yet look away from speaking then put on your swim trunks and stay away from the podium.
Number Three: Failing to Organize.
One of my services is critiquing the outlines of speakers. On average the format and structure is elementary at best and confusing at worse. It’s as if the speaker’s brain spewed out on a sheet of paper and left it at that. Organizing does not take long, nor is it difficult, but only a handful do it successfully. Without a proper outline the fear is understandable.
Number Four: Confusing Writing and Speaking
Writing is formal. People rarely forgive errors in spelling and grammar. From this article I’ll get several people attempting to correct me. However, there is room for error when speaking. The ears are very forgiving and the brain is sharp enough to fill in the blanks.
Speakers get tripped up when they try to talk like they write. They become more academic and antiseptic and who wants to listen to someone like that. How many college professors did you find hypnotizing? Do you remind yourself of a monotone bore? Frightening, yes?
Number Five: Trying to Survive.
“I just want to get through the speech and get it over with.” If that is your attitude then be afraid. Chances are extremely high that you will not do well. “Survival” causes you to do and say things you wouldn’t without the duress.
Number Six: Lack of Commitment
This ties into the first point. The majority of speakers do a single presentation and that’s it. No problem. A book can help them. On the other hand, there are thousands of monthly, or even daily presenters who fail to make marked improvement. Why? No commitment.
You can’t take one class and do brain surgery. You can’t attend one seminar and suddenly become a tax expert. The same with speaking. One book, class, or course will not create excellence. To become the best you have to commit yourself to long term achievement.
Number Seven: The Freeze Factor
Chances are high that you will forget something and freeze during your speech. Unless you know how to play it off, or use the moment, you will look uncomfortable, or even stupid. People will talk about it afterwards. They will mention how they felt sorry for you.
It seems that folks are always looking for ways to be afraid. Well, you just got seven reasons. The question is: What are you going to do about it?
Public Speaking Dilemma: What To Do When You Don't Have Enough Time
Do you have a standard hour-length presentation, but your host can only spare a half hour? Are you in the middle of a presentation when you realize that, due to a late start or abundant questions, you are running out of time?
No matter what your topic, always be flexible and ready to cut short your session (or ready to lengthen, as the case may be). Here are some ways to make sure your presentation always fits the time slot.
Pointer #1: Use a timed outline
When you create your presentation outline, include time estimates next to each section (I like to add mine in red to make them easier to spot on the page).
A brief, one-page bulleted outline (or two pages double-sided) will be easier to time than a long, rambling novel written in paragraphs.
Practice your presentation and jot down time estimates as you go (two minutes for opening, five minutes for section I, seven minutes for section II, etc.) When you get to the end, add up all the time and determine whether you should add to or subtract from any sections to make it all fit into the allotted time slot.
If you have to edit severely to fit into a different time frame and your presentation will be adversely affected, you might want to develop separate self-contained presentations for short, medium and long time slots.
(If you are a PowerPoint user, see the book "Beyond Bullet Points" for instruction on creating a PowerPoint that serves different timing needs.)
Pointer #2: Shift information depending on its priority
If you notice that you are running out of time while in the middle of a presentation, you may have to shift some of your content around. If you have important points at the end of the presentation, now is the time to bring them forward. As soon as you notice the time crunch, start changing the order of your sections.
When creating and practicing your presentation, it's always a good idea to think ahead about how you would handle this situation. The layout of your bulleted outline should make it easy to see which sections to leave out, move up or move down.
If you have to leave out something that you feel is important, gather business cards from the audience and offer to e-mail them additional content.
Pointer #3: Supplement with handouts
There's usually some information that we want to share, but that we don't necessarily want to include in our live presentation. You might have some relevant articles to supplement your workshop, or you might have charts and graphs that you didn't have time for or the technology to project.
Use handouts wisely. If the material does not need to be reviewed during your presentation, then leave handouts at the back of the room for the audience to pick up on the way out. If you choose to put them on seats before you begin, be aware that your audience may spend half the time reading and not listening to you.
Your handouts should always include your contact information and a link to your website, if you have one. Make sure all resources and references are clear and easy to read; use graphics if appropriate and leave a lot of white space on the page. Don't overload handouts with text; make them concise and relevant to your presentation. Otherwise, they will end up in the recycling bin!
Follow these suggestions, and you will always be prepared, no matter how much (or little) time you have.
No matter what your topic, always be flexible and ready to cut short your session (or ready to lengthen, as the case may be). Here are some ways to make sure your presentation always fits the time slot.
Pointer #1: Use a timed outline
When you create your presentation outline, include time estimates next to each section (I like to add mine in red to make them easier to spot on the page).
A brief, one-page bulleted outline (or two pages double-sided) will be easier to time than a long, rambling novel written in paragraphs.
Practice your presentation and jot down time estimates as you go (two minutes for opening, five minutes for section I, seven minutes for section II, etc.) When you get to the end, add up all the time and determine whether you should add to or subtract from any sections to make it all fit into the allotted time slot.
If you have to edit severely to fit into a different time frame and your presentation will be adversely affected, you might want to develop separate self-contained presentations for short, medium and long time slots.
(If you are a PowerPoint user, see the book "Beyond Bullet Points" for instruction on creating a PowerPoint that serves different timing needs.)
Pointer #2: Shift information depending on its priority
If you notice that you are running out of time while in the middle of a presentation, you may have to shift some of your content around. If you have important points at the end of the presentation, now is the time to bring them forward. As soon as you notice the time crunch, start changing the order of your sections.
When creating and practicing your presentation, it's always a good idea to think ahead about how you would handle this situation. The layout of your bulleted outline should make it easy to see which sections to leave out, move up or move down.
If you have to leave out something that you feel is important, gather business cards from the audience and offer to e-mail them additional content.
Pointer #3: Supplement with handouts
There's usually some information that we want to share, but that we don't necessarily want to include in our live presentation. You might have some relevant articles to supplement your workshop, or you might have charts and graphs that you didn't have time for or the technology to project.
Use handouts wisely. If the material does not need to be reviewed during your presentation, then leave handouts at the back of the room for the audience to pick up on the way out. If you choose to put them on seats before you begin, be aware that your audience may spend half the time reading and not listening to you.
Your handouts should always include your contact information and a link to your website, if you have one. Make sure all resources and references are clear and easy to read; use graphics if appropriate and leave a lot of white space on the page. Don't overload handouts with text; make them concise and relevant to your presentation. Otherwise, they will end up in the recycling bin!
Follow these suggestions, and you will always be prepared, no matter how much (or little) time you have.
Sunday, December 25, 2011
How Myspace Layouts Can Help Businesses?
Myspace is an extremely popular networking site, and it is not used only for making new friends. There are many people there who would even use it to promote businesses. When it comes to promoting businesses, there should always be good presentations. Layouts of a profile are thus very important. There will be various types of businesses that are posted on this site.
There are many layouts to choose from too. The layouts are of different categories and they will be chosen according to the need of the users. Myspace layouts are available in plenty and they are free of cost too, so there is no need to worry about changing it often too. This site allows for a lot of people to meet and look at profiles.
If any business is being promoted, it should sensible, and the themes and layouts should be according to the type of business one wants to promote. There are millions of users on the site, and there are several others who are joining every day. Someone or the other is bound to look at the profile, so it is good to pick good layouts.
Some time can be spent in choosing the layouts, as there are thousands of them on several sites. There will be many categories too, as there are updates every day. So if one really wants to promote the business the right way, there is no need to rush with the selection of the layout. The designs can be selected according to the needs, and the application is also very easy.
The user may select the layout and just use a simple code to apply the layout to the profile. The look of the profile will take the business to different heights. As long as the presentation is good, people will naturally be interested in the profile. They will be very keen on knowing what the business is all about, and ultimately they will also talk to other friends about it.
The Myspace layouts for businesses can be flashy, but they must suit the profile. For example a music business can have a flashy one, but other businesses will need sensible layouts. The types of businesses posted on this site are also not of one type, so there will be the need to explore the web sites a lot. There are many sites that have layouts for Myspace, and they are free.
All users who post their profiles on this site must take the time to present the site well. This will bring a lot of traffic to the profile, as many people will pass the word to others. So all it needs is a little time and effort to do the needful. All businesses whether it is small or big will only benefit if there is a good look and feel to the profile.
There are many layouts to choose from too. The layouts are of different categories and they will be chosen according to the need of the users. Myspace layouts are available in plenty and they are free of cost too, so there is no need to worry about changing it often too. This site allows for a lot of people to meet and look at profiles.
If any business is being promoted, it should sensible, and the themes and layouts should be according to the type of business one wants to promote. There are millions of users on the site, and there are several others who are joining every day. Someone or the other is bound to look at the profile, so it is good to pick good layouts.
Some time can be spent in choosing the layouts, as there are thousands of them on several sites. There will be many categories too, as there are updates every day. So if one really wants to promote the business the right way, there is no need to rush with the selection of the layout. The designs can be selected according to the needs, and the application is also very easy.
The user may select the layout and just use a simple code to apply the layout to the profile. The look of the profile will take the business to different heights. As long as the presentation is good, people will naturally be interested in the profile. They will be very keen on knowing what the business is all about, and ultimately they will also talk to other friends about it.
The Myspace layouts for businesses can be flashy, but they must suit the profile. For example a music business can have a flashy one, but other businesses will need sensible layouts. The types of businesses posted on this site are also not of one type, so there will be the need to explore the web sites a lot. There are many sites that have layouts for Myspace, and they are free.
All users who post their profiles on this site must take the time to present the site well. This will bring a lot of traffic to the profile, as many people will pass the word to others. So all it needs is a little time and effort to do the needful. All businesses whether it is small or big will only benefit if there is a good look and feel to the profile.
How Legalized Online Gambling Is Better For Society
The question we should be asking is, by banning online gambling are we going to make things better or worse?
The answer to that question is simple, banning legalized and regulated online gambling in any form, just makes another way for organized crime to get a hold of peoples money, and then no one but the criminals win.
If you want to keep a child from seeing an R rated movie you do not ban the movie from the theaters do you? No that would be silly you just make sure that people are doing there best to check and verify that no one under 18 gets into see the movie. By banning the movie chances are greater that someone will get a bootleg copy and show it to every kid in the town.
So if you want to keep a child from gambling online then all the online casinos should be regulated and monitored, not banned.
The same goes for terrorists. If you believe terrorist groups are exploiting an unregulated and unmonitored industry such as the online gambling industry, then by regulating it you can see where the money is going and make sure it is not going to fund international terrorist attacks. All that is accomplished by banning it is that the criminals get a stronger grip on the industry.
The ban on online gambling is much like the war on drugs. If marijuana was legalized in the USA crimes related to it would almost go away completely, because it would be sold in stores and it would be controlled, another advantage would be that people would no longer be going to jail for marijuana related charges, this means thousands of less people getting arrested and going to jail every year, which would save us tax money that could be better spent.
By making online gambling in the USA a legalized form of adult entertainment it would also bring in an estimated 1.2 billion dollars in taxes to the American government. This money could be used for schools, police and universal healthcare for all Americans.
This is how you improve society, not by telling people what to do. It is human nature to want what we can not have so the more laws you put in place to stop people from doing something the better the chances are that people are going to do it.
People are just as likely to become addicted to gambling at a regulated casino as an unregulated one, but the difference is that in a regulated casino they will not extend you the amount of credit that will get you into trouble in an illegal casino.
And in a regulated casino they will have information on how to get help if you have a gambling problem. In an illegal casino they will not have this type of information, they want you to continue to gamble till you have nothing left, and then they will let you fall and find someone to take your place.
In the long run society can only prosper if we educate people on the dangers of gambling both online and in a casino, and not from banning an industry that employs thousands of people in countries all over the world. No one gains anything from just telling people they can not do something that they are going to do anyway.
It is about time the government learned this and stopped making the same mistakes year after year.
The answer to that question is simple, banning legalized and regulated online gambling in any form, just makes another way for organized crime to get a hold of peoples money, and then no one but the criminals win.
If you want to keep a child from seeing an R rated movie you do not ban the movie from the theaters do you? No that would be silly you just make sure that people are doing there best to check and verify that no one under 18 gets into see the movie. By banning the movie chances are greater that someone will get a bootleg copy and show it to every kid in the town.
So if you want to keep a child from gambling online then all the online casinos should be regulated and monitored, not banned.
The same goes for terrorists. If you believe terrorist groups are exploiting an unregulated and unmonitored industry such as the online gambling industry, then by regulating it you can see where the money is going and make sure it is not going to fund international terrorist attacks. All that is accomplished by banning it is that the criminals get a stronger grip on the industry.
The ban on online gambling is much like the war on drugs. If marijuana was legalized in the USA crimes related to it would almost go away completely, because it would be sold in stores and it would be controlled, another advantage would be that people would no longer be going to jail for marijuana related charges, this means thousands of less people getting arrested and going to jail every year, which would save us tax money that could be better spent.
By making online gambling in the USA a legalized form of adult entertainment it would also bring in an estimated 1.2 billion dollars in taxes to the American government. This money could be used for schools, police and universal healthcare for all Americans.
This is how you improve society, not by telling people what to do. It is human nature to want what we can not have so the more laws you put in place to stop people from doing something the better the chances are that people are going to do it.
People are just as likely to become addicted to gambling at a regulated casino as an unregulated one, but the difference is that in a regulated casino they will not extend you the amount of credit that will get you into trouble in an illegal casino.
And in a regulated casino they will have information on how to get help if you have a gambling problem. In an illegal casino they will not have this type of information, they want you to continue to gamble till you have nothing left, and then they will let you fall and find someone to take your place.
In the long run society can only prosper if we educate people on the dangers of gambling both online and in a casino, and not from banning an industry that employs thousands of people in countries all over the world. No one gains anything from just telling people they can not do something that they are going to do anyway.
It is about time the government learned this and stopped making the same mistakes year after year.
Wednesday, December 21, 2011
HDTV? You Ain't Seen NOTHING Yet!
Remember the Osborn? Or was it the Osborne? Actually, I knew it existed, but didn’t care. This thing was a personal computer. Like we’d ever need one of those? Those new electric typewriters with memory were the rage. THAT was something!
Flash forward and we are upon the reverse engineered UFO goodies. Oh, wait, no, that’s not exactly right.
It’s the dawning of the age of Aquarius, age of Aquarius, Ah QUAR EEEE USSS. Um, no, that was some time ago.
It’s the age of $3 US Gas. Not a good milestone.
The age of HDTV!!! Remember when “high definition” included the terms “stems and seeds?” You do? You rascal.
