Auto loans for bad credit are offered to people who have acquired bad credit by late and/or missed payments. A bad credit auto loan helps to re-establish the credit history of borrowers. Bad credit auto loans can be used to buy a used vehicle. Sometimes, these loans can be used to finance a new car. Bad credit auto loans are short-term loans, and their repayment period extends from 48 to 60 months.
The first step in the process of applying for a bad credit auto loan is to determine your FICO score, also known as credit score. Credit bureaus such as Equifax, Trans Union, and Bradstreet can determine your credit score. A credit score of 650 and below is regarded as bad credit. Borrowers with poor credit are usually offered high interest rate auto loans. The next step is to search for a trustworthy lender. The Internet is a good source to locate lenders dealing in bad credit auto loans.
Financial institutions, banks, credit unions, dealers and brokers extend bad credit auto loans. All of them employ a kind of risk based valuing approach in offering bad credit auto loans. A co-signed loan is one of the best options for a bad credit auto loan. If borrowers fail to repay the loan, the co-signer undertakes the responsibility to pay back the loan. In order to secure bad credit loans through dealership, borrowers have to pay premium prices.
The last step is the comparison and evaluation of interest rates and fees charged by various lenders. Auto loan quotes from multiple lenders can be used to select the most competitive interest rates.
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
Favorite Camping Memory
I was recently going through the garage getting the camping gear together for an upcoming trip and was just flooded with memories from my childhood. Some noise brought me back to reality and I realized with a chuckle a tear had formed in my eye. That is how strong the memories of camping are for me.
This one memory of camping was so fun I thought I would share it with you.
I was just a young boy, maybe 8 or 10 years old. My family often went camping. My dad loved to hunt and fish. One of my favorite destinations was the beach. The surf, the waves, the breeze, it was a whole different world. There was so much to explore and feel and touch. Camping at the beach will always be my favorite memories.
This camping trip was especially memorable. It was a day unlike any other. We arrived at the beach and frantically chose a spot for the tent. Dad was anxious to get in the water and start fishing. I was just anxious to get in the water. The day was full of adventure and after a long day we finally snuggled into our sleeping bags. Camping at the beach was great because you could always hear the roar of the waves. This night the waves seemed closer than usual I thought as I dozed off.
I awoke in the middle of the night with waves crashing inside the tent. The full moon had caused an extremely high tide and the tent was engulfed with water. I awoke to screaming and commotion and fell right off my sleeping bag down into the cold water. I rose to my knees just in time to catch a wave right in the face. I laughed aloud at the same time I screamed.
It was the absolute funniest thing you have ever seen. This camping trip to the beach was hilarious. Mom and Dad running around screaming as the sleeping bags and camping gear were floating away on the waves. I ran and jumped with glee. I laughed until I cried. It was the funniest thing I will ever remember in my life.
I don’t remember much else about that camping trip. I am not sure if we stayed or went home. I will just never forget that gleeful night under the stars with waves crashing into the tent. This truly was one of those great camping moments. Over the years there were many, but this one will always be my favorite.
So what is your favorite camping trip?
This one memory of camping was so fun I thought I would share it with you.
I was just a young boy, maybe 8 or 10 years old. My family often went camping. My dad loved to hunt and fish. One of my favorite destinations was the beach. The surf, the waves, the breeze, it was a whole different world. There was so much to explore and feel and touch. Camping at the beach will always be my favorite memories.
This camping trip was especially memorable. It was a day unlike any other. We arrived at the beach and frantically chose a spot for the tent. Dad was anxious to get in the water and start fishing. I was just anxious to get in the water. The day was full of adventure and after a long day we finally snuggled into our sleeping bags. Camping at the beach was great because you could always hear the roar of the waves. This night the waves seemed closer than usual I thought as I dozed off.
I awoke in the middle of the night with waves crashing inside the tent. The full moon had caused an extremely high tide and the tent was engulfed with water. I awoke to screaming and commotion and fell right off my sleeping bag down into the cold water. I rose to my knees just in time to catch a wave right in the face. I laughed aloud at the same time I screamed.
It was the absolute funniest thing you have ever seen. This camping trip to the beach was hilarious. Mom and Dad running around screaming as the sleeping bags and camping gear were floating away on the waves. I ran and jumped with glee. I laughed until I cried. It was the funniest thing I will ever remember in my life.
I don’t remember much else about that camping trip. I am not sure if we stayed or went home. I will just never forget that gleeful night under the stars with waves crashing into the tent. This truly was one of those great camping moments. Over the years there were many, but this one will always be my favorite.
So what is your favorite camping trip?
Monday, November 29, 2010
bad Credit Car Loan- How to get it and solve your problems
Bad credit car loan is designed for people with bad credit problems. Bad credit situations like defaults in repayment,
County Court Judgment's, bankruptcy, arrears, etc., can lead to bad credit. Lenders often feel reluctant in offering
car loans to bad credit holders as lots of risks are involved. But, don't worry, you can avail bad credit car loan for
purchasing your dream car.
Everyone wants to own a car. But, due to some financial problems or for want of money, it seems impossible for them to
own a car. Another problem that borrowers face is bad credit. Bad credit is now a general problem in UK as people
generally face situations like high credit card bills, store card bills, other loan burdens, etc. But, still lenders
pose problems in availing loans. Considering these situations, bad credit car loan has been designed especially for
people having bad credit problems.
Bad credit car loan can be either secured or unsecured type. In case of bad credit secured car loan, borrowers
would need to pledge collateral against the loan amount. In case of unsecured bad credit car loan, borrowers need
not pledge any collateral against the loan amount.
Some of the features of bad credit car loan are:
You can avail both secured as well as unsecured bad credit car loan .
You can avail loans for purchasing either used car or a new car.
You can apply bad credit car loan through online process to save time as well as money.
So, why to wait! Get your dream car now and go for a long drive with someone very close to your heart.
Car is a necessity in today's world as it helps save lot of time and money while commuting to different places. However
it not everyone cup of tea to afford a car on his own, as the prices of cars are soaring. With bad credit it becomes
even more difficult to purchase one. But where there is a will, there is a way. If you have a strong will for car, bad
credit car loan certainly is the right way to go for.
There are many lenders who offer bad credit car loan. There is nothing to feel ashamed, as there are lot people who
are under severe debts because lenders are more concerned about your present income and economical status. Bad credit car
loan can be taken as per your choice, with or without collateral. Secured bad credit car loan with collateral, has low
interest and long repayment duration but your property is at stake if you fail to repay.
Unsecured bad credit car loan gives you high interest rate and short repayment period. Additionally there is no risk
posed to your asset as it's taken without offering collateral.
For a quick and direct response of bad credit car loan, one must search through the websites of various lenders
available in the market. Purchasing car with in your budget will be beneficial for you.
County Court Judgment's, bankruptcy, arrears, etc., can lead to bad credit. Lenders often feel reluctant in offering
car loans to bad credit holders as lots of risks are involved. But, don't worry, you can avail bad credit car loan for
purchasing your dream car.
Everyone wants to own a car. But, due to some financial problems or for want of money, it seems impossible for them to
own a car. Another problem that borrowers face is bad credit. Bad credit is now a general problem in UK as people
generally face situations like high credit card bills, store card bills, other loan burdens, etc. But, still lenders
pose problems in availing loans. Considering these situations, bad credit car loan has been designed especially for
people having bad credit problems.
Bad credit car loan can be either secured or unsecured type. In case of bad credit secured car loan, borrowers
would need to pledge collateral against the loan amount. In case of unsecured bad credit car loan, borrowers need
not pledge any collateral against the loan amount.
Some of the features of bad credit car loan are:
You can avail both secured as well as unsecured bad credit car loan .
You can avail loans for purchasing either used car or a new car.
You can apply bad credit car loan through online process to save time as well as money.
So, why to wait! Get your dream car now and go for a long drive with someone very close to your heart.
Car is a necessity in today's world as it helps save lot of time and money while commuting to different places. However
it not everyone cup of tea to afford a car on his own, as the prices of cars are soaring. With bad credit it becomes
even more difficult to purchase one. But where there is a will, there is a way. If you have a strong will for car, bad
credit car loan certainly is the right way to go for.
There are many lenders who offer bad credit car loan. There is nothing to feel ashamed, as there are lot people who
are under severe debts because lenders are more concerned about your present income and economical status. Bad credit car
loan can be taken as per your choice, with or without collateral. Secured bad credit car loan with collateral, has low
interest and long repayment duration but your property is at stake if you fail to repay.
Unsecured bad credit car loan gives you high interest rate and short repayment period. Additionally there is no risk
posed to your asset as it's taken without offering collateral.
For a quick and direct response of bad credit car loan, one must search through the websites of various lenders
available in the market. Purchasing car with in your budget will be beneficial for you.
Email Punctuation Matters
It’s important to convey a professional impression when you send email messages. This includes using proper punctuation. With email, there’s a temptation to just dash off a message without regard to any of the rules of proper language.
But, remember – you may have never met the person you’re emailing. In that case, the recipient of your message is forming judgments about you based solely on your email.
Example
You may still be thinking that punctuation doesn’t matter that much. How much difference can a few commas and periods make, anyway?
Here is a fun illustration to demonstrate the importance of punctuation. See for yourself just how important those little dots and dashes of punctuation can be!
The following two “Dear John” letters are exactly the same (word for word). The only difference is how they are punctuated.
Punctuation Makes a Difference
Version One
Dear John:
I want a man who knows what love is all about. You are generous, kind, thoughtful.
People who are not like you admit to being useless and inferior.
You have ruined me for other men. I yearn for you. I have no feelings whatsoever when we’re apart. I can be forever happy—will you let me be yours?
Gloria
#####
Punctuation Makes a Difference
Version Two
Dear John:
I want a man who knows what love is. All about you are generous, kind, thoughtful people, who are not like you. Admit to being useless and inferior.
You have ruined me. For other men, I yearn. For you, I have no feelings whatsoever. When we’re apart, I can be forever happy. Will you let me be?
Yours,
Gloria
#####
I’m sorry to say the source of this delightful example is unknown. I’ve tried to track down the author. If you have information, please send it to: kelly@keepcustomers.com. Thanks!
You’ve heard the following cliché before. “You never get a second chance to make a good first impression.” Think about how this applies to email. You want to make a good impression on your customers, colleagues, staff, and boss. So, make sure your messages are punctuated properly!
But, remember – you may have never met the person you’re emailing. In that case, the recipient of your message is forming judgments about you based solely on your email.
Example
You may still be thinking that punctuation doesn’t matter that much. How much difference can a few commas and periods make, anyway?
Here is a fun illustration to demonstrate the importance of punctuation. See for yourself just how important those little dots and dashes of punctuation can be!
The following two “Dear John” letters are exactly the same (word for word). The only difference is how they are punctuated.
Punctuation Makes a Difference
Version One
Dear John:
I want a man who knows what love is all about. You are generous, kind, thoughtful.
People who are not like you admit to being useless and inferior.
You have ruined me for other men. I yearn for you. I have no feelings whatsoever when we’re apart. I can be forever happy—will you let me be yours?
Gloria
#####
Punctuation Makes a Difference
Version Two
Dear John:
I want a man who knows what love is. All about you are generous, kind, thoughtful people, who are not like you. Admit to being useless and inferior.
You have ruined me. For other men, I yearn. For you, I have no feelings whatsoever. When we’re apart, I can be forever happy. Will you let me be?
Yours,
Gloria
#####
I’m sorry to say the source of this delightful example is unknown. I’ve tried to track down the author. If you have information, please send it to: kelly@keepcustomers.com. Thanks!
You’ve heard the following cliché before. “You never get a second chance to make a good first impression.” Think about how this applies to email. You want to make a good impression on your customers, colleagues, staff, and boss. So, make sure your messages are punctuated properly!
Sunday, November 28, 2010
Background Checks and Resume Verifications Protect Employers
If you are a business owner, manager, or work in the human resources department of a company, you've probably hired employees who have been less than truthful on their resumes. In fact, recent studies indicate that 75 percent of all resumes contain some form of falsification and fully 89 percent are misleading.
Even though the numbers alone make the case for background checks and resume verification, employers often forgo pre-employment screening of applicants. When they do, the employers' lack of foresight can come back to haunt them. In some cases, companies have been found liable for negligent hiring and retention. In other cases, employers have faced public relations nightmares. Not too long ago, a prestigious university made the news when it was discovered that their admissions officer had allegedly lied about her educational background, and had not received the degrees she had claimed. In the most tragic cases, workplace violence has claimed innocent lives.
Pre-employment screening and background checks prove due diligence, and so can prevent lawsuits claiming negligent hiring. And, by screening out unqualified applicants, employers can save time and money otherwise wasted by recruiting, hiring, and training the wrong applicants. Resume verification and education verification can even help head off wrongful termination lawsuits.
Companies that provide employment screening offer a number of services. The type of screening that best serves you often depends upon the industry in which you work. For example, in the healthcare industry, background checks typically include a state criminal report, a social security number report, education verification, employment verification, a professional license check, a medical abuse check, and a sex offender check.
Those companies that hire delivery drivers or that employ long-haul truckers most often benefit from a national criminal report, a social security number report, a motor vehicle report and a license verification. Educational institutions and childcare centers usually request a national criminal report, a social security number report, a sex offender check, education verification, and employment verification. Those who work in the accounting or finance departments of companies should undergo a national criminal report, a social security number check, a credit check, education verification, employment verification, and an OFAC terrorist check.
Once you make the sensible decision to do pre-employment screening, how do you go about selecting the right company to do background checks? First, look for a well-established company that has a proven track record in both quality and accuracy. Next, make sure that they guarantee confidentiality. Third, check to see that they employ licensed investigators and provide you with the opportunity to speak to a live researcher. Finally, select a company that does both domestic and international searchers, and that does hands-on court research in the United States.
In today's litigious society, and with the prevalence of dissembling on resumes and employment applications, you can't afford to forego background checks and pre-employment screening of your employees and applicants. It's a small price to pay for the peace of mind you'll have knowing that the people you hire are who they claim to be.
Even though the numbers alone make the case for background checks and resume verification, employers often forgo pre-employment screening of applicants. When they do, the employers' lack of foresight can come back to haunt them. In some cases, companies have been found liable for negligent hiring and retention. In other cases, employers have faced public relations nightmares. Not too long ago, a prestigious university made the news when it was discovered that their admissions officer had allegedly lied about her educational background, and had not received the degrees she had claimed. In the most tragic cases, workplace violence has claimed innocent lives.
Pre-employment screening and background checks prove due diligence, and so can prevent lawsuits claiming negligent hiring. And, by screening out unqualified applicants, employers can save time and money otherwise wasted by recruiting, hiring, and training the wrong applicants. Resume verification and education verification can even help head off wrongful termination lawsuits.
Companies that provide employment screening offer a number of services. The type of screening that best serves you often depends upon the industry in which you work. For example, in the healthcare industry, background checks typically include a state criminal report, a social security number report, education verification, employment verification, a professional license check, a medical abuse check, and a sex offender check.
Those companies that hire delivery drivers or that employ long-haul truckers most often benefit from a national criminal report, a social security number report, a motor vehicle report and a license verification. Educational institutions and childcare centers usually request a national criminal report, a social security number report, a sex offender check, education verification, and employment verification. Those who work in the accounting or finance departments of companies should undergo a national criminal report, a social security number check, a credit check, education verification, employment verification, and an OFAC terrorist check.
Once you make the sensible decision to do pre-employment screening, how do you go about selecting the right company to do background checks? First, look for a well-established company that has a proven track record in both quality and accuracy. Next, make sure that they guarantee confidentiality. Third, check to see that they employ licensed investigators and provide you with the opportunity to speak to a live researcher. Finally, select a company that does both domestic and international searchers, and that does hands-on court research in the United States.
In today's litigious society, and with the prevalence of dissembling on resumes and employment applications, you can't afford to forego background checks and pre-employment screening of your employees and applicants. It's a small price to pay for the peace of mind you'll have knowing that the people you hire are who they claim to be.
Email Grammar Quiz
How good is your grammar? When writing email messages, proper grammar is important. By being aware of common mistakes, you can avoid them.
In other words, you don’t need to know all the rules. (What a relief!) But, . . . (You knew that was coming, didn’t you?) you need to know what you don’t know. If you are unsure if something is correct, look it up. Or, ask someone knowledgeable for assistance.
If you don’t have the time to seek help, here’s a quick tip. Use different wording. To put it another way:
If you can’t determine how to make the sentence correct, re-word the sentence so it doesn’t contain the item you’re having trouble with. Please don’t tell your high school English teacher that I made this suggestion!
Yes, it would be great if the entire country knew proper English. However, the reality is many people don’t. The goal of this article is to convince you to select the grammar that you know is correct.
Quiz
Are your grammar skills good enough? Find out by taking the following quiz.
Directions: Indicate whether the specified phrase is Correct (C) or Incorrect (I).
C I 1. John is (laying) on the couch in the office.
C I 2. Peter (laid) the file on the desk.
C I 3. He (sat) in front of the computer.
C I 4. (Set) the files on my desk when you are done.
