Business Best Tips

To Get Top Talent You Must Have A Solid Foundation

2008-05-13T20:58:00.000-07:00

Faced with a shortage of local qualified workers, a tough housing market and a weakening economy, many companies are offering more relocation benefits to new hires and transferees, according to a recent Atlas’ 2008 Corporate Relocation Survey. Over four decades, the survey has revealed trends in employment benefits, globalization, the workforce and the U.S. economy.

More than half of firms surveyed reported that an employee said no to relocation last year—a number that is similar to previous years—but compared to last year, twice as many firms saw an increase in the number of declined relocations, the highest in six years.

"Whether it’s because employees don’t want to move their kids to a new school or they’ve just paid off their mortgage, it’s becoming increasingly difficult to lure top talent to a new city," said Greg Hoover, president and chief operating officer of Atlas Van Lines, Inc. "To remain competitive, businesses are becoming more generous. They’re offering spousal perks and full reimbursement; they’re paying for losses on home sales."

Atlas, an Evansville-based corporate relocation, transportation and global logistics firm, announces its survey each year to coincide with the Atlas Forum on Moving, which took place April 24-25 in Chicago.

Survey fast facts:

Nearly 1/3 of firms said declining a relocation usually hinders an employee’s career.
More than 2/3 of transfers fall into the 30-40 age group.
Sixty-four percent of companies performed better financially in 2007 than 2006.
Nearly 3/4 of companies have a formal relocation policy. Nearly 100 percent of firms with more than 5,000 employees have such a policy, but only 55 percent of companies with less than 500 do.
Seventy-two percent of firms have tiers or levels within relocation policies. The average number of tiers is 2.9.
Twenty-one percent of responding firms say employees have one week or less to accept a transfer offer.
Nearly half—48 percent—of relocations involve employees with children.

"I think businesses are realizing that they have to provide incentives beyond the job itself to convince an employee to move to a new city," said Hoover. "In addition to having extra money in their wallet, employees want to work for a company that addresses their individual needs. In the long run, that kind of employee loyalty is worth the extra effort and money."

Here’s a closer look at developing trends in corporate relocation:

Perk up

The percentage of companies offering employment assistance to spouses and partners is at its highest level in five years—42 percent of companies surveyed offered that perk.
All types of reimbursement—full, partial and lump sum payments—increased over the previous year. The percentage of firms offering lump sum payments was the highest in six years, as is the percentage of firms using partial reimbursements for transferees. Full reimbursement rebounded from its drop in 2006 and 2007. Now, 63 percent of firms offer the benefit to transferees and 54 percent offer it to new hires.
Three-fourths of companies reimburse moving companies to pack all items; more than 60 percent reimburse for moving a car and exercise equipment.
Since last year, at least 10 percent more companies are covering the costs to move recreation and lawn equipment, a second automobile, and valuable collections.

Workforce woes

For the third year in a row, the top external factor affecting relocations is the lack of qualified people locally.
In addition to struggling to find local talent, significantly more large firms than small or midsize firms indicate the real estate market affected relocation volumes in 2007.

Economic stimulus

Family ties are still the No. 1 reason employees decline relocations, but housing and mortgage concerns are closing the gap. The percentage of firms that cited this as the reason employees said no to moves jumped from 30 percent in 2007 to 50 percent this year. In large firms, the cost of living in the new location surpasses family ties.
Roughly half of responding firms indicated the U.S. economy worsened in 2007 (but only 9 percent predicted it would last year). And nearly half—45 percent—expect 2008 will yield a continued decline.

Location, location, location

The South was the top destination of transfer (29 percent) followed by the Midwest (27 percent) and the Northeast (26 percent).
Among international relocations, the most frequent destinations were: Asia/Pacific Rim (31 percent), Europe (31 percent) and the United Kingdom (28 percent).

http://freeaddursite.blogspot.com/

Is your company competitive? Tell me about it by leaving a comment.

The Three Biggest Concerns Inventors Have

2008-05-13T20:57:00.001-07:00

Money. It’s a pressing issue for inventors – rarely will an individual be so financially secure that they don’t have to ask themselves, “Am I going to have to invest large amounts of money to sell my idea? How much money I am going to need exactly…?”

The short answer is, “NO. Licensing your idea is not expensive.” Licensing, one of two routes inventors may pursue to sell their products, is very low-cost. A knowledge and understanding of the process are much more crucial. The elements of licensing, including filing a provisional patent, creating a sell-sheet, and contacting companies, should total around five hundred dollars. A particularly frugal individual could probably do so in just several hundred. I’ve successfully licensed over twenty products and the cost and format vary little.

However, four years ago, I decided to bring my own (very simple!) idea to market in a very different way. I started a company. And this path, I’ve discovered, is anything but low-cost. Even the smallest of ideas, such as a guitar pick that costs merely pennies to make, will demand several hundred thousand dollars of capital and support. The process is both very rewarding, and very risky. It’s not for everyone. The money and time you are required to invest will either pay off in a big way or completely fail. If you can successfully wear many different hats, and have the financial means to do so, I would consider even then first carefully looking into this second route.

The biggest mistake I’ve seen inventors make is in failing to study the marketplace. They are so excited to have conceived of an idea, they immediately hire an attorney and begin to try to file a patent. Patents are extremely expensive, and needless to say, so are lawyers. The next mistake they make is in trying to create a prototype; most don’t have the skills to do, and again, hire someone. The operative word here is “hire”. It’s only after you really KNOW that your product is a good one (and there are many ways to test this!) that you should even consider hiring other people to your team.

Need a Professional for the Job? Don't Just Ask for a License Number: Check it Out!

2008-05-13T20:55:00.000-07:00

Buyer beware. Here is a story that should turn your stomach as much as it did mine.

As my regular readers know, we have been in negotiations on a house that needs some work. (Update: Probably not going to go through, but we are okay with that).

During some inspections we found that the house has a drainage problem to the tune of, according to the two estimates we received from licensed contractors, $13,000-$17,000 dollars.

The seller's agent went out and got an estimate done by a company. The result? $5,500!

Sound too good to be true? We thought so. Apparently no one else cared, though. The guy told her he was licensed. In fact, he gave her a license number.

My husband and I, dubious about the skill this company could possess when coming in with a bid that was almost three times lower than our lowest bid, decided to do some research. The same research we had done on the companies that we got to give us estimates.

I contacted our county and the city in which the contractor works: No company exists by that name.

I contacted the state with the license number that he eventually gave to me. That license number belonged to someone else, and it had expired quite some time ago.

Wow! Now, this contractor has an ad in the phone book, so you would think he'd take the time and invest the money to get a license! But no, he hasn't.

If you are hiring a professional, don't just ask if they have a license: Get the number and check it out!

Some warning signs we found with this guy:

Of course, the incredibly low price. If someone is offering to do some work for you at a cost that is exceedingly lower than what everyone else is stating, get out. Run away. Take the next bus out of town-or send the person on it!

No address or specialized heading on the proposal. This guy just had written in his company's name and phone number.

Phone number goes to a personal cell phone. Yes, he answered it this way and his personal message was for that of a personal phone, not a business phone!

Nothing itemized. The other bids wrote out itemized costs for each task. He didn't.

Nothing specific. The other bids included specific materials and tools that would be used. His didn't.

No references. When asked he said he had them, but that he didn't have time to get them together. He never did call back with the phone numbers.

Can't be specific when asked direct questions. I asked if he had done a complete drainage system before and he answered, "Oh, I've done a lot of things, yes. "

And the thing that tipped us off at first: We couldn't find anything out about him when we typed in that company name, but when we googled his phone number we got back several hits for another company's name! Yes, he is doing this with two company's! I guess it depends on the type of job he is hoping to find.

Magician at Work

2008-05-13T20:54:00.000-07:00

I was talking with a magician the other day. It’s not what you think. I was working at an international conference speaking about Managing Your Manager. The person I was speaking with was the conference manager. Compare your job to hers and you’ll understand why I think she’s a magician. You might want to develop those same magical qualities for your job.

Here’s what she does. She selects speakers, arranges sessions, orders audiovisual requirements, coordinates travel and manages the deadlines for the conference. There could be ten simultaneous programs scheduled for many hours of the conference. She coordinates the materials and deadlines for each of those presenters. Many of them are located in different time zones all over the world. Then she oversees the people that handle the conference attendees. How many people attend the conference? Thirty thousand people. That’s more people than some small cities. There’s also a trade show at this conference with hundreds of exhibitors. Now imagine the potential headaches from a small city of people involved in that many activities. That’s why I think she’s a magician. She makes the headaches go away.

Here’s an example. You have a 7 AM session planned for the next day. It’s 4:30 PM the day before and the speaker hasn’t sent you his PowerPoint after pleading with him several times over the previous months via email and telephone. As 5 PM approaches, in walks the speaker with his program. That’s the good news. With a quick call to the audio visual team, the program is loaded onto the computer and ready for the next day.

Then the phone rings. A speaker’s flight is cancelled and he won’t arrive for his scheduled presentation the next day. It’s time for a quick decision. Can another program be scheduled? It wouldn’t matter. The schedule has been printed. It’s too late. She calls a staff member to change the signage that announces the program. It’s now cancelled. She says, “Well, at least I got one program on. I’m not worrying about the other.” I marveled at her calm acceptance of defeat and how she quickly moved on without blaming herself.

What’s your reaction when you experience defeat in business? Do you blame yourself and begin to doubt your judgment? Then you follow with endless questioning of yourself? If that’s the case, let me show you another approach. First, ask yourself if you did everything you could to prepare for the situation. If you did, then ask yourself what can you do differently next time. Then make plans to do that new step. Last, let it go. The blame game has to stop—and women seem to be so good at it.

This conference manager probably sees more challenges in one day running a conference than many of us see in a month at our jobs. She knows the problems are coming. Her job is to do the best she can to prevent problems. Her magic is to minimize the effects of the problems once they occur. If you plan for and accept the problems that occur at work and stop blaming yourself, you’ll be far more effective at your job. The results might surprise you. It might even seem like magic.

Green Business

2008-05-13T20:52:00.000-07:00

Your Final Green Choice

How do you want to be buried? Daisy Coffins, in Devon, has developed some environmentally friendly choices in the coffin department. Co-Owner Craig Cooper spent time talking to funeral directors to make sure that what he put together was what they would be looking for. What he came up with is a coffin made from banana leaf wrapped around softwood. It’s durable and strong, and from looking at the picture from the original article, they look comfy. I’m a cremation type myself, but Daisy Coffins has me covered with urns made from eco-friendly materials. I’m not sure if the cremation process is environmentally friendly though. I should look that up.

Business EQ 101: Managing Relationships

2008-05-13T20:49:00.000-07:00

Self awareness, self control, and social awareness are all key components of emotional intelligence. But the final piece –and a crucial one, especially in business – is being able to manage one’s relationships.

Relationship management encompasses a number of social skills, including:

-being able to lead/inspire others;

-being able to influence/persuade others;

-being able to resolve and mediate conflicts creatively;

-being able to communicate clearly; and

-and being able to stay detached from others’ emotional quirks

As such, the prerequisite to relationship management is a certain degree of emotional maturity – having the insight, that is, to understand what others are feeling and the self control to be able to adapt to that person’s (or group’s) needs and behavior, rather than simply reacting.

That’s a tall order – especially when combined with the other components of emotional intelligence. So next up: Identifying business EQ strengths and weaknesses.

Learn to Listen

2008-05-13T20:47:00.000-07:00

There is an article in yesterday's New York Times on how to improve your listening skills. While this may seem superfluous — you're either listening or you aren't — the tips are actually quite smart.

According to Gretchen Neels, a workplace consultant, most people are not cognizant of when they are not listening or of whether they are giving the impression to others that they are not listening. Think about it this way: How many conversations have you been in that felt more like races to speak next as opposed to polite interactions. People commonly talk over one another, and I know that one of my biggest problems in my communications is a tendency to interrupt.

According to Neels, if you can master listening, you are more likely to get things done right the first time, to build stronger and more secure relationships, and to notice the nuances of speech.

Here are the six tips (and my comments) that Neels provided for improved listening skills:

Maintain good eye contact.Obviously. Every article you ever read on communication (including many of my blogs) will tell you this. Moving on…

Sit or stand still without fidgeting. While this is also a bit obvious, it's something that a lot of people don't think about enough. If your body seems unfocused and, literally and figuratively, all over the place, it's a reasonable reaction to assume that that is the state of your mind as well.

Try nodding your head or leaning in toward the speaker, both of which indicate to the speaker that you are listening, and also help you to stay engaged. Again, Neels isn't reinventing the wheel here, but these are important tips for effective and supportive body language.

In a face-to-face or one-on-one situation, try "mirroring," which means taking on the gestures of the speaker. If you are across form someone who leans her head to the right, lean your head to the left. Though this sounds a bit odd — or even demeaning? mocking? — this move will sync you with your companion. Neels says that those who are close, intimate, or comfortable together naturally do this.

Repeat or recap the information that you are hearing. Especially if the conversation is over the phone. This is just smart. You want to be sure that you've grabbed the most important bits. Repetition of this nature is crucial for both clarification and retention.

Do not interrupt! It will undermine everything that you are trying to accomplish. If you fear you will lose a thought, carry a pad and paper and make a note so that you can come back to it. Interrupting conveys the impression that you are not listening. Okay, okay, point taken. I'll try harder. Thanks Gretchen!

10 Common Business Plan Mistakes

2008-05-13T20:44:00.000-07:00

Inc Magazine has a nice list of Top 10 Business Plan Mistakes, with a slide-show motif. Which reminds me that I've done a couple of these lists, one on Entrepreneur.com and another for bplans.com. And here's another top 10 list on Entrepreneur.com, this one by Andrew Clarke.

I guess we owe it to Letterman, but the top 10 lists are an easy way to present thoughts on business plans. I'm going to have to write a new list one of these days.

Evolution not revolution

2008-05-13T20:42:00.000-07:00

NOT SO LONG AGO, IT WAS "THE ECONOMY, stupid." However, between the beginning of 1994 and the end of the year, thanks to a GOP power surge in the last national elections and a presidential race looming in the next, "it" became something else: politics. The shift is an important one for the CEOs of the BLACK ENTERPRISE 100s, the nation's largest black-owned businesses. The latest assault on affirmative action, led by a conservative-dominated Congress, threatens policies designed to lower

The climate that made this attack on race-based affirmative-action policies viable signals difficult times ahead for African-American businesses. But the BE 100s came through with a second consecutive post-recession year of solid growth.

Last year's annual report was marked by dramatic upheavals in the BE 100s landscape--marked by family feuds, controversial deals and the explosive growth accompanying the 1993-94 economic recovery. (See BE 100s Overview, "Coming On Strong," June 1994.) However, this year's report finds more evolution than revolution among the nation's largest black-owned businesses. In fact, despite solid growth and a number of significant business deals, 1994 was more or less business as usual as compared with the previous year.

Last year, the BE INDUSTRIAL/SERVICE 100 and the BE AUTO DEALER 100 combined for $11.71 billion in sales. Total revenue growth for these companies in 1994 was 13.91%, only slightly off 1993's rate of 13.9%.

The number of people employed by the nation's 100 largest black-owned industrial/service companies and 100 largest black-owned auto dealerships also increased by 4.97%. However, this is a far cry from the astonishing 20% increase in employment reported by the BE 100s last year. Again, the double-digit jump in employment in 1993 was driven by economic recovery after the 1990-91 recession. With the Clinton administration pursuing an economic policy aimed at maintaining the recovery but keeping inflation in check, it may be years before we see another huge increase in jobs. However, for the second consecutive year, every company among the BE 100s Top Ten Employment Leaders (see chart) had at least 1,000 people on its payroll. In fact, the tenth-largest employer, The Gourmet Companies, the Atlanta-based food service business owned by Nathaniel R. Goldston III, had 1,100 employees in 1994.

Surveys indicate minority businesses should do well in Colorado in 2005

2008-05-13T20:39:00.000-07:00

The expansion, contraction and survival rates for minority-owned businesses are different from those of non-minority owned businesses according to a study released Feb. 23 by the Office of Advocacy of the U.S. Small Business Administration.

Dynamics of Minority-Owned Employer Establishments 1997-2001 was released by the Institute for Entrepreneurship, Leadership and Innovation at the Howard University School of Business. Minority- owned businesses that were started after 1997 were

Nationwide, the four-year survival rate for non-minority owned firms was 72.6 percent. The survival rate for Asian and Pacific Islander-owned establishments was 72.1 percent; 68.6 percent for Hispanic-owned businesses; 67 percent for American Indian and Native Alaskan-owned businesses and 61 percent for black-owned businesses, according to the study.

In Colorado, the four-year survival rate for all businesses was 68 percent, compared to 70 percent for the national average.

The four-year survival rate for black-owned businesses in Colorado was 49 percent, more than 10 points below the national average. Asian and Pacific Islander-owned establishments in Colorado had a 70 percent survival rate, just two points below the national average.

American Indian and Alaska Native-owned firms had a 60 percent survival rate in Colorado, seven points below the national average. Hispanic-owned businesses in Colorado had a 60 percent four-year survival rate, nearly nine points lower than the national rate.

Overall, I don't think Colorado is all that bad, said Dr. Ying Lowrey, senior economist for the Office of Advocacy and author of the study.