No, this is about High Definition TELEVISION. Personally, I feel the word TELEVISON is so…. Fifties. We need a new one there. So did you jump for the Plasma? Or the LCD projector? The DLP? Have you got the home theater with all the tricked out electronics?
Don’t put your ear directly on the high tech train tracks, then, because there’s another train coming, and you’ll hear it down the line.
UHDV is in the pipeline. On the track. In the lab. In the electron wind. Want to guess? Time’s up. ULTRA HIGH DEFINITION.
Remember the movie where they invent this skull cap that would capture your emotions and immediately the bad guy looped someone having how shall we say – some very intense happy times… and turned himself into peak experience broccoli? Is that where all this is headed? Not for a while, if ever. HOWEVER: UHDV is close to the detail of 35mm film. With 7680 x 4320 pixels, this isn’t far from the 4K (4,000 scan line) digital projection systems for big-screen movie theaters.
Donald Trump will be able to see how bad his hair looks like never before.
UHDV features 33 million pixels with a 60 frame-per-second (fps) progressive scan format.
NHK, the Japanese broadcasting giant who had HDTV in the 1980s… is behind the UHDV format, but reassures us it may be a long time before home theater UHDV becomes reality. That’s corporate talk for, “Don’t let the competition know how close we really are!”
With 32 times the bandwidth demands of HDTV, UHDV would be prohibitive for today’s broadcast, cable and satellite technology. NHK’s demo required a data rate of 24 Gbps. That was a few years back in Amsterdam where some people were close to hurling lunch because the moving car video hi-jinx was that real.
How real?
NHK cobbled together a custom camera of four CCD image sensors; then to show the output built a LCoS projector combining four eight-megapixel panels. Data storage, using 16 synchronized HDTV recorders, provided roughly 18 minutes of recording time, using 3.5 terabytes of total capacity and a screen about 12 feet high and 22 feet wide. NHK researchers called this “the sensation of reality saturation point,” in the hopes of providing a completely immersive experience: 100 degrees of visual field angle, viewing from a distance of three-quarters of the height of the screen (about nine feet) with at least 60 pixels required for each one degree of visual field angle.
And speakers? UHDV offers 24-channel sound, or 22.2, containing vertically arrayed surround sound speakers: nine above ear level, 10 at ear level, three below ear level and two low-frequency subwoofer channels.
The format, according to NHK, is not so much intended for home use as for museums, public spaces and theaters. You tell The Donald.
Once upon a time there was SHOWSCAN. Special effects pioneer Douglas Trumbull had his demo unit in a suburb of Dallas, behind a Chucky Cheese, if memory serves. I saw the demo.
The equipment and the Showscan Film Process of producing and projecting Showscan films are justifiably proprietary and patented. At the time, Showscan’s discovery was hailed as the most significant advancement in film technology since the introduction of sound in the 1929 film “The Jazz Singer”. (Not the one with Neil Diamond.) However, it remained as little more than a technological curiosity until the company developed new camera, high speed projectors, and built special theaters to showcase the revolutionary Showscan images. There was a catch-22 at work. Theaters weren't equipped for this state of the art projection so they couldn't convince investors to make films in that format. Solution: do it all in house.
I can’t remember the specs but it was scarily real, 3-D, multi channel and way ahead of multi channel… or HDTV. I do remember it ran film through the gate much faster than normal projection speeds.
Today the company’s simulation and specialty theatres are open or under construction in 24 countries around the world, located in theme parks, motion picture multiplexes, expos, world’s fairs, resorts, shopping centers, casinos, museums, and other tourist destinations where somebody wants a rush.
If NHK can even come close, well…
Enjoy your puny HDTV now while you can, citizen.
Flash forward and we are upon the reverse engineered UFO goodies. Oh, wait, no, that’s not exactly right.
It’s the dawning of the age of Aquarius, age of Aquarius, Ah QUAR EEEE USSS. Um, no, that was some time ago.
It’s the age of $3 US Gas. Not a good milestone.
The age of HDTV!!! Remember when “high definition” included the terms “stems and seeds?” You do? You rascal.
No, this is about High Definition TELEVISION. Personally, I feel the word TELEVISON is so…. Fifties. We need a new one there. So did you jump for the Plasma? Or the LCD projector? The DLP? Have you got the home theater with all the tricked out electronics?
Don’t put your ear directly on the high tech train tracks, then, because there’s another train coming, and you’ll hear it down the line.
UHDV is in the pipeline. On the track. In the lab. In the electron wind. Want to guess? Time’s up. ULTRA HIGH DEFINITION.
Remember the movie where they invent this skull cap that would capture your emotions and immediately the bad guy looped someone having how shall we say – some very intense happy times… and turned himself into peak experience broccoli? Is that where all this is headed? Not for a while, if ever. HOWEVER: UHDV is close to the detail of 35mm film. With 7680 x 4320 pixels, this isn’t far from the 4K (4,000 scan line) digital projection systems for big-screen movie theaters.
Donald Trump will be able to see how bad his hair looks like never before.
UHDV features 33 million pixels with a 60 frame-per-second (fps) progressive scan format.
NHK, the Japanese broadcasting giant who had HDTV in the 1980s… is behind the UHDV format, but reassures us it may be a long time before home theater UHDV becomes reality. That’s corporate talk for, “Don’t let the competition know how close we really are!”
With 32 times the bandwidth demands of HDTV, UHDV would be prohibitive for today’s broadcast, cable and satellite technology. NHK’s demo required a data rate of 24 Gbps. That was a few years back in Amsterdam where some people were close to hurling lunch because the moving car video hi-jinx was that real.
How real?
NHK cobbled together a custom camera of four CCD image sensors; then to show the output built a LCoS projector combining four eight-megapixel panels. Data storage, using 16 synchronized HDTV recorders, provided roughly 18 minutes of recording time, using 3.5 terabytes of total capacity and a screen about 12 feet high and 22 feet wide. NHK researchers called this “the sensation of reality saturation point,” in the hopes of providing a completely immersive experience: 100 degrees of visual field angle, viewing from a distance of three-quarters of the height of the screen (about nine feet) with at least 60 pixels required for each one degree of visual field angle.
And speakers? UHDV offers 24-channel sound, or 22.2, containing vertically arrayed surround sound speakers: nine above ear level, 10 at ear level, three below ear level and two low-frequency subwoofer channels.
The format, according to NHK, is not so much intended for home use as for museums, public spaces and theaters. You tell The Donald.
Once upon a time there was SHOWSCAN. Special effects pioneer Douglas Trumbull had his demo unit in a suburb of Dallas, behind a Chucky Cheese, if memory serves. I saw the demo.
The equipment and the Showscan Film Process of producing and projecting Showscan films are justifiably proprietary and patented. At the time, Showscan’s discovery was hailed as the most significant advancement in film technology since the introduction of sound in the 1929 film “The Jazz Singer”. (Not the one with Neil Diamond.) However, it remained as little more than a technological curiosity until the company developed new camera, high speed projectors, and built special theaters to showcase the revolutionary Showscan images. There was a catch-22 at work. Theaters weren't equipped for this state of the art projection so they couldn't convince investors to make films in that format. Solution: do it all in house.
I can’t remember the specs but it was scarily real, 3-D, multi channel and way ahead of multi channel… or HDTV. I do remember it ran film through the gate much faster than normal projection speeds.
Today the company’s simulation and specialty theatres are open or under construction in 24 countries around the world, located in theme parks, motion picture multiplexes, expos, world’s fairs, resorts, shopping centers, casinos, museums, and other tourist destinations where somebody wants a rush.
If NHK can even come close, well…
Enjoy your puny HDTV now while you can, citizen.
Having Problems Finding Cheaper Tickets? Easy Tips Show You How
Whether you are traveling on business or pleasure you will always want to find the cheapest travel deal available. Looking for cheap airline tickets or bus tickets can be easier than you think.
Your first question is which mode of transportation are you looking to travel by. After you have decided that then you are ready to start researching different travel deals. If you decided you are traveling by plane there are a lot of competitors to compare deals with. Some airline tickets can be rather expensive so don't take the first deal that you find.
Do your homework and use your resources to find ways to save money on your travel. There are many web sites that will show you the rates of several different airlines. After you have compared all the rates and you're still not happy with the cheapest available tickets there still may be another option. Some travel web sites will offer you an option to name your own price. The trick to this is not to suggest a price that is 50% lower then the suggested price. This will definitely decrease your chances at getting a cheaper ticket. You never want to go less then 40% off. An example would be that if a suggested ticket price for a roundtrip were $400.00 you wouldn't want to suggest a price for anything under $260.00. The total after taxes and fees would be around $290.00 or so. If you are successful at naming your own price you can save up to a hundred dollars and sometimes more on your tickets.
Saving money on bus tickets can be just as easy. Once you have found a bus carrier near you find out what kind of specials they might have. Sometimes you can save money on your bus ticket if you purchase it in advance. Depending on the Bus Company you can save almost half the regular cost of a bus trip if you purchase them online and more then a week ahead. There also might be some other deals you can find such as free companion fare on short trips, senior citizen discounts, and some children under a certain age can ride for free. Most people don't think about taking a bus when they plan to travel far. However it you are planning on only going a short distance you will probably save more money if this is an option for you.
When you are looking to travel it shouldn't put a hole in your wallet. After all you want to save as much as you can so you will have extra spending cash during your trip. Just remember that finding discount tickets for your next trip can be easier then you originally thought.
Your first question is which mode of transportation are you looking to travel by. After you have decided that then you are ready to start researching different travel deals. If you decided you are traveling by plane there are a lot of competitors to compare deals with. Some airline tickets can be rather expensive so don't take the first deal that you find.
Do your homework and use your resources to find ways to save money on your travel. There are many web sites that will show you the rates of several different airlines. After you have compared all the rates and you're still not happy with the cheapest available tickets there still may be another option. Some travel web sites will offer you an option to name your own price. The trick to this is not to suggest a price that is 50% lower then the suggested price. This will definitely decrease your chances at getting a cheaper ticket. You never want to go less then 40% off. An example would be that if a suggested ticket price for a roundtrip were $400.00 you wouldn't want to suggest a price for anything under $260.00. The total after taxes and fees would be around $290.00 or so. If you are successful at naming your own price you can save up to a hundred dollars and sometimes more on your tickets.
Saving money on bus tickets can be just as easy. Once you have found a bus carrier near you find out what kind of specials they might have. Sometimes you can save money on your bus ticket if you purchase it in advance. Depending on the Bus Company you can save almost half the regular cost of a bus trip if you purchase them online and more then a week ahead. There also might be some other deals you can find such as free companion fare on short trips, senior citizen discounts, and some children under a certain age can ride for free. Most people don't think about taking a bus when they plan to travel far. However it you are planning on only going a short distance you will probably save more money if this is an option for you.
When you are looking to travel it shouldn't put a hole in your wallet. After all you want to save as much as you can so you will have extra spending cash during your trip. Just remember that finding discount tickets for your next trip can be easier then you originally thought.
9 Tips To Keep Your Audience In Attention
In almost all gatherings (conventions, alumni homecomings, commencement exercises, fund raising or awarding ceremonies), guest speakers are usually invited to highlight the occasion.
To make the gathering memorable, guest speakers are selected for a certain reason, some according to their popularity and accomplishments.
As much as possible, the speaker’s profession or line of achievement must be in some way related to the occasion.
Let’s say the occasion is a convention of home developers. The likely guest speaker to grace it could be a famous housing czar well known and respected by the city and state.
To impart a lasting impression to the audience, a speaker must find ways to keep the attention glued to his speech.
If it so happens that you are the invited guest speaker of a gathering, the suggestions below may help to keep your audience listening instead of walking around or doing something else.
1. Speak in a clear, crisp, comprehensible voice with an enthusiastic tone. Avoid mumbling. Try not to eat the words as if there’s a gum in your mouth.
2. Your speech should be in consonance with the aim of the gathering, touching on issues relevant to its objective and applicable to current needs for the benefit of the majority.
3. More speakers prepare a list of the issues they want to touch on instead of a speech prepared and read (or memorized) word for word. A spontaneous speech aligned on the ideas prepared or written on the list is projected more naturally.
4. Inject humor into your speech to keep the audience attentive and waiting for more. Studies reveal that, when humor is involved, audiences find the speaker interesting to listen to. But be aware not to go beyond the line of humor because this may unintentionally embarrass others or be misunderstood by them. This might raise comments that criticize your speech. Try your best to avoid criticism.
5. When you raise an issue, one of the best ways to project it is by citing instances or examples. Correlate the example and the issue clearly.
6. Suppose the gathering was organized to save an industry or boost the morale of those that will be directly and indirectly affected by it. Try your best to deliver an inspiring speech. A speech filled with positive thoughts, like projecting a bright tomorrow, can turn a depressive mood into an enthusiastic one. If you are well versed on the industry with a solution to offer to suppress its downtrend, then say it.
7. Audience participation may seem to turn your speech into a discussion, but it is one way to confirm effectiveness of what you are saying or offering.
8. Image how the industry will look like 5 or 10 years from now on a positive flight. Be specific and realistic in your projection. If hard work is called for, say so.
9. Leave a lasting, meaningful message as you wrap up your speech.
A speech that leaves the audience thinking long after the speech has been made will also leave the audience remembering the speaker for a long time.
To make the gathering memorable, guest speakers are selected for a certain reason, some according to their popularity and accomplishments.
As much as possible, the speaker’s profession or line of achievement must be in some way related to the occasion.
Let’s say the occasion is a convention of home developers. The likely guest speaker to grace it could be a famous housing czar well known and respected by the city and state.
To impart a lasting impression to the audience, a speaker must find ways to keep the attention glued to his speech.
If it so happens that you are the invited guest speaker of a gathering, the suggestions below may help to keep your audience listening instead of walking around or doing something else.
1. Speak in a clear, crisp, comprehensible voice with an enthusiastic tone. Avoid mumbling. Try not to eat the words as if there’s a gum in your mouth.
2. Your speech should be in consonance with the aim of the gathering, touching on issues relevant to its objective and applicable to current needs for the benefit of the majority.
3. More speakers prepare a list of the issues they want to touch on instead of a speech prepared and read (or memorized) word for word. A spontaneous speech aligned on the ideas prepared or written on the list is projected more naturally.
4. Inject humor into your speech to keep the audience attentive and waiting for more. Studies reveal that, when humor is involved, audiences find the speaker interesting to listen to. But be aware not to go beyond the line of humor because this may unintentionally embarrass others or be misunderstood by them. This might raise comments that criticize your speech. Try your best to avoid criticism.