C I 5. The customers want (their) price quote now.
C I 6. The customer wants (their) phone call returned.
C I 7. Wilma had (less) callers on her line.
C I 8. Fred has (fewer) employees.
Solutions
1. Incorrect.
The correct answer is lying.
To lie means to recline.
The verb is intransitive; it does not require an object.
The past tense is “lay.”
2. Correct.
To lay means to put or place.
The verb is transitive; it requires an object.
The past tense is “laid.”
3. Correct.
To sit means to be seated.
The verb is intransitive.
The past tense is “sat.”
4. Correct.
To set means to put or place.
The verb is transitive.
The past tense is “set.”
(Yes, it is the same as the present tense. This is, after all, English grammar. It is not supposed to make sense.)
5. Correct.
The antecedent is plural which requires a plural pronoun.
In other words, the plural form of “customers” requires using a plural pronoun “their.”
6. Incorrect.
The antecedent is singular which requires a singular pronoun.
In other words, the singular form of “customer” requires using a singular pronoun “his or her.”
This can also be written “his/her.”
7. Incorrect.
The correct word is “fewer.”
Fewer is used when you can count the quantity (e.g., “fewer students,” or “fewer hours in the workday,” or “fewer corn kernels”).
Less is used with an indeterminate quantity (e.g., “less interest,” or “less time,” or “less corn”).
8. Correct.
Fred can count the number of his employees, so “fewer” is correct.
Score:
8 = You’re perfect. (But, you knew that already.) Keep emailing!
6 - 7 = You’re okay. You could learn a few tips from my book, Email Etiquette Made Easy (see link in resource box).
3 - 5 = You could use some help. Try my book, Email Etiquette Made Easy (see link in resource box).
Less than 3 = Ugh! Call me now! We’ll schedule your intense therapy immediately.
In other words, you don’t need to know all the rules. (What a relief!) But, . . . (You knew that was coming, didn’t you?) you need to know what you don’t know. If you are unsure if something is correct, look it up. Or, ask someone knowledgeable for assistance.
If you don’t have the time to seek help, here’s a quick tip. Use different wording. To put it another way:
If you can’t determine how to make the sentence correct, re-word the sentence so it doesn’t contain the item you’re having trouble with. Please don’t tell your high school English teacher that I made this suggestion!
Yes, it would be great if the entire country knew proper English. However, the reality is many people don’t. The goal of this article is to convince you to select the grammar that you know is correct.
Quiz
Are your grammar skills good enough? Find out by taking the following quiz.
Directions: Indicate whether the specified phrase is Correct (C) or Incorrect (I).
C I 1. John is (laying) on the couch in the office.
C I 2. Peter (laid) the file on the desk.
C I 3. He (sat) in front of the computer.
C I 4. (Set) the files on my desk when you are done.
C I 5. The customers want (their) price quote now.
C I 6. The customer wants (their) phone call returned.
C I 7. Wilma had (less) callers on her line.
C I 8. Fred has (fewer) employees.
Solutions
1. Incorrect.
The correct answer is lying.
To lie means to recline.
The verb is intransitive; it does not require an object.
The past tense is “lay.”
2. Correct.
To lay means to put or place.
The verb is transitive; it requires an object.
The past tense is “laid.”
3. Correct.
To sit means to be seated.
The verb is intransitive.
The past tense is “sat.”
4. Correct.
To set means to put or place.
The verb is transitive.
The past tense is “set.”
(Yes, it is the same as the present tense. This is, after all, English grammar. It is not supposed to make sense.)
5. Correct.
The antecedent is plural which requires a plural pronoun.
In other words, the plural form of “customers” requires using a plural pronoun “their.”
6. Incorrect.
The antecedent is singular which requires a singular pronoun.
In other words, the singular form of “customer” requires using a singular pronoun “his or her.”
This can also be written “his/her.”
7. Incorrect.
The correct word is “fewer.”
Fewer is used when you can count the quantity (e.g., “fewer students,” or “fewer hours in the workday,” or “fewer corn kernels”).
Less is used with an indeterminate quantity (e.g., “less interest,” or “less time,” or “less corn”).
8. Correct.
Fred can count the number of his employees, so “fewer” is correct.
Score:
8 = You’re perfect. (But, you knew that already.) Keep emailing!
6 - 7 = You’re okay. You could learn a few tips from my book, Email Etiquette Made Easy (see link in resource box).
3 - 5 = You could use some help. Try my book, Email Etiquette Made Easy (see link in resource box).
Less than 3 = Ugh! Call me now! We’ll schedule your intense therapy immediately.
Saturday, November 27, 2010
Background Checks - How They Can Help Your Business
If you are running a business, you probably know that the people that you hire can either make or break your business. This is why it is so important to make sure that you hire only the best employees to work for you. However, it is easy to accidentally hire an employee that is a "bad apple" and you'll definitely end up paying for your mistake. If you want to make sure that you hire only the best employees, then it's time to start running background checks on employees before you hire.
There are many employers today who are turning to employee screening to make sure they get the best employees possible. If you're not sure that background checks are the right choice for your business, here are a few of the main benefits that may change your mind.
Benefit #1 - Lower Turnover - One of the main benefits of using background screening on your potential employees is that it can actually lead to lower turnover. It can be quite expensive for your company to have a high turnover of employees. However, screening before you hire can help you avoid this.
Benefit #2 - Better Attendance - Attendance is important to your company as well. Your company cannot function well when employees are constantly absent from work. Employee screening can help you week out people that have a bad attendance history at work.
Benefit #3 - Reduce Incidents of Theft - You'll also find that background checks can help you reduce incidents of theft at your company as well. They allow you to take a close look at the criminal record of potential employees to decide whether or not they are trustworthy or not.
Benefit #4 - Experience Productivity - Another great benefit of using background screening before you hire is that your company will experience better productivity when you do this. You won't end up with people who slack off on the job or who don't want to be there. You'll have quality employees who really make your company better.
Benefit #5 - Find Qualified Employees - Having qualified employees is very important if you want a profitable business. So, take a look at their background checks to see how they have performed in the past and if they really do have the qualifications that they say they do.
Benefit #6 - Make Sure the Person is Who They Claim to Be - Last of all, employee screenings allow you to make sure that the person you are considering for hire is really who they are claiming to be. This makes sure that you are protected and that you really know who you are hiring.
There are many employers today who are turning to employee screening to make sure they get the best employees possible. If you're not sure that background checks are the right choice for your business, here are a few of the main benefits that may change your mind.
Benefit #1 - Lower Turnover - One of the main benefits of using background screening on your potential employees is that it can actually lead to lower turnover. It can be quite expensive for your company to have a high turnover of employees. However, screening before you hire can help you avoid this.
Benefit #2 - Better Attendance - Attendance is important to your company as well. Your company cannot function well when employees are constantly absent from work. Employee screening can help you week out people that have a bad attendance history at work.
Benefit #3 - Reduce Incidents of Theft - You'll also find that background checks can help you reduce incidents of theft at your company as well. They allow you to take a close look at the criminal record of potential employees to decide whether or not they are trustworthy or not.
Benefit #4 - Experience Productivity - Another great benefit of using background screening before you hire is that your company will experience better productivity when you do this. You won't end up with people who slack off on the job or who don't want to be there. You'll have quality employees who really make your company better.
Benefit #5 - Find Qualified Employees - Having qualified employees is very important if you want a profitable business. So, take a look at their background checks to see how they have performed in the past and if they really do have the qualifications that they say they do.
Benefit #6 - Make Sure the Person is Who They Claim to Be - Last of all, employee screenings allow you to make sure that the person you are considering for hire is really who they are claiming to be. This makes sure that you are protected and that you really know who you are hiring.
Ecommerce in 2007 and Beyond!
E-Commerce Update for Entrepreneurs
Trends in Ecommerce are important as billions of electronic dollars build upon themselves year after year - making numerous budding entrepreneurs more money than they ever dreamt they would see! Companies like Facebook, said to be valued at fourteen billion dollars only four years in operation. And yes, that is billion - with a B.
Want to know when this article is updated? (The third quarter E-Commerce report will be released on November 19th) Submit your email and we will let you know!
Email Address:
Other companies, like YouTube - might only fetch a mere billion dollars. While many companies still go the traditional route of selling products and services online, and doing quite well judging from the massive increases in online sales, other companies sell nothing at all! They simply invite people to come and share some E-time with their site and collect advertising revenue in the process. Sites like Facebook have people willingly putting their demographic info into computer systems that allow advertisers to target a specific group of people. Want only women age 25-34 who are single Moms and work? How tough is it to hit that exact group with television advertising? But with online databases where people sign up so they can post and share their pictures, stories and even videos, the advertisers know exactly who they are reaching!
There are a million and one ways to make money on the Internet. And more and more would be entrepreneurs are discovering this and cashing in! Take a look at some figures from the U.S. Department of Commerce:
While total commerce went up less than nine percent from 2004 to 2005, E-Commerce, or those little electronic dollars went flying around cyberspace at almost twice that rate, or just under seventeen percent! The most notable number in Business to Business was the manufacturing sector. Up only 9.9% year over year as a whole, E-Commerce manufacturing was up a whopping 27.1%!
But if you think that is something, take a look at the Business to Consumer Retail figure! As a whole retail eeked out a less than six and a half percent gain. But E-Commerce retail was up 22.2 percent! While total retail sales struggled compared to most other sectors, E-Commerce went through the roof!
These figures seem to make it clear that people have become quite content to shop online. But surely there is a preliminary report that would show us how we fare in 2007? Indeed there is, and the numbers continue to amaze:
We can again see that while the total retail sales may only be sloughing along at three to six percent as we compare current quarters to the year ago quarters (last two columns) we see that the E-Commerce retail figures continue well into the double digits, with most of the listed quarters reporting gains of more than twenty percent!
The United States, indeed the world is now embracing all forms of E-Commerce and there doesn't appear to be any indication of that trend reversing anytime soon. For people thinking about becoming an online Entrepreneur the challenges are certainly present. But one would be hard pressed to name a better time to face these challenges!
Want to know when this article is updated? (The third quarter E-Commerce report will be released on November 19th) Submit your email and we will let you know!
Email Address:
Information in this report was obtained from the United States Department of Commerce - Census Bureau. Some figures may be preliminary figures. The data is believed to be accurate but is not guaranteed. Readers are encouraged to visit the Department of Commerce - CB and read the reports in their entirety. Any projections made in this report are only an opinion.
http://www.datachoices.com/public/Ecommerce2007.html
Trends in Ecommerce are important as billions of electronic dollars build upon themselves year after year - making numerous budding entrepreneurs more money than they ever dreamt they would see! Companies like Facebook, said to be valued at fourteen billion dollars only four years in operation. And yes, that is billion - with a B.
Want to know when this article is updated? (The third quarter E-Commerce report will be released on November 19th) Submit your email and we will let you know!
Email Address:
Other companies, like YouTube - might only fetch a mere billion dollars. While many companies still go the traditional route of selling products and services online, and doing quite well judging from the massive increases in online sales, other companies sell nothing at all! They simply invite people to come and share some E-time with their site and collect advertising revenue in the process. Sites like Facebook have people willingly putting their demographic info into computer systems that allow advertisers to target a specific group of people. Want only women age 25-34 who are single Moms and work? How tough is it to hit that exact group with television advertising? But with online databases where people sign up so they can post and share their pictures, stories and even videos, the advertisers know exactly who they are reaching!
There are a million and one ways to make money on the Internet. And more and more would be entrepreneurs are discovering this and cashing in! Take a look at some figures from the U.S. Department of Commerce:
While total commerce went up less than nine percent from 2004 to 2005, E-Commerce, or those little electronic dollars went flying around cyberspace at almost twice that rate, or just under seventeen percent! The most notable number in Business to Business was the manufacturing sector. Up only 9.9% year over year as a whole, E-Commerce manufacturing was up a whopping 27.1%!
But if you think that is something, take a look at the Business to Consumer Retail figure! As a whole retail eeked out a less than six and a half percent gain. But E-Commerce retail was up 22.2 percent! While total retail sales struggled compared to most other sectors, E-Commerce went through the roof!
These figures seem to make it clear that people have become quite content to shop online. But surely there is a preliminary report that would show us how we fare in 2007? Indeed there is, and the numbers continue to amaze:
We can again see that while the total retail sales may only be sloughing along at three to six percent as we compare current quarters to the year ago quarters (last two columns) we see that the E-Commerce retail figures continue well into the double digits, with most of the listed quarters reporting gains of more than twenty percent!
The United States, indeed the world is now embracing all forms of E-Commerce and there doesn't appear to be any indication of that trend reversing anytime soon. For people thinking about becoming an online Entrepreneur the challenges are certainly present. But one would be hard pressed to name a better time to face these challenges!
Want to know when this article is updated? (The third quarter E-Commerce report will be released on November 19th) Submit your email and we will let you know!
Email Address:
Information in this report was obtained from the United States Department of Commerce - Census Bureau. Some figures may be preliminary figures. The data is believed to be accurate but is not guaranteed. Readers are encouraged to visit the Department of Commerce - CB and read the reports in their entirety. Any projections made in this report are only an opinion.
http://www.datachoices.com/public/Ecommerce2007.html
Friday, November 26, 2010
Backgammon Rules: Learn How to Play Backgammon
The board game backgammon is one of the most ancient games known to man. It is believed that early variations of the game were played in Ancient Egypt, Mesopotamia and Ancient Rome. Since then, the game has evolved, changed several names and spread to different parts of the world. It is currently a popular pastime all over the US, East Asia, Europe, and the Middle East.
In order to play backgammon all you need is a partner, two dice and a special backgammon board with checkers. The backgammon board is divided into two sides with each one is the mirror reflection of the other. Each side contains 12 triangles called points numbered from 1 to 24.
Points 1 to 6: Home Board or Inner Board
Points 7 to 12: Outer Board
7 point: Bar Point
13 point: Mid Point
At the starting position of the game, each player has 2 checkers on the 24 point, 3 checkers on the 8 point and 5 on the 13 and 6 point. Each player moves from his home board through the outer board towards the opponent home board.
The object of backgammon, then, is to move your checkers towards your opponent home board and remove them off the board before your opponent moves his checkers towards your home board. The speed of the progress of each move is determined by the outcome of the dice roll.
The backgammon play begins with both players tossing one die. The player whose outcome is the highest, makes the first move using both his and his opponents number. If the outcome of the dice toss is even, the players toss the dice again until an uneven outcome appears. From now on, each player tosses both dice on his turn.
After each toss of dice, you should move your checkers forward the number of steps appears on both dice. You can move either one checker the number of steps summed up by both die or move two checkers. To make it clearer: if the outcome of the dice roll is 5 and 4, you can either move one checker 9 steps forward or move one checker 5 steps forward and then move the other piece 4 steps forward
If the dice rolls a double, which means an even number on both dice, you can move double the number appears on the dice. For example, if you roll double 2, you can move 2 points four times. In that case, you can either move one checker 8 steps forward; move two checkers a total of 4 steps; move two checkers a total of 2 steps each plus a total of 4 steps; move one checker a total of 6 steps plus 2 steps; or move four checkers 2 steps.
You can move a checker to a point where there is another one of your checkers or no more than one checker of your opponent, called blot. When you hit a blot, it is moved to the middle of the board to the part divided between the home board and the outer boards, called the bar.
The checkers placed on the bar are kept out of play until the bar can be entered by a dice roll in the opponent’s home boards. For example, if you roll 2, you can enter a checker to the 23 point and enter the opponents home board and re enter the bar checkers into the game. You cannot move the other checkers unless your entire bar checkers are at your opponents home board.
By the time your checkers are in your home board, you must remove the checkers from the board, to bear off, using a roll of dice. For example, if you roll 1, you can bear off one checker from the 1 point; if you roll 2, you can move a checker form the 2 point, and so on.
If your opponent has not borne off any checkers while you have borne off 15 checkers, you win the gammon. If your opponent has not borne off any checkers and still some of his checkers are placed on the bar, while you have borne off 15 checkers, then you win the backgammon.
In order to play backgammon all you need is a partner, two dice and a special backgammon board with checkers. The backgammon board is divided into two sides with each one is the mirror reflection of the other. Each side contains 12 triangles called points numbered from 1 to 24.
Points 1 to 6: Home Board or Inner Board
Points 7 to 12: Outer Board
7 point: Bar Point
13 point: Mid Point
At the starting position of the game, each player has 2 checkers on the 24 point, 3 checkers on the 8 point and 5 on the 13 and 6 point. Each player moves from his home board through the outer board towards the opponent home board.
The object of backgammon, then, is to move your checkers towards your opponent home board and remove them off the board before your opponent moves his checkers towards your home board. The speed of the progress of each move is determined by the outcome of the dice roll.
The backgammon play begins with both players tossing one die. The player whose outcome is the highest, makes the first move using both his and his opponents number. If the outcome of the dice toss is even, the players toss the dice again until an uneven outcome appears. From now on, each player tosses both dice on his turn.