She pointed out that the survival rate for all businesses in Colo

Minority Business Loan Programs

2008-05-13T20:37:00.000-07:00

If you are a woman or an ethnic minority, you may be entitled to funds earmarked for minority business development. Many businesses and government organizations allocate funds to lend to minority business owners.

The Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA) is the only federal agency created specifically to foster the establishment and growth of minority-owned businesses. MBDA provides funding for a network of Minority Business Development Centers (MBDCs), Native American Business Development Centers (NABDCs), and Business Resource Centers (BRCs) located throughout the country. The centers provide minority entrepreneurs with personalized assistance in writing business plans, marketing, management and technical assistance, and financial planning to secure adequate financing for business ventures.

If you need additional help putting together your loan application package, you can contact your local small business development corporation. These agencies often make loans to applicants who have been denied for regular bank loans. Learn more about What Lenders Look for Before Granting a Small Business Loan.

While the SBA does not offer grants to start or expand small businesses, it does guarantee loans of up to $250,000. Once you've been approved for an SBA-guaranteed loan, the next step is to find a lender that is approved by the SBA.

Own Your Own Candy Bouquet Franchise

2008-05-13T20:36:00.000-07:00

A Candy Bouquet small business franchise combines fun and profit with a minimum investment and no royalty fees!

What is a Candy Bouquet?

Candy Bouquet arrangements are "A Delicious Gift Alternative to Flowers" and are perfect for special occasions or corporate gifts. Our franchisees attend extensive training sessions to learn the techniques on making the Original and Authentic Candy Bouquets using the finest in candies and accessories.

Why consider a Candy Bouquet Franchise?

Candy Bouquet is taking the world by storm! Our franchisees succeed because they have the power to determine their own individual territory and whether they will be store front or home based. Our franchise fees are low with no royalty fees!

Fill out the form on the right to learn more about owning your own Candy Bouquet franchise.

Call us today at 1-877-226-3901

To date, Candy Bouquet International, Inc. has over 815 franchises worldwide. Representing all 50 states, 40 countries, and the territories of Puerto Rico and Guam. More retail and home based franchise opportunities are available.

How Do I Plan for Technology Obsolescence?

2008-05-13T20:34:00.001-07:00

Fail to plan for technology obsolescence and you risk losing valuable business intelligence and encountering unforeseen expenses down the road. You can anticipate obsolescence by monitoring and tracking industry technology changes. Pay particular attention to those in the business information sector, including advancements in digital storage, so you'll know when to upgrade or change your storage methods. And be sure that your assets aren't stored in file formats that could soon become obsolete. Hardware is usually replaced at a slower pace than software. In fact, many IT consultants recommend replacing old hardware only when it is no longer useful. Technology may move quickly, but not so quickly that you can't adapt.

Features of Business Insight

2008-05-13T20:30:00.000-07:00

Key features and elements of Business Insight include:

Business Insight starts work by asking questions on issues related to growth and operations of your business covering:

mission & vision
products & services
sales & marketing
advertising & promotion
organization & training
hiring & compensation

management biographies
web strategy
market segmentation
competitive strengths
financials

Your answers are matched against a knowledge base of proven business strategies to evaluate hundreds of marketing and business concepts as they relate to your unique circumstances. Business Insight then uses information about your company to create a unique model of your industry based on:
- Michael Porter's Competitive Five Forces
- GE Business Strategy Matrix
- Boston Consulting Group Matrix
- SWOT Analysis
- Product Life Cycle Analysis
- Pricing Strategy
  ... and dozens of other models.

This modeling results in a set of analyses. These provide a written critique of your strategy, observations on strategic inconsistencies, graphs that analyze key market concepts, lists of strategic strengths and weaknesses, a success potential rating in eleven areas and a written draft marketing plan.

Business Insight helps anticipate and manage change as it takes account of the fact that market success is a moving target affected by:

new competitors
new technology
loss of key personnel
acquisition of funding

market contraction
government intervention
shifting demographics

It suggests new opportunities and exploits market volatility to identify ways of increasing market share, revenue and profits.

By asking the right questions and then knowing how to apply the answers to your strategy, Business Insight provides a structured environment for your strategic planning process - from assessment through analysis to conclusion. It helps break down your strategic efforts into measurable goals. By doing this, you can measure what needs to be addressed and how to achieve your goals. It’s very easy for bias, politics, and emotion to influence strategic decisions. Business Insight removes those by measuring independent factors.
Business Insight identifies strategies that could work best for you. As you delve deeper into its analysis report, you could see new opportunities for your business that, in the past, were hidden and you'll be able to determine what should be done to strengthen your company or to make your product or service more attractive to the buyers. In addition, you can assess the impact of alternative approaches.
Business Insight considers the capabilities of your organization and your competitors, your business objectives, government influence and market climate. You immediately see all of the positive and negative impacts on your business success. It offers 100's of analyses of your strategy which provide multiple insights into ways of strengthening your market position. By basing your strategy on proven business principles reviewed by experts, you increase your success potential.

Printing Business Cards

2008-05-13T20:28:00.000-07:00

When you are ready to print your business cards, you can choose to print all, or only some of the cards on the page.

You can also make adjustments to fine-tune the printer alignment.

Clicking the Preview buttons shows what your printout will look like in a preview window.

You can select any number of pages to print.

Visual Business Cards is designed to work with most common business card stock including:

Avery Business Card 25371
Avery Business Card 27870 Ink Jet
Avery Business Card 27871 Ink Jet
Avery Business Card 27881 Matte Coated
Avery Business Card 27882 Matte Coated
Avery Business Card 28371 Ink Jet
Avery Business Card 28373 Glossy Photo Quality Ink Jet
Avery Business Card 28877 Clean Edge Ink Jet
Avery Business Card 3612
Avery Business Card 5371
Avery Business Card 5372
Avery Business Card 5376
Avery Business Card 5377
Avery Business Card 5870
Avery Business Card 5871
Avery Business Card 5872
Avery Business Card 5873
Avery Business Card 5876
Avery Business Card 5878
Avery Business Card 5881 Color Laser
Avery Business Card 5882 Print to the Edge Color Laser
Avery Business Card 5911
Avery Business Card 8271 Ink Jet
Avery Business Card 8272 Ink Jet
Avery Business Card 8371 Ink Jet
Avery Business Card 8372 Ink Jet

Avery Business Card 8373 Glossy Photo Quality
Avery Business Card 8374 Magnetic Ink Jet
Avery Business Card 8376 Ink Jet
Avery Business Card 8377 Ink Jet
Avery Business Card 8471 Ink Jet
Avery Business Card 8476 Ink Jet
Avery Business Card 8571 Ink Jet
Avery Business Card 8870 Clean Edge Ink Jet
Avery Business Card 8871 Clean Edge Ink Jet
Avery Business Card 8872 Clean Edge Ink Jet
Avery Business Card 8873 Clean Edge Ink Jet
Avery Business Card 8874 Clean Edge Ink Jet
Avery Business Card 8876 Clean Edge Ink Jet
Avery Business Card 8877 Clean Edge Ink Jet
Avery Business Card 8878 Clean Edge Ink Jet
Avery Business Card 8879 Clean Edge Ink Jet
Avery Business Card L7413 (A4 Size)
Avery Business Card L7414 (A4 Size)
Avery Business Card L7415 (A4 Size)
Avery Business Card L7417 (A4 Size)
Avery Business Card L7419 (A4)
APLI 1612 (A4 Size)
APLI 1620 (A4 Size)
Formtec LS-3510 (A4 Size)
Herma 8840 (A4 Size)
MAACO ML-8550
Office Depot Clean-Break 915-922

...and also supports User Defined layouts. You are able to adjust and fine tune any aspect of the layout.

Creating Business Cards

2008-05-13T20:25:00.000-07:00

When creating a business card, you have the option to start with a completely blank card, or you can use the New Card Wizard. There are over 400 templates to choose from, with different layouts, background art, fonts and card orientation.

The Wizard will guide you through the process to create a new card. In most cases, the New Card Wizard is all you will need.

Design Tools

Simple Text - for placing simple text on the business card, using any Windows font. the text can also be rotated, take on a 3D appearance, be aligned left/right/center, and may be transparent or have a selectable background color and border.
MultiLine Text - for long paragraphs of text. Also supports left/right/center alignment, and may use any Windows font.
Symbol - this is a special tool for using all of those "symbol" fonts built into Windows, such as Wingdings and Webdings.
Common shapes - including rectangle, ellipse, round rectangle, and line - with line color and thickness, transparent or selectable color.
Image/Clipart - for placing clipart on the business card. Select common formats including .BMP, .JPG, .JIF, .ICO, .WMF, .EMF and *.GIF. There is also a new clipart browser for easily finding and placing the included clipart, or images from your hard drive.
SuperShape - The SuperShape tool is a multi-purpose design tool which can be rectangle, oval, rounded rectangle, diamond, triangle or star shaped, and can have special effects properties including shadows, textured surfaces, gradient filled surfaces. (note: There are over 500 brand new textures included with Visual Business Cards 4.)
Rich Text - the Rich Text tool lets you enter text in Rich Text Format (RTF). Rich Text Format is the format used by most word processors, and allows multiple fonts, font sizes, font colors, alignments, etc within a block of text..
SuperText - The SuperText tool is a special-effects text object which can include shadows, textured surfaces and gradient filled surfaces. (note: There are over 500 brand new textures included with Visual Business Cards 4.)
CircleText - The CircleText tool displays text in a circular or semicircular manner ( 90,180,270 or 360 degrees)
Callout. A Callout is like the little balloon captions that you see in comic books.
Backgrounds. There are over 500 backgrounds included with Visual Business Cards

What a Reputable Review Site Can Do for You

2008-05-13T20:24:00.000-07:00

When you are looking for an opinion on a money-making opportunity, you obviously want to read reviews from someone who has actually used the product or service. Look for sites that include reviews from people who have personally used the product. This way, the reviewer should be able to give an honest and objective opinion to his readers.

A review site should also inform readers of any law suits or court cases that an online money-making scheme is involved with. A reputable review site should have the mission of protecting opportunity seekers.

You want to make money online, and there are legitimate ways to do this with time and effort. Taking the extra precautions by reading reviews on money-making systems is smart. You will be even smarter if your review information comes from a reputable site. Use the guidelines outlined here, and you should be on your way to making money and doing something that you really enjoy.

Home Business Running Process

2008-05-13T20:23:00.001-07:00

Affiliate programs have been a great way to make money online since the Internet took off. But, sometimes, finding the best affiliate program can be a hassle. Affiliates are online "word of mouth" referrals and can increase the amount of money you make online.

They link to your site from theirs, and all of their traffic becomes your traffic, increasing the likelihood of making money online. Affiliate with companies that sell products related to your site. When people click on the link in your blog and purchase a product, you profit.

Affiliate programs can make all this very easy. Affiliate marketing is a very popular practice on the Internet. Under this system you have a merchant that is willing to let other people (the affiliates) sell directly or indirectly its products and services, in exchange for a commission.

Everything goes in cycles and if you have a Website in a market that tends to be cycling down, it will eventually cycle back up and there you will be with a well developed authority site ready to take advantage of the upswing. Everything has the potential to impact the number of sales vs. If you don't do this, if you simply put the message out there that you think will work, you may be missing a lot of sales and a lot of profit.

Internet Marketing does work, you just need a little help! Internet affiliate business requires discipline. All success-tricks are invented.

Starting your own online business takes very little start up costs. Unlike starting a business in the Real World, there is no rent to pay or equipment to buy when starting an internet business . Start posting ads from home and earn some cash today. Start by helping one person.

Creative effort: This implies that a certain amount of creative effort was put into creating the work or adapting existing works to construct a new one; i.e. The creative effort behind UGC often also has a collaborative element to it, as is the case with websites which users can edit collaboratively. Create a work at home job! Look around your community for ideas. Create as many pages as you can manage with unique content. The key here is not to create great literature, but to create great content.

Research and do you due diligence as to what others have done that was successful in building a home business. And lets say you do become very successful at your home based business, and have hundreds or thousands of people in your downline and on your team, do you have time to take care of them and lead them all by the hand. Research is your best friend when it comes to starting your own business. Like any business, it takes hard work but the rewards are well worth it.

Home Business

2008-05-13T20:21:00.000-07:00

It is widely known that today's job market is being diluted by outsourcing thus creating employment instability. As a result, there are many aged and senior employees finding themselves being replaced and out of their jobs. Some of them may end up wandering around the house doing nothing all day except worrying about what will happen when their savings are depleted. This is one of the negative effects of being retrenched and it is not a good thing for their family.

Fortunately, there are a lot of home business opportunities available and they are growing continuously. Thus, most people will finally operate their own home business instead of trying to find another job. However, you will need to do some research as to what business you can operate from home.

Usually, you should start a home business which you are familiar with, that is, from your experience, interests, skills and knowledge. Once you have set up
your business, it is vital that you treat it more seriously than a traditional job. This is because you will have to depend on the income from that business to pay your bills and other daily household expenses.

You might have heard the statement that if you have no bills to worry about, then the best job in the world is the one you would do for free. The same thing applies for setting up a home business. You must have interest in it so that you are able to put your commitments and focus so as to work hard at it. This is because it will take up a lot of your time and energy, which may lead you to lose interest and it becomes just like any other job.

There are a few examples that can be discussed here. If a person is skilful and has a lot of experience in woodworking or metal machining, then he may find that a home business performing furniture repair suitable for him. If he has a lot of creativity, he can also make woodcraft items and sell them through local retailers or at craft markets. This home business can be very effective as the products sold are made in their own home workshop.

Another example is an accounts officer who has worked for several years and gathered enough experience in accounting skills. If they are retrenched and lose their jobs due to companies outsourcing or downsizing, they can set up their own accounting service. It is very common that small companies which cannot afford to hire a full-time accountant, engage such services to handle their accounting issues. They can create several income streams just by providing accounting services to these small companies.

As you can see, a home business can be set up from your experience and knowledge gained as an employee. Most of the time, the work can be done at home. In other businesses, traveling is necessary in order to meet up with clients or attend shows at which to sell your products.

How do you choose the right home business opportunities? You have to go out and start brainstorming for options that are available. The successful home business owners will tell you of all the rewards that they have gained. However, if you do not choose the right home business, you may end up with so many problems in the future.

Cash Business

2008-05-13T20:20:00.000-07:00

Maintaining a constant cash flow is an essential requirement for any business. Even more running a small business often needs working capital at times of crisis.

The business cash flow can be disrupted due to various unexpected reasons, like: debt payment, purchase of brand new equipment or starting a franchise might cause additional disruption in cash flow especially of a small business.

There are many options for choosing the right lender to gain these funds, and the whole process can be quite confusing. The method of financing is an important element that determines the success of the company and thus a comprehensive understanding of the available funding choices is almost mandatory.

A business cash advance is one of the easiest methods of acquiring essential business funds. It is very similar to a small business loan. However, small business loans require the business owner to provide proof of assets and salary, but instead a business cash advance is great for an entrepreneur to get funds when he lacks great credit or doesn't have the ability to get funds by the traditional bank loan.

The most important requirement for a business cash advance is that the business accepts credit transactions, i.e. it should allow it's customers to pay with either visa or master card. It is essentially a cash advance and not a business loan; therefore every time the business collects a payment, a small percentage of it is automatically forwarded to meet the payback of advance.

Business working capital loans are another great way of acquiring funds and are the traditional and most commonly used funding option by most small business owners. However, it is not as easy to get the needed cash flow in this method as compared to a business cash advance. Working capital loans (from banks) are difficult to qualify for if compared with a business cash advance as an alternative source for working capital funding.

The credit score of the business owner, the personal collateral and various other factors are strictly considered before acceptance of capital loan. However, most small businesses owners would easily qualify for a business cash advance.

Applying for a working capital loan requires completing a lot of paperwork and takes quite some time. However, it is the same does not apply for a business cash advance. Business cash advances are processed much faster and it involves relatively no paperwork, thus making the process of working capital funding much easier and faster. Moreover a business cash advance does not have a fixed term for payback schedule as the case is with small business loan.

Set Goals

2008-05-13T20:14:00.000-07:00

I have been setting goals since high school. No, I wasn't an "A," "B" or even a "C" student. I was a typical, want to have fun, didn't care about college "D" student. I know what you are thinking. What possible goal could I have set?. Well, that is easy to answer, my goal was to graduate without being held back a year. Because, in high school, the worse thing in the world to me was to be the oldest kid in the grade level. This may not have been a life altering goal, but a goal none the less, and I successfully achieved my goal. My point is, it is not the type of the goal you set that matters, but the fact that you set one. If I had known then what I know now, I would have definitely set better goals for myself. But, for this article, it proves a valid point.

In high school I knew what I wanted and how to get it, I had to if I wanted to achieve the goal of graduating. This was more difficult than you think. By setting this goal, it forced me to learn how the system worked, and to study every aspect of the rules. I had to know what would happen if I failed this test or if I didn't show up for it at all. What was I going to need on the next test?. What about the next quarter? I admit now that just studying hard and getting "A's" would have probably been easier (but probably not as much fun).

My best friend, on the other hand, decided not to set any goals and just see what happens. You could ask him any question relating to the his future and his answer would be " I Don't Know ". That was his favorite phase. Well tenth and eleventh grade came and went. And, like most people who don't set goals, he got lucky and passed. Now it's twelfth grade and again, like most people who don't set goals, the luck came to a screeching halt and ran out. He failed and now had to spend another year in the twelfth grade being the oldest kid in his class. I can't imagine how it felt being with all the kids who just the year before looked up to him.