5. When you raise an issue, one of the best ways to project it is by citing instances or examples. Correlate the example and the issue clearly.
6. Suppose the gathering was organized to save an industry or boost the morale of those that will be directly and indirectly affected by it. Try your best to deliver an inspiring speech. A speech filled with positive thoughts, like projecting a bright tomorrow, can turn a depressive mood into an enthusiastic one. If you are well versed on the industry with a solution to offer to suppress its downtrend, then say it.
7. Audience participation may seem to turn your speech into a discussion, but it is one way to confirm effectiveness of what you are saying or offering.
8. Image how the industry will look like 5 or 10 years from now on a positive flight. Be specific and realistic in your projection. If hard work is called for, say so.
9. Leave a lasting, meaningful message as you wrap up your speech.
A speech that leaves the audience thinking long after the speech has been made will also leave the audience remembering the speaker for a long time.
9 Tips for Handling Public Speaking Questions
How you handle questions from an audience can often be the deciding factor as to how your presentation is received. If you're pitching for business, then it's absolutely vital to handle questions well.
1. Be prepared for questions - When you write your presentation, think about what you're likely to be asked and what your answer is going to be. Maybe you won't want to answer a particular question there and then, so think about what you'll say to satisfy the questioner.
2. Make it clear at the start - You may decide to take questions as you go or at the end of your presentation. Whatever you decide, make it clear at the start and don't change your mind. I would suggest questions at the end in a short presentation; if you take questions as you go, then your timing will get knocked out. And always remember, an audience won't forgive you for taking half an hour when you were only scheduled to speak for fifteen minutes.
3. Never finish with questions - Far better to ask for questions five or ten minutes before the end, deal with the questions and then summarise for a strong finish. Too many presentations finish on questions and the whole thing goes a bit flat - particularly if you don't get any.
4. Listen - When asked a question, listen and look like your listening. It may be something you've heard a million times before. Treat the questioner with respect and don't trivialise their point.
5. Thank the questioner - It's only polite, it shows respect and it gives you a bit more time to consider your answer.
6. Repeat the essence of the question - Some people may not have heard the question so your answer may not make any sense to them. It can also be irritating for them not to hear the question. Again, it gives you more time to think of the answer and it makes you look so clever and in control.
7. Answer to everyone - Don't fall into the trap of only answering the questioner. If they happen to be near the front then you could end up having a conversation with them and exclude everyone else.
8. Keep it simple - Many speakers, when it comes to questions, have become more relaxed and the fact that someone is interested enough to ask them a question, leads them to go on too long with the answer - DON'T.
9. Don't bluff or bluster - If you don't know the answer to a question, say so and find out. Suggest to the questioner that you'll 'phone them or come and see them with the answer. It can even be a good way to make further contact after the presentation.
As we all know, it's possible that you may not be asked any questions and you then have that awkward silence. People may be thinking about what you've just said and may need more time to ask. They may also be a bit shy and may take a few minutes to speak out. Why not have a question of your own prepared and say something like. "You may be asking yourself.........?" If you still fail to get any questions then go straight into your summary and closing statement.
Handling a question and answer session well, demonstrates your professionalism and reflects on your message.
1. Be prepared for questions - When you write your presentation, think about what you're likely to be asked and what your answer is going to be. Maybe you won't want to answer a particular question there and then, so think about what you'll say to satisfy the questioner.
2. Make it clear at the start - You may decide to take questions as you go or at the end of your presentation. Whatever you decide, make it clear at the start and don't change your mind. I would suggest questions at the end in a short presentation; if you take questions as you go, then your timing will get knocked out. And always remember, an audience won't forgive you for taking half an hour when you were only scheduled to speak for fifteen minutes.
3. Never finish with questions - Far better to ask for questions five or ten minutes before the end, deal with the questions and then summarise for a strong finish. Too many presentations finish on questions and the whole thing goes a bit flat - particularly if you don't get any.
4. Listen - When asked a question, listen and look like your listening. It may be something you've heard a million times before. Treat the questioner with respect and don't trivialise their point.
5. Thank the questioner - It's only polite, it shows respect and it gives you a bit more time to consider your answer.
6. Repeat the essence of the question - Some people may not have heard the question so your answer may not make any sense to them. It can also be irritating for them not to hear the question. Again, it gives you more time to think of the answer and it makes you look so clever and in control.
7. Answer to everyone - Don't fall into the trap of only answering the questioner. If they happen to be near the front then you could end up having a conversation with them and exclude everyone else.
8. Keep it simple - Many speakers, when it comes to questions, have become more relaxed and the fact that someone is interested enough to ask them a question, leads them to go on too long with the answer - DON'T.
9. Don't bluff or bluster - If you don't know the answer to a question, say so and find out. Suggest to the questioner that you'll 'phone them or come and see them with the answer. It can even be a good way to make further contact after the presentation.
As we all know, it's possible that you may not be asked any questions and you then have that awkward silence. People may be thinking about what you've just said and may need more time to ask. They may also be a bit shy and may take a few minutes to speak out. Why not have a question of your own prepared and say something like. "You may be asking yourself.........?" If you still fail to get any questions then go straight into your summary and closing statement.
Handling a question and answer session well, demonstrates your professionalism and reflects on your message.
Tuesday, December 20, 2011
The Secret Power of Words
If the best way of communicating with prospects and existing customers was through sign language, we’d all have to learn to sign. Or if the best method of communication proved to be some kind of mutually understandable code, we’d all have to learn that code in order to say anything. Thankfully, our communication process is much more simple…or is it?
A sales person has the benefit of meeting his prospect face to face, and will be able gauge his pitch according to visible response signs displayed by his prospect. An experienced salesman will instinctively know from the facial expressions and body language of his prospect, whether he’s hitting the right buttons. This is usually indicated by the prospect’s head nodding up and down combined simultaneously with a beaming smile and wide-eyed appreciation.
A telesales person has much less to go on. They can only judge response to their sales pitch through the prospect’s answers to questions and the actual tone of their voice. Most telesales people find their job easier when they try to imagine the look on their prospect’s faces while they’re talking to them. But, the deciding factor will almost always come down to the tone of voice deployed by both parties.
The Internet and Direct Mail Marketer have no such advantages over their prospects. They can’t see them and they can’t hear them. Their only weapon in their armory of sales pitches is their written word.
How we communicate through our written words holds the absolute key to successful selling online and offline. Whether it’s a sales letter, an email or ad, the written words must convincingly convey the sales message directly into the prospect’s mind. But first, you have to get your prospects to actually read your message, and usually this very first hurdle will claim many, many casualties.
Getting someone to read your sales pitch will almost certainly depend on your headline. Your headline is your introduction. Your ‘hello’, your ‘hey you’ and your ‘listen up’. If your headline doesn’t grab the attention of your prospect within two seconds, it’s goodbye and farewell.
Other important aspects of a ‘killer’ sales message are sub-headings. Sub-headings are generally used to maintain interest throughout the copy. But they’re also included for the benefit of prospects that first scan your message before deciding to read it in full. To some degree, they’re almost as important as the headline itself.
Then there’s the body copy. It’s here that your copywriting talents and skills should really shine through. Here you have the opportunity to use any words in the English language to describe and explain in fine detail, the benefits and features of your product or service on offer. And the English language is positively rich in adjectives, so there can be no excuse.
But the real secret to creating captivating copy is to use ‘sense’ words. That is, words that arouse the senses. Touch, see, smell, taste and listen is what we instinctively do every day. They represent our human survival mechanisms and for the most part, we trust them. Other mammals rely on them totally.
When you use sense words in conjunction with emotionally fuelled trigger words, you can elicit all kinds of responses, which can be carefully channeled into the heart of your message for maximum impact. Harnessing words for profit in this way is a skill, and it’s a skill that every online and offline marketer needs to fully comprehend.
Learning to write outstanding and emotionally charged sales copy is not an essential requirement for business success, but recognizing the effectiveness is.
Never underestimate the secret power of words.
A sales person has the benefit of meeting his prospect face to face, and will be able gauge his pitch according to visible response signs displayed by his prospect. An experienced salesman will instinctively know from the facial expressions and body language of his prospect, whether he’s hitting the right buttons. This is usually indicated by the prospect’s head nodding up and down combined simultaneously with a beaming smile and wide-eyed appreciation.
A telesales person has much less to go on. They can only judge response to their sales pitch through the prospect’s answers to questions and the actual tone of their voice. Most telesales people find their job easier when they try to imagine the look on their prospect’s faces while they’re talking to them. But, the deciding factor will almost always come down to the tone of voice deployed by both parties.
The Internet and Direct Mail Marketer have no such advantages over their prospects. They can’t see them and they can’t hear them. Their only weapon in their armory of sales pitches is their written word.
How we communicate through our written words holds the absolute key to successful selling online and offline. Whether it’s a sales letter, an email or ad, the written words must convincingly convey the sales message directly into the prospect’s mind. But first, you have to get your prospects to actually read your message, and usually this very first hurdle will claim many, many casualties.
Getting someone to read your sales pitch will almost certainly depend on your headline. Your headline is your introduction. Your ‘hello’, your ‘hey you’ and your ‘listen up’. If your headline doesn’t grab the attention of your prospect within two seconds, it’s goodbye and farewell.
Other important aspects of a ‘killer’ sales message are sub-headings. Sub-headings are generally used to maintain interest throughout the copy. But they’re also included for the benefit of prospects that first scan your message before deciding to read it in full. To some degree, they’re almost as important as the headline itself.
Then there’s the body copy. It’s here that your copywriting talents and skills should really shine through. Here you have the opportunity to use any words in the English language to describe and explain in fine detail, the benefits and features of your product or service on offer. And the English language is positively rich in adjectives, so there can be no excuse.
But the real secret to creating captivating copy is to use ‘sense’ words. That is, words that arouse the senses. Touch, see, smell, taste and listen is what we instinctively do every day. They represent our human survival mechanisms and for the most part, we trust them. Other mammals rely on them totally.
When you use sense words in conjunction with emotionally fuelled trigger words, you can elicit all kinds of responses, which can be carefully channeled into the heart of your message for maximum impact. Harnessing words for profit in this way is a skill, and it’s a skill that every online and offline marketer needs to fully comprehend.
Learning to write outstanding and emotionally charged sales copy is not an essential requirement for business success, but recognizing the effectiveness is.
Never underestimate the secret power of words.
The most sacred secrets of copywriting services
Successful copywriting is one of the most important elements of your advertising. It attracts attention of your potential customers and makes your message memorable and it might induce your clients to take some actions. Many research in psychology show that words may affect our vision, they may either change our depressed mood or uplift our spirit. Words can convince other people to hold a particular point of view or adopt certain way of live or belief. Words, in short, are ones of the most powerful tools in the communication process. You and your customer are communicators. The task of every copywriting text is to grab the attention of the visitors on your web site and encourage him to explore your site further. The ultimate aim of your web site content is to induce your customer to purchase your products and services.
How to get these results? The answer is by writing the copywriting copy. Either by yourself or by some copywriting services. Each copywriting copy should comprise several indispensable elements: it should posses intriguing headline, well-written, coherent and logically structured text as well as encouraging final paragraphs. Moreover the most effective copywriting copy must communicate directly with your customer, do not try to communicate with the group of people; use the word “you “in your copywriting text. “Our clients will value our products” sounds weaker than “You will want to value our products”. One should not forget that one must start writing and designing the copywriting only after the marketing research has been conducted. Effectiveness of your copywriting copy depends on how well you have evaluated your market, the advertisements techniques of your major competitors and the demands of your potential customers.
Do not forget that you must target only those persons who are really interested in the products and services that you provide. The persons who are interested in ski resorts visit other web sites that individuals who evince their interest in the manufacturing of the cars. It is easy to follow this rule in real life; however it is not so easy in virtual, online environment. In order to get your site to the right people at te right time one should conduct keyword research before starting the writing of the content of your web site. These are just several useful tips that might help you in the writing of your content. It might sound simple and it might be easy, yet it is advisable to hire some professionals who have knowledge and experience in the writing of the web sites. Remember that if this task is performed incorrectly, it might harm your business and entail negative consequences for it for many months to come.
How to get these results? The answer is by writing the copywriting copy. Either by yourself or by some copywriting services. Each copywriting copy should comprise several indispensable elements: it should posses intriguing headline, well-written, coherent and logically structured text as well as encouraging final paragraphs. Moreover the most effective copywriting copy must communicate directly with your customer, do not try to communicate with the group of people; use the word “you “in your copywriting text. “Our clients will value our products” sounds weaker than “You will want to value our products”. One should not forget that one must start writing and designing the copywriting only after the marketing research has been conducted. Effectiveness of your copywriting copy depends on how well you have evaluated your market, the advertisements techniques of your major competitors and the demands of your potential customers.
Do not forget that you must target only those persons who are really interested in the products and services that you provide. The persons who are interested in ski resorts visit other web sites that individuals who evince their interest in the manufacturing of the cars. It is easy to follow this rule in real life; however it is not so easy in virtual, online environment. In order to get your site to the right people at te right time one should conduct keyword research before starting the writing of the content of your web site. These are just several useful tips that might help you in the writing of your content. It might sound simple and it might be easy, yet it is advisable to hire some professionals who have knowledge and experience in the writing of the web sites. Remember that if this task is performed incorrectly, it might harm your business and entail negative consequences for it for many months to come.
Monday, December 19, 2011
Getting The Most Out Of Big Brother All Stars With RealPlayer SuperPass
"‘The Big Brother All Stars’ live webcast with RealPlayer SuperPass has become immensely popular as fans can check-in on the houseguests at anytime and see the action unfold," said Brinley Turner, Vice President and General Manager, CBS.com. "Whether used as a companion to the prime time series or as live theatre in its own right, it’s a unique Internet experience that further connects the fan to the show."
"‘Big Brother All Stars’ online demonstrates how the Internet and TV industries can work together to create a richer experience for consumers," said Dan Sheeran, Senior Vice President, Premium Consumer Services, RealNetworks. "Online subscribers will enjoy ‘Big Brother All Stars’ on TV that much more by following the 24/7 action and connecting online with their fellow fans."
