Tuesday, December 27, 2011

Business Success

Start early planning your business for success in 2012!

Thursday, December 22, 2011

Holidays!

Best Wishes for a Joyous Christmas Holiday!

Friday, December 16, 2011

Thought for this Holiday!

"Not all of us can do great things. But we can do small things with great love.”
― Mother Teresa

Wednesday, December 7, 2011

Business Promotion During the Holidays

We are looking to hear methods of business promotion being utilized this holiday season. What steps have you taken to attract new customers? Has it proven successful? Share your ideas and actions here, so others can learn from you.

Saturday, November 26, 2011

Small Business Saturday is Here!


Remember to provide your support today by supporting a small business. Many great deals are being offered as the holiday season prances in to full swing. Help boost your local economy.

Friday, November 4, 2011

Small Business Saturday November 26th

Provide a small business with your support on Small Businesses Saturday, November 26th.

Monday, October 31, 2011

American Express Gift Cards Provided by FedEx!


American Express and FedEx have partnered up for a good cause, so listen up everyone. FedEx will be giving away 30,000 American Express cards. These have a total whopping value of $1 million.This is to encourage consumers to support small businesses on Business Saturday which is November 26th.Gift cards are available online starting November 1st. You can go to facebook.com/FedEx or stop by your local FedEx office. Don't miss out!

Happy Halloween Everyone!

What tricks and treats are you providing to let your customers know how much you care? Share your ideas with others here on how you plan to make the holiday season a financial success.

Wednesday, October 26, 2011

Start Planning for Christmas Today!

Have you started thinking about the holidays? If not, today is the day-as the holidays are rapidly approaching. Check out Treasure Maison for gift ideas. Free shipping and handling is available on many items.

Sunday, October 9, 2011

Cancer Journal for the Survivor in You II


October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and the perfect time to provide someone you love or care about with the ideal gift. Cancer Journal for the Survivor in You II is the gift that helps those affected by cancer. Don't worry about finding the right words to express your thoughts, purchase the journal that understands YOU and your battle.

Saturday, October 1, 2011

Heard of Task Rabbit?


Have you heard of Task Rabbit?

If not, now would be an excellent time to take a look at this business. I heard about it while watching the news a couple of days ago. What a fabulous concept, and ideal way to allow people to use their talents and abilitites to get back to work and earn an income.

While the concept may not have entered your area yet, it is continuing to circulate.

Something to Think Abought!

“What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us.”

― Ralph Waldo Emerson

Monday, September 19, 2011

Do You Have Your Copy of Healthcare Under Duress?


For some the trend of whistleblowing may have risen in recent years, but for many it started years ago, and involved nothing more than doing what was right for so many that were wronged. Have you purchased your copy of Healthcare Under Duress?.

Thursday, September 8, 2011

Business Expo in the Pacific Northwest


For you Pacific Northwest business folks, the 10th Annual Harvest Festival and Business Expo is coming October 8, 10:00-4:00pm (S. 3rd Street and Burnett in Renton.)

Seventy-five businesses will showcase their products and services.Contact Kellie Jordan 425226-4560 for more information or go to gorenton.com.

Friday, September 2, 2011

Remembering Those Lost on September 11th


In remembrance of those lost on September 11th, free shipping and handling is offered (Sept. 12-Sept. 16) on all cancer journals ordered.

Wednesday, August 31, 2011

Looking for a Legit Work at Home Opportunity?


If you are looking for a work at home opportunity that offers part-time and full time positions, check out Alpine Access and the opportnities they offer.

Here is additional information (article) from someone currently working for the company.

Tuesday, August 23, 2011

Let Your Efforts Make Your Business Blossom



All the effort in the world won't matter if you're not inspired."

— Chuck Palahniuk (Diary)

Saturday, July 30, 2011

The Hat Said What?


Recently, I had some construction work performed at my home. The worker I hired showed up with a friendly smile, and gear in hand ready to start his day. What surprised me was the baseball hat he wore. Resting comfortably upon his head, and proudly displaying bold coloring, it had a clear message for all to see. Sh#t Happens! I couldn't believe it. I paused momentarily, unsure if I should be frightened to let him touch my home and begin the repairs. What was his advertisement supposed to really mean? "Interesting hat." I commented. He smiled proudly and whistled away as he began to set up.