After each toss of dice, you should move your checkers forward the number of steps appears on both dice. You can move either one checker the number of steps summed up by both die or move two checkers. To make it clearer: if the outcome of the dice roll is 5 and 4, you can either move one checker 9 steps forward or move one checker 5 steps forward and then move the other piece 4 steps forward
If the dice rolls a double, which means an even number on both dice, you can move double the number appears on the dice. For example, if you roll double 2, you can move 2 points four times. In that case, you can either move one checker 8 steps forward; move two checkers a total of 4 steps; move two checkers a total of 2 steps each plus a total of 4 steps; move one checker a total of 6 steps plus 2 steps; or move four checkers 2 steps.
You can move a checker to a point where there is another one of your checkers or no more than one checker of your opponent, called blot. When you hit a blot, it is moved to the middle of the board to the part divided between the home board and the outer boards, called the bar.
The checkers placed on the bar are kept out of play until the bar can be entered by a dice roll in the opponent’s home boards. For example, if you roll 2, you can enter a checker to the 23 point and enter the opponents home board and re enter the bar checkers into the game. You cannot move the other checkers unless your entire bar checkers are at your opponents home board.
By the time your checkers are in your home board, you must remove the checkers from the board, to bear off, using a roll of dice. For example, if you roll 1, you can bear off one checker from the 1 point; if you roll 2, you can move a checker form the 2 point, and so on.
If your opponent has not borne off any checkers while you have borne off 15 checkers, you win the gammon. If your opponent has not borne off any checkers and still some of his checkers are placed on the bar, while you have borne off 15 checkers, then you win the backgammon.
Earn Money at Home by Finding Credit Solutions for Others
Each day people are looking for a way to earn money at home. Sometimes it is in addition to a regular job, or as a main source of income. The opportunities are unlimited in finding home employment today.
A home-based business is not dependent on a person's location or prior experience. By searching for yourself through the various online offerings, you will be able to find a way to earn money at home based on your individual skills and interests. There are also many companies that offer training for a home based business.
Finding Credit Solutions for Others
Finding credit solutions for others and money brokering are effectual ways to earn money while working at home. You would be able to work full or part time as your time and schedule allows. By providing this kind of service you will be able to expand business by receiving referrals from satisfied clients and by advertising.
Becoming more independent is an important goal for many people. They might want to open their own business and need financing. Or perhaps they are in too much debt and need a credit solution to release them from financial stress. There are people every day that need help and don't know how to handle their situation. You can be the one to help them as you earn a lucrative income at home.
Help Others and Earn Money At Home
Learning how to help people with a credit dilemma or helping them to get started can be a rewarding and lucrative business. Help your clients learn how to use financing, credit cards, how to begin saving and avoiding bankruptcy.
Help people to manage their money and become free of the debt they owe. Teach them to live with a budget and avoid going deep in debt. Show them ways to cut household expenses and easy ways to save money. Teach them money skills that can be passed along to their family. Using practical steps to keep them financially stable will give them the opportunity to realize their dreams.
Another Way to Earn Money At Home
While you earn money at home through finding credit solutions for others, you can also earn extra money by signing up for a free affiliate program. Earn commissions by advertising for others and bringing sales to those companies.
Home Based Business
When considering a way to earn money at home, take time to visit websites that offer training and help in getting started. The financial rewards are only limited by your time and effort. With a just small investment, you will be able to enter into a profitable endeavor, helping others with credit solutions while working in your own home.
A home-based business is not dependent on a person's location or prior experience. By searching for yourself through the various online offerings, you will be able to find a way to earn money at home based on your individual skills and interests. There are also many companies that offer training for a home based business.
Finding Credit Solutions for Others
Finding credit solutions for others and money brokering are effectual ways to earn money while working at home. You would be able to work full or part time as your time and schedule allows. By providing this kind of service you will be able to expand business by receiving referrals from satisfied clients and by advertising.
Becoming more independent is an important goal for many people. They might want to open their own business and need financing. Or perhaps they are in too much debt and need a credit solution to release them from financial stress. There are people every day that need help and don't know how to handle their situation. You can be the one to help them as you earn a lucrative income at home.
Help Others and Earn Money At Home
Learning how to help people with a credit dilemma or helping them to get started can be a rewarding and lucrative business. Help your clients learn how to use financing, credit cards, how to begin saving and avoiding bankruptcy.
Help people to manage their money and become free of the debt they owe. Teach them to live with a budget and avoid going deep in debt. Show them ways to cut household expenses and easy ways to save money. Teach them money skills that can be passed along to their family. Using practical steps to keep them financially stable will give them the opportunity to realize their dreams.
Another Way to Earn Money At Home
While you earn money at home through finding credit solutions for others, you can also earn extra money by signing up for a free affiliate program. Earn commissions by advertising for others and bringing sales to those companies.
Home Based Business
When considering a way to earn money at home, take time to visit websites that offer training and help in getting started. The financial rewards are only limited by your time and effort. With a just small investment, you will be able to enter into a profitable endeavor, helping others with credit solutions while working in your own home.
Thursday, November 25, 2010
Baccarat History and American Baccarat Rules
If we put aside the black ties, the velvet curtains and the overall exclusive atmosphere, baccarat is one of the simplest casino games around. In addition, baccarat is a beatable game with a low house edge, which makes it one of the best bets you can make! Here you can read about baccarat history and learn how to play the game.
Both the American and European versions of baccarat and the French Chemin de Fer are late developments of the Italian game called baccara, which means zero in Italian. The origins of baccara go back to an old Etruscan myth. According to the myth, a blonde virgin had to toss a nine sided die to decide on her destiny. If the die landed on eight or nine, she would have to fulfill her destiny and become a priest. If the die landed on six or seven, she would be forbidden to participate in any religious activity. If the die landed on any other number, the virgin had to walk into the sea.
The Italian game baccara was popular among French aristocracy during the end of the 15th century. Baccara had evolved to the European version of baccarat, which is still played in European casinos today as well as the French variation of baccarat known as Chemin de Fer, which is mainly played in casinos in France. The American version of the game was introduced to Nevada casinos in the 1950s by Francis Tommy Renzoni, who imported the game from Havana.
Baccarat still carries an aroma of aristocracy and exclusivity. In American casinos, baccarat is played in a separated area of the casino, hidden behind velvet curtains. Baccarat players are usually dressed up and the betting limits are higher comparing to other table games. In order to attract the medium budget players, a lower limit version of baccarat, called mini baccarat, was invented. Mini baccarat is played on a smaller table, inside the casino gambling area with lower betting limits than baccarat.
How to Play Baccarat
Baccarat is played with 3 dealers and up to 12 or 14 players. Baccarat is usually played with 8 standard card decks. Aces valued as one, face cards and ten cards valued as zero, and the rest of the number cards worth their face value. The suit has no meaning. The object of the game is to get as close to 9 as possible.
The play begins by all players, including the dealer, placing their bets either on the player, the banker, or on a tie. Traditionally, the dealer bets on the banker. The dealer can be the house dealer or one of the players. After everyone has placed their bets, the dealer gives two cards to each player and to the banker.
The score of each hand is calculated as the sum of the two cards minus the left digit. For example, if the sum of the two cards is 15, the score would be 5. The decision whether to deal a third card is determined by a set or rules and it is not up to the player or the dealers decision.
If the score of the players hand is 9 or 8, he wins
If the score of the dealers hand is 9 or 8, it is a tie
If a players score is 7 or 6, he can be dealt a third card
If a players score is 5 or less, he has to receive a third card
If a player gets a third card and the score of the dealers hand is 2, 1 or 0, he must draw a third card
If the score of the dealers hand is 3 and the players third card is any value but 8, he must draw a third card
If the score of the dealers hand is 4 and the players third card value is between 2 and 7, he must draw a third card
If the score of the dealers hand is 5 and the players third card value is between 4 and seven, he must draw a third card
If the score of the dealers hand is 6 and the players third card is 6 or 7, he must draw a third card.
If the score of the dealers hand is 7, he cannot draw a third card.
Both the American and European versions of baccarat and the French Chemin de Fer are late developments of the Italian game called baccara, which means zero in Italian. The origins of baccara go back to an old Etruscan myth. According to the myth, a blonde virgin had to toss a nine sided die to decide on her destiny. If the die landed on eight or nine, she would have to fulfill her destiny and become a priest. If the die landed on six or seven, she would be forbidden to participate in any religious activity. If the die landed on any other number, the virgin had to walk into the sea.
The Italian game baccara was popular among French aristocracy during the end of the 15th century. Baccara had evolved to the European version of baccarat, which is still played in European casinos today as well as the French variation of baccarat known as Chemin de Fer, which is mainly played in casinos in France. The American version of the game was introduced to Nevada casinos in the 1950s by Francis Tommy Renzoni, who imported the game from Havana.
Baccarat still carries an aroma of aristocracy and exclusivity. In American casinos, baccarat is played in a separated area of the casino, hidden behind velvet curtains. Baccarat players are usually dressed up and the betting limits are higher comparing to other table games. In order to attract the medium budget players, a lower limit version of baccarat, called mini baccarat, was invented. Mini baccarat is played on a smaller table, inside the casino gambling area with lower betting limits than baccarat.
How to Play Baccarat
Baccarat is played with 3 dealers and up to 12 or 14 players. Baccarat is usually played with 8 standard card decks. Aces valued as one, face cards and ten cards valued as zero, and the rest of the number cards worth their face value. The suit has no meaning. The object of the game is to get as close to 9 as possible.
The play begins by all players, including the dealer, placing their bets either on the player, the banker, or on a tie. Traditionally, the dealer bets on the banker. The dealer can be the house dealer or one of the players. After everyone has placed their bets, the dealer gives two cards to each player and to the banker.
The score of each hand is calculated as the sum of the two cards minus the left digit. For example, if the sum of the two cards is 15, the score would be 5. The decision whether to deal a third card is determined by a set or rules and it is not up to the player or the dealers decision.
If the score of the players hand is 9 or 8, he wins
If the score of the dealers hand is 9 or 8, it is a tie
If a players score is 7 or 6, he can be dealt a third card
If a players score is 5 or less, he has to receive a third card
If a player gets a third card and the score of the dealers hand is 2, 1 or 0, he must draw a third card
If the score of the dealers hand is 3 and the players third card is any value but 8, he must draw a third card
If the score of the dealers hand is 4 and the players third card value is between 2 and 7, he must draw a third card
If the score of the dealers hand is 5 and the players third card value is between 4 and seven, he must draw a third card
If the score of the dealers hand is 6 and the players third card is 6 or 7, he must draw a third card.
If the score of the dealers hand is 7, he cannot draw a third card.
Don't Be Afraid To Give Problem Customers The Boot
Q: In a recent column you made the point that the customer is always right, which I agree with. However, in the same column you also said that it is sometimes necessary give problem customers the boot. If the customer is always right, at what point do you think they become so problematic that you should stop doing business with them?
-- Gary M.
A: That column brought a number of emails similar to yours, Gary, requesting that I clarify the line between "the customer is always right" and "sometimes you have to give a customer the boot." Here's the bottom line: if you, as a business owner or service provider, are willing to take a customer's money in exchange for providing him with goods or services, then the customer has what I call "the right of expectation." This means that the customer has the right to expect you to deliver everything promised in the transaction between you. For example, if you own a restaurant the customer has the right to expect that their meal will be prepared and served to their satisfaction. If you are a dry cleaner the customer has the right to expect that you will launder their clothes without returning them in shreds. If are hired to perform a service the customer has the right to expect that the service will be provided to their satisfaction within the terms of the defined task.
As the business owner, it is your responsibility to meet the customer's expectations and provide good customer service. Even if your business does not involve a formal contract that spells out to the letter what should be expected, there is generally a clear understanding of what the customer expects and what you are willing to deliver. If you back peddle on your end of the bargain, let's say by serving a bad meal or losing a customer's laundry and refusing to make things right, then you are guilty of not meeting the expectations of your customer and thereby are guilty of providing bad customer service.
Unfortunately not every entrepreneur puts emphasis on delivering good customer service. They are in it for the money and damn the customer if they have a problem. Such entrepreneurs were the topic of the column you mentioned, the point of which was, if you make a habit of not meeting your customer's expectations, you will not be in business for long.
Now let's look at the flipside. Just as the customer has the right to expect that he will get his money's worth when doing business with you, you have the right to expect that your customer will not demand things that are beyond the scope of realistic expectations (or the contract). If a customer orders hamburger, he shouldn't expect it to taste like steak unless you have advertised it as such. If a customer brings you a cotton shirt to launder he should not expect a silk shirt in return. It's when the customer's expectations get out of sync with what should realistically be expected that you will have problems.
We have all had customers who expected far more than was their due: customers who were unreasonable, overly-demanding, condescending, hard to please and sometimes, even dishonest in their dealings with you. When a customer's reasonable expectations become unreasonable demands you must decide whether or not that customer is doing more harm to your business than good.
So here is the line in the sand between the "customer is always right" and "sometimes you have to give the customer the boot" - if a customer crosses the line from being an asset to being a detriment to your business, you should consider giving that customer the boot.
This is easier said than done if that customer constitutes a large chunk of your revenue, but even then you have to consider what your business might be like if that problem customer was not in the picture. Would the time you spend dealing with the problem customer be better spent on sales calls that might expand your client base and grow your business (a business that is dependent on one client is a house of cards)? Would your employees be happier not having to deal with this customer? Would you sleep better nights knowing that you don't have a dozen phone messages from him on your desk every morning?
The easiest way to decide how much trouble a customer is worth is to look at the amount of revenue this customer brings in versus the time and expense of meeting his expectations. If this customer pays you $1,000 a month, but costs you $2,000 in time spent keeping them happy, this customer is actually costing you money. Just a handful of these kinds of customers will put you out of business fast..
For example, I once had a client whose business was worth several thousand dollars a year to my software company's bottom line. However, this client proved to be problematic from the second the contract was signed. He and his employees called our office ten times a day and dominated my tech support team's time with IT problems that were not even related to the service we were contracted to provide. It got so bad that my employees cringed every time the phone rang because they were afraid it was this client calling again.
When the time came to renew this client's contract it wasn't hard for me to decide to give him the boot. I simply did the math. This client had added thousands of dollars to my company's bottom line, but had cost me at least that much in handholding and support, not to mention the mental anguish he had caused my employees. I opted not to renew the contract and politely invited the client to take his business elsewhere.
The perfect customer relationship is win/win, meaning that your customer benefits from your product or service and your company prospers by delivering the product or service. The relationship must be built on mutual respect and honest intention. It is when the relationship becomes win/lose that you must be ready to take action. If the customer thinks he can hold you over a barrel and get more out of you than he has paid for, the relationship and your business suffer for it.
Look, you don't need me to hit you in the head with a stupid stick on this one. You know who your problem customers are and you know that you will eventually have to deal with them. You have to consider the value of every customer in the long run, not just their value today.
Is the customer making demands that are beyond the scope of what should be reasonably expected? If the customer constantly demands more than they are entitled to and gets angry when you refuse to comply, consider giving them the boot.
Is the customer taking advantage of your good graces? Some customers may mistake your willingness to please for weakness and try to wring more out of your relationship than they should. If the customer has a record of trying to take advantage of you and plays every angle to get more from you than they deserve, consider giving them the boot.
Is this customer a threat to your reputation? Let's face it; there is nothing more harmful to your reputation than a dissatisfied customer with a big mouth. And it does not matter who is at fault in the disagreement, a disgruntled customer is going to bad mouth you in the end - especially if they were at fault. If you suspect a customer might be the sort to one day air dirty laundry in public, consider giving them the boot.
Does the customer pay in a timely manner? If you have a customer that is consistently 90 to 120 days late in paying even when your contract clearly outlines your payment terms to be otherwise, it may be indicative of other problems to come. If you feel the client is a payment risk, consider giving them the boot.
What's the best way to avoid a customer booting? The best answer is to have a contract that clearly spells out the specifics of the relationship. The contracts I use in my various businesses clearly define the services to be provided, the cost of those services, and the timeline and terms under which those services will be rendered. If there is a deviation from the contract, we write an addendum that details any changes and their effect on the contract. Do I still have to give some customers the boot? You bet, but not very often. It's hard for a customer to cry foul when everything is there in black and white right above his signature.
What if your business doesn't use contracts? Then hang a poster in your shop or have a hand-out that clearly defines what your customer can expect from your business and then deliver what you promise. If you have a poster or hand-out that clearly outlines your services, your rates, scheduling, return policy, etc., there should be very little that the customer can complain about.
I know, famous last words.
-- Gary M.
A: That column brought a number of emails similar to yours, Gary, requesting that I clarify the line between "the customer is always right" and "sometimes you have to give a customer the boot." Here's the bottom line: if you, as a business owner or service provider, are willing to take a customer's money in exchange for providing him with goods or services, then the customer has what I call "the right of expectation." This means that the customer has the right to expect you to deliver everything promised in the transaction between you. For example, if you own a restaurant the customer has the right to expect that their meal will be prepared and served to their satisfaction. If you are a dry cleaner the customer has the right to expect that you will launder their clothes without returning them in shreds. If are hired to perform a service the customer has the right to expect that the service will be provided to their satisfaction within the terms of the defined task.