"Big Brother All Stars" follows a group of people living together in a new house specially built for this edition and outfitted with 47 cameras and 78 microphones, the most in "Big Brother" history, recording their every move, 24 hours a day. One by one, the houseguests will vote each other out of the house. At the end of three months, the last remaining houseguest will receive the grand prize of $500,000. In a new twist this year the houseguests have been selected by the audience via voting polls hosted on the CBC website. CBS pre-selected 20 candidates this season from previous Big Brother shows that will compete for 12 available spots in Big Brother All Stars. The voting was held between June 21st and June 28th with over 12 million votes cast. Each of the 20 candidates which included past winners Lisa Donahue of Big Brother 6 and Dr. Will Kirby of Big Brother 2 and fan favorites such as Jedi Howie, James Rhine, Janelle Pierzina and Kaysar Ridha. Throughout the voting period each candidate was given two minute time slots on the CBS morning show to campaign for the viewers votes. The twelve finalists will be announced during the premiere on July 6th . Big Brother All Stars is executive produced by Oscar and Emmy awardwinner Arnold Shapiro, Emmy award-winner Allison Grodner and RichMeehan, in association with Endemol U.S.A.
With the live webcast fans can try SuperPass free of charge for 14 days, then just 2 monthly payments of 14.99 will see you through to mid September when the winner of Big Brother All Stars is finally decided. The RealPlayer SuperPass subscription is available in the US and Canada however RealNetworks only processes credit card transactions in US dollars. Those lucky enough to subscribers to the 24/7 video stream can watch any one of four live camera feeds from inside the "Big Brother All Stars" house or catch all of the action at once with the special quad-cam view which allows fans to see four different video feeds simultaneously. RealNetworks provides other useful entertainment features in addition to the Big Brother live feed through the RealPlayer SuperPass which also includes news and entertainment, video, free music downloads, free game downloads premium online radio with over 70 ad-free music stations, Real® PhotoVideo for sharing personal photos, video clips, and more. This season RealPlayer SuperPass subscribers will also have access to live chat, message boards and blogs where fans can interact with other viewers as the show progresses.
"‘Big Brother All Stars’ online demonstrates how the Internet and TV industries can work together to create a richer experience for consumers," said Dan Sheeran, Senior Vice President, Premium Consumer Services, RealNetworks. "Online subscribers will enjoy ‘Big Brother All Stars’ on TV that much more by following the 24/7 action and connecting online with their fellow fans."
"Big Brother All Stars" follows a group of people living together in a new house specially built for this edition and outfitted with 47 cameras and 78 microphones, the most in "Big Brother" history, recording their every move, 24 hours a day. One by one, the houseguests will vote each other out of the house. At the end of three months, the last remaining houseguest will receive the grand prize of $500,000. In a new twist this year the houseguests have been selected by the audience via voting polls hosted on the CBC website. CBS pre-selected 20 candidates this season from previous Big Brother shows that will compete for 12 available spots in Big Brother All Stars. The voting was held between June 21st and June 28th with over 12 million votes cast. Each of the 20 candidates which included past winners Lisa Donahue of Big Brother 6 and Dr. Will Kirby of Big Brother 2 and fan favorites such as Jedi Howie, James Rhine, Janelle Pierzina and Kaysar Ridha. Throughout the voting period each candidate was given two minute time slots on the CBS morning show to campaign for the viewers votes. The twelve finalists will be announced during the premiere on July 6th . Big Brother All Stars is executive produced by Oscar and Emmy awardwinner Arnold Shapiro, Emmy award-winner Allison Grodner and RichMeehan, in association with Endemol U.S.A.
With the live webcast fans can try SuperPass free of charge for 14 days, then just 2 monthly payments of 14.99 will see you through to mid September when the winner of Big Brother All Stars is finally decided. The RealPlayer SuperPass subscription is available in the US and Canada however RealNetworks only processes credit card transactions in US dollars. Those lucky enough to subscribers to the 24/7 video stream can watch any one of four live camera feeds from inside the "Big Brother All Stars" house or catch all of the action at once with the special quad-cam view which allows fans to see four different video feeds simultaneously. RealNetworks provides other useful entertainment features in addition to the Big Brother live feed through the RealPlayer SuperPass which also includes news and entertainment, video, free music downloads, free game downloads premium online radio with over 70 ad-free music stations, Real® PhotoVideo for sharing personal photos, video clips, and more. This season RealPlayer SuperPass subscribers will also have access to live chat, message boards and blogs where fans can interact with other viewers as the show progresses.
Getting Ready For The Charlie Brown Easter DVD
Charlie Brown movies are based on the Peanuts comic strip that was created by Charles M. Schulz. The Peanuts was based around the main character Charlie Brown and his friends: Linus, Lucy, Schroeder, Sally, Peppermint Patty and Snoopy. Linus was Charlie Browns best friend and Lucy was his mean and cynical older sister who constantly made fun of Charlie Brown and Linus. Schroeder and Peppermint Patty were friends of Charlie Brown and Sally was his younger sister. And Snoopy was the lovable pet beagle of Charlie Brown, who was much more than a typical dog.
Charles M. Schulz inspired a lot of people with his Peanuts comic strip and it is still very relevant in the world today. There were many television specials that were based on the storylines of Charlie Brown. One of the first ones ever made was A Charlie Brown Christmas which was followed by A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving. Now, everyone can look forward to the new Charlie Brown Easter DVD that is being released this year. Everyone can always count on good old Charlie Brown to get himself into some sticky situations that are guaranteed to entertain.
Another area to tap in on the popularity of Charlie Brown is the world of marketing. There have been so many toys, games and collectibles built upon the story of Charlie Brown and many people still purchase them today. The top ten Charlie Brown collectibles are:
1. Peanuts Charlie Brown Baseball Doll and Accessories
2. Its the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown Lucy van Pelt with Halloween Costume
3. Peanuts Sticker Maxi Activity Pack
4. A Charlie Brown Christmas: Snoopys Doghouse Play set
5. Schroeder Action Figure: Charlie Brown Christmas from Peanuts
6. View Master: A Charlie Brown Christmas Gift Set
7. Peanuts: A Charlie Brown Christmas Action Complete Collection (12) Figure Box Set
8. Peanuts Charlie Brown with Kite and Kite Eating Tree Figure
9. Peanuts Charlie Brown Scarf
10. Peanuts UNO Halloween: Special Edition Card Game: Its the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown
All of these are great gift ideas for birthdays, Christmas or even anniversaries. The story of Charlie Brown is timeless and is sure to be a hit with any friend or family member. However, if you are interested in getting a new and special gift for someone this year then you should think about getting the latest Charlie Brown Easter DVD. This is a wonderful gift idea for someone you love and it is guaranteed to be something they do not have yet.
Charles M. Schulz inspired a lot of people with his Peanuts comic strip and it is still very relevant in the world today. There were many television specials that were based on the storylines of Charlie Brown. One of the first ones ever made was A Charlie Brown Christmas which was followed by A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving. Now, everyone can look forward to the new Charlie Brown Easter DVD that is being released this year. Everyone can always count on good old Charlie Brown to get himself into some sticky situations that are guaranteed to entertain.
Another area to tap in on the popularity of Charlie Brown is the world of marketing. There have been so many toys, games and collectibles built upon the story of Charlie Brown and many people still purchase them today. The top ten Charlie Brown collectibles are:
1. Peanuts Charlie Brown Baseball Doll and Accessories
2. Its the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown Lucy van Pelt with Halloween Costume
3. Peanuts Sticker Maxi Activity Pack
4. A Charlie Brown Christmas: Snoopys Doghouse Play set
5. Schroeder Action Figure: Charlie Brown Christmas from Peanuts
6. View Master: A Charlie Brown Christmas Gift Set
7. Peanuts: A Charlie Brown Christmas Action Complete Collection (12) Figure Box Set
8. Peanuts Charlie Brown with Kite and Kite Eating Tree Figure
9. Peanuts Charlie Brown Scarf
10. Peanuts UNO Halloween: Special Edition Card Game: Its the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown
All of these are great gift ideas for birthdays, Christmas or even anniversaries. The story of Charlie Brown is timeless and is sure to be a hit with any friend or family member. However, if you are interested in getting a new and special gift for someone this year then you should think about getting the latest Charlie Brown Easter DVD. This is a wonderful gift idea for someone you love and it is guaranteed to be something they do not have yet.
Tuesday, December 13, 2011
How To Get More People To Respect Your Value
Doesn't it suck when people don't respect the price you charge? When they always want a special deal? Well guess what? It's probably YOUR fault! When people ring around for quotes on price, and it happens a lot with Yellow Pages directory ads, they'll ring 2-3 businesses usually. That's what everyone has been 'trained to do as consumers, and it's the ads that force them to. How? All the ads look the same!
Just think about when you need a service, say your lawns mowed. So you open the yellow pages and look up lawn-mowing, and there are dozens of ads with people wanting to mow your lawn. So who do you choose?Whoever is cheapest, right? And why? Because all the ads look the same, so there isn't anything that makes one business different from the next. And if that's the case, the only difference comes down to the price!
Makes sense really, because if all the ads look the same then PRICE can be the only difference between them, right? So if the ads for each industry are virtually all saying the same thing, can you understand that you're educating your market to base your value on price? Then what you need to do is create a unique selling proposition that will make you STAND OUT from your competition.
Now let me explain what a unique selling proposition is and how you can get one for your business. Every day we are subjected to about 4,000 to 5,000 advertising messages, so we all need to do work a bit harder to stand out from the crowd, and that's what the USP will do for you. It's that CORE reason that someone should buy from you. And here's a great tool for finding your USP in half an hour.
Grab a piece of paper, and draw a straight line down the middle. On the top of the left-hand column I want you to write "You know how...." And here is where you write down all the things that your competitors do badly. Now we are just building a list, so don't be critical of what you're writing, or how you write it.
At the top of the right-hand column write "Well what we do is..." And here you write down all the things that you do that are great, basically laying out ALL your cards. Once you've done this, you should have a list of what your competitors do, and all the things you offer which are different from them, and this is what you base your Unique Selling Proposition around.
And if you haven't come up with anything from this exercise, then you need to create something to be different! Once you have a USP, then turn it into a statement everywhere your advertising goes, as a reason why someone should do business with you over anyone else!
Another great way to make sure your customer is happy to pay extra for your business is what's called 'dollars for cents' copy. We all love a bargain, right? What this means is to throw in so much value it's not funny. Say for example you have a $99 product for sale, and you throw in $300 worth of free bonuses, you'll make sure the customer comes out way in front in terms of value. So they are paying you just 'cents', but getting 'dollars' back in value.
The key with this method is to make sure the bonuses you throw in are low cost to you, but high perceived value to your customer. You could offer a free report, cd or dvd, any type of information products like this are quite inexpensive to produce, yet the information contained within could be very valuable to your customers. This makes the buying decision so much easier when your customer is getting much more value than what they are paying for. This is one technique you should always strive to use, and it can literally set your sales soaring!
Just think about when you need a service, say your lawns mowed. So you open the yellow pages and look up lawn-mowing, and there are dozens of ads with people wanting to mow your lawn. So who do you choose?Whoever is cheapest, right? And why? Because all the ads look the same, so there isn't anything that makes one business different from the next. And if that's the case, the only difference comes down to the price!
Makes sense really, because if all the ads look the same then PRICE can be the only difference between them, right? So if the ads for each industry are virtually all saying the same thing, can you understand that you're educating your market to base your value on price? Then what you need to do is create a unique selling proposition that will make you STAND OUT from your competition.
Now let me explain what a unique selling proposition is and how you can get one for your business. Every day we are subjected to about 4,000 to 5,000 advertising messages, so we all need to do work a bit harder to stand out from the crowd, and that's what the USP will do for you. It's that CORE reason that someone should buy from you. And here's a great tool for finding your USP in half an hour.
Grab a piece of paper, and draw a straight line down the middle. On the top of the left-hand column I want you to write "You know how...." And here is where you write down all the things that your competitors do badly. Now we are just building a list, so don't be critical of what you're writing, or how you write it.
At the top of the right-hand column write "Well what we do is..." And here you write down all the things that you do that are great, basically laying out ALL your cards. Once you've done this, you should have a list of what your competitors do, and all the things you offer which are different from them, and this is what you base your Unique Selling Proposition around.
And if you haven't come up with anything from this exercise, then you need to create something to be different! Once you have a USP, then turn it into a statement everywhere your advertising goes, as a reason why someone should do business with you over anyone else!
Another great way to make sure your customer is happy to pay extra for your business is what's called 'dollars for cents' copy. We all love a bargain, right? What this means is to throw in so much value it's not funny. Say for example you have a $99 product for sale, and you throw in $300 worth of free bonuses, you'll make sure the customer comes out way in front in terms of value. So they are paying you just 'cents', but getting 'dollars' back in value.
The key with this method is to make sure the bonuses you throw in are low cost to you, but high perceived value to your customer. You could offer a free report, cd or dvd, any type of information products like this are quite inexpensive to produce, yet the information contained within could be very valuable to your customers. This makes the buying decision so much easier when your customer is getting much more value than what they are paying for. This is one technique you should always strive to use, and it can literally set your sales soaring!
How To Get More People To Read Your Ad Til The End
Obviously, if you're paying to advertise your business, you want people to read your whole ad, so they know what you're offering and can make an informed decision about whether to do business with you, don't you? Here's a few ideas you can use in your advertising to keep your reader interested:- conversational short sentences, subheadings, break up long text into short paragraphs, using bullets to speed the reader through your copy, problem-solving copy the reader identifies with, talking in "What's in it for me?" terms, educational copy, and not revealing price til the end.
Firstly, you need to be aware of the WIIFM (what's in it for me) concept. What that means is you need to constantly tell your customer what's in your ad for them, because if they're reading your ad it's only to find out something that they want to know about. YOUR ADS NEED TO BE THE ONES THAT REWARD THEM (while your competitors' BORE them). This also means you should understand the difference between benefits and features.
Let's say you sell a colour TV with a 90" screen - that's the feature. But the benefit of this is that the screen is so big that it makes your lounge room feel like a cinema! That's the benefit, ok? Let me now introduce you to two powerful words which will automatically suck out the benefit of any feature;
"WHICH MEANS"
In the example above, in order to put it into WIIFM terms, you could put it together like this - "This sensational TV has a whopping 90" screen, which means you can virtually turn your lounge room into a cinema!".
Another powerful tool you can use in your copy is bullets. Why? Because you can package up your most exciting and riveting benefits into short little bursts. In fact, the effect of bullet after bullet of really amazing benefits can actually cause nervous tension in your reader. They can get so excited that they literally can't read any more and go straight to the ordering details. That's how powerful they are!
Here are some examples of how intriguing bullets can be in your advertising (then you can just adapt them to your own business)
* Why the advertising you're probably running right now is wasting you thousands of dollars, and what you need to do to turn that loss into cash
* How to get movie and TV stars to help you sell your product or service
* How to get hundreds of prospects to seek YOU out
* The one mistake 99% of businesses make which loses them tons of credibility... and thousands of dollars in sales
* The secret about human nature which expert salespeople use to make their fortune
* 11 simple ways to make your business the "king" of your industry
In fact, each bullet point you write in your advertising should be just like mini headlines that promise something of value to the reader. You might have 25 or 50 bullet points in a long sales letter, if each of them are like a mini headline, then you may only need one to stand out to your reader and make them say "Yes, I need to know more about this!"
