Fun Ideas For Product Promotion At Fairs

Use classics like a wheel of fortune for fairgoers to spin and win prizes.

Fairs have a built-in element of fun that companies and organizations can build on to draw attention to their products and services. Build on popular and classic ideas by incorporating contemporary updated twists. Make games or contests short so you can keep drawing new participants and promote your products to more people. Pass out inexpensive, but colorful giveaways branded with your logo like key chains, sun visors and flying discs to passersby to continue attracting people to your booth or exhibit area at the fair.

Job Fair Celebrity Look-alikes

Hire celebrity look-alikes to pass out brochures and fliers at job fairs. Look for a Bill Gates, Donald Trump and Oprah Winfrey look-alikes and other successful people in business. Have the lookalikes walk the aisles at the job fair and pose for pictures with job fair attendees. This idea can be used to steer people to an exhibit booth or pass out discounts for office supply products and photocopy services to print resumes or for discounts on clothing at department stores and boutiques.

Health Fair Biggest Losers

Public service health agencies and insurance companies can draw attention with "biggest loser" promotions. Develop software that shows health fair attendees what they could like if they shed weight. Take digital head shot pictures of booth visitors and graphically display their bodies at their current weight and what they could look like by losing 10, 20 or up to 50 pounds and more. Create "body templates" of people in swimming suits, tight jeans and body-hugging dresses and sweaters to let them visualize what they would look like if they slim down. Use the opportunity to pass out literature such as weight-loss plans, recipes and guides to eating healthy.

Stilt Walkers

Grocery stores can promote sales by getting a person wearing stilts to appear at county fairs. He can be dressed like Uncle Sam for a Fourth of July fair, or dress like a butcher with a long white coat. Or, promote a new product such as ketchup, snacks or cereal, by having a couple of stilt walkers dressed in costumes that look like a product's package. Have him walk through the fairgrounds, showering the crowd with discount coupons to use on grocery purchases.

Wind Tunnel Money Maker

Banks and other financial companies can rent a wind tunnel to host a promotion booth at art fairs, county fairs and carnivals that attract a big crowd. Put "play money" inside of the wind tunnel and allow people at the fair to go inside. Set amounts of money for the contestants to catch in 10 seconds to win free gift cards, such as catching $100 to win a $50 gift card or catching $1,000 and winning $1,000 in real cash.

Tags: look like, what they, county fairs, draw attention, fair attendees, like they

Handle A False Accusation At Work

Confronting a false accusation may be the best way to handle the situation.

If you face a false accusation at work, you may wonder handle the situation. A false accusation is an untrue statement made by another employee or individual that relates to your job. For example, an employee may make a false accusation regarding a sexual harassment claim, or may accuse you of stealing supplies or information from the company. Depending on the severity of the claim, it may become necessary to take legal action against the untruthful individual.

Instructions

1. Confront the false accusation by presenting evidence to dispel the untruthful statement. For example, if you face a false accusation involving sexual harassment, ask other individuals who were present when the alleged sexual harassment occurred to speak with your supervisor or boss about what they witnessed. In many scenarios, ignoring the false accusation will cause the situation to become worse.

2. Remain calm. One of the worst things you can do upon hearing a false accusation is to get upset and lose your temper. Remember, it is the company's job to investigate all rumors of misconduct for the well-being of the company. In addition, scenarios involving false accusations are very common.

3. Consult the company's handbook to review the company's policies and procedures regarding an investigation of a false accusation. There may be tasks the company would like you to perform to challenge the accusation. For example, the company may ask you to compile all of your old emails or create a timeline of your version of events.

4. Contact a lawyer and file a lawsuit, if necessary. In addition, your company may have an attorney on staff that can help mediate the situation. However, if the individual knowingly and recklessly made the false accusation against you, you may be able to sue him for defamation.

Tags: false accusation, false accusation, sexual harassment, face false, face false accusation, handle situation

Account Manager Duties

Account managers keep customers happy.

Most large companies, regardless of the industry, employ account managers. Although the job title may vary, the key purpose of the job is the same: to keep clients happy. Excellent account managers are articulate, confident, professional, well-organized and client-focused.

Maintaining Customers' Satisfaction

Account managers are the lifeline between their organization and the customers. It is up to the account manager to know the issues, communicate them succinctly and accurately to internal departments, and follow them through to resolution. A number of people work behind the scenes to keep customers happy. But the critical difference is that they are behind the scenes. The account manager is truly viewed as the "face" of the company. Account managers must not only maintain a strong and trusting relationship with clients. They also need to have solid support from the co-workers they rely upon.

Deliver on Revenue Objectives

Happy customers expand relationships with vendors that make their jobs pleasant and hassle-free. Companies that employ account managers realize this, and give incentives to their account managers to sell additional products and services. After all, the account manager is in a prime position to influence the client's purchase decisions, given their frequent contact. The sales aspect of the job is referred to as a "warm sale" (versus "cold-calling") since the relationship is already established.