As the business owner, it is your responsibility to meet the customer's expectations and provide good customer service. Even if your business does not involve a formal contract that spells out to the letter what should be expected, there is generally a clear understanding of what the customer expects and what you are willing to deliver. If you back peddle on your end of the bargain, let's say by serving a bad meal or losing a customer's laundry and refusing to make things right, then you are guilty of not meeting the expectations of your customer and thereby are guilty of providing bad customer service.
Unfortunately not every entrepreneur puts emphasis on delivering good customer service. They are in it for the money and damn the customer if they have a problem. Such entrepreneurs were the topic of the column you mentioned, the point of which was, if you make a habit of not meeting your customer's expectations, you will not be in business for long.
Now let's look at the flipside. Just as the customer has the right to expect that he will get his money's worth when doing business with you, you have the right to expect that your customer will not demand things that are beyond the scope of realistic expectations (or the contract). If a customer orders hamburger, he shouldn't expect it to taste like steak unless you have advertised it as such. If a customer brings you a cotton shirt to launder he should not expect a silk shirt in return. It's when the customer's expectations get out of sync with what should realistically be expected that you will have problems.
We have all had customers who expected far more than was their due: customers who were unreasonable, overly-demanding, condescending, hard to please and sometimes, even dishonest in their dealings with you. When a customer's reasonable expectations become unreasonable demands you must decide whether or not that customer is doing more harm to your business than good.
So here is the line in the sand between the "customer is always right" and "sometimes you have to give the customer the boot" - if a customer crosses the line from being an asset to being a detriment to your business, you should consider giving that customer the boot.
This is easier said than done if that customer constitutes a large chunk of your revenue, but even then you have to consider what your business might be like if that problem customer was not in the picture. Would the time you spend dealing with the problem customer be better spent on sales calls that might expand your client base and grow your business (a business that is dependent on one client is a house of cards)? Would your employees be happier not having to deal with this customer? Would you sleep better nights knowing that you don't have a dozen phone messages from him on your desk every morning?
The easiest way to decide how much trouble a customer is worth is to look at the amount of revenue this customer brings in versus the time and expense of meeting his expectations. If this customer pays you $1,000 a month, but costs you $2,000 in time spent keeping them happy, this customer is actually costing you money. Just a handful of these kinds of customers will put you out of business fast..
For example, I once had a client whose business was worth several thousand dollars a year to my software company's bottom line. However, this client proved to be problematic from the second the contract was signed. He and his employees called our office ten times a day and dominated my tech support team's time with IT problems that were not even related to the service we were contracted to provide. It got so bad that my employees cringed every time the phone rang because they were afraid it was this client calling again.
When the time came to renew this client's contract it wasn't hard for me to decide to give him the boot. I simply did the math. This client had added thousands of dollars to my company's bottom line, but had cost me at least that much in handholding and support, not to mention the mental anguish he had caused my employees. I opted not to renew the contract and politely invited the client to take his business elsewhere.
The perfect customer relationship is win/win, meaning that your customer benefits from your product or service and your company prospers by delivering the product or service. The relationship must be built on mutual respect and honest intention. It is when the relationship becomes win/lose that you must be ready to take action. If the customer thinks he can hold you over a barrel and get more out of you than he has paid for, the relationship and your business suffer for it.
Look, you don't need me to hit you in the head with a stupid stick on this one. You know who your problem customers are and you know that you will eventually have to deal with them. You have to consider the value of every customer in the long run, not just their value today.
Is the customer making demands that are beyond the scope of what should be reasonably expected? If the customer constantly demands more than they are entitled to and gets angry when you refuse to comply, consider giving them the boot.
Is the customer taking advantage of your good graces? Some customers may mistake your willingness to please for weakness and try to wring more out of your relationship than they should. If the customer has a record of trying to take advantage of you and plays every angle to get more from you than they deserve, consider giving them the boot.
Is this customer a threat to your reputation? Let's face it; there is nothing more harmful to your reputation than a dissatisfied customer with a big mouth. And it does not matter who is at fault in the disagreement, a disgruntled customer is going to bad mouth you in the end - especially if they were at fault. If you suspect a customer might be the sort to one day air dirty laundry in public, consider giving them the boot.
Does the customer pay in a timely manner? If you have a customer that is consistently 90 to 120 days late in paying even when your contract clearly outlines your payment terms to be otherwise, it may be indicative of other problems to come. If you feel the client is a payment risk, consider giving them the boot.
What's the best way to avoid a customer booting? The best answer is to have a contract that clearly spells out the specifics of the relationship. The contracts I use in my various businesses clearly define the services to be provided, the cost of those services, and the timeline and terms under which those services will be rendered. If there is a deviation from the contract, we write an addendum that details any changes and their effect on the contract. Do I still have to give some customers the boot? You bet, but not very often. It's hard for a customer to cry foul when everything is there in black and white right above his signature.
What if your business doesn't use contracts? Then hang a poster in your shop or have a hand-out that clearly defines what your customer can expect from your business and then deliver what you promise. If you have a poster or hand-out that clearly outlines your services, your rates, scheduling, return policy, etc., there should be very little that the customer can complain about.
I know, famous last words.
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
Bacara el Preferido del Agente 007
El Agente 007 y su audacia con el juego continúan deslumbrando año tras año a sus sensuales compañeras en escena y derrotando a sus astutos enemigos.
El Bacara: El Juego preferido del clásico James Bond: Bacará y el Agente 007
El Bacará es el clásico juego de apuestas originado en Italia en el siglo 15 y es también caracterÃstico del famoso espÃa 007. En cada escena lo identifican una elegancia y excelencia, que junto con su impecable Martini en mano y las apuestas en otra James Bond ha mantenido una leyenda desde su origen desde los años 50 hasta el presente. Es asà como el espÃa ingles domina la versión francesa del juego Bacará llamada Chemin de Fer con gran talento y admiración.
Bacara siempre fue popular entre la alta sociedad, especialmente en el siglo 15, cuando surgió en Italia. Bacara significa cero en italiano y a lo largo de su expansión en diferentes paÃses nuevas reglas y variaciones fueron inventadas y adaptadas como en Estados Unidos o en Francia el Chemin de Fer, o el denominado Juego de James Bond.
El juego consiste en el "Jugador" y la "Banca" el nombre que se la a las opciones de apuestas, estos son repartidos dos o tres cartas cada uno con el objetivo simple de llegar a 9 sin pasarse de el. Mientras tanto la banca decide según las reglas del juego cuando detener la jugada y los jugadores ya han debido apostar a cual de las dos Jugador o Banca ganara la mano. Los jugadores o el jugador apuesta y el que apuesta a la mano que gano el puntaje mas correcto, gana la mano. En la adaptación americana, el juego funciona en contra a la banca, mientras que en Chemin de Fer, los jugadores compiten el uno con el otro. Uno representa al jugador y el otro a la Banca.
En compañÃa del Chemin de Fer los libros de Ian Fleming junto a las adaptaciones en escena de James Bond, han deslumbrado por décadas las diferentes aventuras del espÃa, con ayuda de su impecable poder del juego y su atractivo estilo. Hasta su último estreno en el 2006 James Bond sigue disfrutando de la lujuria de las mesas verdes de los casinos junto a su cigarro y el su sensual compañera en acción. En el anio 1964, las novelas y capÃtulos de James Bond, fueron escritas por Kingsley Amis, John Pearson, John Gardner, Raymond Benson, y Charlie Higson. Tambien sus actores variaron comenzando con el conocido Sean Connery, siguiendo con Geroge Lazenby, Roger Moore, Tomothy Dalton, Pierce Brosnan y Daniel Craig.
Si observas, es muy interesante ver la manera en que el Agente apuesta al juego y a su vez actúa y descubre los secretos que lo rodean con la misma rapidez, seguridad y astucia. Enlas pelÃculas de James Bond el juego Chemin de Fer transcurre en elegantes salas llenas de mujeres elegantes y hombres adinerados que detrás del juego tienen otros intereses por revelar. En la realidad el enlace entre el Bacará y El Agente 007 es de un acompañante fiel de aventuras secretas y emocionantes de mas de cinco décadas que hicieron de el una leyenda inolvidable que resurge de generación en generación.
El Bacara: El Juego preferido del clásico James Bond: Bacará y el Agente 007
El Bacará es el clásico juego de apuestas originado en Italia en el siglo 15 y es también caracterÃstico del famoso espÃa 007. En cada escena lo identifican una elegancia y excelencia, que junto con su impecable Martini en mano y las apuestas en otra James Bond ha mantenido una leyenda desde su origen desde los años 50 hasta el presente. Es asà como el espÃa ingles domina la versión francesa del juego Bacará llamada Chemin de Fer con gran talento y admiración.
Bacara siempre fue popular entre la alta sociedad, especialmente en el siglo 15, cuando surgió en Italia. Bacara significa cero en italiano y a lo largo de su expansión en diferentes paÃses nuevas reglas y variaciones fueron inventadas y adaptadas como en Estados Unidos o en Francia el Chemin de Fer, o el denominado Juego de James Bond.
El juego consiste en el "Jugador" y la "Banca" el nombre que se la a las opciones de apuestas, estos son repartidos dos o tres cartas cada uno con el objetivo simple de llegar a 9 sin pasarse de el. Mientras tanto la banca decide según las reglas del juego cuando detener la jugada y los jugadores ya han debido apostar a cual de las dos Jugador o Banca ganara la mano. Los jugadores o el jugador apuesta y el que apuesta a la mano que gano el puntaje mas correcto, gana la mano. En la adaptación americana, el juego funciona en contra a la banca, mientras que en Chemin de Fer, los jugadores compiten el uno con el otro. Uno representa al jugador y el otro a la Banca.
En compañÃa del Chemin de Fer los libros de Ian Fleming junto a las adaptaciones en escena de James Bond, han deslumbrado por décadas las diferentes aventuras del espÃa, con ayuda de su impecable poder del juego y su atractivo estilo. Hasta su último estreno en el 2006 James Bond sigue disfrutando de la lujuria de las mesas verdes de los casinos junto a su cigarro y el su sensual compañera en acción. En el anio 1964, las novelas y capÃtulos de James Bond, fueron escritas por Kingsley Amis, John Pearson, John Gardner, Raymond Benson, y Charlie Higson. Tambien sus actores variaron comenzando con el conocido Sean Connery, siguiendo con Geroge Lazenby, Roger Moore, Tomothy Dalton, Pierce Brosnan y Daniel Craig.
Si observas, es muy interesante ver la manera en que el Agente apuesta al juego y a su vez actúa y descubre los secretos que lo rodean con la misma rapidez, seguridad y astucia. Enlas pelÃculas de James Bond el juego Chemin de Fer transcurre en elegantes salas llenas de mujeres elegantes y hombres adinerados que detrás del juego tienen otros intereses por revelar. En la realidad el enlace entre el Bacará y El Agente 007 es de un acompañante fiel de aventuras secretas y emocionantes de mas de cinco décadas que hicieron de el una leyenda inolvidable que resurge de generación en generación.
Do You Need Credit Card Processing Services?
Are your customers asking for credit card processing services? If so, you may want to consider adding this service to your company’s Website in order to provide convenient payment methods that will bring back repeat business. Many companies today are moving more toward e-commerce, which means that if you want to avoid getting left behind, you should get ready to join the throng of professionals who are marching into the electronic age of doing business.
Although you may have relied on cash transactions up to now, you might find that is becoming more cumbersome to make correct change, accept checks that could bounce, and track delinquent payments, all while keeping track of each and every transaction. Farming out some of these tasks to hired help can be costly, which is why you may be able to benefit from credit card processing services. If you conduct business onsite at a primary facility, you can plug in a credit card processor and start taking credit payments immediately, which are far less likely to bounce than personal checks.
But you will first have to open a merchant account before establishing credit card processing services. Look for a longstanding bank with a solid reputation, one who currently offers merchant accounts to dependable business owners like you. Then be prepared to provide the required documentation that shows a stable credit history and a reasonable business plan that depends on credit card processing services. Upon approval, which can come within a few days, you will be able to purchase or rent credit card processing equipment and start accepting credit payments from your customers.
Credit card processing services can be established at your company’s Website. You do have a Website, don’t you? If not, that is the second important step into the 21st century that your company needs to take. Hire a Web designer or sketch a few ideas yourself. It need not be fancy or sophisticated, but rather a basic outline of your company’s services or products along with basic operating information. Then you will need to register a domain name for a small fee and then pay monthly “rental” fees to post your site in cyberspace. Hiring a designer or someone to maintain and update your site will cost a little more, although often you can find a high school or college student who can do this type of work at nominal cost. When your site is up and running and your merchant account is approved, you are ready to open the Website doors to current and new customers for business. They can browse at their convenience and pay by credit card without human assistance at each juncture. You can make money and save money at the same time.
If your company is growing, your customers are asking about credit payments, or you want to move forward with your business plan, give some thought to opening a merchant account, setting up an attractive Website, and adding the convenient, customer service option of credit card processing services.
Although you may have relied on cash transactions up to now, you might find that is becoming more cumbersome to make correct change, accept checks that could bounce, and track delinquent payments, all while keeping track of each and every transaction. Farming out some of these tasks to hired help can be costly, which is why you may be able to benefit from credit card processing services. If you conduct business onsite at a primary facility, you can plug in a credit card processor and start taking credit payments immediately, which are far less likely to bounce than personal checks.
But you will first have to open a merchant account before establishing credit card processing services. Look for a longstanding bank with a solid reputation, one who currently offers merchant accounts to dependable business owners like you. Then be prepared to provide the required documentation that shows a stable credit history and a reasonable business plan that depends on credit card processing services. Upon approval, which can come within a few days, you will be able to purchase or rent credit card processing equipment and start accepting credit payments from your customers.
Credit card processing services can be established at your company’s Website. You do have a Website, don’t you? If not, that is the second important step into the 21st century that your company needs to take. Hire a Web designer or sketch a few ideas yourself. It need not be fancy or sophisticated, but rather a basic outline of your company’s services or products along with basic operating information. Then you will need to register a domain name for a small fee and then pay monthly “rental” fees to post your site in cyberspace. Hiring a designer or someone to maintain and update your site will cost a little more, although often you can find a high school or college student who can do this type of work at nominal cost. When your site is up and running and your merchant account is approved, you are ready to open the Website doors to current and new customers for business. They can browse at their convenience and pay by credit card without human assistance at each juncture. You can make money and save money at the same time.
If your company is growing, your customers are asking about credit payments, or you want to move forward with your business plan, give some thought to opening a merchant account, setting up an attractive Website, and adding the convenient, customer service option of credit card processing services.
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
B2B Indian importer portals fascinating results online!
Countries around the world choose Indian importers for a variety of commodity. Simple reason being the goods and services of India are not only cheap but most competitive and best in quality as well. Be it importers or wholesalers of black tiger, salt creek, microfeast products or silver jewelry with or with out stones such as pendants, spacers, tubes, clasps, hooks, ear wires, headpins, beadpins, silver links, etc.
If it’s terracotta products you are looking for, find basket of products made out of terracotta such as terra cotta wall tiles, terra cotta pots, terra-cotta idols and other fascinating array of Indian terracotta crafts & craft items. Global traders are always on a look out for competitive Indian importers. As a result of it several b2b portals have sprung up to cater the needs of Indian manufacturers, Indian exporters as well importers from India and for other countries across the world. Online business to business portals offers you latest offers/leads of products/services of manufacturers & suppliers as well as service providers of India besides buyers from other countries. Indian importers are often sought after for Distribution of seafood such as fishes fillets, steaks, shrimps, prawns, crabs, dry fish, fresh water fishes, etc., from the leading brands. You can now find products of your choice from the Indian importers with just a click and order it in bulk too.
If you’re finding it arduous to figure out Indian importers for your popular product, all that you have to do is reach out to a business portal which can offer you listings of the various Indian importers for a gamut of products and the rate of Indian imports and exports. Business directory offers complete Indian import export data with details of products and companies so that the information is exchanged at ease and with the result of business round the clock and in various countries of the world. Find apparel and accessories, automobiles and accessories, chemicals and plastics, gems and jewellery, plant and machinery, scientific instruments and other miscellaneous industries. Offers for all the products can be obtained on the various importer directory portals.
Ease out your burden simply with the help of a business to business portal. In other words, it facilitates all the business needs for all Indian importers and exporters. Try your online Indian importers directory for better results. Find online buyers and sellers for all your popular products ranging from accessories to automobiles, Gems to jewelry, apparel to machinery etc.
If it’s terracotta products you are looking for, find basket of products made out of terracotta such as terra cotta wall tiles, terra cotta pots, terra-cotta idols and other fascinating array of Indian terracotta crafts & craft items. Global traders are always on a look out for competitive Indian importers. As a result of it several b2b portals have sprung up to cater the needs of Indian manufacturers, Indian exporters as well importers from India and for other countries across the world. Online business to business portals offers you latest offers/leads of products/services of manufacturers & suppliers as well as service providers of India besides buyers from other countries. Indian importers are often sought after for Distribution of seafood such as fishes fillets, steaks, shrimps, prawns, crabs, dry fish, fresh water fishes, etc., from the leading brands. You can now find products of your choice from the Indian importers with just a click and order it in bulk too.