And this is also where educational copy comes in. You can't assume that people know as much about your business as you do. You work in it every day, and possibly been doing it for years, and often you can get frustrated because you don't think your customers respect your value. But the reality is, THEY DON'T UNDERSTAND YOUR VALUE.
So you need to educate them about the value you offer. If you tell them something about your company, then your job is to explain why that's important for them. Let's say you sell an expensive mountain bike, for example. In order to get people to buy the bike you've got to justify why they should spend $2000 on your bike. You've got to tell them the reasons why, which is what educational copy is all about.
Like that the bike has better suspension to handle rough terrain, a comfy seat that you could ride the bike for hours without getting sore, and maybe it has 50 gears for easy riding, and a GPS so you never get lost. These are all just examples of course, but notice how it's talking mainly in benefits to the reader, how it will help them!
Firstly, you need to be aware of the WIIFM (what's in it for me) concept. What that means is you need to constantly tell your customer what's in your ad for them, because if they're reading your ad it's only to find out something that they want to know about. YOUR ADS NEED TO BE THE ONES THAT REWARD THEM (while your competitors' BORE them). This also means you should understand the difference between benefits and features.
Let's say you sell a colour TV with a 90" screen - that's the feature. But the benefit of this is that the screen is so big that it makes your lounge room feel like a cinema! That's the benefit, ok? Let me now introduce you to two powerful words which will automatically suck out the benefit of any feature;
"WHICH MEANS"
In the example above, in order to put it into WIIFM terms, you could put it together like this - "This sensational TV has a whopping 90" screen, which means you can virtually turn your lounge room into a cinema!".
Another powerful tool you can use in your copy is bullets. Why? Because you can package up your most exciting and riveting benefits into short little bursts. In fact, the effect of bullet after bullet of really amazing benefits can actually cause nervous tension in your reader. They can get so excited that they literally can't read any more and go straight to the ordering details. That's how powerful they are!
Here are some examples of how intriguing bullets can be in your advertising (then you can just adapt them to your own business)
* Why the advertising you're probably running right now is wasting you thousands of dollars, and what you need to do to turn that loss into cash
* How to get movie and TV stars to help you sell your product or service
* How to get hundreds of prospects to seek YOU out
* The one mistake 99% of businesses make which loses them tons of credibility... and thousands of dollars in sales
* The secret about human nature which expert salespeople use to make their fortune
* 11 simple ways to make your business the "king" of your industry
In fact, each bullet point you write in your advertising should be just like mini headlines that promise something of value to the reader. You might have 25 or 50 bullet points in a long sales letter, if each of them are like a mini headline, then you may only need one to stand out to your reader and make them say "Yes, I need to know more about this!"
And this is also where educational copy comes in. You can't assume that people know as much about your business as you do. You work in it every day, and possibly been doing it for years, and often you can get frustrated because you don't think your customers respect your value. But the reality is, THEY DON'T UNDERSTAND YOUR VALUE.
So you need to educate them about the value you offer. If you tell them something about your company, then your job is to explain why that's important for them. Let's say you sell an expensive mountain bike, for example. In order to get people to buy the bike you've got to justify why they should spend $2000 on your bike. You've got to tell them the reasons why, which is what educational copy is all about.
Like that the bike has better suspension to handle rough terrain, a comfy seat that you could ride the bike for hours without getting sore, and maybe it has 50 gears for easy riding, and a GPS so you never get lost. These are all just examples of course, but notice how it's talking mainly in benefits to the reader, how it will help them!
How To Get More People To Notice Your Advertising
HEADLINES are one of your biggest weapons for getting MORE PEOPLE TO NOTICE YOUR ADVERTISING, for whatever medium you choose to use. Now you are using headlines, aren't you? And NOT your logo - that's not a headline. Only one person cares about your logo, AND THAT'S YOU.
Whereas a headline is something every single one of your prospects will be glued to like a kid on a cartoon. Whatever you're writing, you've GOTTA HAVE A HEADLINE. But here's the deal, there a are good headlines and bad headlines, so I'm going to give you an absolute killer template headline that you should use THIS WEEK in your business.
Remember, a headline's goal is to do one thing only - STOP YOUR PROSPECT IN THEIR TRACKS AND LOCK THEM ONTO YOUR AD, and some people say you only have 1.5 seconds to catch their attention, so you need to make it good!
Master copywriter David Ogilvy has said... "On average, five times as many people read the headline as read the body copy. When you have written your headline, you have spent 80 cents out of your dollar." So if you're using your own logo at the top of your ad, you could improve your response IMMEDIATELY, just by sticking ANY kind of headline up instead!
So would you like to know one of the great secrets for writing headlines that literally slap your prospect in the face and demand they open their wallet?Good, well here it is for you... MODEL HEADLINES THAT ALREADY WORK!!
Don't try and reinvent the wheel, the best way to come up with fantastic headlines is to take what already works, and adapt it to your own business.Isn't that simple?
Here's an absolute knock-'em-dead blockbuster template for a headline:
IMPORTANT NEWS FOR HOMEOWNERS:
Don't pay another phone bill until you read this...
IMPORTANT NEWS FOR WOMEN:
Don't buy any makeup products until you read this...
IMPORTANT NEWS FOR BUSINESS OWNERS:
Don't run another ad until you read this...
Do you see how powerful this is? And I've shown you 3 different versions, so all you have to do is apply it to your own business and you could easily double or even triple your responses! How about these headlines:
Do You Make These Mistakes With Your Money?
Do You Make These Mistakes Playing Golf?
Do You Make These Mistakes In Bed?
Do You Make These Mistakes Baking Cakes?
I could go on, but I'm sure you get the idea. This particular headline works on your curiosity. It gets the reader to say to themself, "maybe I'd better read on and find out." The main thing you really want your headline to do is to get your reader to be interested enough to see what else you've got to say. MAKE AN IMPACT! Remember the old saying 'first impressions last'? Well that saying still applies today.
And now that we are bombarded with up to 5,000 advertising messages each day, it is more important than ever to stand out and BE NOTICED! If you have a headline that literally screams out, READ ME, then you'll be more than half way to having an effective advertising campaign that starts making profits for your business! Remember the 80 cents out of each advertising dollar? Well now you know how to focus your efforts to have the maximum impact!
Whereas a headline is something every single one of your prospects will be glued to like a kid on a cartoon. Whatever you're writing, you've GOTTA HAVE A HEADLINE. But here's the deal, there a are good headlines and bad headlines, so I'm going to give you an absolute killer template headline that you should use THIS WEEK in your business.
Remember, a headline's goal is to do one thing only - STOP YOUR PROSPECT IN THEIR TRACKS AND LOCK THEM ONTO YOUR AD, and some people say you only have 1.5 seconds to catch their attention, so you need to make it good!
Master copywriter David Ogilvy has said... "On average, five times as many people read the headline as read the body copy. When you have written your headline, you have spent 80 cents out of your dollar." So if you're using your own logo at the top of your ad, you could improve your response IMMEDIATELY, just by sticking ANY kind of headline up instead!
So would you like to know one of the great secrets for writing headlines that literally slap your prospect in the face and demand they open their wallet?Good, well here it is for you... MODEL HEADLINES THAT ALREADY WORK!!
Don't try and reinvent the wheel, the best way to come up with fantastic headlines is to take what already works, and adapt it to your own business.Isn't that simple?
Here's an absolute knock-'em-dead blockbuster template for a headline:
IMPORTANT NEWS FOR HOMEOWNERS:
Don't pay another phone bill until you read this...
IMPORTANT NEWS FOR WOMEN:
Don't buy any makeup products until you read this...
IMPORTANT NEWS FOR BUSINESS OWNERS:
Don't run another ad until you read this...
Do you see how powerful this is? And I've shown you 3 different versions, so all you have to do is apply it to your own business and you could easily double or even triple your responses! How about these headlines:
Do You Make These Mistakes With Your Money?
Do You Make These Mistakes Playing Golf?
Do You Make These Mistakes In Bed?
Do You Make These Mistakes Baking Cakes?
I could go on, but I'm sure you get the idea. This particular headline works on your curiosity. It gets the reader to say to themself, "maybe I'd better read on and find out." The main thing you really want your headline to do is to get your reader to be interested enough to see what else you've got to say. MAKE AN IMPACT! Remember the old saying 'first impressions last'? Well that saying still applies today.
And now that we are bombarded with up to 5,000 advertising messages each day, it is more important than ever to stand out and BE NOTICED! If you have a headline that literally screams out, READ ME, then you'll be more than half way to having an effective advertising campaign that starts making profits for your business! Remember the 80 cents out of each advertising dollar? Well now you know how to focus your efforts to have the maximum impact!
How to Find and Hire a Great Freelance Writer / Copywriter
Seek and Ye Shall Find?
Sometimes finding a good writer can be harder than finding a soul mate because writing and copywriting are subjective arts and if you are not a writer, you can not see the difference between a good writer and an excellent writer. If you are looking for a writer on the Web by searching on terms such as writer and copywriter, there are few things you should look for once you find a writer’s website:
Excited, Delighted or Uninvited?
Excellent writing entertains and excites, quickly and concisely. When you read the writer’s website you should be drawn in. Does she ask the reader questions? Does he understand what you want? Does she seem friendly? Does he have relevant experience? Does she list what kinds of services she offers?
Location, Location, Location
Often businesses hiring a writer want to look for someone nearby so they search, writer, Los Angeles if they live in Los Angeles, if the writers don’t show an address or location where they work, you’ll never find then. You’ll be able to get a general idea of where the writer is by either the contact page or by references to work completed.
A Bad Writer Ain’t Hard to Find
If you notice grammar and spelling mistakes you are probably on the wrong page. Also if the style and design of a writer’s website looks bad, even if their writing looks good, you should be wary. Good writing is neat and pleasant looking.
Ample Parking and Samples
Excellent writing on the Web, gives the reader plenty of potential to stop, park, click and look for a while. If the writer doesn’t link to more writing and industry resources, she/he is less professional than the ones who do know that linking is best form of networking around. You ought to find several kinds of writing samples. If you don’t find the kind of samples you like, e-mail or call the writer and ask for exactly what you want.
RSVP
Response is also important to you and the writer. Although a few second e-mail response-time is possible, a day or overnight return time is reasonable. If you want a faster response, be sure to tell the writer that you are in hurry and on a deadline. When writers don’t respond in a timely manner, they miss out on your work.
Check References
Once you locate the name of the writer, do not hesitate searching for other references of the writer on the Web. Type the name in a search engine with an appropriate word such as writer. For example, when I searched my name Lynn Walford with the word writer, along with my website http://www.freelancewriternow.com, a photo of me standing next my former editor Michael Goldstein at a Justice Magazine party appeared. I never saw the photo until I searched my own name! Of course writers and authors names should also appear on magazine articles and bylines in other media. I also found myself in an article on naming books by Robin Quinn at the PMA website.
Titular Savvy or Tense---What’s in a Name?
Look at the title of the writer’s website. Is it catchy? Memorable? Does it Make Sense? Of course when someone is born Anna Matto Poeeah, (pronounced just like onomatopoeia, the poetic word for when something also sounds like its name such as whispering or clang) you can’t hold it against her. However, when writers don’t take the time to name their websites appropriately they can’t write a title for you.
The Price is Write
Some writers charge by the hour, by the piece or by the word. Whomever you choose, she/he should be able to give an estimate on how much your project will cost. Vagueness usually means no experience.
Rewrite Right?
Most excellent writers and copywriters will give a free rewrite if you don’t like what they do. Always ask if they will rewrite it for you if you don’t like it.
Test, Quiz
If you are planning a major project such as a white paper, which can be expensive, look for a writer in advance and ask him/her to write a small project for you first, then you can see if you can work with him/her and also test knowledge.
Well, Well, Well.
Writing well is a precise art with a sense of urgency and a taste of the divine. You should be able to tell good writing when you find it. It comes to life, sings and shines. When you read something like ” Avoid cliches like the plague,” found on 26 Golden Rules for Writing Well you are definitely in the wrong place.
Sometimes finding a good writer can be harder than finding a soul mate because writing and copywriting are subjective arts and if you are not a writer, you can not see the difference between a good writer and an excellent writer. If you are looking for a writer on the Web by searching on terms such as writer and copywriter, there are few things you should look for once you find a writer’s website:
Excited, Delighted or Uninvited?
Excellent writing entertains and excites, quickly and concisely. When you read the writer’s website you should be drawn in. Does she ask the reader questions? Does he understand what you want? Does she seem friendly? Does he have relevant experience? Does she list what kinds of services she offers?
Location, Location, Location
Often businesses hiring a writer want to look for someone nearby so they search, writer, Los Angeles if they live in Los Angeles, if the writers don’t show an address or location where they work, you’ll never find then. You’ll be able to get a general idea of where the writer is by either the contact page or by references to work completed.
A Bad Writer Ain’t Hard to Find
If you notice grammar and spelling mistakes you are probably on the wrong page. Also if the style and design of a writer’s website looks bad, even if their writing looks good, you should be wary. Good writing is neat and pleasant looking.
Ample Parking and Samples
Excellent writing on the Web, gives the reader plenty of potential to stop, park, click and look for a while. If the writer doesn’t link to more writing and industry resources, she/he is less professional than the ones who do know that linking is best form of networking around. You ought to find several kinds of writing samples. If you don’t find the kind of samples you like, e-mail or call the writer and ask for exactly what you want.
RSVP
Response is also important to you and the writer. Although a few second e-mail response-time is possible, a day or overnight return time is reasonable. If you want a faster response, be sure to tell the writer that you are in hurry and on a deadline. When writers don’t respond in a timely manner, they miss out on your work.
Check References
Once you locate the name of the writer, do not hesitate searching for other references of the writer on the Web. Type the name in a search engine with an appropriate word such as writer. For example, when I searched my name Lynn Walford with the word writer, along with my website http://www.freelancewriternow.com, a photo of me standing next my former editor Michael Goldstein at a Justice Magazine party appeared. I never saw the photo until I searched my own name! Of course writers and authors names should also appear on magazine articles and bylines in other media. I also found myself in an article on naming books by Robin Quinn at the PMA website.
Titular Savvy or Tense---What’s in a Name?