This advertisement was a simple reminder that we must remain aware of the message our business is conveying to others at all times. When you present yourself to a customer, or potential customer-you don't want them to ever hesitate about hiring you. I know I did. Fortunately, he did a fantastic job. But, not everyone is willing to give you a second chance, and it often reverts back to the old saying, you have one opportunity to make a first impression.

Tuesday, July 19, 2011

Business Thought For the Day


"You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself any direction you choose. You're on your own. And you know what you know. And YOU are the one who'll decide where to go..."

— Dr. Seuss (Oh, the Places You'll Go!)

Thursday, July 7, 2011

What is Your Preferred Means of Social-Networking?

We are looking for those willing to share their preferred means of social-networking and why? Do you utilize Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, web-conferencing, or something else? What works best for you, or has proven to be an effective means of promoting your business? Share your thoughts, and help those trying to learn understand.

Tuesday, June 21, 2011

Treasure Maison Fourth of July Sale!


In honor of the Fourth of July holiday, Treasure Maison is featuring many items with FREE SHIPPING AND HANDLING! Take advantage of the great products available.

Friday, June 17, 2011

Remembering the Fathers this Weekend!

On this special weekend, let's take the time to celebrate the father's and appreciate all that they do.

Wednesday, June 8, 2011

That Insult May Deserve a Shazam!


There was a series that used to come on in the 1970's called Shazam. Some networks still currently run episodes of the show. A teenager Billy, and his companion traveled to various locations via RV while encountering a variety of scenarios along the way. Whenever a situation occured which required additional advice or assistance, Billy could contact the elders including (Hercules, Solomon, Atlas) for advice. The power word SHAZAM! allowed Billy to become Captain Marvel and provided him with extra strength, speed, and power.


I had to laugh recently while talking to a friend. She was explaining how her work day had been proceeding beautifully: the sun was out, the birds were chirping, traffic seemed to be flowing smoothly, she had finished a project before the deadline and much more. Oh, how we love those days which often seem to be occuring less frequently. Then, one individual approached her about a previous assignment she had completed and BAM! That single incident and the accompanying insults seemed to wipe out all the positive things I mentioned earlier in my post. She suddenly felt miserable, irritated, and worthless. I have been guilty of allowing this type of scenario to play out in my day on several occasions as well. Why do we allow this to happen?

Our discussion caused me to pause and think about this for a moment. We are in charge of how we allow others to make us feel, and in the moments we stray from maintaining control we allow others to determine our fate. Perhaps, taking a moment to pause and reflect on the accomplishments that have been completed, rather than harbor and what others have viewed as the negative will change our thought processes. I think the next time someone attempts to impact my mood, I will give them a loud SHAZAM!

Monday, May 30, 2011

Remembering on this Memorial Day


"No one really knows why they are alive until they know what they'd die for."

Martin Luther King Jr.

Remembering the fallen on this holiday, and those who continue to fight for our country.

Thursday, May 26, 2011

Afraid Your Showcase Participation Will Be a Bust? Don't Worry!


People are consistently developing various means for business promotion, and this can occasionally include participation in local business showcases. Through the years I have been a participant in many. In fact for several years I ran a local business showcase monthly for women looking to promote their businesses. The challenge when participating in these types of events is ensuring that your product stands out from the pack. The process for doing this can be simplified if you are the sole individual selling a particular item such as jewelry, candles, children's books, or cooking products. The problem arises when several of you have the same products for sale.

Customer Reaction:

One observation I often noticed amongst customers was if too many vendors selling similar products were placed near each other (at the event,) the initial vendor received a thorough examination of their products. The next vendor would find their examination time reduced, and the next seller was often skipped. It didn't matter if the items had a different appearance. If similar products were spotted, the assumption became "oh it is the same old stuff." I often overheard these comments, and was saddened by wonderful businesses losing potential clients. It is up to you to halt those thoughts, and in a minute I will quickly explain how to do just that. Despite having some of the same products, you must create for your potential customers what I refer to as THE BLIND EYE. You are going to distract them from what is common or repetitive, by luring them with that which is stimulating.