If you’re finding it arduous to figure out Indian importers for your popular product, all that you have to do is reach out to a business portal which can offer you listings of the various Indian importers for a gamut of products and the rate of Indian imports and exports. Business directory offers complete Indian import export data with details of products and companies so that the information is exchanged at ease and with the result of business round the clock and in various countries of the world. Find apparel and accessories, automobiles and accessories, chemicals and plastics, gems and jewellery, plant and machinery, scientific instruments and other miscellaneous industries. Offers for all the products can be obtained on the various importer directory portals.
Ease out your burden simply with the help of a business to business portal. In other words, it facilitates all the business needs for all Indian importers and exporters. Try your online Indian importers directory for better results. Find online buyers and sellers for all your popular products ranging from accessories to automobiles, Gems to jewelry, apparel to machinery etc.
DirecWay is Now Called Hugesnet Satellite
Changing the name did not mean changing the excellent service that the customer receives from a satellite provider. Hugesnet satellite just became more improved. Customers receive high-speed broadband connections that surpass dial up and cable. More people are changing to Hugesnet satellite for their Internet and television needs for many reasons. The Internet speed is the most important reason for choosing satellite Internet. The speeds that you connect at are faster than you can find with any cable or dial up Internet service provider. The fastest speed received with Hugesnet is two Mbps, depending on the ISP provider in your area. Even the lowest speed will be faster than dial up.
With Hugesnet, you will not wait for an Internet connection, as soon as you click the icon, you will see the Internet. The download times for files, music and pictures is done faster than ever. You have no more time to do other things while waiting for downloads to be completed. High-speed broadband is available everywhere a signal can be found. Remote areas now have another option to TV and the Internet through Direct TV and Hugesnet. If you cannot receive DSL or cable in your area, chances are Direct TV will be the answer to your problem.
You will find that Hugesnet satellite has different plans, pricing and installation packages for everyone from a home user to a business office. The high-speed broadband connection is compatible with Macintosh and Windows operating systems. This means everyone can enjoy the faster speeds of the Internet. The Home package will download a four MB audio file in forty-seven seconds, while the Pro downloads the same file in thirty-two seconds. If you have the Pro Plus package, the same download will take twenty-two seconds and dial up will go over five minutes.
With Hugesnet satellite, you can run a home or business network from one single Internet connection. You may need some extra equipment depending on what you plan to do. One thing to keep in mind is that Direct TV and Hugesnet are two separate companies that have combined services to provide the consumer with television and broadband in one package. You will receive a separate bill from each one for payment. What this means is if you cancel Hugesnet, you will still have your satellite TV.
Some of the features you get with Hugesnet satellite are technical support twenty-four hours a day, up to five email accounts and two gigabytes of storage per email account. Spam and virus defense is another feature that everyone needs with an Internet connection. You will find that the other options that Hugesnet offers for a small fee are not found with cable or dial up services. You can choose advanced hosting, blogging, domain parking, static IP address and Express repair within two business days if you need any repairs, which is rare. Satellite Internet connections are faster and stable compared to other services. You just need a dish and a satellite provider such as Direct TV.
With Hugesnet, you will not wait for an Internet connection, as soon as you click the icon, you will see the Internet. The download times for files, music and pictures is done faster than ever. You have no more time to do other things while waiting for downloads to be completed. High-speed broadband is available everywhere a signal can be found. Remote areas now have another option to TV and the Internet through Direct TV and Hugesnet. If you cannot receive DSL or cable in your area, chances are Direct TV will be the answer to your problem.
You will find that Hugesnet satellite has different plans, pricing and installation packages for everyone from a home user to a business office. The high-speed broadband connection is compatible with Macintosh and Windows operating systems. This means everyone can enjoy the faster speeds of the Internet. The Home package will download a four MB audio file in forty-seven seconds, while the Pro downloads the same file in thirty-two seconds. If you have the Pro Plus package, the same download will take twenty-two seconds and dial up will go over five minutes.
With Hugesnet satellite, you can run a home or business network from one single Internet connection. You may need some extra equipment depending on what you plan to do. One thing to keep in mind is that Direct TV and Hugesnet are two separate companies that have combined services to provide the consumer with television and broadband in one package. You will receive a separate bill from each one for payment. What this means is if you cancel Hugesnet, you will still have your satellite TV.
Some of the features you get with Hugesnet satellite are technical support twenty-four hours a day, up to five email accounts and two gigabytes of storage per email account. Spam and virus defense is another feature that everyone needs with an Internet connection. You will find that the other options that Hugesnet offers for a small fee are not found with cable or dial up services. You can choose advanced hosting, blogging, domain parking, static IP address and Express repair within two business days if you need any repairs, which is rare. Satellite Internet connections are faster and stable compared to other services. You just need a dish and a satellite provider such as Direct TV.
Monday, November 22, 2010
B2B Directory
A B2B directory is fundamentally different from a search engine, even though it also presents a list of links to a certain topic. Search engines look for sites on the whole B2B based on the keywords one has entered, whereas a B2B directory has a set amount of links, usually entered by the owners of the corresponding site, which are sorted according to topic, usually not more than one or two per site, and always referencing the whole site, not simply subpages of it.
Directories may vary in size and scope, some only dealing with a small amount of topics or being specific to a small geographic region, where as others might be extremely large. Examples o the latter are Yahoo! Directory and the Open Directory Project (ODP), which is huge and open for search engines and other directories to use.
There are several different types of directories and ways they treat listing. Some offer their service free of charge, some demand a one time or recurring fee, some even let you bid or pay for the best positions within the directory. Some directories, especially the free ones, put restrictions on their listings for example they could make it impossible for search engines to follow the links behind the listing. In addition, some might require a link back to the directory on every page they add to their listing.
B2B directories basically work like a telephone book for the internet, all you need to know is the starting address for the directory and what
you want to find.
Directories may vary in size and scope, some only dealing with a small amount of topics or being specific to a small geographic region, where as others might be extremely large. Examples o the latter are Yahoo! Directory and the Open Directory Project (ODP), which is huge and open for search engines and other directories to use.
There are several different types of directories and ways they treat listing. Some offer their service free of charge, some demand a one time or recurring fee, some even let you bid or pay for the best positions within the directory. Some directories, especially the free ones, put restrictions on their listings for example they could make it impossible for search engines to follow the links behind the listing. In addition, some might require a link back to the directory on every page they add to their listing.
B2B directories basically work like a telephone book for the internet, all you need to know is the starting address for the directory and what
you want to find.
Discover Financial Freedom with an E-book Home Business
Financial freedom can only be recognized with hard work, innovation, and a popular - but reliable - product or service. But with an Internet business, these three often get clouded with having almost too many opportunities. You can easily get discouraged when researching the overwhelming number of business venues that are available online. But with e-books, many small business owners are discovering financial freedom while offering long-lasting products of value.
E-books are electronic books that might contain graphics, photos, sound, and content relating to any subject. They can also contain links to various web pages for promotions or illustrations. It's very inexpensive to create an e-book, but yet people enjoy reading them every day. E-books are popular online because they are usually inexpensive or free and offer advice and tips on a variety of subjects. The subjects can be anything from "how to earn money online" to "how to start a home business." E-books may also cover more specific subjects such as "how to make money with a crafts business" or "cross-stitching tips for the beginner." The possibilities for e-book subjects are unlimited.
E-book Home Business Facts
Starting an e-book business means you are offering e-books for sale online to a specific target audience. You might sell only one or a few e-books, or you might even sell hundreds of them. The choice is yours, but of course, the more e-books you offer, the more chances you'll have to earn a lucrative income.
Here's how it works. You'll promote your e-books using various techniques such as an e-mail newsletter (e-zine), search engine promotions, paid ads, and other methods. Customers will visit your website to read your presentation. When they purchase one of your e-books, they will download it directly from your website or from an e-mail. You can even automate the entire process to make things easier on you and the customer.
The reason e-books are so successful for gaining financial freedom is because once they're created, you don't have to do anything except promote them. You can create an automated cash system that works 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. E-books can be sold and downloaded by your customers while you sleep!
Resell E-books to Earn Money
If you don't want to write your own e-books, you can also create a cash system and enjoy financial freedom by reselling e-books that others have written. With this type of home business, you will purchase rights to various e-books, sometimes hundreds of them, and resell them as your own products. Keep in mind that other companies will likely be selling these titles as well. But the Internet is so big, there's plenty of room for everyone!
Some companies provide business opportunities in which you'll receive a number of benefits along with hundreds of e-books to resell. These opportunities may cost a little up front, but are definitely worth the investment for starting your own home business. The e-book products alone can generate a very healthy cash system for years to come.
As with any home business, selling e-books will take some time to build and promote. But once the ball's rolling, you'll enjoy financial freedom and success like never before!
E-books are electronic books that might contain graphics, photos, sound, and content relating to any subject. They can also contain links to various web pages for promotions or illustrations. It's very inexpensive to create an e-book, but yet people enjoy reading them every day. E-books are popular online because they are usually inexpensive or free and offer advice and tips on a variety of subjects. The subjects can be anything from "how to earn money online" to "how to start a home business." E-books may also cover more specific subjects such as "how to make money with a crafts business" or "cross-stitching tips for the beginner." The possibilities for e-book subjects are unlimited.
E-book Home Business Facts
Starting an e-book business means you are offering e-books for sale online to a specific target audience. You might sell only one or a few e-books, or you might even sell hundreds of them. The choice is yours, but of course, the more e-books you offer, the more chances you'll have to earn a lucrative income.
Here's how it works. You'll promote your e-books using various techniques such as an e-mail newsletter (e-zine), search engine promotions, paid ads, and other methods. Customers will visit your website to read your presentation. When they purchase one of your e-books, they will download it directly from your website or from an e-mail. You can even automate the entire process to make things easier on you and the customer.
The reason e-books are so successful for gaining financial freedom is because once they're created, you don't have to do anything except promote them. You can create an automated cash system that works 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. E-books can be sold and downloaded by your customers while you sleep!
Resell E-books to Earn Money
If you don't want to write your own e-books, you can also create a cash system and enjoy financial freedom by reselling e-books that others have written. With this type of home business, you will purchase rights to various e-books, sometimes hundreds of them, and resell them as your own products. Keep in mind that other companies will likely be selling these titles as well. But the Internet is so big, there's plenty of room for everyone!
Some companies provide business opportunities in which you'll receive a number of benefits along with hundreds of e-books to resell. These opportunities may cost a little up front, but are definitely worth the investment for starting your own home business. The e-book products alone can generate a very healthy cash system for years to come.
As with any home business, selling e-books will take some time to build and promote. But once the ball's rolling, you'll enjoy financial freedom and success like never before!
Sunday, November 21, 2010
Avoiding the Scams: How to Find a Business Opportunity That is Right for You
It is heartbreaking to me that so many women with big dreams get knocked down by ruthless business opportunists who take advantage of a woman's passion and trusting nature by offering bogus business opportunities. Don't get me wrong, it happens to men too; it just really frustrates me that women who want nothing more than to operate a home-based business can be taken advantage of so easily and that those pushing the business scams don't care about their ethics, about busting your budget, or diminishing your
self-confidence.
If you want to find a business opportunity that is legitimate, you must be cautious in reviewing opportunities and make sure that you find a business that's right for you. There is a general rule of thumb when trying to find a business possibility that will enable you to work-from-home while generating a significant income. That is, if an offer sounds too good to be true, most likely it is. Most times you will find a business offer that is presented in an inflated manner to be either a scam, or an incredibly exaggerated representation of the opportunity the business venture actually affords you.
There are some legitimate business opportunity packages out there, but honestly, they are few and far between. In most cases, you are better off crafting your very own business opportunity rather than trying to find a business opportunity that is prepackaged, turnkey and ready to go. A turnkey business opportunity is one that provides you everything you need to get started in business in a start-up package for a flat start-up fee, or at least claims to. Some of them have ongoing membership fees as well.
Of course, there are some companies that offer true turn-key opportunities like distributorships or pyramid plans where you sell their products for them, usually through party plans, and recruit other representatives for a percentage of fees. You may find a business like this appealing because it is a package deal that is easy to start-up and generally has good support through the company and an up-line.
The legitimate businesses of this nature are well-known - Avon®, Home Interiors®, Herbalife®, Tupperware®, and Mary Kay®, for instance. You really can make money in these types of businesses while maintaining control over your own work schedule if you are willing to give it your all. However, some people just aren't outgoing enough to make a distributorship business work because they don't have the personality for direct sales and recruiting.
Sometimes, rather than trying to find a business that is turnkey, it is best just to craft your very own business idea, business concept and business plan, and to strike out on your own to transform your entrepreneurial dreams into reality. Here are some simple questions that will help to aim you in the right direction for developing your very own business ideas:
1. What are you passionate about?
If you are going to spend a large amount of your time operating your business, doesn't it make sense to find a business idea that incorporates something you enjoy? Brainstorming for ideas based on your personal interests is a great start to launching, owning and operating a satisfying business.
2. What are your talents or gifts?
If you can find a business idea that uses talents, gifts, knowledge or skill that you already have, it will be much easier for you to get your business started quickly, and to operate it efficiently.
3. What are you interested in that is new and exciting to you?
Everyone has unexplored interests. If there is something that you are interested in learning more about or activities you would like to engage in, these interests can be great to pursue as business ideas. Search your heart and you are sure to find a business idea that will be just perfect for you.
4. Of all the potential business ideas you have generated, which one is most likely to be the best business opportunity?
To answer this question, you need to do your market research. Evaluate the competition, find a marketing niche, and determine whether or not you can make money with the ideas that you have. By following these simple steps in generating your very own, unique business ideas, you will definitely find a business opportunity that will be both fulfilling and profitable.
self-confidence.
If you want to find a business opportunity that is legitimate, you must be cautious in reviewing opportunities and make sure that you find a business that's right for you. There is a general rule of thumb when trying to find a business possibility that will enable you to work-from-home while generating a significant income. That is, if an offer sounds too good to be true, most likely it is. Most times you will find a business offer that is presented in an inflated manner to be either a scam, or an incredibly exaggerated representation of the opportunity the business venture actually affords you.
There are some legitimate business opportunity packages out there, but honestly, they are few and far between. In most cases, you are better off crafting your very own business opportunity rather than trying to find a business opportunity that is prepackaged, turnkey and ready to go. A turnkey business opportunity is one that provides you everything you need to get started in business in a start-up package for a flat start-up fee, or at least claims to. Some of them have ongoing membership fees as well.
Of course, there are some companies that offer true turn-key opportunities like distributorships or pyramid plans where you sell their products for them, usually through party plans, and recruit other representatives for a percentage of fees. You may find a business like this appealing because it is a package deal that is easy to start-up and generally has good support through the company and an up-line.
The legitimate businesses of this nature are well-known - Avon®, Home Interiors®, Herbalife®, Tupperware®, and Mary Kay®, for instance. You really can make money in these types of businesses while maintaining control over your own work schedule if you are willing to give it your all. However, some people just aren't outgoing enough to make a distributorship business work because they don't have the personality for direct sales and recruiting.
Sometimes, rather than trying to find a business that is turnkey, it is best just to craft your very own business idea, business concept and business plan, and to strike out on your own to transform your entrepreneurial dreams into reality. Here are some simple questions that will help to aim you in the right direction for developing your very own business ideas:
1. What are you passionate about?
If you are going to spend a large amount of your time operating your business, doesn't it make sense to find a business idea that incorporates something you enjoy? Brainstorming for ideas based on your personal interests is a great start to launching, owning and operating a satisfying business.
2. What are your talents or gifts?
If you can find a business idea that uses talents, gifts, knowledge or skill that you already have, it will be much easier for you to get your business started quickly, and to operate it efficiently.
3. What are you interested in that is new and exciting to you?
Everyone has unexplored interests. If there is something that you are interested in learning more about or activities you would like to engage in, these interests can be great to pursue as business ideas. Search your heart and you are sure to find a business idea that will be just perfect for you.
4. Of all the potential business ideas you have generated, which one is most likely to be the best business opportunity?
To answer this question, you need to do your market research. Evaluate the competition, find a marketing niche, and determine whether or not you can make money with the ideas that you have. By following these simple steps in generating your very own, unique business ideas, you will definitely find a business opportunity that will be both fulfilling and profitable.
Develop a Stone Floor Care Program for Your Cleaning Business
Copyright 2006 The Janitorial Store
Office buildings have many types of flooring and growing in popularity are stone floors. Stone floors give buildings a classic and upscale image. Popular choices in flooring these days are natural surfaces including marble, slate, granite, and terrazzo. As more and more buildings are installing stone floors there is a growing need for cleaning contractors who have the experience and knowledge to take care of these valued surfaces properly. Learning the tricks of stone floor care can lead to extra income and profit for your cleaning company.
Before expanding into the area of stone floor care make sure that you understand the differences in the types of flooring and how to design a maintenance program to keep stone floors looking their best. It helps to develop a relationship with a distributor that has quality products and can help you with technical support.