My friend failed because he didn't set a goal and take the time to learn the rules or study the game. The rules changed in twelfth grade, you couldn't miss but so many classes or you would automatically fail. Since he felt he would just do the same thing he had always done, he paid the price. My point here is simple. By setting goals, you are more likely to get somewhere in life and keep going. Goals are more than just a wish. They enable us to be more than we are and stronger than we thought. When we reach and accomplish one goal, we are more eager to want to set another one, thus we continue to grow.

I am thirty one now. I barely passed high school and have no college education at all.Yet, I have achieved a lot in my short life all because of goals. I have held the title of manager in several different jobs. I am currently going on 6 years with my current employer and again hold the title of manager. I make a good living, have a wonderful family and thank God everyday that I have set goals in my life. Goals are what made all these things possible. Some of them have been small and others big, but all have been reached. Even if I fail the fist time at the goal I have set, I just get back up, dust myself off, and go at it again until I succeed. Failure is not an option to me. These same principles will be with me as I start my new venture and I will succeed at it as well.

Now go out and set some goals for yourself. Big or small, it doesn't matter as long as you follow through to the end. Give yourself adequate time to reach these goals and don't get disappointed if some take longer than you think they should. Just stay with it and you will succeed. Don't let petty things from your past or present stand in the way of your future. The only way to fail is if you let yourself fail.

Travel Tips for Foreign Business Trips

2008-05-07T01:10:00.001-07:00

Doing business overseas can be an exhilarating and inspiring experience that opens gateways to new cultures. It can also provide new ways of looking at your company's role in the worldwide marketplace and open up lucrative new business opportunities.

Traveling to foreign countries requires careful preparation. Specifically, you’ll need to obtain and take care of the following items:

Carry Proper Documentation
First off, you will need a passport, and you may also need a entry visa depending on the country you will be visiting. Each of these documents can take upwards of a month or more to obtain, so if you don't already have them, plan on applying for them far in advance of your trip. If you already have a passport, make sure it hasn't expired. (Some countries will not even accept a passport that is due to expire in a few months. Research the requirements of the specific country you will be visiting.)

Inquire About Vaccinations
Your primary care physician will be able to tell you which vaccinations, if any, you will need when traveling to a particular foreign country. There may also be medications you need to take in advance of your trip. Be aware that certain medications and vaccinations can cause nausea, and consider those side effects while physically traveling. If you're taking a certain medication for the first time, do so at least 24 hours before your departure.

Gain Familiarity with the Local Language
If necessary, study the basics of the language spoken in the country to which you're traveling. Invest in a pocket dictionary and carry it with you when heading to the office or to business meetings, when going out to eat, and even when going out for a stroll. If you have food allergies, it is especially important that you have a knowledge of the local language, since you'll want to ask the waiter about any problem ingredients in the dishes you order.

Safety Tips for Business Travels

2008-05-07T01:07:00.000-07:00

Avoiding catastrophes, both major and minor, should be of the utmost concern when traveling on business. Below are eight commonsense safety precautions to consider the next time you're away on business:

Lock it up. Although post-9/11 security measures prevent you from locking checked luggage, you can purchase plastic versions that snap into place and must be cut off. At a minimum, using them will prevent your bag from accidentally falling open. They also provide a bit of extra security should a thief be scouting an easy target. If officials check your bag, they're required to post notification inside after doing so. If your plastic lock has been removed but there's no note inside, you have grounds for a complaint, especially if items should come up missing. (In addition, travel stores now sell approved by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), which can be opened with secure keys used only by TSA officials.)
Buy online. If possible, purchase your airline tickets online, either through a travel site like or through the airline of your choice. Doing so allows you to print your itinerary and boarding passes before arriving at the airport, which speeds the check-in process. More importantly, if you happen to lose your itinerary during your business trip, all you'll have to do log on and print another copy.
Wear a money belt and carry a dummy wallet. Keep your money and credit cards in a money belt and wear it in front of you tucked inside your pants, then carry an empty wallet or purse. If you fall victim to a pickpocket in a crowd, you'll maintain your valuables. Female travelers should tuck purses under their arm instead of wearing it slung over their shoulder.
Know your surroundings. If you decide to venture out, and especially if you do so alone and at night, speak with the hotel concierge to learn which neighborhoods to avoid. Inquire about which areas pickpockets frequent, streets you should steer clear of, and where the best places are to hail a cab.
Maintain a low profile. Don't sport your flashiest clothes or jewelry in unfamiliar areas. And if you do decide to wear your favorite Armani suit and Rolex watch, opt for a cab over walking. Try to blend in with the locals. Don't walk through town with a camera slung around your neck and a street map peeking from your shirt's breast pocket.

Packing Tips for Business Trips

2008-05-07T01:03:00.000-07:00

Getting your life in order before a business trip can be challenging and stressful — there are so many things to remember, and so much that could go wrong if a crucial detail is overlooked. Save your stress for the actual business — the meeting, the presentation, the demo — by assuring that you've made all the essential preparations beforehand.

Cover your bases with these smart packing suggestions:

Files and Documents
Organize every business document you will need for the trip in either a single binder or a series of binders (depending on the number of handouts and other hardcopies you'll need to bring). For all the electronic files you need, take a disc and be sure you back up your work on a second disc that you can leave at the office.

Cell Phone and PDA
Make sure you have stored the contact names and addresses of all people you will be doing business with on your cell phone or PDA (BlackBerry, Treo, etc.). If you're not that digitized (or even if you are), make sure that information is written down somewhere safe. And don't forget the chargers for these electronic devices!

Clothing
Pack as light as possible. Aim to fit all of your belongings into one suitcase you can bring into the main cabin of the plane along with your briefcase. This will save you time and worry — waiting for checked baggage is even more agonizing on a business schedule.

Consider the type of people you'll be doing business with. Do you know if this company has a casual dress code and office culture, or will you be dealing with a more conservative company? Pack your business clothes accordingly, and if you are unsure of what to expect, err on the side of conservative. A dark-colored suit is best for withstanding clumsy waiters, bad weather, and other rough spots you may encounter during travel. Always bring a backup dress shirt and tie. You don't need to fret about your business clothes getting wrinkled — nearly every hotel room these days comes equipped with an iron and ironing board.

Job descriptions

2008-05-07T01:00:00.000-07:00

With corporate downsizing and the resultant redistribution of work across the organization's human resource base, job descriptions have taken on increased utility. With organizations today constantly undergoing change in what, and how, work is done, the job description has emerged as a powerful tool for avoiding chaos.

The job description is the blueprint of the design of a job. It should accurately and completely show how the organization expects the person doing the job to spend his/her time in the organization. It should clearly state the kinds of "things" the employee is expected to do (or not to do) as a member of the organization. The job description is not a document stating rules, procedures, or work objectives. It is not a performance evaluation instrument. It is not a statement of desired abilities, personal attributes (these are not dimensions of the job), or behaviors.

It is, primarily, a statement of what functions (duties and responsibilities) the employee is expected to accomplish. It may include desired performance outcomes and/or general means for achieving those outcomes, in order to clarify how one is to use one's time in the organization; but the focus is on what the employee does, not on how - and not on how accomplishment will be measured.

It is important for the job description to be prepared well because it is the "base" document for almost all human resource administrative activity that occurs in an organization. If it is not a valid document - accurately and completely reflecting the design of the job - its value as a tool for guiding such critical human resource management functions as job and organizational design, reward system design, employee staffing and training, and performance evaluation and control is suspect.

Many employees complain that their job descriptions do not accurately reflect the expectations management has of them. In a recent study, 200 non-managerial employees, both permanent and temporary, were surveyed in 60 different organizations. Eighty-five percent of them said their job descriptions were quite deficient as a tool for helping them learn what they were supposed to do for the organization. Most said their job descriptions were incomplete, vague, or both. About 70 percent said that key elements of their jobs were left out of their job descriptions.

What Is the Best Way to Job Search?

2008-05-07T00:53:00.000-07:00

When looking for a new job, use all of your available resources.

Look at key terms in job descriptions and try to work them into your résumé and cover letters.
Focus on substance and stress results.
Engage your interviewer and ask questions.
Be persistent, but don't call more than once a week and don't give up after the first few.

Home based Data Entry Clerk!

2008-05-07T00:48:00.000-07:00

If you are dynamic and having good and accurate typing speed then this is your opportunity to work with a progressive company of high repute.A golden avenue to express yourself.Earn $300-$500 per week just typing and placing data online.We are seeking only honest, self - motivated people with a desire to work in the home typing and data entry field from the comfort of their own homes.

Amazing!! Money! No worries!! Check this out!!

2008-05-07T00:46:00.001-07:00

Wow! Do not delete this. Just take a moment and read it and think for a moment how truly easy and powerful this can be. We all have received these types of letters in the past, but this one is truly different because it is very easy and you are using the power of the internet. You will not have to deal with postage, copying and typing letters, mailing letters or buying lead lists. This one is simple and can be easily duplicated and powerful based upon the financial principle of leveraging. This Program was started with paypal a couple of months ago and was working beautifully when paypal decided that this was a violation of their policies, so they suspended everyone that was affiliated with it. We were all doing so well that we decided to continue it with one variation. No Paypal. Follow the steps because this system works well and it works very fast. This is legal in all facets, because you are simply exercising your right to give a gift to another person. You are giving a gift. ""Give and It Shall Be Given Unto You"" You are only going to spend about 15 minutes of your time and you are only giving a one time gift of $10.00 to two people. That''s it. $20.00 in total with a potential return of $1,000''s of dollars in cash. Here are the simple instructions. Do not change this letter and follow this letter to a ""T"" Step #1 The list below contains 5 email addresses of participants. You are going to send an email to the person''s email address in spot #1 & #5 and email them with the words, ""Thanks I have joined, please send me your address so I can send you my gift"" When you receive the response back with that person''s information, simply send each person a one time gift of $10.00. Put $10 inside a piece of paper, put it in an envelope and mail it out to those 2 people''s addresses. Your first step is done. You have given a gift to the person in position #1 & position #5 of only $10.00 each. 1 . sedess27@aol.com 2. ivanbodell@yahoo.com 3. westrom@gmail.com 4. misc12@yahoo.com 5. mikebeyer22@yahoo.com Step #2 Highlight all the copy in this email. Then click Edit. Compose a new email that you are going to send out and then in the body of the email simply click Paste and this entire email will be copied into your email body. Then simply scroll down to the list of the participants and remove the #1 person and move everyone up a spot and add your email information into the #5 spot. Step #3 Send the email out to everyone on your address book and keep sending this out until you have received at least 20 ""Thanks I''ve Joined emails"" The more you send out the more cash you will ultimately receive. The 5 th person is the monitor of the list! When your name is in the 1 st slot, approximately 8,000 to 15,000 people will be sending you $10.00 dollars. Do the math. This is very powerful. What you give out in life will come to you many times over. This is the description of this opportunity in a nutshell. Take a look also at Luke 6:38. KEEP THE CONTENTS OF THIS LETTER THE SAME. DUPLICATION IS THE KEY. DO NOT MAKE CHANGES OTHER THAN ADDING YOUR NAME TO THE #5 SLOT AND MOVING EVERYONE UP ONE SPOT. DO NOT TRY TO PUT YOURSELF IN THE 5 TH SLOT WITHOUT GIVING YOUR GIFT TO THAT PERSON. Remember, it is the integrity of the program that can benefit us ALL .NO PAY-NO PLAY. TESTIMONIALS: Mary Gatters , Columbus , SC : I only have one thing to say to you... OH MY GOD! I sent out 142 copies total before 20 replied , like the instructions said . Then I went on a short vacation . When I got back my account had over $32 ,000 dollars in it already and the money was still coming ! I'm still floating on air ( especially with my new car). I thought the ' guardian' system sounded cheesy, but now I realize it is the formula that makes this letter really work! THANKS! You may have received similar mail at one time and trashed it, but this one is very different because of the internet. With the internet you can speed this message around the world! Plus it is only a $20.00 gift! Please give it an honest effort, you will not be disappointed when it starts to work, and it will. This will work very fast. Only 2 people sending you cash, you will receive your initial gift back and then the Sky is the Limit! REMEMBER all you're going to be out of pocket is about the cost of a few cups of coffee, $20.00 TOTAL with No Other Expenses. Think about giving $10.00 to two people and the opportunity of receiving thousands of dollars in CASH. WOW! This is what leveraging is all about and leveraging is the Key to Creating Wealth! Character is the issue, do you have it? If you do you will be blessed beyond measure. Matthew 6:33 John 10:10 Mark 11:23,24 Isaiah 48:17 Mark 9:23 Luke 6:38 Your Thoughts Determine What You Want, Your Actions Determine What You Receive.

Social Networking and Money!! Check this out!!

2008-05-07T00:44:00.000-07:00

Hi Fellow Entrepreneur, I think you're an individual who is looking for a successful opportunity to work from home, advertise or make money on the Internet I would never recommend a business opportunity that did not have a very high level of potential for success. I was recently introduced to a company that has a mass appeal, concept and services far above anything I have seen in years! PLUS, you'll be one of the FIRST to get in on the ground floor of the company that has created the most buzz I've seen in years! Think of some of the biggest companies out there, and what your opportunity would have been to be one of the first signed up! We've all worked with many MLM companies, made some money, had some failures. What 's the biggest reason people fail at MLM? It's difficult to convince people to buy lotions, potions and pills and in most cases, spend over $100 per month in expensive auto ships. What's another reason people fail in MLM? FINDING PEOPLE to join your business! How would you like to join a company that is ALL about people? It's about matching people with those that have the same interests, desires and goals. It's about finding people for your MLM, your home business, it's about finding jobs, it's about finding your perfect mate, it's about networking in every area of life! I've been approached to join many new business opportunities, but they just didn't excite me until I saw Direct Matches! You have to feel passionate about what you're doing to get others interested, and I just didn't see anything of personal interest to me until now. I felt I'd have to find an opportunity with mass appeal for people looking for a business opportunity that wouldn't put a huge dent in someone's bank account just to sign up! Along comes: www.directmatches.com/mikebeyer Directmatches covers it all! It covers the market for singles looking for their perfect mate. It covers the Direct Sales market for MLM and networkers looking for people to join their opportunities. It provides job postings for potential employers and job seekers. It can find and connect you with potential friends and associates that have the same hobbies or interests that you do. DirectMatches is a company with credibility! Direct Matches belongs to the Direct Selling Association, E-Trust, Greater Reston Chamber of Commerce, US Chamber of Commerce and has hired Gerald Nehra, MLM Specialist and Private Practice Attorney on retainer. The potential for earning is the most lucrative in the industry, but don't take my word for it. Go to the website, Join for Free and check out this simple step-by-step plan on how you can quickly start earning commissions. Directmatches member Dwight Alston from Memphis, TN retired AT 24 years old using this system. Click on : http://www.dmbiztrainingspace.com See for yourself how Direct Matches can and will be the company you'll retire with! The biggest and most successful net workers in the industry are joining us in this cutting-edge opportunity! Hey, why don't you jump in and take one of the first positions at the top of the company? How many times have you wished you could get a chance like this and beat the crowd? Just TAKE IT! Mike Beyer www.directmatches.com/mikebeyer mikebeyer29@yahoo.com

Improving the Types of Information in Business Reporting

2008-04-15T23:00:00.001-07:00

Based on the information needs of users and the costs and benefits of suggested improvements, the Committee recommends changes in four areas: improving the types of information in business reporting, improving financial statements, improving auditors' involvement with business reporting, and facilitating change. This chapter addresses the Committee's recommendations in the first area.

Business reporting cannot and should not meet all users' needs for information. It would be too costly to do so and, as discussed in chapter 3, users want information from multiple sources. However, business reporting should include all information that meets the broad range of users' needs for information but be restricted by two conditions: (1):NSP:the information should be within management's expertise (that is, management should be the best source for the information) and (2):NSP:the information should be provided at acceptable cost.

Within those constraints, however, it is important that the information provided by business reporting be as complete as possible — it must address the broad range of users' needs for information. Because of dramatic changes in the environment affecting business, users may require new types of information. At the same time, companies may develop, for management purposes, new types of information that users would find useful, and some information traditionally provided no longer may be necessary. Because of those changes, standard setters and regulators constantly must update their understanding of users' needs for information and the information management has available for internal purposes that could assist users to ensure that business reporting is as complete as possible considering the costs of providing the information.

Types of Business Ownership

2008-04-15T22:58:00.000-07:00

Proprietorship – business owned and operated by one person
74% of all USA businesses
Accounts for 6% of all sales in USA

Advantages: (1) decisions are made by only the owner; (2) simple process to start – just get a business license (3) profits belong to the owner; (4) pride of ownership; (5) lower taxes

Disadvantages: (1) unlimited liability (personal assets at risk); (2) limited life of business (when the owner quits/can’t work, the business ends); (3) difficult to raise capital for business; (4) risk of lost is not shared

Partnership - business owned and operated by two or more people
8% of all USA businesses
Accounts for 4% of all sales in USA

Advantages: (1) easy to start (should have all the agreements spelled out ahead of time); (2) not many regulations; (3) not as difficult to raise capital for business; (4) combination of knowledge and skills;

Disadvantages: (1) unlimited liability; (2) profits are shared; (3) limited life of the business; (4) disagreements

Corporation - business owned by stockholders/investors but operated by officers

18% of all USA businesses
Accounts for 90% of all sales in USA

Advantages: (1) easy to raise capital (stocks, loans); (2) limited liability; (3) unlimited life of business; (4) hire specialized skills and knowledge; (5) shared risks

Disadvantages: (1) difficult to start; (2) less direct control; (3) double taxation: corporate tax and individual tax; (4) limited activity

Multi-nation corporations (international or global business) are businesses that sell or produce products in more than one country.