Catch Their Eye:

Make your display attractive. This means vibrant coloring. Use flowers, colorful products, an attractive tablecloth (use one unique which is a conversation starter.) Place items which can be viewed as a steal for a customer ($3 and under in the front.) Is the item something you would want? Place enough of these items, so that once sold it can cover the cost of your showcase booth, table, or setting. The goal here is to make sure you don't lose money, even if it means you just break even. The name of the game is promotion. Have another area of slightly higher priced items that average $6 or so. This will elevate your chances of making a profit. Of course you will have more expensive items, but you want to ensure you have something that EVERYONE can afford.

Use the Bulk Approach:

Offer items in bulk, and let the pricing reflect this. If an item is $3 price it at $3.50 each or 5 for $15. You will be amazed at how many people are willing to purchase more because of the discounted price.

Remember to enjoy your event, and enjoy your customers. Never make them feel pressured. Everything is a choice, and you want people to choose YOU because you and your products represent quality.

Wednesday, May 18, 2011

Remember to Maintain your Integrity to Stay on Top!


This past week has been one filled with much activity, stress and the usual every day happenings many of us encounter daily. However, it is important to watch situations which occur carefully, because usually there is a lesson in there. While many of you may be thinking about starting a new business, working on your current one, or just trying to revamp things in this crazy economy...one thing to remember is whatever your decision never allow yourself to compromise your integrity.

I found myself put to the test recently with a client I do business with. After reviewing our work relationship, I realized I was no longer happy dealing with them, or comfortable with scenarios they were placing upon me. In business, you must be able to stand firmly behind the product your are producing. When you cannot do that 100 percent, it is time to re-evaluate the situation.

Customers want to deal with business owners they can trust. Remaining true to your word, your product, business tactics, and your beliefs will garner respect and help keep your business on the path to success.

Monday, May 9, 2011

Bubbles Make You Look for Sure!


I always like to share interesting things with my readers when I see them, and with the economy still in an unstable state I am continuously looking to see how people are promoting their businesses. I saw an interesting promotional tactic the other day that caught my attention.

What looked like a million bubbles (slight exaggeration but there were alot,) were flying from the top of what appeared to be a pipe sitting on a car, and floating towards the sky. Music was blasting from the vehicle as well.

The attraction made you look, and believe me I did because I was curious to see what type of business was being promoted. It was a housecleaning business. As I glanced around everyone seemed to be smiling, and pointing. This business owner had succeeded in doing what they intended to do, and that was catch attention.

Have you recently seen a catchy means of business promotion? If so leave a comment and share with us what you observed. If you have used something that has worked well for your business promotion-let us know.

Wednesday, April 27, 2011

Need Ideas for Those Potatoes?

Do you have left-over mashed potatoes remaining from Easter? Need ideas on what to do with them? Well, if you are a chef, this may be no problem. But, if you are like the rest of us perhaps a few ideas might be beneficial. Check out my latest work for a few suggestions.

Monday, April 18, 2011

Remembering Kathy Chou


It was a year ago today that a friend of my daughter's disappeared, and has not been seen since. Today, as we go through the struggles of life, and those that business may bring our way- let's take a minute and see if you may have seen this young woman anywhere?

Wednesday, April 13, 2011

Planning a Wedding in North Carolina?


If you are planning a wedding in the North Carolina area, and need a few places to consider as a possibility for celebrating your special day, check out my latest ehow article for some suggestions.

Thursday, April 7, 2011

Promotion! Promotion! Promotion!


To keep your business moving forward, you must constantly spread the word about why it is a great value, and what services it can provide for customers. Remember, when sharing this information with customers-include details about future plans. If you know what direction you are taking your business, this will serve as a means for establishing confidence. If you know what your plans are, and have established goals to get you there, others will place faith in you and follow. So, for today think about what steps you can take to pursue your future goals, raise your hand high for all to take notice, and start promoting that business.