Provide Education

Effective account managers have a solid knowledge of their specific field. For example, someone working in insurance would probably be registered as a licensed agent. The account manager must educate the clients not only on their company's procedures and products, but also the industry as a whole. The customers look to the account manager as a trusted adviser.

Tags: account manager, account managers, Account managers, account managers, behind scenes, customers happy, employ account

Average Salary Of A Liquor Branding Ambassador

A liquor branding ambassador is a promotions manager for a brand of liquor or liquor manufacturer. Liquor brand ambassadors arrange promotional events and forms of advertising. In May 2010, the Bureau of Labor Statistics estimated the salary for a liquor branding ambassador under the broad occupational title of promotions managers for liquor wholesalers.

Qualifications

Most employers require a bachelor's degree in marketing or a related discipline and at least three years of experience as a brand ambassador or a similar liquor marketing role. Brand ambassadors must be outgoing with excellent public speaking skills because the job requires organizing and attending social events to promote the brand. Previous experience in event planning is helpful.

Work Environment

This occupation can be fun because it requires attending and organizing social events at bars, restaurants, hotels and nightclubs. it also requires working long hours, including nights, weekends and holidays. Most liquor brand ambassadors are assigned to a specific region, which requires traveling extensively.

Average Salary

Many of these professionals are skilled in the niche industry of branding liquor and have a strong understanding of events, trade shows and industries to advertise at to increase the visibility of the brand. In many cases, these professionals focus solely on one brand or manufacturer of liquor products. The average salary for this occupation was $82,870 per year.

Salary Variances

Along with a salary, many earn commissions and bonuses based on the brand's success. Salary can also vary based on the brand ambassador's experience. The salary ranges from $37,570 to $140,200 per year, which includes the 10th through 90th percentiles. The 25th percentile earned $50,990 per year, and the 75th percentile earned $105,320 per year.

Tags: based brand, because requires, brand ambassador, brand ambassadors, branding ambassador, earned year

Send Promotional Gifts

Promotional products can range from custom pens to desk calendars.

Those who work in marketing know just how important it is to market a product or company with promotional products. Promotional products are essential for getting the attention of a business or individual and are usually a relatively low investment. While promotional products are ideally given out by hand, they can be sent to prospective clients through the mail. By taking the necessary steps, you can ensure that your promotional products arrive safely at their destination.

Instructions

1. Purchase your promotional items. Ideally, the promotional items you choose should be as small and light as possible; sending heavy items in the mail will require more postage and is usually not worth the extra expensive. Promotional pens, calendars and bracelets are perfect for sending in the mail, as they are effective and do not weigh much at all.

2. Package your promotional items in a way that they will be noticeable without even being opened. Many businesses prefer to use branded envelopes or other types of branded packaging when sending out promotional items, as they stand out amongst the slew of plain envelopes that come in the mail on a daily basis. Many companies that sell promotional products can also create custom mailers for the products to be sent out in.

3. Mail your promotional items on a client by client basis, rather than sending out a large amount of items to random businesses on your mailing list. The more targeted your mailings, the better results you are likely to get.

4. Take your mailers to the post office and negotiate a rate. Since it is usually not necessary to send out promotional items to be received quickly, choose the slowest and most inexpensive shipping method. In order for mailing promotional gifts to be worth your while, you must work to get the lowest postage rates possible.

Tags: promotional items, your promotional, your promotional items, promotional products

Five Tools Used To Improve Communication

Communication is the sharing of information and ideas. It plays a key role in ensuring the successful interaction of people in business and other areas of human endeavor. Improper communication tools in business lead to information breakdown, hampering productivity and utilization of resources. Lack of communication often impacts profits. Effective communication is achieved by employment of readily-available tools, or by the acquisition of new skills.

Active Listening

Active listening ensures that the listener not only hears what the speaker is saying, but that the speaker is aware that the listener is paying full attention. The speaker and the listener must avoid distractions and observe each other's body language. By responding appropriately -- and avoiding interruption of the speaker -- communication proceeds smoothly. Both parties might eventually recap the matters discussed.

Provision of Both Negative and Positive Feedback

Business managers and other leaders sometimes communicate with subordinates only when things have gone wrong. In this case all the feedback is negative. A subordinate might not freely communicate his thoughts if he believe positive feedback is absent. Effective communication is achieved when positive and negative feedback are given in appropriate measures.

Recognition

Managers have the responsibility of recognizing the best efforts of those under them. Periodic meetings complimenting the diligence of achievers are a part of effective communication. Managers often use such meetings to update the employees on the progress and future plans of the company. This makes the employee feel recognized and opens the doors to effective communication.