Non-profit Organizations (not-for-profit) are institutions that try to cover their operating costs. They usually offer a service that is considered beneficial to society. (The Red Cross, religious institutions, schools, food banks, etc.)

Franchises – individual business people buy a business, but a certain percentage goes back to the corporation. Franchises must adhere to the corporate regulations. (McDonalds, Krispy Cream, Starbucks)

Ways of financing businesses: (1) stocks; (2) line of credit from a bank; (3) bonds – long term loan. Annually you receive interest and the principal at the end of the term;

Ways of Growing

Types of Mergers

(1) horizontal mergers – businesses in the same industry that combine for greater market share and production. Example: the merger of two car dealerships.

(2) vertical mergers – businesses at different stages of production in the same industry that combine to become more efficient in a market. Example: cars manufacturer merges with a tire manufacturer.

(3) conglomerate merger – different industries merge to broaden business opportunities. Example: a car dealership merges with a music company

Types of business structures

2008-04-15T22:56:00.000-07:00

A Sole Proprietorship is one individual or married couple in business alone. Sole proprietorships are the most common form of business structure. This type of ownership is simple to form and operate, and may enjoy greater flexibility of management, less legal regulation, and fewer taxes. However, the business owner is personally liable for all debts incurred by the business.

A General Partnership is composed of two or more persons (usually not a married couple) who agree to contribute money, labor, or skill to a business. Each partner shares the profits, losses, and management of the business, and each partner is personally and equally liable for debts of the partnership. Formal terms of the partnership are usually contained in a written partnership agreement.

A Limited Partnership is composed of one or more general partners and one or more limited partners. The general partners manage the business and share fully in its profits and losses. Limited partners share in the profits of the business, but their losses are limited to the extent of their investment. Limited partners are usually not involved in the day-to-day operations of the business. Filing with the Office of the Secretary of State is required.

A Limited Liability Partnership (LLP) is similar to a General Partnership except that normally a partner does not have personal liability for the negligence of another partner. Filing with the Office of the Secretary of State is required. Professionals such as accountants and lawyers use this business structure most commonly.

A Corporation is a more complex business structure. As a chartered legal entity, a corporation has certain rights, privileges, and liabilities beyond those of an individual. Doing business as a corporation may yield tax or financial benefits, but these can be offset by other considerations, such as increased licensing fees or decreased personal control. Corporations may be formed for profit or nonprofit purposes. Filing with the Office of the Secretary of State is required.

A Limited Liability Company (LLC) is composed of one or more individuals or entities through a special written agreement. The agreement includes: provisions for management, ability to assign interests, and distribution of profits and losses. Limited liability companies are permitted to engage in any lawful, for-profit business or activity other than banking or insurance. Filing with the Office of the Secretary of State is required.

A Massachusetts Trust is an unincorporated business with the property being held and managed by the trustees for the shareholders. The trustees are considered employees since they work for the trust. Filing with the Office of the Secretary of State is required.

Business Improvement

2008-04-15T22:54:00.000-07:00

Business structures

When starting a business, there are several different types of business structures to choose from, such as a sole proprietorship, a partnership, or a corporation.

Out-of-state businesses

Out-of-state businesses must register with the Washington State Department of Revenue if:

The business conducts activities that establish nexus
in Washington.
The business collects retail sales tax or other taxes administered by the Department.
The business collects Washington’s use tax.

Industry specific guides

Information to help you understand the tax obligations for specific industries, such as construction, lodging, child care, etc.

Nonprofit organizations (pdf)

Generally, nonprofit organizations are required to pay sales or use tax on items purchased for their own use. A nonprofit organization must register in Washington if it conducts taxable business activities in the state.

Temporary & seasonal businesses

If you sell products or services at two or fewer events a year -
with each event lasting less than a month - you may request
a temporary registration. The Department also offers seasonal registration for businesses that sell products or services for
two or fewer quarters per year.

Create a Business Plan

2008-04-10T01:25:00.000-07:00

Create Your Most Valuable Document: Your Business Plan

Your Business Plan is not just for getting a loan. The Business Plan keeps you focused, gets employees on board, and helps you make adjustments as things change. It also determines if you are ready to go into business. Let us show you how to make one.

Find out why you need a Business Plan:

Objectivity
Effective Management
Communicate Your Vision

Creating your Business Plan is easy; follow this outline:

Cover Page
Overview
Description of Business
Product/Service
The Market
The Competition
Location of Business
Management
Personnel
Use, and Effect, of Financing
Financial Data
Risk Analysis
Rationales

Ensure success by following these Five Steps - You must understand these steps. Do not rely on someone else.

Understand Your Financial Statements
Analyze Your numbers
Dig Deeper
Explore Other Management Measures
Create the Financing Proposal

More Resources - Get more advice from these valuable sources

Three reasons why you need a Business Plan

A sound business plan will help build your business, weather market fluctuations, manage sudden growth, and prepare for changing business conditions. It will help you manage your business better. Here are three reasons why:

#1: Objectivity - You'll be better able to identify areas of weakness and strength, pinpoint needs you might otherwise overlook, spot opportunities early, and begin planning to best achieve business goals.

The process of putting a business plan together, and the thought you put into writing it, forces you to take an objective, critical, unemotional look at your entire business project.

#2: Effective Management - If completed properly, the finished product will help you manage your business and work effectively toward its success. But only if you implement what you've written, and measure results against projections. Don't put it in a drawer and forget it. Lack of planning is why over half of all new businesses fail in the first five years.

#3: Communicate Your Vision - Your employees, investors, and lenders will understand your vision if you have a well written plan that provides the basis for your financing proposal. If your venture is marginal, the business plan will show you why, and help you avoid the high tuition of learning through business failure.

Your Business Plan Outline

Cover Page - This should list the business name and address and the names, addresses and phone numbers of the principals.

Overview - This is your statement of purpose. Why your business functions, and what it does. It will help the rest of your business plan make sense. Each section supports the others logically, leaving the reader with a concise, convincing statement that the project and plan are feasible.

Description of Business - Include Notes Addressing:

Business Form: Sole Proprietor, Partnership, Corporation, LLC etc.
Type of Business: Merchandising, Manufacturing, or Service
What is the Product or Service?
Is the business a start-up, acquisition, or in expansion?
Is it seasonal?
Industry trends, existing and future. Use outside expert sources

Product/Service - Explain what you're selling, its benefit, which products/services are popular, which are cash cows. Also detail products in decline, and what's different about your products and services.

The Market - Explain who your customers are. Is your market a specific segment, or the general population? Detail market trends you've discovered in your research, and how you'll attract, hold and increase market share. Pricing strategy is key. Present a clear and concise picture of how you'll market your product/service and how this will lead to profits. These will be used as the rationale used in projections you make, and lead to a marketing plan.

The Competition - Competition is not a bad thing. Being unable to identify or differentiate yourself from competition is! Detail direct and indirect competition, how they are similar and different from your business. What have you learned from the way they operate and advertise? What will you do differently, and why?

Location of Business - Explain why you've chosen the location of your business, and the type of space you have. Make particular note of demographic or other market shifts going on, whether good or bad.

Management - Describe your background/business experience and how it's relevant to your business. Include the management team and their strengths and weaknesses, including you. Make sure all duties are described and clearly defined and include any additional resources that may be available to your business

Personnel - Address current staffing levels, explain additional staff-level and skill needs, future hiring plans and what the labor pool is like in your industry. This may create certain risks. Be aware of them, address them and show back-up plans.

The Use, and Effect, of Financing - Explain how the loan or investment will make your business more profitable. Examine and explain lease/buy options. Explain why you need the money, and establish a procedure for making borrowing decisions. Plan to borrow well in advance of your need for the funds.

Financial Data - Demonstrate that you have a good accounting system. It is critical to have a competent accountant set up good accounting records. If you can't afford a good accountant, you are too undercapitalized to be in business. If you do not understand the need for good accounting records, you do not have enough management experience to effectively manage your business.

Whatever system you set up, it must generate the information to produce these documents:

Balance Sheet
Income Statement
Cash Flow Statement

Risk Analysis - Identify and explain the risks to your business and your ability to meet objectives. Risks are not a bad thing--every business has them. Not being aware of the risks is a bad thing. Explain them, and what steps you'll take to plan around them

Rationales - You must be able to defend your projections. Explain the rationales you used and the sources of information. This should come from reliable sources such as industry trade magazines, industry historical results, the Robert Morris Associates' Annual Statement Studies, and marketing studies to name a few. Intuition will not work here.

Follow these Five Steps

STEP 1: Understanding Your Financial Statements

The three most important financial documents for most businesses:

Income Statement or Profit and Loss (P&L)
Cash Flow Statement
Balance Sheet

Income Statement

Use the income statement to compare sales and expenses to previous periods as percentages. By viewing numbers as percentages, you'll have a better perspective on what's actually taking place over time. To get the percentage, divide expense items by total sales. This will help you compare your business and expense items to others in the same industry. Your lender will look for these percentages.

Cash Flow Statement

Every business must be profitable to last. Cash flow can be more important than a profit on the Profit and Loss Statement. You may be profitable at the end of the year, but if you don't have cash when you need it during the year, you won't make it. You can't pay payroll taxes with accounts receivable.

Use the cash flow statement to record actual sales revenue received and expenses paid out during the month. Do this over the past year and you'll be able to project next year's, or next month's cash needs. This will help you know cash shortfalls, and when and how much financing you'll need, and when the money will come in to pay back the loan.

Balance Sheet

This will give you a picture of your business' financial condition at a specific point in time;as of the date of the financial statement. It will show assets, liabilities and net worth. Lenders like to see a business with solid net worth.

STEP 2: Analyzing Your Numbers

Once you have your financial statements, use these ratios to determine your business' health and to compare to industry norms.

Current Ratio - Current assets divided by current liabilities; measures your liquidity: the ability to meet current obligations with current assets.

Debt to Worth - Total debt divided by Net Worth. Measures leverage: how much you owe lenders versus how much you've invested in the business lenders.

Gross Profit Margin - Net sales less cost of goods sold divided by net sales. Measures profitability

Operating Profit Margin - Operating profit divided by net sales. Shows the main cash flow source.

Return on Sales Ratio - Net profit after taxes divided by net sales. Measures overall profitability.

Speak with your accountant and banker to find out which of these are relevant to your business, and what the industry norms are.

STEP 3: Digging Deeper

Common areas of cash shortfall are inventory and accounts receivable.

Are you collecting accounts receivable on time? Follow the formula for the Accounts Receivable Ratio below to find out:

Accounts Receivable (as stated on your Balance Sheet )
Divided by your Net Sales (as stated in your income statement )
Equals= Receivable to Sales Ratio.
Now, multiply this Ratio by 365 (days in year)
Equals= # days Average Collection period.

EXAMPLE: Accounts Receivable = $27,000, Net Sales = $175,000

	$ 27,000 = .15	365
	$175,000	x.15
	___________54.75 (55 days)
	This means your average collection period is 55 days. Should you be concerned? It depends your industry's norm. If your collection period is long as compared to the industry, you may need to reduce it to get cash coming in quicker. Seek your accountant's input.

Do you have the right level of inventory? Too high and you tie up cash and risk carrying obsolete inventory. Too low and you may lose sales and the benefit of buying in quantity. Calculate your Inventory Turnover ratio to help balance this:

Inventory divided by Cost of Goods Sold
Multiplied by 365
Equals=How many days it takes to turnover (liquidate) inventory
Discuss your results with your accountant.

STEP 4: Other Management Measures

Most business functions can be measured by things beyond company financials, and make a direct contribution to your business' success and growth.

Productivity - Three most common productivity measures are:

Sales per employee
Output per employee or team
Percentage of errors and/or waste

Check your results and compare with industry and internal standards.

Personnel - Without a personnel/training department, the cost of recruiting, hiring, and training good employees can be high. The cost is usually lower to keep good employees than constantly training new ones.

Sales and Marketing - Use your business plan to establish sales goals. Break them down into small increments. These goals will drive the number of promotional pieces mailed, contacts made, leads generated, phone or personal calls made, and percentage of deals closed.

Know what your cost of sale is. If you know how many pieces of mail generate a certain level of sales, then you can project sales increases by adjusting the number of pieces you send. This holds true for each method of marketing.

You must know what return will be generated for each marketing dollar spent.

STEP 5: The Financing Proposal

Your most important resource in starting up your new business is MONEY! Your financing proposal will demonstrate that you know what you're doing. Your Business Plan can be modified slightly to become your Financing Proposal.

Here is what bankers look for when you approach them to finance your startup.

Track Record - As a startup, you must convince your banker (with your Business Plan) that your business will be successful. This is your opportunity to sell yourself!
Business Credit - Since your business is new, the bank will look closely at how you've repaid personal debts. Get a copy of your credit report and address any problems up front.
Personal Investment - A bank doesn't want to provide 100% of the money to start your business. The amount invested from personal assets shows how confident you are in your ability.
Collateral - The bank needs to have something to secure the loan with. You can provide information on this in your balance sheet. Show your assets, liabilities and owners equity.
Repayment - Show how you'll repay the loan with a monthly cash flow projection. Include details about the assumptions you use.
Business Plan - This helps the banker understand your vision-which is critical to your financing request. It also helps you focus ideas and strategies, and measure their effectiveness later.
Experience - You should have the experience and expertise to succeed in your industry. Prepare a Professional Resume or Bio that will demonstrate this.

When you project your business cash flow, you see what your deepest negative cash flow is, indicating how much money you need and when you need it. Make sure to request enough financing up front.

Tell your lender what you need the money for, how you will repay it and why the loan makes good business sense.

REMEMBER: A sound business plan is your key to a successful business!

More Resources - Get more advice from these valuable sources

Chase Business Resource Center
Download Business Plan Template
SBA (Small Business Administration)
SCORE®1 Counselors to America's Small Business
Bureau of Labor Statistics
SBA-Women's Business Center

¹Resources are provided by SCORE® for informational purposes only and may not reflect your specific situation. Chase makes no representations or warranties as to the accuracy, completeness or timeliness of the information. The information is not intended to provide legal, tax or accounting advice. You should consult a qualified advisor for advice specific to your own circumstances.

Links to SCORE® a third party site is provided for your convenience by Chase. Chase neither endorses nor guarantees any offerings of the third party providers, nor does Chase make any representation or warranty of any kind about the content, use of or inability to use, the third party site.

Please consult your branch or relationship manager for the latest rates, fees and closing cost requirements.

This site is directed at and made available to persons in the United States only. Products and services described as well as associated fees, charges, interest rates and balance requirements may differ among different geographic locations. Not all products and services are offered at all locations.

Business Plan Solutions

2008-04-10T01:24:00.001-07:00

MasterPlans has developed a specific multi-product service aimed at providing the right plan for the right need. Below you'll see our simple MasterPlans hierarchy of services. Choose which one is right for you, and call a MasterPlans specialist to get more information.

Business Plan Driven Marketing Solutions

2008-04-10T01:22:00.000-07:00

At MasterPlans, we appreciate the need for a strong corporate identity package. We can create marketing solutions that result in a cohesive approach to communicating with investors, business partners, and your customer base. When investors are impressed, inspired, and reassured by your marketing - the way your company looks and sounds - it speaks volumes about the dedication you will bring to the business itself. Contact our Project Specialist for more information on:

Logo design
Multi-media presentations
Microsoft PowerPoint presentations

Business Plan Development

2008-04-10T01:19:00.001-07:00

The average business plan takes an entrepreneur 400 hours to complete (as stated by the SBA.) The average consultant takes about 40 hours. A consultant generally doesn't spend 8 hours a day writing a single document. Most other firms quote a month for a document's turnaround time because they employ part-timers. At MasterPlans, 5 people work on your document and most projects can be drafted in one week. This means you have zero consultant fatigue, and a skilled professional working on the aspect of the plan they specialize in. You'll have an MBA in Finance doing the numbers, a Master of English writing the prose, and an MBA in Marketing creating your marketing strategy.

Our Business Planning Achievements!

2008-04-10T01:18:00.001-07:00

Creator of the unique Team Plan Model™
As seen in Entrepreneur Magazine
A tremendous track record with all third party review systems
Featured advice columnist for Inc.com
An Alight™ Certified Consultant

MasterPlans

2008-04-10T01:17:00.001-07:00

MasterPlans is committed to business planning excellence at AFFORDABLE prices through the use of the unique Team Plan Model. We are a team of real world professionals who have delivered results consistently in business planning. Working with companies such as Tyco, Silva Gas, and XO, as well as with small entrepreneurs just starting out, MasterPlans has changed the way smart people get into business- with a professional edge. Our business planning successes range from small SBA loans, to private investment transactions, to large venture capital deal procurement. Whether you are buying a franchise, opening a restaurant or store, or looking for multi-millions to launch an empire, MasterPlans has done it before, and can do it for you.

Manage Your Business

2008-04-10T01:15:00.000-07:00

Successfully managing a business requires specific management skills in addition to knowledge of key business practices. Within this section you’ll learn about leadership traits, decision-making skills, and how to manage your employees. Additionally, we’ll walk you through a host of important topics to manage your business including: marketing basics, setting prices, filing your business taxes, legal considerations, forecasting for future growth, and financing options.