Saturday, March 26, 2011

The Quote Made Me Pause


Almost all quality improvement comes via simplification of design, manufacturing... layout, processes, and procedures.

Tom Peters


I love it when I run across something that causes me to pause for a minute and think. Recently, I saw the above quote and it made me rethink about the work I do in my business, and the things I can do to make it better.

Of course I am like everyone else out there performing tasks. There never seems to be enough time to get things done. If only I had another hour, an additional day-I could just finish things. Well, we know that never seems to work. But, today I realized that it is not always about the big changes that can be made, but the small changes that can simplify things in my business and in my life. Perhaps it is the omission of one step in my business process. Maybe I should not deal with a particular client who isn't beneficial in helping me take my business in the direction I want it to go. Perhaps I should forgot the one step that makes the business process take an additional 20 minutes each day. Whatever it may be I am going to stop and examine everything I do and consider its importance.

You should too. Simplicity is the name of the game. Let's see what steps we can take to make our businesses run more efficiently sans working harder. In doing so, perhaps we can regain some valuable time lost in our lives.

Thursday, March 17, 2011

Start Your Spring Shopping Early!

Check out Treasure Maison for your shopping needs. New items added weekly. Take advantage of our free shipping and handling for many items.

Sunday, March 6, 2011

Has Google's Change in Search Ranking Algorithms Affected Your Business?


Recently Google made a major change in the way they ranked their search ranking algorithms. This was done to prevent websites from manipulating search engine rankings. In other words, weed out the "content farms," as they are known. Those are the sites that put information everywhere, the information is repetitive, or creatively re-worded, and the information is often useless.

I know opinions vary on what sites fall in to this category. The bottom line here, and lesson to be re-learned is always diversify. It is never smart to place all your faith in one field. You must branch out, take chances, and constantly create new things, and develop new ideas to allow for business expansion.

This is the time for many to go back to the drawing board and review your business practices. Continue to find new ways to keep your ranking high.

Sunday, February 27, 2011

Business Summit Comes to Renton, Washington


If you are a woman business owner in the Pacific Northwest, here is information regarding a free upcoming business event.

March 5, 2011 the U.S. Small Business Administration will host the Seattle Women Entrepreneurs Summit in Renton, Washington.

Free at Renton Technical College 3000 N.E. 4th St.

Business leaders, subject experts...will be on hand to discuss issues and answer questions concerning women in business.

Saturday, February 26, 2011

Get Crazy, Wacky, and Creative When Promoting Your Business!


I am always thinking about different ways to let people know about what I am doing in business. While this doesn't always have to cost money, it does need to be in a manner that makes you and your business stand out to others. Not long ago I saw a couple of business promotion ideas that stood out to me and I would like to tell you why.

First, while on a local highway, I caught site of a vehicle that had something that appeared to be a clear box attached on the back. After getting closer, I noticed it was a box filled with colorful flyers. A small slot beside the flyers held business cards. A lid ensured that the items would not get wet, and remained securely in place. Gold lettering beside the materials indicated the business name. I had never seen anything like this. It was sort of a self serve business promotion. Rather than going shopping and returning to your vehicle only to find unwanted brochures or information placed under your wiper, you could grab information yourself if interested. The bright colors and unique placement of this box made you want to get closer, and grab information just to see what it was all about.

Several minutes later while rounding a corner I noticed a black Mercedes heading in my direction. Attached to the side was a bright yellow sign promoting a housecleaning business. It was interesting to see the color contrast. It grabbed your attention because it screamed "look at me."

The economy has caused people to become creative in expressing their business offerings. What have you done lately to let others know about your business? Have you gone to extremes to spread the word? Share your ideas here.

Monday, February 14, 2011

Have You Been Following Me On E-How?


I strongly believe in learning something new each day, and that is one of my goals for the new year. Writing for E-how has given me this wonderful opportunity. I hope you have had a chance to review some of my latest articles. Click here.

Happy Valentine's Day!

Love yourself, each other, and your business on this day.