Look at the title of the writer’s website. Is it catchy? Memorable? Does it Make Sense? Of course when someone is born Anna Matto Poeeah, (pronounced just like onomatopoeia, the poetic word for when something also sounds like its name such as whispering or clang) you can’t hold it against her. However, when writers don’t take the time to name their websites appropriately they can’t write a title for you.
The Price is Write
Some writers charge by the hour, by the piece or by the word. Whomever you choose, she/he should be able to give an estimate on how much your project will cost. Vagueness usually means no experience.
Rewrite Right?
Most excellent writers and copywriters will give a free rewrite if you don’t like what they do. Always ask if they will rewrite it for you if you don’t like it.
Test, Quiz
If you are planning a major project such as a white paper, which can be expensive, look for a writer in advance and ask him/her to write a small project for you first, then you can see if you can work with him/her and also test knowledge.
Well, Well, Well.
Writing well is a precise art with a sense of urgency and a taste of the divine. You should be able to tell good writing when you find it. It comes to life, sings and shines. When you read something like ” Avoid cliches like the plague,” found on 26 Golden Rules for Writing Well you are definitely in the wrong place.
How To Ethically Use A "Swipe File" For Your Ad Copy
Did you ever wish you could afford to hire one of those professional copy writers who charge $5000 or more to write a simple sales letter? Or worse, have you laid down your hard-earned cash for a self-proclaimed "professional" writer, and gotten back something your 3rd grader could have written?
If you spend countless hours staring at a blank page trying to come up with compelling ad copy for that "killer" sales letter (you know, the one that's going to make you rich beyond your wildest dreams?)... STOP!
Why drive yourself nuts and give yourself a major headache trying to train yourself to be a professional copy writer overnight? Do what the gurus do... start a "swipe file."
That's an unfortunate name, swipe file. It sounds unethical. Please understand, I am NOT condoning plagiarism! But every so-called "internet marketing guru" openly admits to having a swipe file that they use when they need a little inspiration.
So what is a swipe file and how do you use it legally and ethically?
Basically, whenever you come across an ad or sales letter that makes you want to run and grab your wallet... stop and print out that copy first! Highlight or circle the parts of the ad that have you excited and eager to make a purchase. Then put it away in a folder or notebook. This is your swipe file.
Eventually, you'll accumulate quite a stack of great professional quality ads. Then, when you're staring at that blank page trying to compose your next ad campaign or sales letter, you can leaf through your swipe file and MODEL your ad copy after some of those ads... but DO NOT copy them word for word. Substitute your own words and put your own stamp on them. Mix and match different approaches from different ads.
Remember, this is meant to be inspirational, not criminal. NEVER out and out copy these ads. Just analyze how the ad is structured, what TYPES of words are used, and then create your own UNIQUE sales copy by emulating the successful advertising techniques from your swipe file.
The idea is to study copy writing techniques as you go. Eventually, you'll find you won't need to refer to your swipe file as often. Your blank pages won't stay blank for long because you'll have learned how to write killer ad copy of your own! You learn best by doing it. Then it becomes second nature.
Who knows? Maybe you'll get so good at writing sales copy that soon other people will be adding YOUR work to THEIR swipe files!
If you spend countless hours staring at a blank page trying to come up with compelling ad copy for that "killer" sales letter (you know, the one that's going to make you rich beyond your wildest dreams?)... STOP!
Why drive yourself nuts and give yourself a major headache trying to train yourself to be a professional copy writer overnight? Do what the gurus do... start a "swipe file."
That's an unfortunate name, swipe file. It sounds unethical. Please understand, I am NOT condoning plagiarism! But every so-called "internet marketing guru" openly admits to having a swipe file that they use when they need a little inspiration.
So what is a swipe file and how do you use it legally and ethically?
Basically, whenever you come across an ad or sales letter that makes you want to run and grab your wallet... stop and print out that copy first! Highlight or circle the parts of the ad that have you excited and eager to make a purchase. Then put it away in a folder or notebook. This is your swipe file.
Eventually, you'll accumulate quite a stack of great professional quality ads. Then, when you're staring at that blank page trying to compose your next ad campaign or sales letter, you can leaf through your swipe file and MODEL your ad copy after some of those ads... but DO NOT copy them word for word. Substitute your own words and put your own stamp on them. Mix and match different approaches from different ads.
Remember, this is meant to be inspirational, not criminal. NEVER out and out copy these ads. Just analyze how the ad is structured, what TYPES of words are used, and then create your own UNIQUE sales copy by emulating the successful advertising techniques from your swipe file.
The idea is to study copy writing techniques as you go. Eventually, you'll find you won't need to refer to your swipe file as often. Your blank pages won't stay blank for long because you'll have learned how to write killer ad copy of your own! You learn best by doing it. Then it becomes second nature.
Who knows? Maybe you'll get so good at writing sales copy that soon other people will be adding YOUR work to THEIR swipe files!
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Free Games – An IT Businessman's Worst Nightmare?
Everyone does it and you know they do. It appeals both to students and grandma's, they are for hardcore gamers and for people who barely know how to use a PC. Free flash games are taking over the minds of PC users and there's nothing you can do about it.
If 5 years ago you had to go through all the trouble of getting yourself a video games console, hooking it up to a TV set and then having to buy actual physical games to put it in your console, now you can kill time practically anywhere – and on any device. Fact is, everyone does it. Bank workers play their butts off in-between serving clients, IT workers go for 5 minute sessions instead of coffee breaks at their workplace, and there's nothing you can really do about it.
Working in an IT environment, you – as a business owner – realize that you can't control what your staff does in front of their PCs, unless you have surveillance software installed, of course. But still, how can you tell if your programmer is doing programming stuff and not kicking it up in the latest Tower Defense flash game, provided that you don't have enough skills yourself to understand what exactly he's doing? Of course, you can always walk behind their backs and checkout what they're doing, but come on – you're probably glued to your chair all day, busy with phone calls and video conferences.
After working in several huge IT companies, I have noticed some interesting facts.
First, out of the 8 hour work day, only around 4-5 hours of them are actual work.
Second, it's always better to have those 4-5 actual-work-hours instead of 8 "pretend to work hours" – that's very important
Third, people need to relax and not be glued to their PCs – that's when an hour of actual work equals to 2 hours of sitting in front of the monitor and doing nothing.
You have to remember to give your staff the freedom to plan their own time and not have them afraid to get up from their workplaces. Otherwise they'll just be playing free games all the time. Instead of going for the "you're late, you have to work off this hour tomorrow", go for a more realistic approach. Plan your work time in a way that "this, this and this needs to be done today" – and let the staff plan their own time to reach those goals. It is OKAY to let them play flash games every once in a while if it lets them relax. It's even better to make daily pong tournaments – where you as the boss would also participate.
What I've seen in one of the companies I've worked in is that there were no outside-kitchen and not-in front-of-monitor activities. So what the staff did was just pretend to work for 8 hours straight, when in reality they did 3 hours of work, and the rest was spent on pretending to work – playing flash games, that is. When I (as a project manager) came up to the senior management and tried to persuade them into getting a pong table, explaining it would drastically improve productivity of the department, they were like – wha? They wouldn't be doing any work then! Yeah right, idiots.
Right now at my current job we have a Nintendo Wii hooked up to a huge tele and have daily tennis tournaments, as well as use the Wii's browser to play free flash games on the web. Also occasionally we have speedruns of newest Tower Defense games. All that on top of coffee breaks. In reality we work a max of 5 hours per day, but the productivity is higher than what would be of working 8 hours straight and not doing anything else.
So remember, games aren't that bad. They let you relax, think and overall increase your productivity. Unless you aren't allowed to play them, then you'd just waste the whole day on playing free games.
If 5 years ago you had to go through all the trouble of getting yourself a video games console, hooking it up to a TV set and then having to buy actual physical games to put it in your console, now you can kill time practically anywhere – and on any device. Fact is, everyone does it. Bank workers play their butts off in-between serving clients, IT workers go for 5 minute sessions instead of coffee breaks at their workplace, and there's nothing you can really do about it.
Working in an IT environment, you – as a business owner – realize that you can't control what your staff does in front of their PCs, unless you have surveillance software installed, of course. But still, how can you tell if your programmer is doing programming stuff and not kicking it up in the latest Tower Defense flash game, provided that you don't have enough skills yourself to understand what exactly he's doing? Of course, you can always walk behind their backs and checkout what they're doing, but come on – you're probably glued to your chair all day, busy with phone calls and video conferences.
After working in several huge IT companies, I have noticed some interesting facts.
First, out of the 8 hour work day, only around 4-5 hours of them are actual work.
Second, it's always better to have those 4-5 actual-work-hours instead of 8 "pretend to work hours" – that's very important
Third, people need to relax and not be glued to their PCs – that's when an hour of actual work equals to 2 hours of sitting in front of the monitor and doing nothing.
You have to remember to give your staff the freedom to plan their own time and not have them afraid to get up from their workplaces. Otherwise they'll just be playing free games all the time. Instead of going for the "you're late, you have to work off this hour tomorrow", go for a more realistic approach. Plan your work time in a way that "this, this and this needs to be done today" – and let the staff plan their own time to reach those goals. It is OKAY to let them play flash games every once in a while if it lets them relax. It's even better to make daily pong tournaments – where you as the boss would also participate.
What I've seen in one of the companies I've worked in is that there were no outside-kitchen and not-in front-of-monitor activities. So what the staff did was just pretend to work for 8 hours straight, when in reality they did 3 hours of work, and the rest was spent on pretending to work – playing flash games, that is. When I (as a project manager) came up to the senior management and tried to persuade them into getting a pong table, explaining it would drastically improve productivity of the department, they were like – wha? They wouldn't be doing any work then! Yeah right, idiots.
Right now at my current job we have a Nintendo Wii hooked up to a huge tele and have daily tennis tournaments, as well as use the Wii's browser to play free flash games on the web. Also occasionally we have speedruns of newest Tower Defense games. All that on top of coffee breaks. In reality we work a max of 5 hours per day, but the productivity is higher than what would be of working 8 hours straight and not doing anything else.
So remember, games aren't that bad. They let you relax, think and overall increase your productivity. Unless you aren't allowed to play them, then you'd just waste the whole day on playing free games.
Thursday, December 8, 2011
Fade Your Tattoo But Carefully!
The word "tattoo" comes from the Tahitian word tattau; meaning, to mark. It has been around for ages. Tattoos have been found on Ice Age remains and Egyptian mummies. More than 20 million Americans have one or more tattoos.
Just as the demand for getting tattoos has increased, so has the demand for having the tattoos removed or faded. A survey by the American Society of Dermatological Surgery found that around 50 percent of the people who get tattoos eventually regret having them. And look for ways either to fade their tattoos or have them removed altogether.
Tattoos were meant to be permanent, so removing or fading them was difficult until now. However, with the recent advances in technology, laser therapy has become the preferred method for removal of tattoos.
The Q-switched ruby laser is considered the first preference for most of the tattoos, except for red ink, which is best treated with an Nd: YAG laser. Some people prefer laser treatment for tattoo fading rather than complete removal, as fading tattoos is less painful and less expensive.
Procedure of laser tattoo removal
Laser works by emitting short but intense pulses of light that pass through the epidermis and get absorbed by the tattoo pigment. The laser energy breaks the ink pigment into tiny particles which are then easily removed by the body’s immune system a few weeks or months after the laser treatment.
The amount of time and the number of laser treatments require to remove the tattoo depends on several factors such as:
• The color of the ink is a big factor in determining how many laser treatments you require. Black and blue colored tattoos get removed easily whereas green and yellow pigments are the hard to remove.
• Professional tattoos are harder to remove as compared to street tattoos as professional tattoo makers use better quality ink and equipment.
• It is tougher to remove a new tattoo rather an older one as the pigment in the new tattoo is likely to be denser
• Size of the tattoo
• How deep the ink is injected
• Location of the tattoo and
• The individual's ability to heal
If you're going to get your tattoo removed or faded through laser procedures, remember to do your research and don't be afraid to ask questions.
Question you must have answers to before you go in for the treatment:
Cost of the Treatment
Prices for laser removal depend upon the size of the tattoo, type of inks used etc. The bigger the area; the higher the charge. Fix up an appointment with the removal practitioner or the dermatologist and get the estimate.
Pain Involved
Fortunately laser removal or fading is relatively painless procedure. But still the amount of pain felt will depend on the type of tattoo, the level of treatment and your own tolerance level. Some people feel more pain than others. The truth is that you will only know how painful it is until you try it.
Chances of Side-effects
Normally the area blisters after the treatment. The skin returns to normal within 4 to 6 weeks. The possibilities of side-effects are few but it may include hyper pigmentation, hypo pigmentation, infection or a little chance of permanent scarring. Get all your doubts cleared before going for the treatment.
Number of Treatments
If you think that one fine day you would go in to the clinic, and walk out the very same day tattoo free, then you are dreaming in vain. It takes a number of sittings for tattoo fading or removal. Generally the number of treatments depends upon the depth, color and the composition of the ink.
Relation between Tattoo Removal and Breastfeeding Mothers
There is no evidence suggesting that tattoo fading or cover up tattoo affects breastfeeding in any way. The body filters the ink particles via the white blood cells and mothers are unlikely to face problems if they follow the recommended aftercare procedures. But if there are concerns about a tattoo, then the mother should consult the dermatologist or her physician for proper advice.
Just as the demand for getting tattoos has increased, so has the demand for having the tattoos removed or faded. A survey by the American Society of Dermatological Surgery found that around 50 percent of the people who get tattoos eventually regret having them. And look for ways either to fade their tattoos or have them removed altogether.
Tattoos were meant to be permanent, so removing or fading them was difficult until now. However, with the recent advances in technology, laser therapy has become the preferred method for removal of tattoos.
The Q-switched ruby laser is considered the first preference for most of the tattoos, except for red ink, which is best treated with an Nd: YAG laser. Some people prefer laser treatment for tattoo fading rather than complete removal, as fading tattoos is less painful and less expensive.
Procedure of laser tattoo removal
Laser works by emitting short but intense pulses of light that pass through the epidermis and get absorbed by the tattoo pigment. The laser energy breaks the ink pigment into tiny particles which are then easily removed by the body’s immune system a few weeks or months after the laser treatment.
The amount of time and the number of laser treatments require to remove the tattoo depends on several factors such as:
• The color of the ink is a big factor in determining how many laser treatments you require. Black and blue colored tattoos get removed easily whereas green and yellow pigments are the hard to remove.
• Professional tattoos are harder to remove as compared to street tattoos as professional tattoo makers use better quality ink and equipment.