Start Your Business

2008-04-10T01:14:00.001-07:00

Starting a business requires you to complete a number of steps and make some key decisions. Though part of your overall plan, you’ll need to select a location, decide on a business structure, and obtain the necessary licenses and permits. In addition, determining which financing options will meet your short-term needs and long-term goals is crucial. Within this section, we’ll provide information on these topics along with guidance on buying an existing business, copyright and trademark issues, and getting support from an outside expert.

Plan Your Business

2008-04-10T01:11:00.000-07:00

Planning is critical to successfully starting and building a business. That’s why we’ve dedicated a section for it. Here you’ll find guidance on the tools and resources necessary to write a winning business plan. From sample plans to a business plan primer, we’ll get you started on this very important activity. Once your business is up and running, you’ll need to regularly review and update your plan to manage growth.

5 Tips for Effective Business Planning

2008-04-07T21:47:00.000-07:00

1.Clearly define your business idea and be able to succinctly articulate it. Know your mission.
2.Examine your motives. Make sure that you have a passion for owning a business and for this particular business.
3.Be willing to commit to the hours, discipline, continuous learning and the frustrations of owning your own business.
4.Conduct a competitive analysis in your market, including products, prices, promotions, advertising, distribution, quality, service, and be aware of the outside influences that affect your business.
5.Seek help from other small businesses, vendors, professionals, government agencies, employees, trade associations and trade shows. Be alert, ask questions, and visit your local SCORE office.

5 Tips for Developing Policies for Your Business

2008-04-07T21:44:00.000-07:00

Think ahead. Establish policies before you need them. Doing so helps avert crises and awkward situations, and helps solve problems before they arise.
Determine what policies you need. Some you’ll want early in your business include a mission statement, as well as compensation, performance evaluation and employee policies.
Get input from key employees, as well as from members of your advisory board, your board of directors, and/or your professional advisors and consultants.
Communicate policies to everyone in your business.
Review policies on a regular basis—once a year, for example—and revise them as necessary.

Govt clears proposal for setting up IT investment regions

2008-04-05T22:19:00.001-07:00

After IT Parks and IT SEZs, the government has cleared a proposal for creating a much larger Information Technology Investment regions (ITIRs) to give a fillip to the country's growing IT and ITeS sector.

The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, which met under the chairmanship of Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh on Thursday, cleared the policy for setting up ITIRs, each having an area of at least 40 sq km.

"ITIRs were conceptualised keeping in view the need to boost the growth of both IT/IT enabled services (ITeS) and Electronic Hardware Manufacturing (EHM) units", an official statement said.

These regions would become major magnets for investment, creating employment opportunities and economic growth in the area while reducing the pressure on existing urban centres by enabling growth of new townships, it added.

The ITIRs will be much larger than IT SEZs. Each ITIR is expected to be specifically notified investment region with minimum area of 40 sq km planned for IT and ITeS and EHM units. The minimum processing area would be 40 per cent of the total area of the ITIR. The regions would be a combination of IT/ITeS and EHM units, public utilities, residential areas, social infrastructure and administrative services.

According to the proposal, while the Centre will facilitate development of national highways, airport and rail links towards the ITIRs, states will help in the local infrastructure like power, water, health, education and state roads. The ITIRs would be developed in a phased manner through Public-Private Partnership route.

Own Business

2008-04-05T22:16:00.000-07:00

Want to start your own business, but don't know where to acquire loans? Are you in the dark about the laws and regulations related to various corporate issues? Now, here is a section that enlightens people on every possible issue related to the business industry. Whether you have a desire to do business with the government, want to be familiar with various Labour Acts, or simply want to know about India's trade relation with other countries, this section is the place to be in.

E-Commerce Solutions

2008-04-05T22:12:00.001-07:00

Electronic Commerce is the buying and selling of goods and services or the transfer of money over the Internet or an Intranet. This can involve stores or banking activities. Standards have been established to make the process easier and more secure.

E-commerce is the main reason a large number of Web sites exist on the Web. It has opened a whole new world for retailers, wholesalers, and other types of marketers. Those vendors range from the big guys (i.e., K-Mart, Walmart) to the smaller, lesser-known ones (i.e., individuals). In some cases, it has even made a few people very wealthy. But, for the most part, it has become another method of creating income, whether it be to make a living or just a little pocket change.

E-commerce is not slowing down. On the contrary, it is rapidly growing around the world, making for a true global economy.

There are several basic steps involved in becoming eCommerce Enabled.

Getting an Internet Merchant Bank Account
Web Hosting
Obtaining a Digital Certificate
Finding a Provider of Online Transactions
Creating or Purchasing a Shopping Cart Software

Marketing versus Selling Web Sites
Most companies with an Internet presence have a straightforward marketing site. The objective of the site is to supplement traditional marketing activities, perhaps give additional information, and generally promote the company. There is often a reluctance to give complete product details because the objective is to induce visitors to call or write to the company for more information and thus establish contact.

A selling site is different. The objective is to close the sale electronically with payment (and sometimes delivery) made over the Internet. This type of site will be designed to include comprehensive product information, as visitors will be expected to make a purchasing decision based on the information presented.

Internet marketing Solutions

2008-04-05T22:10:00.000-07:00

e-Business India specializes in knowing your business, your objectives, and your goals. The result is Customized strategy to get you the best possible results from the Internet. After all, if you cannot be found using search engines, then your web site is really just an expensive business card.

There are billions of dollars spent every year on Internet advertising - keyword buys, banner campaigns, site sponsorships, click thru advertising, affiliate programs and the like, and while these are all necessary components for a successful web site, the often most overlooked but most effective means of online promotion is search engine promotion and positioning. Our teams of internet marketing consultants create inspiring campaigns with impact.

Successful internet marketing can transform your business activities on the web. Internet marketing activities include creating online campaigns, search engine optimisation, key word buying, email marketing, online advertising and viral marketing.

Internet Marketing & Promotional Services

2008-04-05T22:01:00.000-07:00

Internet Marketing Solutions specializes in knowing your business, your objectives, your goals. We do not make empty promises and can help you develop an attainable Internet Marketing Strategy.
Our Website Promotion, Link Exchange, and Link Popularity Services can help your business succeed. We pride ourselves in offering a promotion strategy that delivers and brings our clients websites to the top.

Business Services Category

2008-04-05T21:54:00.000-07:00

Take a minute and browse the quality web site reviews and Business Services resources provided by the Genuine Web Directory.

Web sites relevant to Business Services have been hand picked and reviewed by our human editors to meet our high editorial standards so that you may find the most relevant and authoritative resources relating to Business Services listed in this sub category.

Whatever your Business Services related search we hope you will find the Web sites listed on Genuine Web Directory to exceed your expectations.

If you have a Web site that is related to Business Services, please submit your site to the Genuine Web Directory for review.

Business Category

2008-04-05T21:45:00.000-07:00

Genuine Directory - Business Category

A business, firm or enterprise is a legal organization entity in any country with a free economy, formed to provide goods and/or services to customers. Businesses predominate in a capitalist economy and most firms are privately owned and operated to earn profits and increase the wealth of the owners.

Shareholders, partners or other owners, managers and operators of a business generally have a primary objective to generate a financial return in exchange for the goods and/or services provided by the business. Risk managment is a key element in generating profits.

Cooperative businesses and government institutions may also be organized as non-profit businesses, but with the primary functions and organization being in contrast to more socialistic systems. Such organizations typcically involve either public, governmental or employee ownership of many sizable businesses.

The general etymology of business refers to a state an individual or society as a whole being busy and actively, commercially viable and performing profitable work. The term "business" can have one of three primary meanings: the business of a specific corporation or business; the business of a particular market category or sector; or a broad meaning which includes all activity by a specific category of suppliers and consumers of related services and/or goods. As with much in the world of business, the term's exact definition is a topic of much debate.

The study of business as an academic discipline entails the study of managing individuals within organizations to enhance collective productivity and accomplish specific financial, strategic and productive goals in order to maximize the generation of profits and value for the organization's owners.

Indian Business

2008-04-05T21:40:00.000-07:00

Welcome to the IndiaBusiness Buzz Machine!

IndiaBusiness.pluGGd.in is a "Digg like" news site where people submit, share, vote and promote stories and posts on Indian Business space, Indian Internet/Mobile and Digital space. Join the fun by submitting stories that you think deserve a "digg". The typical submitted stories should fall under the following theme :

Indian Internet/Mobile Industry related news
Internet/Mobile/Technology space
India Business (i.e. beyond the Internet/Mobile world)

Google your way to a shopping spree

2008-04-05T21:38:00.001-07:00

Internet search engine giant Google today announced the launch of two India specific services -- Google Local Search and Google Local Business Centre. Google India Labs, an India serving innovation platform, was also launched.

Google Local Search will assist Indian users looking for locally relevant information on the web such as restaurants, shops and hotels. Google Local Business Centre will allow any business to add its information to Google Local for free. When users search on Google Local Search, the listed business information will be displayed, according to a company release.

“Local Search and Local Business Centre will provide users with better results by increasing the corpus and depth of business listings, and benefit local businesses by ensuring visibility on the internet for free,” said Vinay Goel, Head of Products, Google India.

Google Labs is a technology playground for products that are in the process of development and require market feedback to improve. This launch makes India one of the few countries to have a country-focused labs program. Globally, Google has 7 labs across US, China, Italy, France, Germany, the Netherlands, and Spain. India labs will serve as a platform to showcase innovations that are particularly relevant to the Indian market and will also allow users to take a peek into Google’s future offerings.

OWN YOUR OWN BUSINESS

2008-04-05T21:32:00.000-07:00

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Posted On	:	April 30, 2007

Email	:	anonymous

Start your very Own Internet Business and that too with very Less Investment.

2008-04-05T21:30:00.000-07:00

Complete Web Solutions at one Place

Earnonline India is happy to announce a Complete solution website that can cater to all your website needs. This Site will be further upgraded to a huge Web-Portal giving you FREE Email Services - with punch line "Mail with Simplicity and Difference". This site gives you Complete Web Solutions:-

Domain Hosting,

Domain Forwarding,

Web Hosting / Hosting Plans

Business Email,

Search submission,

SEO - Search Engine Optimization,

SEM - Search Engine Marketing,

Web Designing / Development,

Online Services,

Cheap Websites,

Website Promotion / Internet Marketing,

e-mail Marketing,

Online / Offline Promotion,

Job Work & Other Web and Internet related services.

Lovely School of Business

2008-04-05T21:16:00.000-07:00

BUSINESS

Running own business or managing an organisation, these all require management skills. To manage any organisation successfully requires a deep understanding of the internal and external factors that affect business practices. This understanding combined with a wide range of skills and techniques enables managers to produce efficient and economic business solutions. Management which are both technical and people related also these are very crucial factors for the success for any organisation.

The Lovely School of Business at Lovely Professional University benefits from and international perspective that informs its mission. The School’s close relationships with a wide range of external organizations would ensure that teaching and research remain dynamic and relevant to today’s business world. The School has strong professional links and innovative courses. The school offers courses that will provide an excellent foundation for a business career. All the degree courses give a thorough grounding for a career in business or industry and will develop skills of value to employers.

Internships a 'trampoline' to good jobs

2008-04-03T22:34:00.000-07:00

At this moment, college students across the country are waiting. They sit in front of their computer screens, anxiously biting nails, perusing corporate websites, and checking their e-mail more than Paris Hilton checks her reflection.
Just what are they waiting for exactly?
Their golden trampoline.
While corporate execs dream of the day they can pull the release on their golden parachutes, the 20-somethings of academia are working toward the perfect summer internships, the opportunities that will launch them into the stratosphere of successful careers -- their ``golden trampolines.''
Internships are no longer the summer break of overachievers. They are now highly sought-after positions that can make or break a résumé post-graduation.
''It used to be that students were on top if they had an internship,'' said Amy Diepenbrock, director of career services at Barry University. ``Now they are behind if they don't do one.''
In today's competitive business market, securing an internship is the proverbial foot-in-the-door that most students are looking for. An impressive performance during an internship can often lead to full-time employment down the road.

FROM INTERN TO PART-TIMER

David Wander, a senior at the University of Miami, interned with Universal Music Group over the summer and is continuing to work for them part time with their independent music label, Fontana Distribution.
''A lot of the interns would just roll their eyes if you asked them to do anything. I did everything people gave me and when they ran out of stuff, I would wash tables or clean the fridge,'' he said. ``But they saw how hard I worked, and that's why they gave me a job.''
As the demand for internships makes them the perennial ''must-have'' item of the season, the market has become more competitive than ever. However, the Internet has made the coveted internships much easier to find.
UM and FIU have websites that allow students to post résumés and that enable employers to post job openings.
''Although we do have career fairs and face-to-face campus interviews, about 90 percent of students find their internships online,'' said Ivette Duarte, assistant director of Career Services at Florida International University.
Many students apply online by sending résumés, cover letters and other credentials to employers over the Internet.
Hector Gonzalez is earning a master's degree at FIU. He spent the summer at IBM's ''Extreme Blue'' program.
``After a friend told me about the program, I started the application process by going to IBM's website and submitting my résumé. From there it was about a two-month interview process before I found out I got the job.''
Although the new demand for internships makes a good one difficult to find, the field a student wants to be working in plays a major role in what will be available.
''The students in liberal studies have to do more research to find an internship that suits them, as opposed to an accounting student who can head straight to the big firm, or an engineer who goes to Microsoft,'' said Duarte.
Diepenbrock agrees, ''Business management, finance and accounting all tend to have formalized programs'' for internships.

Engineering Jobs

2008-04-03T22:00:00.000-07:00

Thingamajob has Engineering jobs at leading companies across the country. Browse our Engineering job postings below and apply immediately online if you find a Engineering job you’re interested in.
New Engineering jobs are constantly being added to this page, so bookmark it or check back often for the latest career opportunities. You may also create a job alert to be notified when new jobs are added.

Help Wanted! Apply Within!

2008-04-03T21:58:00.000-07:00

Looking for a job? Thingamajob lists thousands of contract, temp-to-perm and direct placement jobs helping you to find a job at leading Fortune 1000 companies throughout the United States and Canada. Thingamajob is a free online career resource provided by Allegis Group, parent company to premier staffing organizations such as Aerotek, TEKsystems and Stephen James & Associates.
There are several ways to find a job within our site; you can search by category, state, city or keywords. Create a free Thingamajob account today and apply online for your favorite jobs or be notified as new jobs are posted that match your specific skill set and experience.
Up to the Minute Job Opportunities.
Our postings are updated every minute so that you can locate employment opportunities and apply as soon as they become available. Your application and resume are confidential and are reviewed by a team of experienced recruiters specializing in your specific industry.
Don’t see your dream job today? Set up a job alert, check Thingamajob often, and submit your resume to our confidential resume database. Let our recruiters help you find a job today!
Put our extensive resources to work for you!

Work At Home, No Cold-Calling, FREE Leads, No Investment

2008-03-23T22:51:00.000-07:00

Company: Procard International

Description
We need your help! Our company is growing steadily and we have thousands of customers who need to be contacted right away! This is a part-time sales position with guaranteed FREE leads available every month. We have a superior, nationally recognized product and are adding more divisions and products this year. In order to meet the demands of our industry, we need excited and motivated Associates who are ready to begin working from home immediately - full time or even just a few hours per week.With our easy to use discount card, members can save up to 50% and more at over 1,000,000 participating businesses and services. By combining these nationally and locally known businesses with our advanced marketing systems, you can enjoy a financially rewarding career for yourself.
For years, we have had one of the most respected part-time work from home careers available, and we are considered in “good standing” with all regulatory agencies including: state, federal, and the Better Business Bureau. Our positions have the following benefits, which can earn you up to $35,000-$55,000 a year working part-time:
• No cold calling• Guaranteed FREE leads each month *• Work from home, any-time, any-place• No investment• No kits• No MLM• Work on the Internet and/or work on the telephone• 24.7.365 support help• We are NOT an "opportunity" employer - We have positions readily available• We invest in you!
(*) Procard International can furnish you with FREE leads in its Marketing Associate and Referral Rewards contract jobs. You can work from home and call back or email our customers who have already requested details on our services - warm calling, no cold calling.

Administrative-Clerical-Office

2008-03-23T22:49:00.000-07:00

Company: Frontier Publishing Inc.

Description
Administrative-Clerical-Office PAY RANGE $12 To $48 PER HOUR

Full Medical and Dental Benefits

Paid Training

Career Positions

Government jobs in areas like Administrative, Accounting/Finance, Public Relations, Homeland Security, Clerical, Law Enforcement, Environmental, Park Service and more top paying positions available. FT/PTFind out how to apply. Call Toll Free 7 Days 1 800-858-1517 EXT 2009
Requirements
To Speak with a representative Call 1 800-858-1517 EXT 2009Federal, State, Homeland Security, Clerical, Administrative, Office, Law Enforcement, Wildlife, Park Service, Civil Service, Postal, carrier, packaging, transportation, sales, customer service, part time, full time,advertising, marketing, manager, printing, entry level, professional, graphics, computers, accounting, finance, training, consulting, Social Science, Psychology, Biological Sciences, Science, Accounting, Budget, Medical, Dental, and Public Health, Veterinary, Engineering, Architecture, Legal, Kindred, Information, Arts, Business, Copyright, Patent, Trademark, Physical Sciences, Library, Archives, Mathematics, Statistics, Equipment, Services, Education, Investigation, Quality Assurance, Inspection, Supply, Corrections, Correctional Officer, Park Ranger, Fire Protection, Police, Nurse, Public Affairs, More

This employment service will prove invaluable to giving you a head start on landing that career position.