Saturday, February 5, 2011

Quality Service Never Goes Out of Style

In January we added a new addition to our family. Beau, our new Golden Retriever puppy. Our first Golden Retriever lived for 13 years, and he was a true blessing to our lives. Upon thinking about a new puppy we thought about different local breeders, and the shelters. After checking at numerous places things didn't work out for one reason or another. Individuals were advertising one thing, and then changing what they had stated. In fact I felt uneasy in many cases.

After much thought I contacted the breeder we had previously used, and sent pictures to through the years of our dog. You see after they sold each Golden Retriever, they wanted to know how they were making out through the years. They were still in business, still receiving excellent reviews from customers, still providing the same attentive care, and after speaking with the owner I felt the same secure feeling they had provided so many years ago. Nothing had changed.

We are once again pleased with our final decision, and this was just a reminder to me that it doesn't matter how many years it has been since you have conducted transactions with a business. If the business provides quality customer service, people will happily return and support them. Now, remember this when you conduct your next transaction.

Wednesday, January 26, 2011

Moms There is a Great New Website Out There for You!


With the economy still in a continual state of flux, money is a topic that is on everyones mind. Besides working outside the home, many women are running home-based businesses, being the home chef, taxi-driver, doctor, nurse, teacher and so much more. Any assistance available is appreciated to provide balance within the home and make life easier. So, whenever I learn about something new or a new website I love to share. Suze Orman has developed a new site with moms in mind. In case you have not hear about it here is where you can learn more.

Saturday, January 22, 2011

Looking for Ways to Save Year-Round?


If you are looking for various methods of keeping money in your wallet throughout the year, check out my article on Article Alley for pointers.

Friday, January 21, 2011

For Many Now It Is About the Business of Football?


What do the NFL and Renton Washington have in common? Well, besides the Seattle Seahawks there is a new claim to fame when taking a closer look at the training facility there. Check out my latest article for details.

Sunday, January 16, 2011

Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday 1-17-11


Remember the real reason to take a minute to pause and celebrate this special day.

Tuesday, January 11, 2011

Harry Potter the Exhibit


For those in the Pacific Northwest, check out my latest work-and the extension of the world famous Harry Potter exhibit...

Sunday, January 2, 2011

Creative Ways to Save Year Round


If you have a job or access to money nowadays that is wonderful. But, for many, finances is no laughing matter. Despite wanting to participate in various activities, lack of funding often limits what opportunities are available. Below are a few ways to put excitement back in to the challenge of finding extra money.

Limit CD, DVD Purchases:

Everyone wants to have the latest CD and DVD for their personal collection. With musical and theatrical productions becoming available at a faster rate, this is possible for many. However, the monies spent to make this happen add up quickly. To prevent this from becoming an issue share with friends, or do a swap when you are tired of your current collection. Utilize your local library to borrow and view items. Also, websites such as www.hulu.com allow you to watch movies and television shows for free.

Use Talents for Gift Exchange:

Rather than going to the mall and spending money on items you cannot afford to give to others, think of something you can offer them for free instead. What is your special talent? If you are a good cleaner, offer to clean their house one weekend. Provide your babysitting services so they can enjoy a night on the town. Fix something that has been broken at their home for a while. Run an errand or finish a chore they never seem to get around to. The end result will save them time, and you money.

Dine in Rather than Out:

Eating out costs a great deal. Plan a movie night at your home, make it a potluck and invite family or special friends over to join in the fun. This is an ideal way to catch up on what has been happening without it costing anything.

Share Clothing Items:

College students do this often because funds are tight. Have you had your sights on your best friends beautiful dress? What about her blouse? Plan an evening, gather a few friends together, and bring unwanted items to the table. The outcome can result in a new wardrobe for all involved.

Swap Books and Magazines:

Magazine subscriptions can become expensive. When you are finished with books or magazines, pass them on to a friend or someone you know that might enjoy the subject matter. Set up a monthly time to get together and bring literature you have finished with to the table. Everyone can leave with something new for their library.

Taking a little time to become creative with the things we have can result in saving many dollars in our wallets throughout the year.