Expressing, Not Impressing

Communication laden with high-sounding and unfamiliar words might impress the listener, but it frequently fails to deliver the message. This habit -- or need to appear sophisticated -- often fails to address the all-important need of passing information. The use of simple language allows everyone to understand the message.

Know the Members of the Team

Different communication techniques have different success rates among team members. A successful manager must know what type of communication works with each subordinate. An effective communicator knows what appeals to the listener, and what is likely to put-off the listener.

Tags: communication achieved, effective communication, Effective communication achieved, that listener

Use The Best Tools To Evaluate Employee Performance

Use the Best Tools to Evaluate Employee Performance

One of the most important duties of a supervisor is to conduct the annual employee review. Measuring performance is difficult, and communicating employee performance on the job can be very challenging. Supervisors should use the best tools available to evaluate employee performance.

Instructions

1. Fully automated databases and forms can help supervisors conduct employee reviews, particularly at larger companies. Some programs have tracking for work tasks and are useful when compiling the list of yearly accomplishments. Smaller organizations may use a simple word processing document or spreadsheet to track progress and write reviews. Select the solution that fits the company's size and style.

2. Survey the employee's customers and peers. Traditional employee performance reviews are conducted solely by the supervisor. Recent trends in business call for a broader approach. Survey customers and peers who interact regularly with the employee. A range of software programs exist that can conduct surveys electronically and neatly summarize the responses.

3. Use an employee self-rating. Many companies extend the evaluation process beyond supervisors, customer and colleagues and ask the employee to rate their own performance.

4. Use tools to identify resource gaps. Use the annual employee performance review as a tool to identify gaps in the company's resources. Budget and plan for future training courses based on areas where employees need to develop skills.

5. Continuously record employee progress. Have a year-round mechanism for supervisors to track employee accomplishments. It makes preparing the annual review much easier.

Tags: employee performance, annual employee, Best Tools, Best Tools Evaluate, customers peers

Get My Baby In Magazines

So you think your baby should be in magazines? Many parents feel they have a baby cute enough to do advertising. In many cases, this is true, but it takes more than cute looks to get your baby into magazines. You're going to need to be determined, and you'll have to actively pursue this avenue in a professional manner. There are many steps and options available to help you get your baby into magazines if you have the patience to stick with it. Learn how you can get your baby in magazines for an early start in what might turn into a promising career for your little one.

Instructions

1. Take photos of your baby. Keep them natural. A couple of 8x10 photos and a disc of photos taken with a digital camera are fine. You can dress your baby by theme for some of the photographs, but for the most part, talent agencies are going to want to see your baby in his or her natural state. These are the photographs you'll use to introduce your baby to talent agencies when you seek representation.

2. Locate a talent agency that can represent you and your baby and help find him or her work in magazines. There are a number of agencies available that specialize in babies (see resources). Most of these agencies have websites that give detailed instructions about getting your baby signed with them. They will typically ask you to mail a few photographs. Follow the submission guidelines and submit only what the agency asks. They will contact you if they're interested in considering signing a contract involving your child.

3. Consider entering your baby in photograph contests. These contests often give out big cash prizes, free professional photo shoots, and sometimes modeling contracts. Photo contests are a good way to introduce your baby to the photography world and to build an early resume.

Tags: your baby, baby into, baby into magazines, into magazines, introduce your

Become An Nyx Cosmetics Representative

Become an NYX representative today.

NYX Cosmetics is a company known for its professional-quality makeup at affordable prices. NYX is sold at a variety of stores across the country; however, it is also possible to become a representative for the company, which allows you to sell its cosmetics as a freelancer. Becoming an NYX representative is challenging, as the company is very selective in whom it chooses to employ. And once you are accepted to be a representative, you must meet sales goals in order to stay within the company's program. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. E-mail or contact NYX via telephone (see Resources), telling them that you are interested in becoming a cosmetics representative. This program is not well known by most people, and NYX does not advertise that they have such a program. NYX will e-mail or mail you an application to start the program.

2. Choose from two selling representative options. Option A will allow you to receive commission based on the NYX items that you sell. You will send orders that you receive from the public directly to NYX, and you will receive a monthly payment of 30% from your sales. The membership fee for Option A is $10. Option B will allow you to purchase directly from NYX cosmetics with a 50% discount and sell them as you wish. You are able to keep all of your earnings from selling with Option B. The membership for Option B is $60, and you do not need a sales permit for this option.

3. Fill out the application and include copies of your identification card, completed W-9 form, and a copy of your sales permit if you chose Option A. Mail the application back to NYX with a check for the particular selling option of your choice. After you are admitted into the sales representative program, you will receive an official NYX sales representative card, an official NYX sales catalog, a gift set and order forms. If you chose Option B, you will also receive $600 worth of cosmetics testers and a large cosmetics case.