Contractor Franchise Owners / Business Owners

2008-03-23T22:45:00.000-07:00

Job type: Contractor Franchise Owners / Business Owners - Growing ($400 billion) Industry Express One is Revolutionizing the Franchise World in the $400 billion freight...

Franchise Opportunity / Own your Own Biz
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Company: Express One

Description
Franchise Owners / Business Owners - Growing ($400 billion) Industry
Express One is Revolutionizing the Franchise World in the $400 billion freight industry
Please note: this is an opportunity to OWN YOUR OWN BUSINESS in a tremendously growing industry. This is NOT a sales position - however we do seek sales and business professionals with an entrepreneurial spirit and aggressive drive to succeed.
As an Express One FRANCHISEE you receive:
11 years of experience with a proven model and track record. Our turnkey program has been proven effective.
Our platinum pricing from DHL, the highest level of discounted rates allowed by DHL. You will have the best buying power in the market
The ability to compete in the 150 lb. or greater freight market. You will be able to move both domestic and international freight with E-World Cargo and other worldwide carriers.
State of the art software.
Low cost.
Low risk.
No warehousing or inventory to keep track of.
Large geographical areas.
Residual Income.
Now is the time! We have the right model.We have the right company!
For additional information, please call: 800-399-3971 or visit us online at http://www.shippingfranchiseopportunity.com
Requirements
Franchise Owners / Business Owners To apply:Submit a resume or letter of intent to: [Click Here to Email Your Resumé] or visit our website at: http://www.shippingfranchiseopportunity.com

ONLINE DATA ENTRY WORK AT HOME- $250/day!

2008-03-23T22:43:00.000-07:00

ONLINE DATA ENTRY WORK AT HOME- $250/day!
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Company: First Data Work at Home -->
Description
WORK AT HOME PROCESSING DATA ONLINE! WORK FROM HOME DATA ENTRY JOBS! Earn $3,500-$5,000 Weekly! Guaranteed Paychecks! No Experience Needed! This is a Work at Home Position! Full Time/Part Time Work At Home Positions Available Today! Register Online Now!
Requirements
Work at home! You must have access to a computer that has an internet connection. Work from home the days and hours that suit you best - Experience is not needed! Paid training provided. The most remarkable thing about Work at Home Data Entry Jobs is anyone can make money with it. It doesn't require any special skills, training, education or previous business experience. You only need access to the Internet and basic typing skills. It is the perfect work at home job for stay at home moms, students, home makers, retirees or anyone that is in need of some extra cash. Data Entry Work from Home Jobs is available WORLDWIDE and you can start generating HUGE amounts of money with as little as 30 minutes a day. Full Time/Part Time Work From Home Positions Available Today! Register Online Now! www.BigPayWork.com/CB/ RELATED KEYWORDS: work at home jobs, home jobs, jobs at home, work at home, work from home, work from home jobs, home jobs, work-at-home, work-from-home, working at home, data entry at home, data entry online, work at home mom, work home, work from home jobs, freelance, computer work, work at home internet, business opportunity, business opportunity, work at home make money, make more money, make money at home, make money working at home, work at home income, make money working from home, ways to make money at home, business opportunity work at home, work at home internet job, work online at home, work from home, wah, w.a.h., WAH, W.A.H., temporary work, distributorships, clerical, administration, secretary. Register Online Now!www.BigPayWork.com/CB/

Data Entry Online - Work At Home - $900/day

2008-03-23T22:36:00.000-07:00

Data Entry Online - Work At Home - $900/day
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Company: Original Data Work At Home Co. -->
Description
Work At Home Processing Data Online!

Your earnings start at $300/day and up to $1000/day, depending on how much data is processed. This is a work at home opportunity and we are looking for individuals who are willing to work from home. No experience is needed, we will take care of the training. Paychecks are guaranteed. Full time/part time positions are available now.

How Does This Work?

Thousands of companies have contracted their data entry needs to us. As a results, we need to hire more individuals to help us process that data. Large fortune 500 companies need forms written up such as, receipt forms, brochures, customer lists, e-mailing lists, etc.

You are paid twice monthly (1st and 16th of each month). You have the option of direct deposit or check. After 1 month, average data entry assistants make $15,000/mo.
Register Online at:

www.DataDirectJobs.com
Requirements
Requirements
You need an internet connection or access to the internet. Experience is not needed however, you need to be capable of working from home - This is not a desk job nor do you commute to an office. We do not require any special skills, previous business experience or education. We only require that you have basic typing skills.

Doing data entry work is ideal because it pays very well, but also it is not very time demanding. We ask that you put aside 30 - 60min/day to achieve a $300/day. Many of our employees are work at home moms, students, unemployed individuals and former retirees.

Full time and part time positions are available. Register online at:

www.DataDirectJobs.com

Related Keywords:
work at home, work from home, work at home moms, retirees, data entry, computer work, business opportunity, make money from home, wah, W.A.H., making money from home, make money working at home, business opportunity at home, data entry at home

New Business Opportunity

2008-03-23T22:20:00.000-07:00

Description
This is a senior home health care business opportunity.A home health care franchise opportunity with Right at Home allows you to serve the growing senior market and others in your community who need assistance to remain living independently in their own homes. As a home care franchisee, you provide trained, insured and bonded caregivers based upon the needs of each individual client.You will be responsible for the administration, training and management of these caregivers. In addition, you’ll network with referral sources and position yourself as the expert in home health care in your area. At the end of the day, you will have helped an individual maintain independence and helped to improve the lives of others in your community.A Right at Home senior home care franchise offers a proven concept, substantial territories, a comprehensive two-week training program, impressive national alliances, and exceptional franchisee support. We do everything we can to ensure the success of your business. Who is our typical franchisee?Our successful franchisees come from a variety of backgrounds:Financial services, hospitality, retail, food services, legal services, and many others. For instance, it’s a perfect time for those in the fledging mortgage industry (mortgage bankers, mortgage brokers and sales people) to consider a step in a new direction with a burgeoning Right at Home franchise.We have high expectations of our Right at Home franchisees and our owners have high expectations for themselves. This provides our clients with quality, dependable homecare services backed by the strength, knowledge and resources of a national firm.
Requirements
Right at Home is looking for:
Bright, ambitious and caring people.
No medical or healthcare experience is necessary, but the will and desire to succeed is imperative.
Ideally, we are seeking individuals whose high standards, entrepreneurial spirit and enthusiasm for life and business match our own.
If you have thought of running your own business but wanted to avoid the risk associated with a completely new start-up business, give us a call at (877) 697-7537.Careerbuilder Related Keywords: business development rep, business development representative, sales and business development, selling, biz dev, mortgage, mortgage broker, franchise, franchisee, franchise owner, franchisor, entreprenuer financial, credit, loan, creditor, deed, underwriter, underwriting

Contact: Sharon Thomsen, Franchise Development Coordinator Phone: (877) 697-7537 Fax: (402) 697-0289
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Ref ID: Not Available

Government Jobs

2008-03-23T20:25:00.001-07:00

Company: American Data Group -->
Description
FEDERAL AND STATE GOVERNMENT JOBSEarn $12.00 to $48.00 Per Hour
Full Medical and Dental Benefits
Paid Training
Job Security
Career PositionsMANY FEDERAL/STATE POSITIONS HIRING NOWIn areas like Homeland Security, Clerical, Administrative, Law Enforcement,Accounting, Finance, Public Relations, Wildlife/Park Service and more!FT/PT availableCall Toll Free 7 Days 1 800-320-9353 EXT 2107
Requirements
Call Toll Free 7 Days to find out about the many career opportunities available.1 800-858-1517 EXT 2107
Contact: To Speak with a Representative Phone: Call 800-858-1517 EXT 2107 Fax: Not AvailableRef ID: Not Available

Minnesota Small Business Assistance Office

2008-03-23T20:15:00.000-07:00

The Small Business Assistance Office, a part of the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development, serves as a point of first and continuing contact for individuals and firms with questions about the start-up, operation or expansion of a business in Minnesota. The Office seeks to remedy what economists call the "problem of information cost." That is, it is often very expensive -- in terms of money, time, expertise, lost opportunity -- for a business person to obtain information necessary or useful to business operations. The State of Minnesota seeks to reduce those costs by having the Small Business Assistance Office provide business related publications and technical assistance free-of-charge.

Business & Jobs

2008-03-23T20:13:00.001-07:00

Business & Jobs

Find information to run a business or pursue a career in Minnesota. Whether you want to start a business, are looking for state labor laws, taxation, regulation, services, or issues that affect you as an employer, looking for unemployment information, vocational rehabilitation and other job related topics you will find assistance here.

Executive Director - SOLANO County (fairfield / vacaville)

2008-03-23T20:08:00.000-07:00

For over forty years, in four different regions and two different states, Caminar is a non-profit organization that provides programs and services to the mentally and physically disabled to help integrate them into the mainstream of life. Caminar is currently seeking a Regional Executive Director to manage and oversee our Solano regional office and programs.

GENERAL RESPONSIBILITIES:The Regional Executive Director (RED) is responsible to the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) for providing leadership to the regional staff and for ensuring that regional programs: fulfill the mission of the agency; provide excellent quality of care; comply with all applicable contractual obligations and requirements; and adhere to the principles of social rehabilitation. The RED is required to provide timely information to the CEO to alertkeep them alertto regional activities and changes in the mental health system, including funding opportunities and critical legal and personnel concerns. The RED is charged with mobilizing regional resources through direct action and appropriate delegation to staff, while serving as the primary liaison to the County mental health system and the community at large. The RED must perform all duties in a professional manner.The RED is responsible for directly supervising the Director of Services, the Clinical Director, Program Directors, Housing and Property Development Support Manager, and the Executive Assistant.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:Master’s Degree in a mental health-related field, extensive knowledge of social rehabilitation, sensitivity to the needs and circumstances of people with severe and persistent mental illness, and a minimum of ten years experience in a supervisory, administrative and leadership role in a mental health service-providing agency is required. Must be able to communicate effectively both orally and in writing. Must demonstrate acceptable level of maturity, good judgment, and emotional stability.Upon receipt of a job offer and prior to the start of employment, must submit to and pass a criminal record check by the State Department of Social Services. Valid California driver’s license, reliable transportation and a clean driver’s record are required. Employment is contingent upon meeting these requirements.

ALL JOB FUNCTIONS STATED ARE ESSENTIAL AND NOT LIMITED TO POSITION:

A. Recruit, hire, supervise, evaluate, and terminate in a timely manner and as necessary in consultation with the Program Supervisors and Directors.B. Assure the ongoing excellence of the quality of care in all regional programs and that they are provided in accordance with the principles of social rehabilitation.C. Ensure that all regional and or service program staff members receive training appropriate to their positions, so that the quality of services provided remains excellent. D. Ensure that all regional and or service program services are relevant and sensitive to clients of all cultures, by providing cultural competence training regularly to all staff and by making a concerted effort to hire a multi-culturally diverse staff across the region.E. Ensure compliance with all applicable laws, regulations, policies and procedures of the State Departments of Mental Health (DMH), Social Services (DSS/CCL), and Rehabilitation (DOR), the County of Solano Health and Social Services Department - Mental Health department, and Caminar.F. Develop and maintain productive relationships with funding source representatives, attending liaison meetings as necessary.G. Negotiate the annual agency contract with Solano County, making every effort to assure adequate ongoing funding of services for clients and an adequate salary structure for regional and or program service staff.H. Ensure that funding agencies receive client data and billing information accurately and in a timely manner.I. Meet regularly with leadership staff to provide consultation and direction in order to assure clinical and administrative excellence.J. Represent and promote the agency in the local service community, the community at large, and in statewide venues, ensuring a positive and caring public image, as well as appropriate visibility.K. Model respectful, caring, tolerant, ethical, and empowering relationships with all individuals served and employed.L. Develop and implement policies and procedures that affect the operation and direction of regional and or program services, seeking CEO and/or Board approval when appropriate.M. Plan for development of new services by writing funding proposals and making presentations to funding agencies as necessary. Supervise the creation and implementation of new services.N. Develop an annual budget for regional and or service program operations.O. Monitor the monthly financial statements of all regional and or service programs to assure that revenues are received in a timely manner and that expenses stay within budget.P. Ensure that the agency’s vehicles and real property in the region are properly maintained and that facilities and offices are attractive, safe, and comfortable, and also that residential treatment programs blend in with the surrounding neighborhoods.Q. Ensure that all appropriate regional and or service program information is submitted to agency administration accurately and in a timely manner.R. Work closely with the agency human resources department on personnel issues affecting regional and or service program staff.S. Attend the Agency Board meetings and inform members of regional activities and changes in the local mental health system, including funding opportunities and concerns.

Contact:Lana ChoiHuman Resources

lanac@caminar.org

Ref: SO-ED

Operations Manager (walnut creek)

2008-03-23T20:06:00.000-07:00

Fehr & Peers is a 200-person transportation engineering and planning consulting firm that is proud of its people and culture. We are a financially stable organization with strong capital reserves. We are seeking a talented and motivated Operations Manager to manage the day-to-day functions of our 35-person Walnut Creek, CA office. The ideal candidate will have a solid background in the management of professionals and administrative staff, recruiting and staff development, and P/L responsibilities for an office or business unit.

Primary responsibilities include, but are not limited to: • Provide leadership and management oversight of a $7.5 million yearly office • Enhance staff’s professional growth by conducting effective performance reviews and other coaching and mentoring activities • Maintain effective team-based environment • Develop office-wide yearly objectives and ensure performance meets expectations • Develop and implement a comprehensive and measurable business plan • Provide fiscal oversight, including budgeting, financial statements and accounts receivable • Collaborate with a variety of individuals including senior technical staff, Corporate staff, and peers in other offices • Oversee staff and manage personnel issues • Manage staff workload • Track and measure office portfolio backlog • Recruit, interview, hire, and orient new employees • Provide assistance writing proposals, tracking leads, and other marketing functions

Qualifications: • MBA or Master’s degree preferred • Minimum 5 years management experience, preferably in a professional services firm or office of comparable size • Proficient in financial management • Prior management of a multi-million dollar budget • Poise and maturity to be a Fehr & Peers representative to clients and potential employees, including the ability to articulate business goals, vision, culture and environment • Proven ability to build and maintain strong internal and external relationships • Exceptional communication, coaching, organizational, and leadership skills • Direct management experience in an engineering/scientific consulting environment a plus • Personable and positive attitude • Proficient knowledge of HR personnel practices and applicable labor laws

Fehr & Peers offers a competitive salary and benefits package. For additional information please visit our website at www.fehrandpeers.com. A similar position is available in our Roseville office. EOE/AAP Send resumes and salary history to resumes14@fehrandpeers.com. Resumes will NOT be considered without salary information.
Principals only. Recruiters, please don't contact this job poster.
Please, no phone calls about this job!
Please do not contact job poster about other services, products or commercial interests.PostingID: 611856802