The first step in any floor maintenance program is finding out what type of stone you're dealing with. Stone floors are broken down into one of two categories: stone that contains calcium and those that do not contain calcium. It is important to note that acids will attack and etch stone that contains calcium.
If the floor is not coated on the surface, a simple test can determine what type of stone you are dealing with. Place a drop of hydrochloric acid in an inconspicuous area and watch the reaction. If the acid fizzes the stone contains calcium. If there is no reaction, the stone is most likely granite, slate, sandstone or some type of ceramic that has been designed to look like natural stone.
Your second step is to decide what type of results you want with your floor program. Do you want a polished surface, a slip resistant floor or a floor program that is easy to manage? Any stone floor program should also take into account the type of surface - polished, honed or textured. Also, remember that stone is a product of nature and should be admired for its inconsistencies. The imperfections of stone create random patterns, which is what makes natural stone so desirable.
When looking at how you should maintain stone floors, both calcium containing and non-calcium containing stone floors should be maintained in identical ways except when it comes to re-polishing. A marble floor develops wear patterns faster as marble is a softer stone. You can polish marble, limestone and terrazzo effectively with superfine abrasives you mix with potassium oxalate or oxalic acid. These are typical compounds available in various ready to use formulas.
Granite floors, on the other hand, are acid resistant requiring granite to be polished mechanically using superfine abrasives. The re-polishing of granite is a slow process as compared to re-polishing a marble floor.
At times the floor will have been so neglected it may need restoration. A properly restored stone floor will have no lippage (where one edge of a stone is higher than adjacent edges, giving the stone a ragged appearance), will look better and be easier to clean. The restoration process is best handled by professionals. Improved technology has made the restoration process faster and with a restored floor maintenance costs will go down while the overall appearance of the floor will go up.
Stone itself has a porosity factor (materials can pass through it) and some stones absorb stains faster than other types of stone. A high quality impregnator can help prevent stains from passing through and being absorbed into the stone. Impregnators can be water resistant, or water, grease and oil resistant. The specific impregnator to use will depend on your specific situation.
The most important part of your stone floor care program will be the use of a quality stone soap. A high quality soap will clean and enrich the stone, which will make it more soil and stain resistant. This is not an area to be cutting costs!
Quarterly cleaning is recommended for commercial stone floors. This will not only remove any built in soil, but will also remove stone soap build-up. This is an important step as most stone soaps are non-rinse. Because of this dirt can build up in the grout lines, even when you are following a floor maintenance program. An intensive cleaning should also be used if you have an extremely dirty floor.
Other stone surfaces that may need extra care are countertops, vanities and vertical surfaces, such as pillars. A good relationship with a distributor of quality products will help you in deciding which chemicals you'll need to use to clean these surfaces.
If you have buildings with stone floors, your first step is to develop a quality stone floor care program. Spending a little time and effort before beginning your stone floor program will save you headaches and keep the floor looking its best. Your customer will be happy and your bank account will grow!
Office buildings have many types of flooring and growing in popularity are stone floors. Stone floors give buildings a classic and upscale image. Popular choices in flooring these days are natural surfaces including marble, slate, granite, and terrazzo. As more and more buildings are installing stone floors there is a growing need for cleaning contractors who have the experience and knowledge to take care of these valued surfaces properly. Learning the tricks of stone floor care can lead to extra income and profit for your cleaning company.
Before expanding into the area of stone floor care make sure that you understand the differences in the types of flooring and how to design a maintenance program to keep stone floors looking their best. It helps to develop a relationship with a distributor that has quality products and can help you with technical support.
The first step in any floor maintenance program is finding out what type of stone you're dealing with. Stone floors are broken down into one of two categories: stone that contains calcium and those that do not contain calcium. It is important to note that acids will attack and etch stone that contains calcium.
If the floor is not coated on the surface, a simple test can determine what type of stone you are dealing with. Place a drop of hydrochloric acid in an inconspicuous area and watch the reaction. If the acid fizzes the stone contains calcium. If there is no reaction, the stone is most likely granite, slate, sandstone or some type of ceramic that has been designed to look like natural stone.
Your second step is to decide what type of results you want with your floor program. Do you want a polished surface, a slip resistant floor or a floor program that is easy to manage? Any stone floor program should also take into account the type of surface - polished, honed or textured. Also, remember that stone is a product of nature and should be admired for its inconsistencies. The imperfections of stone create random patterns, which is what makes natural stone so desirable.
When looking at how you should maintain stone floors, both calcium containing and non-calcium containing stone floors should be maintained in identical ways except when it comes to re-polishing. A marble floor develops wear patterns faster as marble is a softer stone. You can polish marble, limestone and terrazzo effectively with superfine abrasives you mix with potassium oxalate or oxalic acid. These are typical compounds available in various ready to use formulas.
Granite floors, on the other hand, are acid resistant requiring granite to be polished mechanically using superfine abrasives. The re-polishing of granite is a slow process as compared to re-polishing a marble floor.
At times the floor will have been so neglected it may need restoration. A properly restored stone floor will have no lippage (where one edge of a stone is higher than adjacent edges, giving the stone a ragged appearance), will look better and be easier to clean. The restoration process is best handled by professionals. Improved technology has made the restoration process faster and with a restored floor maintenance costs will go down while the overall appearance of the floor will go up.
Stone itself has a porosity factor (materials can pass through it) and some stones absorb stains faster than other types of stone. A high quality impregnator can help prevent stains from passing through and being absorbed into the stone. Impregnators can be water resistant, or water, grease and oil resistant. The specific impregnator to use will depend on your specific situation.
The most important part of your stone floor care program will be the use of a quality stone soap. A high quality soap will clean and enrich the stone, which will make it more soil and stain resistant. This is not an area to be cutting costs!
Quarterly cleaning is recommended for commercial stone floors. This will not only remove any built in soil, but will also remove stone soap build-up. This is an important step as most stone soaps are non-rinse. Because of this dirt can build up in the grout lines, even when you are following a floor maintenance program. An intensive cleaning should also be used if you have an extremely dirty floor.
Other stone surfaces that may need extra care are countertops, vanities and vertical surfaces, such as pillars. A good relationship with a distributor of quality products will help you in deciding which chemicals you'll need to use to clean these surfaces.
If you have buildings with stone floors, your first step is to develop a quality stone floor care program. Spending a little time and effort before beginning your stone floor program will save you headaches and keep the floor looking its best. Your customer will be happy and your bank account will grow!
Saturday, November 20, 2010
Avoid the Hassles of Online Business Start-up with a Turn Key, Automated Home Based Business
Many people want to start a home business, but never do because of the hassles and start-up costs. As with any new business, a home based business can have unforeseen expenses and problems. There's also usually a waiting period of at least a year before profits can be realized. But with a turn key, automated home based business, many of these hassles can be eliminated. You can make money from home without the initial hassles of running a business. Let's see how a turn key business works to your advantage.
Eliminate Many Business Start-Up Costs
Most new home based businesses will require certain start-up costs. These may include a new computer and computer desk, a printer, supplies, a fax machine, employee costs, consulting or accounting fees, a business phone, and printing costs for letterhead, envelopes, and business cards. With an online home business, you'll incur fees for new website design along with your domain name and hosting fees, promotion, and order processing expenses. These can add up in a hurry and are the main reason many new home based business owners don't make it.
Why a Turn Key, Automated Home Based Business?
A turn key home business helps you eliminate many of these start-up costs and some of the hassles while realizing your home business dream. You'll still have some responsibilities, of course, but nowhere near as many. Why? A turn key home business is a ready-made business that has already been tested and proven time and time again for your benefit. By the time you join the opportunity, the company has likely already tested to see what works... and what brings sales!
You can enter a turn key, automated home based business with the backing of highly trained professionals who know how to guide you every step of the way. This eliminates part of the waiting and testing period for new business start-ups. You can make money from home in less amount of time while leaving the legwork to the experts.
Benefits of the Turn Key Home Business
There are many benefits of joining a turn key, automated business opportunity. First, you'll be able to avoid the hassles and many start-up costs of a new business. Turn key businesses usually provide a website for you, which will eliminate high web design costs. You may be required to pay a fee to receive the website and services, but much time will be saved because your website will be ready to sell. The website presentation has already been tested to bring results. Also, customer service can be a huge benefit. The company will take care of sales for you. Trained professionals will take the phone calls and answer questions. They will close the sale for you so you won't have to worry about working one-on-one with customers.
Having a turn key website also eliminates many office expenses. You may still want to get business cards and promotional items, but you can eliminate phone expenses and other supplies because you won't need them for online promotions. Your main function will be network marketing through online promotion, so you can earn a healthy residual income based on your promotional efforts. The company does the selling for you once you introduce new people to your website.
As with many MLM opportunities, the turn key, automated home based business uses an automated system that works around the clock selling the ideas or products available, even while you sleep. Your focus can be on promotion, not everyday tasks such as answering phones, mailing correspondence, and updating your website.
So if you're worried about the hassles of starting a business, then a turn key, automated home based business may be just the right choice for you to realize wealth from home.
Eliminate Many Business Start-Up Costs
Most new home based businesses will require certain start-up costs. These may include a new computer and computer desk, a printer, supplies, a fax machine, employee costs, consulting or accounting fees, a business phone, and printing costs for letterhead, envelopes, and business cards. With an online home business, you'll incur fees for new website design along with your domain name and hosting fees, promotion, and order processing expenses. These can add up in a hurry and are the main reason many new home based business owners don't make it.
Why a Turn Key, Automated Home Based Business?
A turn key home business helps you eliminate many of these start-up costs and some of the hassles while realizing your home business dream. You'll still have some responsibilities, of course, but nowhere near as many. Why? A turn key home business is a ready-made business that has already been tested and proven time and time again for your benefit. By the time you join the opportunity, the company has likely already tested to see what works... and what brings sales!
You can enter a turn key, automated home based business with the backing of highly trained professionals who know how to guide you every step of the way. This eliminates part of the waiting and testing period for new business start-ups. You can make money from home in less amount of time while leaving the legwork to the experts.
Benefits of the Turn Key Home Business
There are many benefits of joining a turn key, automated business opportunity. First, you'll be able to avoid the hassles and many start-up costs of a new business. Turn key businesses usually provide a website for you, which will eliminate high web design costs. You may be required to pay a fee to receive the website and services, but much time will be saved because your website will be ready to sell. The website presentation has already been tested to bring results. Also, customer service can be a huge benefit. The company will take care of sales for you. Trained professionals will take the phone calls and answer questions. They will close the sale for you so you won't have to worry about working one-on-one with customers.
Having a turn key website also eliminates many office expenses. You may still want to get business cards and promotional items, but you can eliminate phone expenses and other supplies because you won't need them for online promotions. Your main function will be network marketing through online promotion, so you can earn a healthy residual income based on your promotional efforts. The company does the selling for you once you introduce new people to your website.
As with many MLM opportunities, the turn key, automated home based business uses an automated system that works around the clock selling the ideas or products available, even while you sleep. Your focus can be on promotion, not everyday tasks such as answering phones, mailing correspondence, and updating your website.
So if you're worried about the hassles of starting a business, then a turn key, automated home based business may be just the right choice for you to realize wealth from home.
Did My Email Message Get There?
Email systems are notorious for sending messages to “la la land,” never to be heard from again. And, email viruses are continually running rampant and wreaking havoc. So, if you’re worried that your message didn’t arrive, you have a valid concern.
How can you verify that someone received your message without using the return receipt function and running the risk of offending the person? What other options are available to ensure your message was received?
If you think your message didn’t arrive because you haven’t received a response in a reasonable amount of time, try sending another message. Here’s the “magic trick.” Make it clear that the only purpose of this second correspondence is to confirm receipt of the first message.
Example
Here are a few examples of a second message you can send to verify an email was received.
Sample One (Informal tone):
“I’m not trying to rush you. I simply want to verify that you received my message.”
Sample Two (More formal tone):
“Please verify receipt of this message now. I look forward to your response to the inquiry at a later time.”
Note: The purpose of these examples is to provide you with sample wording. Be sure to put the message in your own words.
Example
As a writer, I send a lot of messages to magazine editors. They’re notorious for two things: 1) changing their email addresses; and 2) not responding to correspondence.
So, I’m often in a quandary when I don’t receive a response to my correspondence. Did the editor not receive my proposal? Is the editor simply not interested? It’s a difficult situation.
In most cases, I’ll send a second message to verify receipt. Let me share the results of follow-up messages I sent to three people.
In two instances, the recipients hadn’t received my original message. In these cases, they thanked me for following up and for re-sending my proposal. (And, they both bought articles!)
In the third instance, the person had received my original message. I received a curt reply telling me to “be more patient.” He was clearly irritated.
The point of this example is – this isn’t an exact science. There are no clearly defined answers to the issue of verifying receipt of an email message. You have to use good judgment and analyze each situation in order to use email more effectively.
How can you verify that someone received your message without using the return receipt function and running the risk of offending the person? What other options are available to ensure your message was received?
If you think your message didn’t arrive because you haven’t received a response in a reasonable amount of time, try sending another message. Here’s the “magic trick.” Make it clear that the only purpose of this second correspondence is to confirm receipt of the first message.
Example
Here are a few examples of a second message you can send to verify an email was received.
Sample One (Informal tone):
“I’m not trying to rush you. I simply want to verify that you received my message.”
Sample Two (More formal tone):
“Please verify receipt of this message now. I look forward to your response to the inquiry at a later time.”
Note: The purpose of these examples is to provide you with sample wording. Be sure to put the message in your own words.
Example
As a writer, I send a lot of messages to magazine editors. They’re notorious for two things: 1) changing their email addresses; and 2) not responding to correspondence.
So, I’m often in a quandary when I don’t receive a response to my correspondence. Did the editor not receive my proposal? Is the editor simply not interested? It’s a difficult situation.
In most cases, I’ll send a second message to verify receipt. Let me share the results of follow-up messages I sent to three people.
In two instances, the recipients hadn’t received my original message. In these cases, they thanked me for following up and for re-sending my proposal. (And, they both bought articles!)
In the third instance, the person had received my original message. I received a curt reply telling me to “be more patient.” He was clearly irritated.
The point of this example is – this isn’t an exact science. There are no clearly defined answers to the issue of verifying receipt of an email message. You have to use good judgment and analyze each situation in order to use email more effectively.
Friday, November 19, 2010
Avoid Sticker Shock when Buying Ink Cartridges
Over the past year, I've had the dubious pleasure of buying two different printers: a black-and-white laser printer and a dual-purpose copier and color inkjet printer. My laser printer gets a good workout on a daily basis, while I usually reserve my color inkjet printer for photos.
Although both printers are well made and carry brand names (HP and Brother), they were incredibly inexpensive. In fact, one of the primary reasons I bought both was because of their bargain prices. Imagine my chagrin, then, when I had to replace the toner cartridges in my laser and the ink cartridges in my inkjet, and discovered that each cartridge cost about half of what I paid for the printer.
I quickly - and correctly - surmised that printer manufacturers sell printers at or below the cost of making them, and generate profits from the sale of original equipment manufacturer (OEM) ink cartridges. With dire warnings of possible damage to the printer or voiding the printer warranty, the manufacturers insist that consumers buy only OEM printer cartridges. I resented being gouged by their inflated prices, and so did some of my own research about OEM print cartridges and alternatives. Here's what I discovered:
Option One: Compatible Ink Cartridges
Contrary to popular belief, compatible ink cartridges are not recycled. Rather, they are brand new, generic versions of OEM cartridges. They have all of the quality and reliability of OEM cartridges, but cost only a fraction of the price.
Option Two: Remanufactured Print Cartridges
As the name implies, remanufactured ink cartridges are, indeed, recycled. However, the old cartridges aren't simply refilled. Rather, they are disassembled, inspected, cleaned, reassembled, filled with ink, and individually print tested to meet or surpass the specifications associated with OEM ink cartridges.
Cost Savings
I was astounded when I saw the price differences between OEM, compatible, and remanufactured ink cartridges. For example, one black and one colour ink cartridge for an HP DeskJet 920C might cost £50.45 for the OEM cartridges, but only £16.95 for remanufactured cartridges. A pack of four ink cartridges (black, cyan, magenta, and yellow) for the Brother DCP117C might cost £31.80 for OEM, but only £8.95 for the compatible version. Over the lifetime of a printer, those kinds of savings really add up!
Cartridge Life
Typically, remanufactured ink cartridges have a shorter "shelf life" than OEM or compatible cartridges. A remanufactured cartridge will be good for about six months, whereas a compatible cartridge is vacuum-sealed and will be viable for years.
Suppliers
I also discovered that it's important to purchase compatible and remanufactured ink cartridges from a reputable dealer. When shopping online, look for a supplier that uses top-quality ink, has been in business several years, offers free UK delivery, and doesn't require a minimum order.
Although both printers are well made and carry brand names (HP and Brother), they were incredibly inexpensive. In fact, one of the primary reasons I bought both was because of their bargain prices. Imagine my chagrin, then, when I had to replace the toner cartridges in my laser and the ink cartridges in my inkjet, and discovered that each cartridge cost about half of what I paid for the printer.
