Did you ever think about becoming a Trading Assistant? Where you basically sell other people's products and receive a comission? Alot of companies know about eBay but don't have the time to learn. Or are just "old school" and don't care to learn.So why not offer your services to them? You already know eBay. And now this lines you up for unlimited products to sell. There are ways that you should and should not approach a retailer to become their...more
November 2004's publication of the Health and Safety Executive's new Management Standards for work-related stress has focused the minds of many organisations on this increasingly serious workplace hazard. But what are the differences between pressure and stress? What are the telltale signs and symptoms? What's the current legal position? And what role should managers be playing in helping to combat work-related stress?Pressure or stress?Many...more
There is a delicate balance between the fee you need to charge for your products and services, and the fee that people are willing to pay for them. But with gasoline, heating, shipping, health care, and other costs rising, there comes a time when you must raise your rates in order to remain profitable.Most people see their own costs going up, and won't be surprised that you're raising your fees, too. With proper communication about it, you should be able to raise your fees effortlessly.Here are some tips on how to go about it:1. Don't let fear and limiting beliefs stop you from raising your fees. If you hear yourself making excuses that you don't know are true, it's probably your fears and limiting beliefs raising their ugly head. Some of these include, "All my customers will leave if I raise my rates," or "I'm not worth the new rate."2. Have a clear idea of where your break-even point is, profit wise. No matter how tempting, you cannot make a loss on a sale. In fact, it's not just about what you "need" to make, it should be about what you "want" to make, too.3. Base your fees on what the benefits and results of using your product or service are worth to your customer. For...more
With the end of 'a job for life', the ticking of the demographic 'time bomb', and the ever-increasing pace of new technology, employers are having to consider a wide range of new working patterns that take account of this rapidly changing work climate.So what is the government's position on these new ways of working; and what are the benefits and...more
If you own your own independent business, there are two organizations that hopefully your are already aware of. They are doing great work promoting small, locally owned independents by promoting community and government involvement. It takes all of us, working together, to improve our communities and the local business environment.The National...more
Starting a home business is a big undertaking. There are key elements to properly set up a home business. If anything is forgotten or left out it could make starting the business difficult or impossible. The following are key elements that every home business owners needs to have in place before actually starting their business.The Computer SystemEvery home business owner knows they need a computer. Most home businesses operate the majority of the time on the internet, so a computer is essential. The computer should be as up to date as possible with at least word processing and database programs. Virus protection is also recommended to keep the computer safe and to prevent possible problems. Having a printer is also a good idea so important papers and documents can be printed easily. A scanner may also be appropriate in some cases. All hardware and software should be the latest versions the business owner can afford.Internet ServiceAs mentioned, most home businesses operate online, so an internet connection is important. For ultimate speed and reliability a high speed connection is the best choice. High speed connections allow large amounts of data to be uploaded and downloaded...more
Well, we're all reeling from our utility bills. So, what can be done to cut energy costs?Obviously, the best way to cut your utility bill is to go with a non-utility company source of energy. Solar power can be used to warm your house, while...more
Correctly Pricing A Business Is Important If You Really Want To Sell It!As a consultant I talk to many business owners, brokers, and agents on a daily basis about valuing businesses. It always amazes me on how some of these individuals come up with...more
Let me first say that I do not now engage in technical analysis; nor, have I ever engaged in technical analysis. I do not believe doing so would be a productive use of my time.Having said that, I do not claim technical analysis has no predictive...more
In the hands of the right consumer, a credit card can be a very useful tool. Unfortunately, the "right" consumer is rare. The concept of buying on credit, while convenient, actually serves only to line the pockets of financial gurus with millions of...more
Commercial Real Estate refers to the property that has potential to generate extra income for the owner of real estate. Commercial real estate generally includes office buildings, retail properties, apartment units, condos and raw land. Every...more
We all love to make money but after a while when you get too much product built up, you can start losing money. Why would we do that?What happens is we get in a mindset on the value we feel our items are worth, rather than what we can get for them....more