OLYMPIC SALES MANAGER

2008-03-23T20:03:00.000-07:00

BARAZANI PAVE STONE INC. is the Largest Installer of Interlocking Pavers in Northern California. BARAZANI has been tastefully upgrading homes and businesses with top-quality interlocking pavers for more than a decade. Today, we’re proud to have earned a reputation for Creative Custom Designs, Professional Project Management and Precision Installation that LEADS the INDUSTRY! We partner with Home Depot, the Leader in Home Improvement, as their official installer for Interlocking Pavestone Hardscapes, and just recently, we launched the New Landscape Program. Reporting to the company President, this position will take a leadership role in developing, implementing, and tracking sales performance against established goals/metrics. This is a highly visible position for an aggressive and take charge sales professional who seeks to have significant influence on company sales strategy and growth. In-Home Sales is a MUST. OBJECTIVE This position will set the sales vision and strategy for the company; direct our sales management team to drive account growth within our designated service areas, and lead sales representatives to meet or exceed sales goals. RESPONSIBILITIES Work closely with management to: • Develop and implement an effective sales strategy and marketing plan selling to homeowners • Develop, communicate and effectively manage pricing increase strategies • Supervise a marketing team and an inside sales team • Responsible for generating revenue by developing and executing the sales and marketing plan in order to achieve revenue goals by sales channel • Assists other departments within organization to prepare manuals and technical publications as it relates to the sales and marketing process • Responsible for gathering, interpreting, and informing management on potential client and market opportunities • Monitor, track and report all sales activity. Accurately forecast monthly, quarterly, and annual rev stream • Actively support the sales team through first hand involvement in the sales process • Supervise activities of sales team and ensure they meet or exceed their goals • Recruit, hire and establish programs for new sales account representatives • Supervise activities of sales team and ensure they meet or exceed their goals • Directs staffing, training and performance evaluations to develop and control sales program • Ensure internal revenue growth and maintain profitability on both new and existing accounts • Provide expert industry knowledge and interpretation to sales representative and customers to include sales presentations to key clients in coordination with sales representatives and assists in negotiating and closing deals • Meet with customers to ensure client needs are met • Interface with Operations, Commercial and Landscape management and personnel regarding issues associated with customer accounts • Analyze lost business trends and pursue corrective actions • Maintain awareness of competition and trends affecting industry • Represents company at trade association meetings and shows to promote product Barazani Pave Stone, Inc., provides competitive benefits, which includes: • Pay based on experience • Medical • Dental • 401(K) Retirement Savings Plan • Vacation • Sick Pay CURRENTLY SCHEDULING INTERVIEWS Requirements EXPERIENCE • 10 years experience/background in marketing, sales and management in, IN-HOME SALES (selling our services to home owners)/CONSTRUCTION related industries, or related field is A MUST • Proven track record developing and driving sales initiatives • 5 years supervisory and management experience • Effective communication skills across various levels of organization, with customers • Proficiency in sales and marketing principles and techniques • Knowledge of MS Office (Word/Excel/Access/PowerPoint) a must • Knowledge of Photoshop & Illustrator a big plus • Valid CA driver’s license and clean driving record required EDUCATION Bachelors Degree in Business Administration, Marketing, or related field (MBA a plus) strongly preferred IDEAL CANDIDATE ATTRIBUTES JUDGEMENT - Correctly identifies requirements for a work solution, and properly applies knowledge and experience to decide on course of action. INTERPERSONAL SKILLS - Person is a team player, willing to work and relate well with others. ANALYSIS - Person has strong analytical skills and can use and interpret data to drive the business. To include advanced mathematical and financial analysis. VERBAL COMMUNICATION - Person speaks clearly and understandably in the primary language of the workplace. Ability to make effective and persuasive speeches and presentations on controversial complex topics to top management, public groups and/or board. Exceptional response to the most sensitive inquires or complaints. WRITTEN COMMUNICATON - Person can write speeches and articles using original or innovative techniques or styles. And posses the ability to analyze and interpret the most complex documents. PROFESSIONALISM AND ETHICS - Person represents self and our organization in a positive and professional manner, and creates a positive impression by appearance and demeanor. INITIATIVE - Person initiates and completes work assignments independently and with minimal supervision, and is willing to seek out and perform additional work. ORGANIZATION - Person demonstrates well-organized work habits and completes work within scheduled times. QUALITY - Person does work correctly the first time and tasks are completed thoroughly and accurately. SUPPORT CHANGE - Person understands and supports need for new ways of doing business, and encourages others to support these initiatives and new business practices. COMPUTER SKILLS - Person uses basic hardware and software applications to record, analyze, and report informat
Principals only. Recruiters, please don't contact this job poster.
Please, no phone calls about this job!
Please do not contact job poster about other services, products or commercial interests.PostingID: 610907917

International Jobs Center

2008-03-17T22:22:00.001-07:00

The only comprehensive source of international jobs for professionals, including international development jobs
International Career Employment Weekly newspaper with over 500 current international job vacancies each week, including hundreds of international development jobs. See Sample Job Vaccancies (If you would prefer only a monthly newspaper, see below.)
Access to critical job openings posted on this web site, including development jobs, education jobs, health care jobs, foreign affairs jobs, and internships.

Verizon Business

2008-03-17T22:11:00.000-07:00

One of three operating units of Verizon Communications Inc. (NYSE: VZ):, Verizon Business delivers advanced IP, data, voice and wireless solutions to large business and government.
As you explore our career website, we invite you to take a closer look at the many advantages of joining our organization, as well as the programs we offer for professional growth and development. We also encourage you to learn more about our corporate culture and the specific disciplines and roles available.
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Indian Sale Admin

2008-03-17T22:05:00.000-07:00

Job type: Contractor Pay: $18.00 - $19.23/hour CONTRACT POSITION - 6 MONTHS Inside Sales Representative is a direct liaison to partners and sales team. Responsible for a wide variety of duties...

Company: ProCore Staffing Solutions

Description

CONTRACT POSITION - 6 MONTHS

Inside Sales Representative is a direct liaison to partners and sales team. Responsible for a wide variety of duties including lead management and development, consultative selling of products and services/support.

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to review of contracts, following up with current clients and renewal clients to upgrade support services. Research and qualify sales leads for sales team through market resources.

Complete requested quotes and proposals needed by management, assist/support sales team.

Requirements
3+ years experience in SCADA technical software sales and channel sales
Strong PC knowledge
Technical ability to develop channel sales
Strong technical skills
Consultative selling skills
Excellent presentation skills
Strong analytical skills
Ability to work well under stress and simultaneously handle multiple deadlines

Business Developement Manager

2008-03-17T21:58:00.000-07:00

Job type: Full-Time Employee Our People. Our Products. Our Pride.Coca-Cola Enterprises, established in 1986, is a company with roots extending back to 1899, when the first Coca-...
DESCRIPTION:Responsible for developing sales with prospective Cold Drink customers through in-outlet prospecting. Position may cross multiple facility boundaries.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
Daily prospecting to secure new and competitive accounts.
Facilitate the placement of vending and refrigeration equipment in locations.
Resolve customer concerns and issues to include repsonses to CSTs.
Prepare and deliver sales presentations.
Utilize prospecting tools to generate new leads.
Valuate opportunities to include: Complete IRRs where required; Determine appropriate brands, packages, equipment, placements.
Set up new accounts; Assure appropriate order replenishment method and frequency are assigned; Ensure customer satisfaction through product and equipment delivery, understanding of order replenishment procedures and assures equipment orders are handled.
Focus on Business/Market Unit market activation initiatives.
QUALIFICATIONS:
Education Level Required High School - GED or Diploma
Education Level Preferred Bachelor's Degree preferred.
Experience Required 1+ years of general sales/prospecting experience.
Experience Preferred Coca-Cola System Exeperience preferred.
Beverage Industry experience a plus.

Business Development Manager

2008-03-17T21:51:00.000-07:00

Job type: Full-Time Employee HP is a leading global provider of products, technologies, solutions and services to consumers and business. The company's offerings span IT...
COMPANY OVERVIEW
At HP, we believe in the power of ideas. From cutting edge personal digital equipment to the most powerful IT solutions, we use ideas to put technology to work for everyone. And we believe that ideas thrive best in a teamwork culture. That is why everyone at every level in every function is encouraged to have original ideas, to express them and to share them. We believe anything can be achieved if you really believe in it, and we will invest in your ideas to change lives and working practices.
JOB DESCRIPTION
HP is a leading global provider of products, technologies, solutions and services to consumers and business. The company's offerings span IT infrastructure, personal computing and access devices, global services, and imaging and printing. Our $4 billion annual R&D investment fuels the invention of products, solutions and new technologies so we can better serve customers and enter new markets. We invent, engineer and deliver technology solutions that drive business value, create social value and improve the lives of our customers.
This position will generate sales for Dynamic Smart Cooling business development in the Americas, especially the Northeast. This DSC Americas BDM will coordinate with the DSC sales and business team, generate leads, follow-up with briefings and determine customer interest, create DSC revenue opportunities and in general be responsible for filling the DSC sales funnel. This person will also work closely with the DSC pre-sales personnel and HP field in addressing customer needs and understanding their DSC requirements.

Jobs at Dow Jones & Company

2008-03-17T21:47:00.000-07:00

Dow Jones & Company publishes the world's most vital business and financial news and information. Since 1882, the Dow Jones name has been synonymous with accuracy, integrity and trust.
Dow Jones & Company was founded in 1882 by three young reporters: Charles Dow, Edward Jones and Charles Bergstresser.
In their basement office near the New York Stock Exchange, they produced handwritten newsletters called "flimsies" that were delivered by messenger to subscribers in the Wall Street area.
Business boomed, and by 1889, the staff numbered 50. The company decided to turn its small "Customers' Afternoon Letter" into a newspaper that would be called "The Wall Street Journal." The first issue, which appeared on July 8, 1889, was four pages and sold for two cents.
The Journal prospered, but Messrs. Dow, Jones and Bergstresser saw the need for a faster way to deliver the news. To that end, the company began delivery of its Dow Jones News Service via telegraph.
In 1902, Clarence W. Barron, who had been hired years before to be Dow Jones' first out-of-town correspondent, purchased control of the company following Mr. Dow's death. Journal circulation was about 7,000. But by 1920 it had reached 18,750.
Mr. Barron introduced modern printing equipment, and the newsgathering side of the company expanded. By the end of the 1920s, over 50,000 copies of the Journal were printed daily. Barron's National Business and Financial Weekly made its debut in 1921, with Mr. Barron serving as its first editor. Priced at 10 cents an issue, the tabloid-size publication was an immediate success in investment and financial circles, reaching circulation of 30,000 in its sixth year. In 1941, thirteen years after the death of Clarence Barron, Bernard Kilgore became managing editor of the Journal and in 1945 was named chief executive of Dow Jones. Mr. Kilgore was the architect of the paper as it exists today and expanded its coverage to include all aspects of business, economics and consumer affairs, as well as all aspects of life that had an impact on business.
In the 1960s, circulation of the Journal surpassed one million, and coverage of social issues, science, education and foreign affairs was added or expanded while business news coverage was improved.
In the 1970s, Dow Jones entered new fields of electronic publishing and expanded its U.S. publishing presence with the acquisition of the Ottaway group of community newspapers. Dow Jones also expanded outside the U.S., first with investments in the Far Eastern Economic Review, then in 1976 with The Asian Wall Street Journal, the first daily newspaper to provide comprehensive coverage of business and economic news for an Asia-wide audience.
In the 1980s, the circulation of The Wall Street Journal briefly reached more than two million. The company pushed vigorously into database publishing, television and real-time market data delivery through the purchase of Telerate.
In addition, Dow Jones extended its commitment to global publishing by introducing The Wall Street Journal Europe, published in Brussels, in 1983. In June 1999, Dow Jones & Company and von Holtzbrinck Group agreed to swap stakes in The Wall Street Journal Europe and Handelsblatt, Germany's business newspaper. Throughout the 1990s, Dow Jones has continued to place an even greater emphasis on our competitive strengths and core competencies in content, and an even tighter strategic focus on what we do best -- publishing the world's most vital business and financial news and information. This is evident through the sale of Telerate to Bridge Information Systems, Inc. in 1998 and the successful launch of many new products and ventures, including SmartMoney, The Wall Street Journal Magazine of Personal Business, with Hearst Corp. in 1992; The Wall Street Journal Special Editions in 1994; and The Wall Street Journal Online at WSJ.com, in 1996. In addition, the company set a course to become a global producer of quality business television programming with the launch of Asia Business News in 1993 and European Business News in 1995. This led to the global business television alliance with NBC announced in 1997, centered around CNBC, a service of NBC and Dow Jones, that offers U.S., Asian and European audiences the best business news programming available. In September 1999, The Wall Street Journal Sunday, bannered full pages of original Journal content focused on personal finance and careers, began publication in leading metropolitan Sunday newspapers around the U.S. Also in the fall of 1999, Dow Jones launched Vedomosti, or The Record, a new business newspaper. Vedomosti is the only independent business newspaper in Russia and is published in the Russian language daily, Tuesday through Saturday.
DOW JONES INTEGRATED SOLUTIONS Dow Jones Integrated Solutions (DJIS) develops customized, idea-driven programs that meet individual client’s marketing objectives. Integrated programs leverage the full range of Dow Jones premier properties including The Wall Street Journal and its global editions, Barron's, SmartMoney magazine, The Wall Street Journal Online at WSJ.com, The Wall Street Journal Radio Network, CNBC Europe and CNBC Asia, and others and may include advertising in print, online and broadcast formats, as well as custom marketing elements such as research, database marketing, events and custom publishing. DOW JONES CONFERENCES AND EVENTS Dow Jones, the leader in publishing the world's most vital business and financial news and information, sponsors conferences and events to both educate and inform the business community on a variety of subjects, including technology and venture capital and private equity. For more information. IT VENDOR RELATIONS As part of the Business Management Services group, IT Vendor Relations is uniquely positioned to help Dow Jones employees and customers in the selection of suppliers. IT Vendor Relations is dedicated to facilitating the evaluation, selection, and purchase of products and solutions for technology initiatives at Dow Jones.
What's Special About Our Benefits? Dow Jones is committed to providing a comprehensive benefits program for its employees. Here are some of the features that make the Dow Jones program very special:
No required employee contributions for comprehensive medical, dental, basic life insurance or long-term disability.
A full choice of medical plan options at all major locations.
Employees can pay for certain medical and child care expenses with "before-tax" dollars.
A two-part retirement program which combines a company contribution provision and a 401(k) option.
Dow Jones pays 60% of the cost of physical fitness activities, up to a maximum reimbursement of $300 per year.
Special vision care benefits for employees who spend 75% or more of their time at video display terminals.
Many work/family programs are available to assist employees in balancing their career and family needs.
Dow Jones & Company To Present at Bank of America Media, Telecommunications and Entertainment Conference NEW YORK (March 22, 2006) — Dow Jones & Company today announced that Richard F. Zannino, chief executive officer of Dow Jones, will participate in a fireside chat at the Bank of America Media, Telecommunications and Entertainment conference at 8:50 a.m. on Wednesday, March 29, 2006. The event will be accessible via a live Internet Webcast through the Investor Relations section of the Company's Web site at www.dowjones.com. Dow Jones & Company (NYSE: DJ; dowjones.com) publishes The Wall Street Journal and its international and online editions, Barron's and the Far Eastern Economic Review, Dow Jones Newswires, Dow Jones Indexes, MarketWatch and the Ottaway group of community newspapers. Dow Jones is co-owner with Reuters Group of Factiva and with Hearst of SmartMoney. Dow Jones also provides news content to CNBC and radio stations in the U.S.
Dow Jones & Company provides the business news and information necessary to support the financial goals of the world's business community. The Company has achieved premier recognition for its products and services. To sustain this excellence, the Company seeks to attract talented undergraduate and graduate students via internship programs. Internships are offered primarily during the May through August time frame. However, the Company provides occasional internship opportunities during the school year. In addition, we partner with certain universities to provide cooperative educational opportunities throughout the year.

2008-03-17T21:44:00.001-07:00

ONTACT INFORMATION:(**Principals Only**)Required: Use The 'Apply Now' Button When Applying For This Job.Requisition #: RMAX_146497_CBLDR, Title: Business Development Manager

Business Development Manager

2008-03-17T21:42:00.000-07:00

Description
Coca-Cola Enterprises, established in 1986, is a company with roots extending back to 1899, when the first Coca-Cola bottling operation began. In fact, when the first bottling franchise began operations in 1901, it operated under the ownership of Benjamin F. Thomas and James F. Johnston, grandfather of our former Chairman of the Board, Summerfield K. Johnston, Jr.Though Coca-Cola Enterprises is now the largest soft drink bottler in the world, each of our local bottling operations represent several decades of success in building the strongest brands in the world. Maintaining the local aspect of our business continues to be an integral part of our success. DESCRIPTION:Responsible for developing sales with prospective Cold Drink customers through in-outlet prospecting. Position may cross multiple facility boundaries.RESPONSIBILITIES:
Daily prospecting to secure new and competitive accounts.
Facilitate the placement of vending and refrigeration equipment in locations.
Resolve customer concerns and issues to include repsonses to CSTs.
Prepare and deliver sales presentations.
Utilize prospecting tools to generate new leads.
Valuate opportunities to include: Complete IRRs where required; Determine appropriate brands, packages, equipment, placements.
Set up new accounts; Assure appropriate order replenishment method and frequency are assigned; Ensure customer satisfaction through product and equipment delivery, understanding of order replenishment procedures and assures equipment orders are handled.
Focus on Business/Market Unit market activation initiatives.

QUALIFICATIONS:Education Level Required High School - GED or Diploma Education Level Preferred Bachelor's Degree preferred. Experience Required 1+ years of general sales/prospecting experience. Experience Preferred Coca-Cola System Exeperience preferred. Beverage Industry experience a plus.

Job Overview

2008-03-17T21:40:00.001-07:00

Company:
American Express
Location:
US-MA-Andover
Base Pay:
N/A
Employee Type:
Full-Time Employee
Industry:
Banking - Financial Services
Manages Others:
No
Job Type:
Sales
Req'd Education:
Not Specified
Req'd Experience:
Not Specified
Req'd Travel:
Not Specified
Relocation Covered:
No

Contact:
Not Available
Phone:
Not Available
Email:
Not Available
Fax:
Not Available

Ref ID:
100221BRR

Jobs Description

2008-03-17T21:39:00.001-07:00

Outside Sales & The role of a Hunter. You must have a proven track record of success with 3 to 5 years of solid business to business sales experience. As a Regional Manager of Business Development you will be responsible for growing business by selling Corporate Card and Corporate Purchasing Card solutions to new Middle Market business segments (companies with annual sales revenues between $10M and $250M) in the Lowell, MA area. Your drive to win and the desire to be the best is how success is attained.
Managers of Business Development effectively filter and qualify prospects and build a pipeline to ensure targets are met. Your effectiveness in the middle market segment is driven by your ability to research, quickly close deals and effectively explain the value of American Express solutions and how they will meet the client's business objectives.
Here is what a successful Manager of Business Development has to say about the role:
"I am a successful Regional MBD because I take preparation very seriously. I continually keep abreast of the industry and the market so that I am aware of the issues likely to impact different potential customers. When I am with prospective clients, I ask probing questions and listen carefully so that I can really understand their needs. By understanding their needs, I am able to tailor solutions to address their challenges and business strategies."
American Express is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
QUALIFICATIONS:
To be successful in the Regional Manager of Business Development position you must have the proven ability to identify business opportunities and drive profitable new business for American Express Commercial Card. You will need to be able to develop an extensive network of contacts and/or relationships to generate new leads and manage pipelines. Must be able to research and develop an in-depth understanding of your territory, while being able to plan strategically.
Regional Managers of Business Development must have at least 3 to 5 years of solid business to business sales experience in a fast-paced environment, a proven track record of success in sales and extensive cold-calling / prospecting experience. Strong consultative selling skills are required to gain in-depth understanding in the industry to provide solutions and build relationships with C-Level executives. This position is a pure business development sales position and requires excellent verbal and written communication skills, strong follow-up skills and solid relationship management skills. Previous card experience a plus. Must reside in the Lowell, Burlington, Andover or Woburn, MA areas.
As someone who sets and achieves big goals, you should be with a high-achieving company and none fit the profile better than American Express! Our focus on progressive employee programs, 1st day benefits, work / life balance and team satisfaction is why we are consistently chosen as one of Fortune's Top 100 employers, and as local top ranking in The Great Places to Work Institute. Join a company that achieves results by treating its employees to the best of everything!