I quickly - and correctly - surmised that printer manufacturers sell printers at or below the cost of making them, and generate profits from the sale of original equipment manufacturer (OEM) ink cartridges. With dire warnings of possible damage to the printer or voiding the printer warranty, the manufacturers insist that consumers buy only OEM printer cartridges. I resented being gouged by their inflated prices, and so did some of my own research about OEM print cartridges and alternatives. Here's what I discovered:
Option One: Compatible Ink Cartridges
Contrary to popular belief, compatible ink cartridges are not recycled. Rather, they are brand new, generic versions of OEM cartridges. They have all of the quality and reliability of OEM cartridges, but cost only a fraction of the price.
Option Two: Remanufactured Print Cartridges
As the name implies, remanufactured ink cartridges are, indeed, recycled. However, the old cartridges aren't simply refilled. Rather, they are disassembled, inspected, cleaned, reassembled, filled with ink, and individually print tested to meet or surpass the specifications associated with OEM ink cartridges.
Cost Savings
I was astounded when I saw the price differences between OEM, compatible, and remanufactured ink cartridges. For example, one black and one colour ink cartridge for an HP DeskJet 920C might cost £50.45 for the OEM cartridges, but only £16.95 for remanufactured cartridges. A pack of four ink cartridges (black, cyan, magenta, and yellow) for the Brother DCP117C might cost £31.80 for OEM, but only £8.95 for the compatible version. Over the lifetime of a printer, those kinds of savings really add up!
Cartridge Life
Typically, remanufactured ink cartridges have a shorter "shelf life" than OEM or compatible cartridges. A remanufactured cartridge will be good for about six months, whereas a compatible cartridge is vacuum-sealed and will be viable for years.
Suppliers
I also discovered that it's important to purchase compatible and remanufactured ink cartridges from a reputable dealer. When shopping online, look for a supplier that uses top-quality ink, has been in business several years, offers free UK delivery, and doesn't require a minimum order.
Thursday, November 18, 2010
Avoid Discrimination Lawsuits
One of the advantages of outsourcing to a Professional Employment Organization PEO or Administrative Service Organization ASO such as AmCheck, is the fact that your PEO/ASO’s Human Resource Department can help you decipher some of the legal technicalities that exist as a result of Federal Legislation regarding discrimination. This is part of the reason many PEOs may be involved in the process of hiring and firing at the worksite--it is one of many methods we use to protect you from risk of discrimination lawsuits.
Legal changes in recent years have made it more and more difficult to avoid legal tangles with prospective, existing, and former employees. Consider, for example the caution you must exercise with regard to employee relations as a result of sexual harassment litigation. What about the way you treat your older employees as a result of The Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA) to avoid age discrimination lawsuit, or the way you accommodate disabled employees because of the Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA)?
In addition to these federal laws, there may be local or state laws with which an employer must comply. Each of these laws must also be taken into consideration when promoting, demoting, or transferring employees to other departments.
Always consult with our HR Department before taking employment action. The HR Fact Finder recommends that you protect your company from costly legal battles by avoiding impulsive hiring, termination, transfers, promotions, etc. A company whose decisions in these areas are carefully considered should be able to avoid most legal tangles involved in discrimination lawsuits.
A Case In Point:
A recent “Corporate Downsizing” in a large firm resulted in the decision to transfer 5 women (including one female manager with over 12 years of tenure) to another department and offer them reduced compensation. The female manager was to be replaced by a male with less experience. All five of the women hired attorneys, because in spite of the fact that this was probably a well-intentioned attempt to make the department more efficient, the move looked like it may have been prompted by an act of discrimination.
This article brought to you by AmCheck. Visit us at www.amcheck.com.Source: HR Fact Finder This article excerpted from an article formerly entitled, “Human Resources: Some Cautions about Hiring and Firing”
Legal changes in recent years have made it more and more difficult to avoid legal tangles with prospective, existing, and former employees. Consider, for example the caution you must exercise with regard to employee relations as a result of sexual harassment litigation. What about the way you treat your older employees as a result of The Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA) to avoid age discrimination lawsuit, or the way you accommodate disabled employees because of the Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA)?
In addition to these federal laws, there may be local or state laws with which an employer must comply. Each of these laws must also be taken into consideration when promoting, demoting, or transferring employees to other departments.
Always consult with our HR Department before taking employment action. The HR Fact Finder recommends that you protect your company from costly legal battles by avoiding impulsive hiring, termination, transfers, promotions, etc. A company whose decisions in these areas are carefully considered should be able to avoid most legal tangles involved in discrimination lawsuits.
A Case In Point:
A recent “Corporate Downsizing” in a large firm resulted in the decision to transfer 5 women (including one female manager with over 12 years of tenure) to another department and offer them reduced compensation. The female manager was to be replaced by a male with less experience. All five of the women hired attorneys, because in spite of the fact that this was probably a well-intentioned attempt to make the department more efficient, the move looked like it may have been prompted by an act of discrimination.
This article brought to you by AmCheck. Visit us at www.amcheck.com.Source: HR Fact Finder This article excerpted from an article formerly entitled, “Human Resources: Some Cautions about Hiring and Firing”
Creatiing Liquidity for Private Company Shares
Q: In your last column, you discussed Entrex and its creation of a private investment marketplace with public market standards and disciplines. As an investor in several private companies in my community, can I sell my shares and cash out my gains?
- Keith Harris, Chicago.
A: Just imagine if investors had a vehicle for buying and selling shares in private companies-a type of entrepreneurial exchange. Currently, alternative investors face two obstacles in realizing their earnings: time and exposure.
Time is a factor because most accredited investors buy restricted stock under Rule 144. The good news is that this stock may be freely traded after two years of ownership. But it's up to the company to remove this restriction. Assuming this is accomplished, it then becomes a question of exposure.
Think back to when you purchased the stock. You were probably exposed to the company through some type of relationship or publicity which provided the credibility you needed to decide to invest.
It's the same process when you're ready to sell - the company's credibility must be effectively communicated to alternative investors. On the plus side, trillions of dollars are earmarked by alternative investors. The problem? It's up to you to find them.
Investors should know that company leadership drives the process toward wider exposure. It requires providing information to the financial community and cultivating an atmosphere of transparency. Private company leaders need to make alternative investors understand who and what they're investing in - and why now is the time to buy.
The alternative market is ready and waiting to invest. When private companies follow established reporting standards, your shares will be seen, valued and increasingly liquid.
- Keith Harris, Chicago.
A: Just imagine if investors had a vehicle for buying and selling shares in private companies-a type of entrepreneurial exchange. Currently, alternative investors face two obstacles in realizing their earnings: time and exposure.
Time is a factor because most accredited investors buy restricted stock under Rule 144. The good news is that this stock may be freely traded after two years of ownership. But it's up to the company to remove this restriction. Assuming this is accomplished, it then becomes a question of exposure.
Think back to when you purchased the stock. You were probably exposed to the company through some type of relationship or publicity which provided the credibility you needed to decide to invest.
It's the same process when you're ready to sell - the company's credibility must be effectively communicated to alternative investors. On the plus side, trillions of dollars are earmarked by alternative investors. The problem? It's up to you to find them.
Investors should know that company leadership drives the process toward wider exposure. It requires providing information to the financial community and cultivating an atmosphere of transparency. Private company leaders need to make alternative investors understand who and what they're investing in - and why now is the time to buy.
The alternative market is ready and waiting to invest. When private companies follow established reporting standards, your shares will be seen, valued and increasingly liquid.
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
Automatic Wealth: The Internet Makes It Possible
Attaining wealth and prosperity is a dream most everyone has, but few ever achieve it. Why? The average person is stuck in a rut with a job they dislike and overwhelming debt. This cycle is hard to break, but many people are breaking out and achieving their financial goals through the Internet. The Internet has made it possible for millions of people to create automatic wealth, and there's still room for you! Here's how you can discover your Internet wealth dreams.
Create Wealth, Not Just an Income
With the Internet, the opportunity is there for you to create automatic wealth, not merely an income. You can build one automatic business or several until they reach prosperity - right from your own home computer. The Internet creates the ultimate wealth package because it's so vast in the number of people that use it, but yet, so personal in that one little niche market can earn you a fortune.
You can choose from thousands of business ideas and pick one small market to target for your business. A small market online, however, can mean big dollars for you because it might contain thousands or millions of prospects around the world. The Internet connects you to the outside world and doesn't limit you to those who drive or walk past your local store location.
Automated Business
Another reason it's more feasible to achieve automatic wealth online is because you can have an automated business. Automated means it can run on auto-pilot once you design your website and set things in motion. You can receive automated payments through online forms. You can automate an e-zine (email newsletter) to your customers. You can automate electronic products by email such as e-books or training materials. There are a number of ways to create automated wealth with an Internet business.
No Longer Wait for Paychecks
Another advantage of an Internet business is you can receive daily payments through your website. Many online business owners accept credit cards or use a third party payment processor such as PayPal or StormPay to accept payments from their customers. Through these venues, money goes directly into your account. This gives you a steady cash flow for your business so you can have capital for your income, business promotion, and inventory.
Tips to Build Automatic Wealth
*Use your free time at home to surf the Internet and find business opportunities that interest you.
*Join with one or a few others who are already successful so you can learn the basics of online business. Even if you need to make a small investment, it could be well worth the training you'll receive.
*Decide on a business that's right for you and schedule daily times to work on your business - promoting, analyzing, and building.
*Keep building until you've acquired enough automatic wealth to quit your day job!
Whatever Internet business you choose, remember that it takes patience and consistency to build an online business, just as it would any other type of business. The main differences are that you can work from your home as you're building the business, you can set your own work schedule, and you can earn a lot just by reaching a small niche market for almost any popular product. Start today with your new online business, and you too can soon realize your dreams!
Create Wealth, Not Just an Income
With the Internet, the opportunity is there for you to create automatic wealth, not merely an income. You can build one automatic business or several until they reach prosperity - right from your own home computer. The Internet creates the ultimate wealth package because it's so vast in the number of people that use it, but yet, so personal in that one little niche market can earn you a fortune.
You can choose from thousands of business ideas and pick one small market to target for your business. A small market online, however, can mean big dollars for you because it might contain thousands or millions of prospects around the world. The Internet connects you to the outside world and doesn't limit you to those who drive or walk past your local store location.
Automated Business
Another reason it's more feasible to achieve automatic wealth online is because you can have an automated business. Automated means it can run on auto-pilot once you design your website and set things in motion. You can receive automated payments through online forms. You can automate an e-zine (email newsletter) to your customers. You can automate electronic products by email such as e-books or training materials. There are a number of ways to create automated wealth with an Internet business.
No Longer Wait for Paychecks
Another advantage of an Internet business is you can receive daily payments through your website. Many online business owners accept credit cards or use a third party payment processor such as PayPal or StormPay to accept payments from their customers. Through these venues, money goes directly into your account. This gives you a steady cash flow for your business so you can have capital for your income, business promotion, and inventory.
Tips to Build Automatic Wealth
*Use your free time at home to surf the Internet and find business opportunities that interest you.
*Join with one or a few others who are already successful so you can learn the basics of online business. Even if you need to make a small investment, it could be well worth the training you'll receive.
*Decide on a business that's right for you and schedule daily times to work on your business - promoting, analyzing, and building.
*Keep building until you've acquired enough automatic wealth to quit your day job!
Whatever Internet business you choose, remember that it takes patience and consistency to build an online business, just as it would any other type of business. The main differences are that you can work from your home as you're building the business, you can set your own work schedule, and you can earn a lot just by reaching a small niche market for almost any popular product. Start today with your new online business, and you too can soon realize your dreams!
Craps Tournaments: Winning Tips and Guidance
Craps tournaments popularity is increasing lately. If you are a novice craps player who is still intimidated by the great selection of bets or you find the fuss around the craps tables too loud, you might not be able to enjoy playing craps tournaments. If you are an enthusiastic craps shooter, taking part in a craps tournament is a great way to enjoy a more intensive craps playing experience, meet other craps fans and, of course, a chance to win bigger cash prizes as well as the desired title.
Many casinos hold different types of craps tournaments to suit the different levels of skills and budgets of the players. Here you can find tips on the different types of casino craps tournaments including tips on how to choose the most suitable and enjoyable craps tournament as possible. In addition, you can find here tips on how to win in craps tournament.
Choosing a Craps Tournament
Cost: The cost of playing in a craps tournament can range from a free entry and a low buy in to an expensive entry fee with a high buy in. The prizes, needless to say, are corresponding; the higher the entry fee the larger the grand prize. The free tournaments are usually held on a weekly basis for promotional purposes while the high stack tourneys are pre scheduled, last for more than one day and their expensive entry fees include a cocktail party, free accommodation and other freebies.
Competition: Evaluating the level of the competition you are going to face in advance can be tough. However, the number of entrants allowed to take part in the tournament can give you a basic indication on the level of the competition.
Rules: Casinos often set different rules in craps tournaments. For example, some casinos require players to place a pass or dont pass bet each play on top of any other bets or limit the proposition bet to 25 dollars.
Winning a Craps Tournament
The main difference between playing a traditional craps game and a craps tournament is that with the latter you suddenly find yourself surrounded by competitors. While in a regular craps game you are used to compete against the house, in a craps tournament you are playing against the other entrants and especially against those who have managed to accumulate the biggest amount of chips. Therefore, playing craps tournaments requires amending of you strategy. Primarily, you can no longer ignore your opponents; you must keep an eye on their moves!
Tips
Always pay attention to your opponent’s chips; bear in mind that they might have been hiding chips to confuse the other players.
Pay attention especially to your closest opponents; watch their moves and conclude your future bets so you will stay far behind.
Start by playing conservatively; place small bets on pass and come bets.
When an opportunity comes up, for example after making two consecutive points change your pattern and make dont pass bet.
If during the final rolls you are still not leading, it is time to play aggressively; place large even bet your entire bankroll on one number and then hope for the best.
Have fun.
Many casinos hold different types of craps tournaments to suit the different levels of skills and budgets of the players. Here you can find tips on the different types of casino craps tournaments including tips on how to choose the most suitable and enjoyable craps tournament as possible. In addition, you can find here tips on how to win in craps tournament.
Choosing a Craps Tournament
Cost: The cost of playing in a craps tournament can range from a free entry and a low buy in to an expensive entry fee with a high buy in. The prizes, needless to say, are corresponding; the higher the entry fee the larger the grand prize. The free tournaments are usually held on a weekly basis for promotional purposes while the high stack tourneys are pre scheduled, last for more than one day and their expensive entry fees include a cocktail party, free accommodation and other freebies.
Competition: Evaluating the level of the competition you are going to face in advance can be tough. However, the number of entrants allowed to take part in the tournament can give you a basic indication on the level of the competition.
Rules: Casinos often set different rules in craps tournaments. For example, some casinos require players to place a pass or dont pass bet each play on top of any other bets or limit the proposition bet to 25 dollars.
Winning a Craps Tournament
The main difference between playing a traditional craps game and a craps tournament is that with the latter you suddenly find yourself surrounded by competitors. While in a regular craps game you are used to compete against the house, in a craps tournament you are playing against the other entrants and especially against those who have managed to accumulate the biggest amount of chips. Therefore, playing craps tournaments requires amending of you strategy. Primarily, you can no longer ignore your opponents; you must keep an eye on their moves!
Tips
Always pay attention to your opponent’s chips; bear in mind that they might have been hiding chips to confuse the other players.
Pay attention especially to your closest opponents; watch their moves and conclude your future bets so you will stay far behind.
Start by playing conservatively; place small bets on pass and come bets.
When an opportunity comes up, for example after making two consecutive points change your pattern and make dont pass bet.
If during the final rolls you are still not leading, it is time to play aggressively; place large even bet your entire bankroll on one number and then hope for the best.
Have fun.
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
COSTUME – JEWELLERY
COSTUME – JEWELLERY
As per the law of nature, women are more beautiful creatures than men and have always tried to enhance their beauty with various remedies irrespective of the remedies being natural or artificial. Since time immemorial women are known to have constantly created or re-created different ways to look more beautiful. They used to design, stitch and create their own clothes just to stand out from others. When clothes became mundane, they invented ornaments. The adorned themselves with these fineries and added a dash a glamour with these ornaments to even the simplest of clothes they wore. Right from the stone-age women have indulged themselves in jewelleries. Even in that era, the bond between a woman and jewellery became obvious.
FLASH BACK
Way before the discovery of precious metals like gold, silver, copper or bronze etc. women knew how to adorn themselves. They used sea-shells, conches and other fine stones and materials to create their jewelleries. The necessity of looking prettier than others paved the way for costume jewellery and it is nothing less than its evolution that these are here now for all to admire. Armed with creativity and imagination jewelers have come up with innumerable designs and countless new types of metals and stones to give variety. The variety in jewelry leaves people astounded as they walk past any jewelry shop. Millions of people admire jewels but because of their high value only very few can actually possess these extravagant ornaments. Ordinary middle class women being deprived of the very expensive jewellery delved into a solution for this problem and thus the concept of costume-jewellery was born.