• It is tougher to remove a new tattoo rather an older one as the pigment in the new tattoo is likely to be denser
• Size of the tattoo
• How deep the ink is injected
• Location of the tattoo and
• The individual's ability to heal
If you're going to get your tattoo removed or faded through laser procedures, remember to do your research and don't be afraid to ask questions.
Question you must have answers to before you go in for the treatment:
Cost of the Treatment
Prices for laser removal depend upon the size of the tattoo, type of inks used etc. The bigger the area; the higher the charge. Fix up an appointment with the removal practitioner or the dermatologist and get the estimate.
Pain Involved
Fortunately laser removal or fading is relatively painless procedure. But still the amount of pain felt will depend on the type of tattoo, the level of treatment and your own tolerance level. Some people feel more pain than others. The truth is that you will only know how painful it is until you try it.
Chances of Side-effects
Normally the area blisters after the treatment. The skin returns to normal within 4 to 6 weeks. The possibilities of side-effects are few but it may include hyper pigmentation, hypo pigmentation, infection or a little chance of permanent scarring. Get all your doubts cleared before going for the treatment.
Number of Treatments
If you think that one fine day you would go in to the clinic, and walk out the very same day tattoo free, then you are dreaming in vain. It takes a number of sittings for tattoo fading or removal. Generally the number of treatments depends upon the depth, color and the composition of the ink.
Relation between Tattoo Removal and Breastfeeding Mothers
There is no evidence suggesting that tattoo fading or cover up tattoo affects breastfeeding in any way. The body filters the ink particles via the white blood cells and mothers are unlikely to face problems if they follow the recommended aftercare procedures. But if there are concerns about a tattoo, then the mother should consult the dermatologist or her physician for proper advice.
Expressing Yourself Through Body Piercing Art
Body piercing is a fabulous way of expressing yourself and your personality in an outward fashion. Many individuals choose to pierce one or several parts of their body in order to either make a statement or add a unique aspect to their appearance. However, before you decide to pierce any part of your body, carefully consider the choice since this form of self expression is a bit more permanent than changing a hairstyle, experimenting with cosmetics, or creating your own fashion statement.
Body piercing has been used as an art form for thousands of years. Everyone from ancient cavemen to ancient cultures and civilizations has used body piercing to express a variety of thoughts. Some cultures, including the ancient Aztecs, use body piercing to commune with the gods, whereas other cultures, including those in several African tribes, use body piercings to express beauty, status, or wealth.
Men and women choose to pierce all parts of their bodies for a variety of reasons. The most popular reason given for body piercing is to add a unique feature to the individual. Many people to either want to pierce their body parts or have already pierced different parts of their body wish to break out of the norm that our society has set. Although body piercing is a more permanent way of expressing yourself, it can be done in a subtle and tasteful fashion for those individuals worried about how their personal expression will affect different aspects of their lives, including their public, private, and business lives.
By far, the most popular body piercing involves the ears. From simple holes on the lobes of the ears to piercings in the cartilage, earrings are available in all shapes, sizes, colors, and styles. For individuals looking for more envelope-pushing piercings, consider piercing noses, labrias, eyebrows, or even tongues. Just like the selection of earrings, most reputable jewelry stores or body piercing salons offer a wide variety of quality body piercing jewelry. Use different styles, colors, and jewels to further showcase your personality through your body piercings.
Before you make a rush decision to pierce a part of your body, carefully consider how this decision will affect all aspects of your life. Individuals with visible body piercings often complain of discrimination in their public or business lives. This is often a fact that you should take into consideration. Consult your business’s policy on piercings to prevent any problems later down the road.
Body piercing has been used as an art form for thousands of years. Everyone from ancient cavemen to ancient cultures and civilizations has used body piercing to express a variety of thoughts. Some cultures, including the ancient Aztecs, use body piercing to commune with the gods, whereas other cultures, including those in several African tribes, use body piercings to express beauty, status, or wealth.
Men and women choose to pierce all parts of their bodies for a variety of reasons. The most popular reason given for body piercing is to add a unique feature to the individual. Many people to either want to pierce their body parts or have already pierced different parts of their body wish to break out of the norm that our society has set. Although body piercing is a more permanent way of expressing yourself, it can be done in a subtle and tasteful fashion for those individuals worried about how their personal expression will affect different aspects of their lives, including their public, private, and business lives.
By far, the most popular body piercing involves the ears. From simple holes on the lobes of the ears to piercings in the cartilage, earrings are available in all shapes, sizes, colors, and styles. For individuals looking for more envelope-pushing piercings, consider piercing noses, labrias, eyebrows, or even tongues. Just like the selection of earrings, most reputable jewelry stores or body piercing salons offer a wide variety of quality body piercing jewelry. Use different styles, colors, and jewels to further showcase your personality through your body piercings.
Before you make a rush decision to pierce a part of your body, carefully consider how this decision will affect all aspects of your life. Individuals with visible body piercings often complain of discrimination in their public or business lives. This is often a fact that you should take into consideration. Consult your business’s policy on piercings to prevent any problems later down the road.
Monday, December 5, 2011
E-Cards- The X-Age Medium To Express Your Emotions!
Gone are the old days of perspiring in a card gallery to choose the nearest appropriate message to convey to your dear one on the varied occasions of life. This is an era which Introduces E-Cards. This now makes it easy and fun to send a customized message and song — a great way to tell someone you care. E-Cards helps people connect and express themselves in a fun and easy way. Today E-Cards are highly popular in all the sectors of life. From businessman to students from lovers to a family man they all agree that E-Cards are the coolest way to convey their message. Ready-made E-Cards save you time and money while still offering all the benefits.
E-Cards come to you for all possible occasion and expressing multiple emotions to suit your needs in your everyday life.
• The Valentine Day: This auspicious day for lovers beckons you in the next turn ahead and it’s time to relive the ultimate pleasure of romance. Take a break from the hectic rat race of life and set the sensual mood this Valentine's Day with romance-oriented thoughts and deeds. Life is all about love and togetherness and the Valentine Day is a perfect excuse to let your companion know how much you care. And on this special day choose a heart warming card with a special gift for your loved one to say how much this relationship means to you. This sensual day with all its magic is never complete without a special E-Card which conveys your true dedication and love along with all the loving words that you always wished to convey to your lover.
• Birthday E-Cards: This is a big occasion and a birthday of a dear one hardly seems to be complete without a personalized greeting card.
• Anniversary E-Cards: Remind your spouse how much precious this companionship means to you or take this opportunity to wish your near ones on their anniversary.
• Wedding E-Cards: The moment of wedlock is always so very memorable and what better way can it be than to wish someone with a card bearing your heartfelt message.
• Love E-Cards: To say you love with a beautiful soul stirring message is a matchless gesture that touches your heart like nothing else.
• New Year E-Cards: The beginning of a year can always start with an extra special note of good wishes and promises conveyed to you through an E-Card.
• Christmas E-Cards: When good rules over evil and when we are all excited in wishing the coming of Jesus to this world, we care to do it in a special way. Celebrating with an E-Card is always so warm in the winter festivities.
• Diwali E-Cards: The celebration of “Lights”, with a touch of divinity and uniting in love and harmony always happens in Diwali. Celebrate it in style with the extra edge of an E-Card.
Benefits of E-Cards:
The popularity of E-Cards has surged sky-high. The masses prefer it over Paper Cards. The reasons behind it are multiple:
• More cost-effective than paper cards
Many companies spend thousands of dollars every year on paper Christmas cards and postage. Why not send an E-Card instead and put the money saved back into your business – or better still donate the rest to a worthy cause.
• Increase your website traffic
Using E-Cards that include your corporate logo and a link to your website also means that your logo is exposed to more people. If the E-Card is entertaining, your clients will forward it within their business increasing your name recognition with your customers. It's the ultimate in viral marketing.
• Reach thousands of customers within a few minutes
Sending an email to your contacts with a link to your E-Card is the quickest and most instantaneous method of broadcasting your logo and message.
• Easily forwarded to friends and family
Fun and interactive E-Cards are more likely to be forwarded, thereby spreading your logo and message – even beyond your existing customers.
• Bypass the Post Office backlog at Christmas
Encouraged by the Post Office as they ease the pressure during Christmas. By using E-Cards, you know your contacts will see your E-Card on time.
• Eco-friendly
E-Cards are encouraged by environmental groups, as they reduce the waste associated with huge volumes of printed greeting cards, not to mention saving paper, trees and fuel.
There is undoubtedly no comparison to the beautiful animation, personalized statement and the color graphics of an E-Card. We can say without doubt that the X-Generation is rightly basking in this fever of E-Card age. It is unbeatable. Enjoy it.
E-Cards come to you for all possible occasion and expressing multiple emotions to suit your needs in your everyday life.
• The Valentine Day: This auspicious day for lovers beckons you in the next turn ahead and it’s time to relive the ultimate pleasure of romance. Take a break from the hectic rat race of life and set the sensual mood this Valentine's Day with romance-oriented thoughts and deeds. Life is all about love and togetherness and the Valentine Day is a perfect excuse to let your companion know how much you care. And on this special day choose a heart warming card with a special gift for your loved one to say how much this relationship means to you. This sensual day with all its magic is never complete without a special E-Card which conveys your true dedication and love along with all the loving words that you always wished to convey to your lover.
• Birthday E-Cards: This is a big occasion and a birthday of a dear one hardly seems to be complete without a personalized greeting card.
• Anniversary E-Cards: Remind your spouse how much precious this companionship means to you or take this opportunity to wish your near ones on their anniversary.
• Wedding E-Cards: The moment of wedlock is always so very memorable and what better way can it be than to wish someone with a card bearing your heartfelt message.
• Love E-Cards: To say you love with a beautiful soul stirring message is a matchless gesture that touches your heart like nothing else.
• New Year E-Cards: The beginning of a year can always start with an extra special note of good wishes and promises conveyed to you through an E-Card.
• Christmas E-Cards: When good rules over evil and when we are all excited in wishing the coming of Jesus to this world, we care to do it in a special way. Celebrating with an E-Card is always so warm in the winter festivities.
• Diwali E-Cards: The celebration of “Lights”, with a touch of divinity and uniting in love and harmony always happens in Diwali. Celebrate it in style with the extra edge of an E-Card.
Benefits of E-Cards:
The popularity of E-Cards has surged sky-high. The masses prefer it over Paper Cards. The reasons behind it are multiple:
• More cost-effective than paper cards
Many companies spend thousands of dollars every year on paper Christmas cards and postage. Why not send an E-Card instead and put the money saved back into your business – or better still donate the rest to a worthy cause.
• Increase your website traffic
Using E-Cards that include your corporate logo and a link to your website also means that your logo is exposed to more people. If the E-Card is entertaining, your clients will forward it within their business increasing your name recognition with your customers. It's the ultimate in viral marketing.
• Reach thousands of customers within a few minutes
Sending an email to your contacts with a link to your E-Card is the quickest and most instantaneous method of broadcasting your logo and message.
• Easily forwarded to friends and family
Fun and interactive E-Cards are more likely to be forwarded, thereby spreading your logo and message – even beyond your existing customers.
• Bypass the Post Office backlog at Christmas
Encouraged by the Post Office as they ease the pressure during Christmas. By using E-Cards, you know your contacts will see your E-Card on time.
• Eco-friendly
E-Cards are encouraged by environmental groups, as they reduce the waste associated with huge volumes of printed greeting cards, not to mention saving paper, trees and fuel.
There is undoubtedly no comparison to the beautiful animation, personalized statement and the color graphics of an E-Card. We can say without doubt that the X-Generation is rightly basking in this fever of E-Card age. It is unbeatable. Enjoy it.
E-Banks That Accept US Casino Players
Recently, the US Federal government banned online casinos from operating in America by making it illegal to transfer money to them through any US bank or payment system. As a result of this law, most of the popular online casino networks such as Party Gaming and PlayTech left the United States. Overnight, online casino players found themselves being chased by the Federal government.
But, after a fortnight, the online casino industry came up with a solution and new online casinos started taking root. These began to operate under a different business umbrella, and by doing that, rendered the transfer of money to and from them legal. A major part of this was enlisting electronic banking systems that would accept this new clarification and start doing business with me. Listed in this article are the electronic banking systems that accept players from the United States that wish to play in online casinos.
The Payment Systems You Can Use:
1, 2) MasterCard and Visa:
The most popular credit cards in the world, you can use these for depositing money into your casino account. But, please note that the casinos do not deposit your winning through your credit card. They use one of the other electronic payment systems. This is also the biggest reason why you should refrain from using your personal credit cards today for gambling.
3, 4) Visa Delta, Visa Electron:
These are debit cards that one can use to deposit cash into their casino account. By debit card, it means that the money you pay through the card, is immediately withdrawn from your bank account. This is a comfortable option, but here too, you cannot receive money into it.
5) Neteller:
Based in the UK and traded on the London AIM Stock Exchange, this e-bank company is one of the major independent electronic banking entities in the world, and it allows players to transfer money to and from an online casino.
6) Neteller Instacash
This is Neteller's version of the Debit Card, and, in fact, it is just like any other debit card with one difference. To use, InstaCash, you have to pay a small amount. But, most casinos will offer to pay this for you, so read their regulations.
7) EcoCard
Based in the European Union, EcoCard offers a wider range of electronic banking solutions than the other e-banks. Other than the regular card and debit system, you can decide beforehand how to create a flexible financial account. Because they use a wide network of banks in Europe, transactions made through EcoCard are quick and efficient.
8) FirePay
This e-banking system is solely web-based and carries out its transactions just like a debit card. You place cash into your FirePay account, and then, you can use that money to pay or deposit into your casino account. While it will not cost you a dime to open an account, you will be charged a minimal amount each time you transfer money from your bank account to FirePay.
9) Moneybookers
All you need to open an account is an email address! This e-banking system uses transactions from your credit or debit card or your bank account to whichever company you wish to move your money to. Regulated in the UK and run by Gatcombe Park Ventures Limited, this is one of the relatively new e-finance companies that allow transferring money to online casinos.
10) eWalletXpress:
Owned and run by Navaho Networks Inc, eWalletXpress is a new electronic payment system that has been created to answer the need for US players to transfer funds to online casinos.
11) 900Pay:
This is a completely different e-banking system. Instead of charging your bank account or your credit card, 900Pay charges your telephone bill for all your financial transactions. This is one of the fastest methods of electronic payment because you do not have to go through a long and detailed sign up process. And, if you were wondering, this does work to fund your casino account.