Company Overview

2008-03-17T21:38:00.001-07:00

Since our founding over 150 years ago, American Express has become synonymous with trust and confidence. The world of American Express is a big one, encompassing everything from cards to investment advice to corporate travel. By steadily creating and seizing opportunities for global growth, we have become a premier provider of diversified business and financial services. We see success as a never-ending process, and one that does not allow for complacency or mediocrity. Extraordinary people work at American Express. Are you one?

Part time jobs

2008-02-21T18:49:00.001-08:00

Do adopt a user policy for instant messaging. If you're an owner, your employees need to know whether you view instant messaging as an appropriate vehicle to communicate with, say, customers or business partners. Any policy should contain at least general guidelines for its use. You may not think this is important — unless you know the story about the hedge fund manager who caused a major commotion by allegedly using IM to spread inaccurate rumours about a publicly traded software company. (Word got out, the software company's stock plunged, and the hedge fund manager and his company got into some serious trouble.)

Online job

2008-02-06T21:14:00.001-08:00

Overview: The Online Marketing Manager optimizes existing marketing partnerships and creates/executes new online marketing programs to meet lead generation and revenue goals. The incumbent will be an online marketing and Web 2.0 expert – understanding the latest trends and knowing which channels have the highest return on investment. This individual will have a unique blend of acquisition and retention online marketing expertise, data analysis, and creative problem-solving.Responsibilities: 1. Develop and execute media plans to acquire new members through online media, e-mail marketing, and affiliate marketing.2. Manage special ad-hoc project requests.3. Develop relationships with media partners and negotiate pricing and contract terms.4. Manage day-to-day set up and optimization of online media campaigns via third party ad serving.5. Analyze member data to maximize ROI via online member acquisition programs.6. Work cross-functionally with production, creative, product management, and technology teams to execute business objectives and enhance member acquisition efforts.7. Develop and manage promotional campaigns to acquire new members and to increase awareness of the MyPoints program to non members.8. Monitor and measure results from promotional campaigns.9. Lead creative development projects to enhance non member experience- including development of non-member registration path, new member activation email, banner creative, non-member marketing email.10. Manage relationships with third party creative agencies to develop necessary materials to launch non member campaigns.11. Analyze and optimize non-member creative efforts.12. Report on conversions and track results by program as defined by lead quantity, lead quality, cost per lead, and revenue impact by channel.Qualifications: 1. Bachelors' in Marketing, Business, or other related field, or equivalent experience.2. 2+ years marketing experience including media buying and managing customer acquisition programs.3. Strong quantitative skills required to analyze and optimize member acquisition campaigns.4. Ability to work cross-functionally with other teams and to manage multiple projects simultaneously in order to meet membership goals.5. Must be results driven, detail oriented, and a team player.

2008-02-06T21:12:00.000-08:00

Cyber Monday
In the US, the traditional holiday shopping season starts on "Black Friday," the day after Thanksgiving. The online shopping season, however, is said to start on "Cyber Monday," the day everyone gets back to work, and presumably back to their computers to shop. Today!
ComScore Networks said Sunday that it expects Cyber Monday sales to surpass $700 million, making it the heaviest online spending day on record. Last year, total online purchases on Cyber Monday reached a record $608 million (ComScore Networks).

Podcasting For Business
If you publish or plan to publish any type of audio file for your customers whether audio newsletters, teleconference calls, interviews, lectures, etc., podcasting simplifies everything for both you and your customers. Once customers subscribe to your podcast, you won't have to worry about sending them an email to download a new MP3. Instead, your message will land directly on your customers desktops or MP3 device every time you create a new podcast. Read this introduction to business podcasting to learn more.

Affordable eMail Marketing
For those of you that don't like monthly subscription services, TemplateZone offers two email marketing software programs that look pretty nice. High Impact eMail Basic ($69.95) and High Impact eMail Professional ($99.95). Both have lots of HTML email templates, a built-in photo editor, email editor, and Web storage space. The Pro version adds another 600 templates, an eMail scheduler, and inSync technology. It also imports lists from Access, QuickBooks or ACT! Database, and personalizes email with your contacts' information.

Real Estate Business

2008-02-06T21:08:00.002-08:00

Surprise New Next Door Neighbor & Property Value
An email received this week presents an interesting question that I think might draw some divergent opinions from our real estate professional readers. Here's the text of the email:
I recently purchased a lovely 1940 creekside farmhouse in Milford PA. This little 2 bedroom gem sits on the Sawkill Creek and overlooks the Delaware Water Gap Park. No neighbors, championship trout and a deep clear swimming hole just 100 feet from our deck--and only 2 blocks from this architecturally superb little hamlet less than 2 hours from my fulltime residence in NYC.
But, now I have learned that Pike County is going to build a 12 million dollar central library on the lot next to me. It has been designed by a world class NYC architect Frank Schwartz and is a pretty smashing design that also looks out onto Sawmill Creek. You can view it at http://pcpl.org/mainCategories/buildingUpdate/index.html .
My little abode sits just below this structure and my view of it will be very similar to what you see in the rear elevation, perhaps 20-30 feet closer, pending final borough approvals.
My question to you is this--Do homes located close to libraries in small upscale bedroom communities tend to increase in value? My reaction was to immediately put our newly acquired farmhouse back on the market, afraid that once this large glass building is constructed my property will decrease in value and will be difficult to sell. What is your opinion please?
Stephen
I asked for permission to run it here to see if some of you out there can help Stephen from a personal experience perspective. Obviously, local politics and zoning will be major factors, but perhaps some of you have seen similar situations. Just give us your opinion in comments to this pos

Travel Business

2008-02-06T21:08:00.001-08:00

Imagine you're in New York on business, and you need to get across town in 15 minutes. If you're new to the city, your first thought is probably to hop a cab. however, you might be better off taking the subway. I remember the first time I visited New York on business, and I was told to avoid the subway from numerous people. My clients recommended that I either take a taxi or hire a car to get me around town. A good friend of mine from New York set me straight, and urged me to take the subway, and I'm glad he did.
Since that initial visit, I always ask myself one simple question when traveling to a new city: should I take a taxi, train or private car to get around? The following are some pros and cons that should help you choose:
Taxi: Taxis are a easy, convenient way to travel around a new city. Cab drivers are usually pretty well versed in the layout of a city, and can get you to your destination with little delay. On the other hand, less scrupulous cab drivers may decide to take the "scenic route" and hike up the fare, costing you more to get to that important meeting. If you choose this option, ask your hotel doorman to hook you up. Taxis are usually waiting right outside your hotel, available and ready to go.
Train: Certain cities have very efficient public transportation options. New York, Washington, D.C., and London are some examples of cities with great transit systems. If you choose this option, simply ask your hotel concierge the location of the nearest station. The concierge should have a map of the train system, and be able to steer you in the right direction. In addition, a train ticket is very inexpensive, probably costing you approximately ten dollars to get around a city for two days. One downside of trains is that if you take the wrong one, you can end up in a part of town that you want to avoid. Also, trains can be a little riskier at night, so it's usually better to take them through the day, and around peak hours when they are more people around.
{b}Private Car: Hiring a car to take you around is a great option from both safety and logistics. It's just you and the driver so you can worry less about unwelcome encounters. Also, the driver gets paid a flat fee for taking you to your destination so there is no chance that they will try and take you the long way. However, you pay for this level of comfort and security. Private cars are not cheap, and you can pay a premium for this service.
So the next time you travel, make the choice among taking a taxi, hopping a subway, or hiring a car. Each option has its good and less favorable points. Of course, if your hotel offers complementary shuttle service, you can combine the best of all three options. Good luck!

Business

2008-02-06T21:04:00.000-08:00

Blogging has become a popular means of communicating online. It is especially beneficial to a business because of the simplicity of updating it. Blogging can also incorporate links to take the reader to your website to make a purchase. Therefore it is an excellent marketing tool.
Readers will be brought to your blog according to the keywords or keyword phrases you have submitted. So make sure they are relevant to your topic. This way you will get the target traffic that you want.
Relationships are also built using blogging. When used correctly, the blog will be kept current so interested readers will continue to return to it. Returning readers are more likely to become customers.
To make a business blog that will target traffic, you need to make sure the content is fitting for the readers. Make it interesting so they will continue and hopefully return. Besides writing, include graphics or pictures. This will make your blog more desirable. Again, keep everything relevant to your subject. Your goal is to get the readers to become your customers.
Another interesting option is to use ways that readers can interact. This is appealing to most people, so use audio or video options. Allow comments to be given about your blog. Interaction is a great feature to help the business blog.
Make your blog appealing to a variety of people. Use common language that shows that you know what you are talking about but that doesnâ€™t go over the readers head with technical terms. You want to be the expert who can be understood at anyoneâ€™s level.
Think through how to make your blog. You have the control to make it whatever you want and to personalize it. Realize the time, effort and benefit of keeping it current. Decide how often this will be necessary for your particular blog. Know what resources you will need to get your information from when posting your blog. Decide which interactive tools will be best for you. What do you need to make your blog interesting and attractive? Decide on keywords to get the target audience. Consider all of these things to make a profitable blog.
After getting going, listen to the comments and adjust your blog as necessary. That is one great advantage of blogging. You can edit and change things whenever you need to.
For businesses, blogging will help to get your business known. It is a simple tool for marketing and building business relationships.

Product Management

2008-02-06T21:03:00.001-08:00

Product management is a broad area of expertise, that involves the planning of a particular product, its creation, development and distribution to specified markets. Therefore, product management is involved in all aspects of this product and its life cycle. Product management would usually make up a team, composed of a sales engineer, a marketing manager, a product planner and a product marketer. There are companies, however that employ individualized product managers, instead of a team composed of these four roles, or a lesser number of workers in the product management team. The important roles that remain would be the product planner and product marketer.
Product management is essentially composed of two separate disciplines, product planning and product marketing. These disciplines are quite different in scope and implementation, but companies usually place them under one directive because one supposedly continues into the other, and the outcome of each affect each other closely.
Product planning involves distinguishing the product as a necessity, and figuring out market conditions and demands. All aspects of the product life cycle are addressed and portfolio of the product is created, based on product differentiation, a process in which the product's marketability is determined against similar products already being distributed. These are aspects of marketing but still fall into the product planning phase, which is why many companies lump product planning and marketing together, as product marketing then follows through with the planned strategies through positioning and implementation. Many companies have found that although separate planning/development and marketing departments may work well, the collaborative efforts between the two departments make sales more effective, which is why many corporations opt to combine the two departments.
Different companies may have different job descriptions for their product managers, based on the needs and development of each company. Usually, besides overseeing the development of the product through its life cycle and creating a substantial marketing plan and implementation, product managers may also take on the roles of project manager, which entails supervision of the entire production and marketing processes as a project, and program manager, which includes scheduling and programming the different aspects of production and marketing according to procedure.
A well-rounded background in business and strategic management or any management degree, with courses in marketing, advertising, and accounting will do well for a career in product management, although experience in the field contributes greatly to skill development. Degrees in behavioral and social sciences are also valued in product management, as well as degrees in communication and science and technology.
Of course, it is very important that product management revolves around the specific product and product managers must necessarily know what it is they're managing in the first place. Beyond basic information, product managers of a specific product must be knowledgeable in all aspects of this product to be able to ensure excellence in its production, improvement and marketing.
Therefore, those employing in Banking and other Finance-oriented industries may have degrees in Finance and Commerce to be able to function well as product managers. Similarly, graduates in computer courses that deal with the development and creation of gaming software can work as product managers. in game publishing and entertainment software and technology companies. They are also able to market this product because being gamers themselves, they will be able to pinpoint their target markets and know which strategies will work in attracting these markets.
Product management is highly employed in such industries as food and beverage, consumer products, health care, insurance, media, education, publishing, technology, electronics, biotechnology, medical and pharmaceutical, oil and energy services, home and building construction, chemical, steel, metal fabrication.
While many companies have their own product management team within their internal corporate structure, others outsource to product management organizations, such as Phase Forward, a product management team which prides itself in producing excellent product management service, from product development to retail management and product evaluation.
These product management companies offer many services aside from developing your product and implementing a corresponding marketing scheme. For example, Phase Forward also takes on existing products for marketing, while Bit 7, Inc. Product Development in Madison, Wisconsin, offers its special Speed-to-Market feature. Insight Product Development in Chicago, with offices in Boston and Raleigh, aim at shortening developmental cycles, which help in cutting costs. Some companies have particular specializations, such as MIDIOR Consulting, based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, which cater to companies needing technology and data products, and Vertex Product Development Inc in New York, offer complete design concepts or redesign services.

10 Tips for Using Instant Messaging for Business

2008-01-17T22:05:00.000-08:00

Whether you're a business owner or an avid IM user, or both, here are 10 instant messaging do's and don'ts.
1.
Do adopt a user policy for instant messaging. If you're an owner, your employees need to know whether you view instant messaging as an appropriate vehicle to communicate with, say, customers or business partners. Any policy should contain at least general guidelines for its use. You may not think this is important — unless you know the story about the hedge fund manager who caused a major commotion by allegedly using IM to spread inaccurate rumours about a publicly traded software company. (Word got out, the software company's stock plunged, and the hedge fund manager and his company got into some serious trouble.)
2.
Don't use instant messaging to communicate confidential or sensitive information. Take a lesson from the above example. If your company is in the business of providing professional advice regarding stocks, finances, medicine or law, chances are it's not smart to do so through instant messaging. IM is better suited to quick information about project status, meeting times, or a person's whereabouts.
3.
Do organise your contact lists to separate business contacts from family and friends. Make sure your employees do the same. Eliminate even the remote possibility that a social contact could be included in a business chat with a partner or customer — or vice versa. MSN Messenger[link] lets you organise your contacts carefully.
4.
Don't allow excessive personal messaging at work. Yes, you make personal phone calls at work, send personal emails, and allow your employees to do the same. But you encourage them to keep it to a minimum and (hopefully) do the same yourself. For instant messaging go even further. Urge that personal chats be done during breaks or the lunch hour — or that the chats generate new customers or revenue to the business.
5.
Do be aware that instant messages can be saved. You may think IM is great because you can let your guard down, make bold statements, chastise a boss, employee or co-worker, and have it all wiped away from the record when you are done. What you aren't realising is that one of the parties to your conversation can copy and paste the entire chat onto a notepad or Word document. Some IM services allow you to archive entire messages. Be careful what you say, just like you would in an email.
6.
Don't compromise your company's liability, or your own reputation. The courts may still be figuring out where instant messages stand in terms of libel, defamation and other legal considerations. It's likely that any statements you make about other people, your company or other companies probably aren't going to land you in court. But they could damage your reputation or credibility. Be careful what you say.
7.
Do be aware of virus infections and related security risks. Most IM services allow you to transfer files with your messages. Alexis D. Gutzman, an author and eBusiness consultant, says her recent research for a book found that IM file attachments carrying viruses penetrate firewalls more easily than email attachments. "Instant messages [carrying viruses] will run and dip into a firewall until they find an opening," she says. You'd be wise to learn more about the quality of your own firewall protection, to decide whether or not to restrict transferring files through IM.
8.
Don't share personal data or information through IM. Even if you have the utmost trust in the person or people you are messaging, including personal information you'd rather keep confidential (like a phone number) is not a good idea. That's because the text of your chat is relayed through a server en route to your contact. "If anyone is on the connection and can see that traffic, they can see the personal information," says Chris Mitchell, lead program manager with MSN Messenger. Not likely, perhaps. But it’s better to send such info through an encrypted email, or not at all.
9.
Do keep your instant messages simple and to the point, and know when to say goodbye. How you should use IM is hard to stipulate. Kneko Burney, director of eBusiness research at Cahners In-Stat Group, prefers it simply for seeing if a colleague is at his or her desk, available for an in-person or telephone call. "It's like peeking into someone's office." Gutzman, on the other hand, sees IM as a way to do quick research and get fast information from consultants and even lawyers. She recently used IM in researching a book, saving entire messages in her personal archives. Both agree, however, that you must limit your inquiry, get to the point right away, and avoid unnecessary blather. "With instant messaging, you don't need a lot of pleasantries," Gutzman says. "I pretty much can say, 'How's it going?' and then get on with my question."
10.
Don't confuse your contacts with a misleading user name or status. IM user names, like email user names, should be consistent throughout your company. And users should do the courtesy of updating their status throughout the day, so contacts know whether they are available for messages.