You have invested a lot of time and energy on writing a business plan just to get a loan or to attract an investor. What do you do when you get the money or, worse, should you be turned down?Do you just file it away? That's like investing in a boat that remains parked in your driveway after its inaugural voyage.Instead of filing it away or leaving it on a shelf to gather dust, why not capture more return on your investment? To gain a clearer...more
Most people trying to make a crust online (or offline for that matter) are so focused on doing just that, they ignore taking simple steps to ensure that they hang on to just as much of it as they can. Instead, they hand over large lumps of their hard-earned money in tax, usually in one of two mistaken beliefs. Either: It's a good thing, a sure sign of a civilised society. Or, If they don't, the Feds will "get them", fining them, expropriating...more
The idea of moving abroad to escape debt seems to be more of a common practice these days. People who have failed businesses or are swamped in debt believe that moving abroad will give them a fresh start and allow them to build a new life.Reading some of the comments on various UK debt forums opinions on this seem to be divided. Some people think running away from debt is too much of a risk, and creditors will eventually catch up with them whilst others encourage the idea, stating that there is no way you will be found and people should move on and enjoy a new life free from the responsibilities of debt.In the past this might have been a successful way to start a new life without the worry of unpaid debt. However, creditors and courts alike seem to have caught up with the idea over the last few years and have taken action to make it more difficult for people to escape the responsibility of paying the money they owe.Creditors taking action Germany and Canada have reciprocal agreements with the UK when it comes to tracing debtors and debt collection practices. There is not much information available regarding other countries with such agreements although a search on the web may...more
As a business, non-profit or association manager, what do you want? Publicity that delivers newspaper and talk show mentions, or behavior change among your key outside audiences that leads directly to achieving your managerial objectives? Special events that attract a lot of people, or public relations that persuades your most important outside...more
You know that your business will probably grow slower than molasses in the Winter unless you joint venture and partner with other online marketers. If you're just launching your own product or service, you really need access to their lists. You need access to their contacts. You also know... intuitively, that people like partnering with their...more
Increase your sales—in five minutes. This article is the third in a series of five articles probing the five critical points influencing how you find a steady stream of customer for your business.Customers Buy BenefitsYou want more sales? Customers buy for one reason. They buy because your product or service has a benefit they want. Telling your customer your product has a 10 year warranty is a product feature. Telling them that in over 400 roofing jobs last year, there were no leaks, no call backs and no broken tile is selling the benefits your customer wants. Sell customer benefits and you will increase your sales. Why You Sell FeaturesBottom line, selling features is easier. Features are the visible things you see about products and services. Features are the things you see, touch, feel and smell. Selling features is your self-interest. The products and services are your life-blood. You live with them every day. You know them inside and out. You love talking about them!Identifying the benefits each customer wants it tough work. Customers are unique. Each buys for his or her own reason. It is easier to talk about common product features rather than uncover unique customer...more
A short and memorable web address will ensure that your new contacts can also locate you and be updated with your company's developments.Always use your corporate email address when corresponding with your networks.Incorporate a blog (an online...more
Customer service today is getting worse. Win customers over and you build your business for life. Proven by the leader in the industry -- Nordstrom's. Nordstrom's customer service keeps improving and they continue to drive others out of business...more
Private organizations must appreciate that being socially-aware is not just to donate monies to various charities every year - though this effort is laudable. It is more complex and requires a lot more coordination and corporate planning. However,...more
Persistence is the key working toward getting approved for a bad credit mortgage loan. There are many factors that you, as a borrower have control over that can help you get approved faster and easier. There are guidelines that most sub-prime lenders...more
Refinancing your home mortgage can come with some great perks. If you do it with no money out of pocket, you can skip one to three mortgage payments. You can save money on your payment or pay off your entire mortgage faster when you have better...more
The feedback facilitator should provide a brief introduction about his background. This is to assure the group about his competence and professionalism in directing the session.The feedback facilitator should also have the detailed bio of all the...more