But, after a fortnight, the online casino industry came up with a solution and new online casinos started taking root. These began to operate under a different business umbrella, and by doing that, rendered the transfer of money to and from them legal. A major part of this was enlisting electronic banking systems that would accept this new clarification and start doing business with me. Listed in this article are the electronic banking systems that accept players from the United States that wish to play in online casinos.
The Payment Systems You Can Use:
1, 2) MasterCard and Visa:
The most popular credit cards in the world, you can use these for depositing money into your casino account. But, please note that the casinos do not deposit your winning through your credit card. They use one of the other electronic payment systems. This is also the biggest reason why you should refrain from using your personal credit cards today for gambling.
3, 4) Visa Delta, Visa Electron:
These are debit cards that one can use to deposit cash into their casino account. By debit card, it means that the money you pay through the card, is immediately withdrawn from your bank account. This is a comfortable option, but here too, you cannot receive money into it.
5) Neteller:
Based in the UK and traded on the London AIM Stock Exchange, this e-bank company is one of the major independent electronic banking entities in the world, and it allows players to transfer money to and from an online casino.
6) Neteller Instacash
This is Neteller's version of the Debit Card, and, in fact, it is just like any other debit card with one difference. To use, InstaCash, you have to pay a small amount. But, most casinos will offer to pay this for you, so read their regulations.
7) EcoCard
Based in the European Union, EcoCard offers a wider range of electronic banking solutions than the other e-banks. Other than the regular card and debit system, you can decide beforehand how to create a flexible financial account. Because they use a wide network of banks in Europe, transactions made through EcoCard are quick and efficient.
8) FirePay
This e-banking system is solely web-based and carries out its transactions just like a debit card. You place cash into your FirePay account, and then, you can use that money to pay or deposit into your casino account. While it will not cost you a dime to open an account, you will be charged a minimal amount each time you transfer money from your bank account to FirePay.
9) Moneybookers
All you need to open an account is an email address! This e-banking system uses transactions from your credit or debit card or your bank account to whichever company you wish to move your money to. Regulated in the UK and run by Gatcombe Park Ventures Limited, this is one of the relatively new e-finance companies that allow transferring money to online casinos.
10) eWalletXpress:
Owned and run by Navaho Networks Inc, eWalletXpress is a new electronic payment system that has been created to answer the need for US players to transfer funds to online casinos.
11) 900Pay:
This is a completely different e-banking system. Instead of charging your bank account or your credit card, 900Pay charges your telephone bill for all your financial transactions. This is one of the fastest methods of electronic payment because you do not have to go through a long and detailed sign up process. And, if you were wondering, this does work to fund your casino account.
Sunday, December 4, 2011
Will I make money online?
This is the number one question people ask when they are looking for profits on the internet. Will I make money online? 95% of the people who start to look for ways to make money online fail eventually. The classic story is - start looking for information then a flood of misleading information hits you and you drown. You will try this then try that but fail at all of them and soon you will quit. Just to find yourself in that old crumpy day job you wanted to run away from to begin with. Today I will try to stop this and do a little mind arranging and show you one door to success.
I am not intending to prattle here and waist your time, lets get directly to the point. Making money online is actually based on one simple very basic formula:
Find a hungry crowd-> Find what they want -> Give it to them
That’s it there you have it, in a nut shell the whole internet marketing big philosophy purified in one short sentence.
OK, you think to yourself this is real nice but how do I manage all this? I will give you one way, among endless ways, to your success today. But before that you must remember the most important thing in internet marketing: What ever it is you choose to do, keep doing it and doing it and doing it. Do not jump from one program to another program, failing them all. Choose one path and keep moving forward, for this is the only way you will ever, manage to make money online.
Now let’s break the formula into few basic steps you can start performing today.
Find a hungry crowed
You must find what people are searching for to be able to supply it. This is the “What should I sell online?” question everyone asks. Technically you can use search engines and find popular search terms – but remember to look for something people want but not too popular. Another way is using any free keyword suggestion tool, simply look for these exact words, to find what people are looking for online.
Find what they want
Now you now what people are looking for but what will you give them? Let’s say that you have found that people are looking for solution to some medical problem, you can give them information on how to solve their problem or products: pills, instruments, etc.
One more sample: if they are looking for ways to keep their dog from barking, give them a book which tells them exactly how they should train their dog. Finding what they want is all about finding specific solution to a certain problem.
Give it to them
Now you think: I have to look for what people need, find out what can solve their problem and then give it to them. But how will I find it? I don’t have it at home, or at my car. Should I start create solutions? Writing a book? Build a real sophisticated machine? No you don’t!!! This part is actually taken care for you, along with the entire customer handling.
The answer is Affiliates programs. They are free to join. And you will find almost any thing you can think of. They take care of creating, shipping, and customer support for you. All you need is to bring home the hungry crowd in because dinner is already served!
I am not intending to prattle here and waist your time, lets get directly to the point. Making money online is actually based on one simple very basic formula:
Find a hungry crowd-> Find what they want -> Give it to them
That’s it there you have it, in a nut shell the whole internet marketing big philosophy purified in one short sentence.
OK, you think to yourself this is real nice but how do I manage all this? I will give you one way, among endless ways, to your success today. But before that you must remember the most important thing in internet marketing: What ever it is you choose to do, keep doing it and doing it and doing it. Do not jump from one program to another program, failing them all. Choose one path and keep moving forward, for this is the only way you will ever, manage to make money online.
Now let’s break the formula into few basic steps you can start performing today.
Find a hungry crowed
You must find what people are searching for to be able to supply it. This is the “What should I sell online?” question everyone asks. Technically you can use search engines and find popular search terms – but remember to look for something people want but not too popular. Another way is using any free keyword suggestion tool, simply look for these exact words, to find what people are looking for online.
Find what they want
Now you now what people are looking for but what will you give them? Let’s say that you have found that people are looking for solution to some medical problem, you can give them information on how to solve their problem or products: pills, instruments, etc.
One more sample: if they are looking for ways to keep their dog from barking, give them a book which tells them exactly how they should train their dog. Finding what they want is all about finding specific solution to a certain problem.
Give it to them
Now you think: I have to look for what people need, find out what can solve their problem and then give it to them. But how will I find it? I don’t have it at home, or at my car. Should I start create solutions? Writing a book? Build a real sophisticated machine? No you don’t!!! This part is actually taken care for you, along with the entire customer handling.
The answer is Affiliates programs. They are free to join. And you will find almost any thing you can think of. They take care of creating, shipping, and customer support for you. All you need is to bring home the hungry crowd in because dinner is already served!
Webmasters Improve Your Adsense Earnings, Monetize Income
Webmasters who have been there and done it have quite some useful tips to help those who would want to venture into this field. Some of these tips have boosted quite a lot of earnings in the past and is continuously doing so.
If webmasters want to monetize their websites, the great way to do it is through Adsense. There are lots of webmasters struggling hard to earn some good money a day through their sites. But then some of the “geniuses” of them are enjoying hundreds of dollars a day from Adsense ads on their websites. What makes these webmasters different from the other kind is that they are different and they think out of the box.
Here are some 5 proven ways on how best to improve your Adsense earnings.
1. Concentrating on one format of Adsense ad. The one format that worked well for the majority is the Large Rectangle (336X280). This same format have the tendency to result in higher CTR, or the click-through rates. Why choose this format out of the many you can use? Basically because the ads will look like normal web links, and people, being used to clicking on them, click these types of links. They may or may not know they are clicking on your Adsense but as long as there are clicks, then it will all be for your advantage.
2. Create a custom palette for your ads. Choose a color that will go well with the background of your site. If your site has a white background, try to use white as the color of your ad border and background. The idea to patterning the colors is to make the Adsense look like it is part of the web pages. Again, This will result to more clicks from people visiting your site.
3. Remove the Adsense from the bottom pages of your site and put them at the top. Do not try to hide your Adsense. Put them in the place where people can see them quickly. You will be amazed how the difference between Adsense locations can make when you see your earnings.
4. Maintain links to relevant websites. If you think some sites are better off than the others, put your ads there and try to maintaining and managing them. If there is already lots of Adsense put into that certain site, put yours on top of all of them. That way visitor will see your ads first upon browsing into that site.
5. Try to automate the insertion of your Adsense code into the webpages using SSI (or server side included). Ask your web administrator if your server supports SSI or not. How do you do it? Just save your Adsense code in a text file, save it as “adsense text”, and upload it to the root directory of the web server. Then using SSI, call the code on other pages. This tip is a time saver especially for those who are using automatic page generators to generate pages on their website.
These are some of the tips that have worked well for some who want to generate hundreds and even thousands on their websites. It is important to know though that ads are displayed because it fits the interest of the people viewing them. So focusing on a specific topic should be your primary purpose because the displays will be especially targeted on a topic that persons will be viewing already.
Note also that there are many other Adsense sharing the same topic as you. It is best to think of making a good ad that will be somewhat different and unique than the ones already done. Every clickthrough that visitors make is a point for you so make every click count by making your Adsense something that people will definitely click on.
Tips given by those who have boosted their earnings are just guidelines they want to share with others. If they have somehow worked wonders to some, maybe it can work wonders for you too. Try them out into your ads and see the result it will bring.
If others have done it, there is nothing wrong trying it out for yourself.
If webmasters want to monetize their websites, the great way to do it is through Adsense. There are lots of webmasters struggling hard to earn some good money a day through their sites. But then some of the “geniuses” of them are enjoying hundreds of dollars a day from Adsense ads on their websites. What makes these webmasters different from the other kind is that they are different and they think out of the box.
Here are some 5 proven ways on how best to improve your Adsense earnings.
1. Concentrating on one format of Adsense ad. The one format that worked well for the majority is the Large Rectangle (336X280). This same format have the tendency to result in higher CTR, or the click-through rates. Why choose this format out of the many you can use? Basically because the ads will look like normal web links, and people, being used to clicking on them, click these types of links. They may or may not know they are clicking on your Adsense but as long as there are clicks, then it will all be for your advantage.
2. Create a custom palette for your ads. Choose a color that will go well with the background of your site. If your site has a white background, try to use white as the color of your ad border and background. The idea to patterning the colors is to make the Adsense look like it is part of the web pages. Again, This will result to more clicks from people visiting your site.
3. Remove the Adsense from the bottom pages of your site and put them at the top. Do not try to hide your Adsense. Put them in the place where people can see them quickly. You will be amazed how the difference between Adsense locations can make when you see your earnings.
4. Maintain links to relevant websites. If you think some sites are better off than the others, put your ads there and try to maintaining and managing them. If there is already lots of Adsense put into that certain site, put yours on top of all of them. That way visitor will see your ads first upon browsing into that site.
5. Try to automate the insertion of your Adsense code into the webpages using SSI (or server side included). Ask your web administrator if your server supports SSI or not. How do you do it? Just save your Adsense code in a text file, save it as “adsense text”, and upload it to the root directory of the web server. Then using SSI, call the code on other pages. This tip is a time saver especially for those who are using automatic page generators to generate pages on their website.
These are some of the tips that have worked well for some who want to generate hundreds and even thousands on their websites. It is important to know though that ads are displayed because it fits the interest of the people viewing them. So focusing on a specific topic should be your primary purpose because the displays will be especially targeted on a topic that persons will be viewing already.
Note also that there are many other Adsense sharing the same topic as you. It is best to think of making a good ad that will be somewhat different and unique than the ones already done. Every clickthrough that visitors make is a point for you so make every click count by making your Adsense something that people will definitely click on.
Tips given by those who have boosted their earnings are just guidelines they want to share with others. If they have somehow worked wonders to some, maybe it can work wonders for you too. Try them out into your ads and see the result it will bring.
If others have done it, there is nothing wrong trying it out for yourself.
Weakness in Safe List and using Free Reports
Would you like to send your commercial emails to people you do not know, but are expecting to receive such mail from you? That does not sound right. How can this be?
It is simple, if you know what is really going on. Everybody who is on these lists, also known as safe lists, knows that they will be receiving mail from other members. This is possible because that is one of the conditions of their “safe list” membership.
And those who join these lists are willing to agree to this condition because they themselves would want to send out their own commercial emails to the others on the list.
The result: everyone is sending emails to each other but no one is reading them!
It gets worse when some savvy members sign up for the membership using a free or less-frequently-used account to store the useless emails they will never bother to open and read.
Having said that, it is always wiser to start your own mailing list and build it with opt-in subscribers, no matter how tempting safe lists can be or how many members there are in a safe list.
Using Free Reports to Build Your List. Aside from pre-selling your products and affiliated offers, the other purpose of your free viral report should be to build your mailing list.
This is because if you are unable to pre-sell, let alone sell, the products and services featured in your free report, the last ditch effort should be to collect leads. In short, if you cannot convert the reader into a ready buyer, you should then attempt to convert him or her into your subscriber.
In that manner, you can still follow up with your reader on future offers and have a chance at converting him or her into your customer, preferably lifetime.
You can do so by offering a lifetime update to your report or a unique notification list your reader will be interested in subscribing to, which leads to having him or her subscribed to your mailing list.
One of the few success factors in viral marketing of your free report is quality. If your readers find your information worth sharing, and you encourage them to do so by giving them the right to give your report away for free, you will be able to have your name, status and links within the report passed around without any effort on your part – simply because others are willing to do so for you!
It is simple, if you know what is really going on. Everybody who is on these lists, also known as safe lists, knows that they will be receiving mail from other members. This is possible because that is one of the conditions of their “safe list” membership.
And those who join these lists are willing to agree to this condition because they themselves would want to send out their own commercial emails to the others on the list.
The result: everyone is sending emails to each other but no one is reading them!
It gets worse when some savvy members sign up for the membership using a free or less-frequently-used account to store the useless emails they will never bother to open and read.
Having said that, it is always wiser to start your own mailing list and build it with opt-in subscribers, no matter how tempting safe lists can be or how many members there are in a safe list.
Using Free Reports to Build Your List. Aside from pre-selling your products and affiliated offers, the other purpose of your free viral report should be to build your mailing list.
This is because if you are unable to pre-sell, let alone sell, the products and services featured in your free report, the last ditch effort should be to collect leads. In short, if you cannot convert the reader into a ready buyer, you should then attempt to convert him or her into your subscriber.
In that manner, you can still follow up with your reader on future offers and have a chance at converting him or her into your customer, preferably lifetime.
You can do so by offering a lifetime update to your report or a unique notification list your reader will be interested in subscribing to, which leads to having him or her subscribed to your mailing list.
One of the few success factors in viral marketing of your free report is quality. If your readers find your information worth sharing, and you encourage them to do so by giving them the right to give your report away for free, you will be able to have your name, status and links within the report passed around without any effort on your part – simply because others are willing to do so for you!
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