OLD IS GOLD
Earlier costume jewelry was all about semi-precious stones, artificial metals coated with gold and silver polish and other chunks of mirror, stone or patch-works, shells or colorful threads, etc. these jewelleries were designed keeping in mind the middle class and poor women and girls who could not afford to spend much on jewelleries and those women who liked to wear jewelleries properly coordinated with their clothes. Gradually costume jewellery became very popular among women of all walks of life. The designs of costume-jewelleries outdid the traditional jewelleries so much so that people has started preferring costume-jewelleries to the traditional jewelleries. Seeing the popularity of jewelleries, the jewelers decided to merge the two distinct styles. Thus costume jewelleries that we now come across are the amalgamation of traditional stones, precious metals etc. in a modern form. The generation next version of costume jewellery is a perfect modernized blend of fashion, glamour and tradition with of course a tint of diamonds, a generous plating of gold and silver or the more coveted platinum with a dash of dazzling brilliance due to the brand name.
JEWELERY GENEXT
People are now more and more fashion conscious and with the desire to leave an impact in the social circuit are ruling out the repetitive designs. This new breed of fashion conscious people are increasing exponentially; thus creating a huge market not only for costume jewelleries but also for jewellery designing. Costume jewellery is not only designed in accordance with fashion trends but also according to the taste and preferences of the buyers. As for example during weddings, extravagant affairs in many countries and where a great emphasis is put on jewellery. The bride’s jewellery is selected very carefully ensuring that the social status and financial soundness of the bride’s family is reflected conspicuously. Needless to say, that the jewelleries are very carefully co-coordinated with the bride’s trousseau.
Costume jewellery is just the right the thing for every woman for any occasion. It saves money also and gives reason to flaunt the attire as well as adding radiant confidence to the wearer.
As per the law of nature, women are more beautiful creatures than men and have always tried to enhance their beauty with various remedies irrespective of the remedies being natural or artificial. Since time immemorial women are known to have constantly created or re-created different ways to look more beautiful. They used to design, stitch and create their own clothes just to stand out from others. When clothes became mundane, they invented ornaments. The adorned themselves with these fineries and added a dash a glamour with these ornaments to even the simplest of clothes they wore. Right from the stone-age women have indulged themselves in jewelleries. Even in that era, the bond between a woman and jewellery became obvious.
FLASH BACK
Way before the discovery of precious metals like gold, silver, copper or bronze etc. women knew how to adorn themselves. They used sea-shells, conches and other fine stones and materials to create their jewelleries. The necessity of looking prettier than others paved the way for costume jewellery and it is nothing less than its evolution that these are here now for all to admire. Armed with creativity and imagination jewelers have come up with innumerable designs and countless new types of metals and stones to give variety. The variety in jewelry leaves people astounded as they walk past any jewelry shop. Millions of people admire jewels but because of their high value only very few can actually possess these extravagant ornaments. Ordinary middle class women being deprived of the very expensive jewellery delved into a solution for this problem and thus the concept of costume-jewellery was born.
OLD IS GOLD
Earlier costume jewelry was all about semi-precious stones, artificial metals coated with gold and silver polish and other chunks of mirror, stone or patch-works, shells or colorful threads, etc. these jewelleries were designed keeping in mind the middle class and poor women and girls who could not afford to spend much on jewelleries and those women who liked to wear jewelleries properly coordinated with their clothes. Gradually costume jewellery became very popular among women of all walks of life. The designs of costume-jewelleries outdid the traditional jewelleries so much so that people has started preferring costume-jewelleries to the traditional jewelleries. Seeing the popularity of jewelleries, the jewelers decided to merge the two distinct styles. Thus costume jewelleries that we now come across are the amalgamation of traditional stones, precious metals etc. in a modern form. The generation next version of costume jewellery is a perfect modernized blend of fashion, glamour and tradition with of course a tint of diamonds, a generous plating of gold and silver or the more coveted platinum with a dash of dazzling brilliance due to the brand name.
JEWELERY GENEXT
People are now more and more fashion conscious and with the desire to leave an impact in the social circuit are ruling out the repetitive designs. This new breed of fashion conscious people are increasing exponentially; thus creating a huge market not only for costume jewelleries but also for jewellery designing. Costume jewellery is not only designed in accordance with fashion trends but also according to the taste and preferences of the buyers. As for example during weddings, extravagant affairs in many countries and where a great emphasis is put on jewellery. The bride’s jewellery is selected very carefully ensuring that the social status and financial soundness of the bride’s family is reflected conspicuously. Needless to say, that the jewelleries are very carefully co-coordinated with the bride’s trousseau.
Costume jewellery is just the right the thing for every woman for any occasion. It saves money also and gives reason to flaunt the attire as well as adding radiant confidence to the wearer.
Automated Forex Trading
Long gone is the time when only banks and private institutions could trade the Forex market. Now, individuals have access to trade their own money, and lots of it. The exchange of foreign currencies has since been open to private investors, central banks like Bank of America, and several countries. But now with the introduction of the Expert Advisor trading systems, the smaller trader can now automate their trades like the big companies do.
The systems allow the user to set their own parameters and trading guidelines. The program consists of software that has been develeoped for a specific type of trading style, not everyone trades the same. Some spot trade, some trade big, some hedge and so on and so forth. The developers of these types of software take into consideration any nuances of Forex trading as well as being aware that the market is trading 24 hours a day, even during weekends.
Without these types of systems in place, the trader would have to monitor the pair that is being trades on a constant basis along with monitoring opening and closing times which is almost impossible to keep up with. By using the Expert advisors a trader can setup trading signals to make life a bit easier such as a type of order, stop loss, trade entry, news tickers etc.
Some of the key benefits of using an automated trading system is that it gives the trader full control, but cuts out the emotional bond a trader has with his money...making the temptation to trade on a whim a lot less likely. This takes the guesswork out of trading if the trader implements the right trading signals for this trading style.
The EA is a mathematical algorythm and it performs solely on formulas, so if the EA doesnt perform like it should it can be changed, augmented and tweaked until the trader finds the recipe for success that they are looking for. Then, this process is repeated constantly to achieve a money making strategy.
Trading also involves the trends of the market, be it long-term or short-term. These trends play a big role in the amount of trades that a trader is involved in. The EA, if setup correctly, will take these trends in-stride and make the trades accordingly, minimizing the drawdown or losing trades. Using historical data, traders can analyze and test their trading theories and strategies, some EA's have a built-in function to record such data.
Almost every expert advisor system being developed now is made using the MetaTrader 4 platform since it provides reliable historical data that you can download from their site or any other, multilanguage support, solid and user-friendly interface.
Automated expert advisors are becoming the tool of choice for many traders and companies around the glode, most are free, but the ones that really rake in the money you have to pay for. You get what you pay for.
The systems allow the user to set their own parameters and trading guidelines. The program consists of software that has been develeoped for a specific type of trading style, not everyone trades the same. Some spot trade, some trade big, some hedge and so on and so forth. The developers of these types of software take into consideration any nuances of Forex trading as well as being aware that the market is trading 24 hours a day, even during weekends.
Without these types of systems in place, the trader would have to monitor the pair that is being trades on a constant basis along with monitoring opening and closing times which is almost impossible to keep up with. By using the Expert advisors a trader can setup trading signals to make life a bit easier such as a type of order, stop loss, trade entry, news tickers etc.
Some of the key benefits of using an automated trading system is that it gives the trader full control, but cuts out the emotional bond a trader has with his money...making the temptation to trade on a whim a lot less likely. This takes the guesswork out of trading if the trader implements the right trading signals for this trading style.
The EA is a mathematical algorythm and it performs solely on formulas, so if the EA doesnt perform like it should it can be changed, augmented and tweaked until the trader finds the recipe for success that they are looking for. Then, this process is repeated constantly to achieve a money making strategy.
Trading also involves the trends of the market, be it long-term or short-term. These trends play a big role in the amount of trades that a trader is involved in. The EA, if setup correctly, will take these trends in-stride and make the trades accordingly, minimizing the drawdown or losing trades. Using historical data, traders can analyze and test their trading theories and strategies, some EA's have a built-in function to record such data.
Almost every expert advisor system being developed now is made using the MetaTrader 4 platform since it provides reliable historical data that you can download from their site or any other, multilanguage support, solid and user-friendly interface.
Automated expert advisors are becoming the tool of choice for many traders and companies around the glode, most are free, but the ones that really rake in the money you have to pay for. You get what you pay for.
Monday, November 15, 2010
Continuous Improvement of Business Audits
An effective audit process will mean that audit teams will be taking a systematic approach to gathering and interpreting data and information. In order to maximise the value of the outcomes of the audits the management should: Accept that the audit activity needs appropriate resourcing, including training of auditors, education of operational and management staff, and physical and financial funding. If any of these are inadequate, then the quality of outcomes will suffer. Accept that there will be limitations to the data gathered and the outcomes produced, not least because of the influence of the quality and quantity of resources allocated to the audit activity, but also because of the varying standards of judgement and interpretation that may be applied to the outcomes; Focus on trends, take appropriate corrective action on specific issues, but look for trends and patterns that indicate underlying, hidden, problems that need addressing; Ensure that the auditing activity is flexible and adaptable, in order to make it compatible with the culture and structure of the organisation, rather than adopt a rigid, unchanging process which is likely to be inappropriate and producing inaccurate results; Challenge the findings, the audit process will not be infallible, and should be challenged continuously to ensure that it is, itself, performing effectively; Apply the highest possible standards to the interpretation of results and judgement on what action to take, this requires training, experience, expertise, awareness of the internal and external environment, and an awareness of the impact of proposed changes on the motivation and morale levels of staff and managers, and an ability to forecast the impact on the operational and strategic objectives.
However, there are some dangers that must be avoided in order to maximise the effect of the audits. These include: Overload of data and information, the result either or too many audits being scheduled in general and-or the unnecessary auditing of areas of activity that are obviously performing well. This can be avoided by targeting the audits and schedules more thoughtfully; Overload of improvement recommendations, not in itself a danger, but the organisation can find it impossible to resource, in terms of budget, time, or human resources - all the improvements identified. The answer is to prioritise, focusing on those improvements that will bring greatest value to the achieving of the organisation’s objectives; Complacency, where results are apparently positive in most areas, there is a danger that management will become complacent. By adopting the kaizen continuous improvement approach to auditing, this should be avoided; Over-reliance on the auditing process, by leaving the identification and correction of poor performance to the audit process, rather than the audit process at least in part confirming that positive, continuous improvement activity is taking place; Managers ignoring the relevance of audit findings the most damaging response. If managers do not take the audit results and recommendations seriously and refuse to implement, or only half-heartedly implement the required changes, then the value of the audit process is wasted.
Although the auditing should be scheduled to examine all processes and activity on a regular basis, there is a need for additional emphasis to be given to auditing poor performers. These are activities, processes, functions, systems, where problems are visible of suspected, but the causes are not certain and need further investigation. In these cases management should arrange for ad hoc audits, and-or for these areas to be given priority in current or imminent auditing activity. It is not acceptable to rely on a generic auditing approach. Not dealing with visible or suspected poor performers immediately will allow poor performance to cause immediate and possibly long term damage. Inevitably, the longer the problems remain unaddressed, the more difficult it will be to take corrective action.
There is a danger that management will see only the audit results and concentrate on the decision making as to what improvements to make, and how to implement these. However, management must remember that the audit results are drawn from the activities of people. This means employees, operational staff, managers, specialists, suppliers, customers, stakeholders. Feedback, shaped and delivered in an appropriate manner, depending on the target group, must be seen as an essential element of effective auditing and successful implementation of changes. Not informing people of the rationale, the purpose, the results, and the positive contribution made by auditing, will lead to low morale and motivation, dissatisfaction, and possibly conflict.
It is essential that the improvements generated by the audits strengthen the organisation’s capability to compete. In order to ensure this happens, management will need to be aware that: It will often be necessary for improvement action to be prioritised. Where this is the case, then those improvements that will contribute the most value to the organisation’s competitiveness should be given higher priority. This is a responsibility of management, who will need to be appropriately skilled in this task; The business sector and general external environment is changing rapidly, and even relatively recent outcomes and improvement recommendations may no longer be appropriate due to significant external changes. This requires management to be alert to such changes and to have the ability to interpret how their organisation should best respond; After improvement changes have been implemented these will have, by default, altered the nature of activities and processes, and will need monitoring, auditing, to ensure that the effect is positive. It is highly likely that most changes made will need adjustment, especially in the early stages after implementation. This must be an integral, high profile, element of the change process.
Business Performance Audits are critical to the success of the organisation. The specific functional, process, and activity improvements generated by the Performance Audits are important and must be visible supported by the management. However, strategic and operational priorities will be constantly changing. Senior management must also ensure that the audit activity contributes positively and supports the strategic direction that the organisation is taking. It is the responsibility of senior management to continuously monitor the effectiveness of the auditing activity in the light of this requirement, and make appropriate changes if necessary.
To obtain the maximum benefit from Business Performance Audits the management must view them as a critically important element of the business. Appropriate resources must be allocated to the activity itself, to the interpretation of results, and to the implementation of improvements generated. Auditing must be integrated into the continuous improvement approach of the organisation. In addition, the objectives of the auditing process must be to generate improvements that contribute positively to operational and strategic objectives. If this approach is taken by management, then the organisation will benefit greatly from the continuous improvements that an effective auditing process can deliver, enabling it to continue to perform to the best of its ability.
However, there are some dangers that must be avoided in order to maximise the effect of the audits. These include: Overload of data and information, the result either or too many audits being scheduled in general and-or the unnecessary auditing of areas of activity that are obviously performing well. This can be avoided by targeting the audits and schedules more thoughtfully; Overload of improvement recommendations, not in itself a danger, but the organisation can find it impossible to resource, in terms of budget, time, or human resources - all the improvements identified. The answer is to prioritise, focusing on those improvements that will bring greatest value to the achieving of the organisation’s objectives; Complacency, where results are apparently positive in most areas, there is a danger that management will become complacent. By adopting the kaizen continuous improvement approach to auditing, this should be avoided; Over-reliance on the auditing process, by leaving the identification and correction of poor performance to the audit process, rather than the audit process at least in part confirming that positive, continuous improvement activity is taking place; Managers ignoring the relevance of audit findings the most damaging response. If managers do not take the audit results and recommendations seriously and refuse to implement, or only half-heartedly implement the required changes, then the value of the audit process is wasted.
Although the auditing should be scheduled to examine all processes and activity on a regular basis, there is a need for additional emphasis to be given to auditing poor performers. These are activities, processes, functions, systems, where problems are visible of suspected, but the causes are not certain and need further investigation. In these cases management should arrange for ad hoc audits, and-or for these areas to be given priority in current or imminent auditing activity. It is not acceptable to rely on a generic auditing approach. Not dealing with visible or suspected poor performers immediately will allow poor performance to cause immediate and possibly long term damage. Inevitably, the longer the problems remain unaddressed, the more difficult it will be to take corrective action.
There is a danger that management will see only the audit results and concentrate on the decision making as to what improvements to make, and how to implement these. However, management must remember that the audit results are drawn from the activities of people. This means employees, operational staff, managers, specialists, suppliers, customers, stakeholders. Feedback, shaped and delivered in an appropriate manner, depending on the target group, must be seen as an essential element of effective auditing and successful implementation of changes. Not informing people of the rationale, the purpose, the results, and the positive contribution made by auditing, will lead to low morale and motivation, dissatisfaction, and possibly conflict.
It is essential that the improvements generated by the audits strengthen the organisation’s capability to compete. In order to ensure this happens, management will need to be aware that: It will often be necessary for improvement action to be prioritised. Where this is the case, then those improvements that will contribute the most value to the organisation’s competitiveness should be given higher priority. This is a responsibility of management, who will need to be appropriately skilled in this task; The business sector and general external environment is changing rapidly, and even relatively recent outcomes and improvement recommendations may no longer be appropriate due to significant external changes. This requires management to be alert to such changes and to have the ability to interpret how their organisation should best respond; After improvement changes have been implemented these will have, by default, altered the nature of activities and processes, and will need monitoring, auditing, to ensure that the effect is positive. It is highly likely that most changes made will need adjustment, especially in the early stages after implementation. This must be an integral, high profile, element of the change process.
Business Performance Audits are critical to the success of the organisation. The specific functional, process, and activity improvements generated by the Performance Audits are important and must be visible supported by the management. However, strategic and operational priorities will be constantly changing. Senior management must also ensure that the audit activity contributes positively and supports the strategic direction that the organisation is taking. It is the responsibility of senior management to continuously monitor the effectiveness of the auditing activity in the light of this requirement, and make appropriate changes if necessary.
To obtain the maximum benefit from Business Performance Audits the management must view them as a critically important element of the business. Appropriate resources must be allocated to the activity itself, to the interpretation of results, and to the implementation of improvements generated. Auditing must be integrated into the continuous improvement approach of the organisation. In addition, the objectives of the auditing process must be to generate improvements that contribute positively to operational and strategic objectives. If this approach is taken by management, then the organisation will benefit greatly from the continuous improvements that an effective auditing process can deliver, enabling it to continue to perform to the best of its ability.
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