4. Review all of the paperwork that comes with your kit when you obtain it in the mail. To be a successful NYX representative, it is important to inform your friends, family, neighbors and colleagues about your new hobby. Also consider putting up fliers in your community explaining that you are an NYX sales representative.

5. Stay active with your selling as an NYX representative. This is a great way to work independently, along with building skills as a businessperson and makeup artist.

Tags: Option will, sales representative, chose Option, from selling, membership Option, official sales, Option will allow

What Is A Routing Number For A Savings Account

When a person withdraws money from an account, he must provide the retailer with a means of identifying where to draw the money from. This necessitates offering the retailer several pieces of information. While a bank account number is critical, the person will also have to provide the location in which the account is kept. This is done by providing a routing number linked to the account.

Routing Number

A routing number is a nine-digit number issued by the American Bankers Association. This number corresponds to a particular physical location where the money is in the account, where the account will be processed, or where the account is open. A routing number is printed on the bottom of checks associated with a checking account. However, savings accounts also have routing numbers to use when processing transactions.

Function

The purpose of a routing number is to allow banks and other financial institutions to identify the precise location where an account is kept. While sometimes providing the name of the bank and the account number may be enough to process a transaction, in other cases, the bank will need to know where the account is located. In this cases, the account holder will need to provide the bank the routing number assigned to the account.

Savings Account

Although routing numbers are most commonly associated with checking accounts, they are also attached to savings accounts. For example, according to Bank of America, all accounts, including savings accounts, are assigned a number. Each account, however, will not have a unique routing number. Rather, the routing number will correspond to a location, not an account. This means many different accounts will share the same routing number.

Considerations

Locations typically have several types of routing numbers. This is because a location will be assigned a different routing number for each type of transaction that it wishes to process. So, for example, all accounts held with Bank of American in northern California will be assigned three routing numbers. One of the routing numbers will correspond to paper checks, another will correspond to electronic transactions, and another will correspond to wire transfers.

Tags: routing number, routing numbers, where account, will correspond, routing number

Create Free Family Web Pages

Easily create free web pages to share news and events about your family.

Web pages are not only for businesses or companies. Many families find it very convenient to set up a web page so that they can easily share news, events, photos, videos and other content with relatives spread out throughout the country or world. Among its many other services, Google has a product called Sites that allows anyone to easily create web pages for free. Even if you have no experience creating a web page, you can easily set up your free family web page with Google Sites.

Instructions

1. Go to sites.google.com. If you already have a Google account, sign in with your username and password. If you do not have a Google account, click "Sign up for Sites" and create an account by entering your email address and creating a password.

2. Once you have signed in with your Google account, click "Create site." Enter a name for your site in the "Site Name" field. You will probably want to use your family name. This will also be used for your site URL address (for example: http://sites.google.com/site/SmithFamily). In the "Share With" sections, specify your privacy settings. You can choose to have your site visible to the entire world, or only to people you specify. Select the appearance of your family web page in the "Site theme" section. Choose a theme that best matches the personality of your family. Click "Create Site."

3. You will now be taken to the home page of your new family site. To create a new family web page, click "Create new page" in the top navigation area.

4. Select a template to use for your new family web page. You can create a simple Web Page, a Dashboard page, an Announcement page, a File Cabinet page to store files, or a List page. In the "Name" field, enter a name for your new web page. Decide whether you want your new page to be listed on the top level of your site or under the "Home" page, which means you would have to navigate to "Home" first before being able to access the page. Click "Create Page."

5. Edit your page. Enter the text you want for your web page into the text section on the screen. You can also add file attachments or comments, or format your page using the provided editor. When you have finished adding content and are satisfied with your web page, click the "Save" button in the editor's top navigation menu.

Tags: your family, your page, family page, your site, Google account, want your

Job Description For A Marketing Executive In Education

Marketing executives lead college communication endeavors.

Although the title varies, a marketing executive determines the budget, planning, research, creation, execution, maintenance and evaluation of strategies and tactics to meet a university's recruitment, growth and advancement goals.

Responsibilities

Marketing departments in higher education may control website design and maintenance, public relations and university publications in addition to advertising, direct marketing, interactive and social media, and event planning.

Staff

The marketing department's size depends on the organization’s structure, and its success lies in the executive’s skill in maintaining a team environment, guiding members and encouraging their professional development.

Collaboration

The ability to work closely with consultants, agencies, administrators, trustees, faculty, alumni leadership and school departments is a critical trait among marketing executives.

Skills

Results-driven, high-energy people with superb written and verbal communication skills, marketing executives must be creative and innovative, yet analytical and decisive. Keeping current with emerging communication avenues, measurement tools and trends in higher education contributes to their success.

Experience

Marketing executive candidates normally hold a master’s degree and bring five to 10 years of proven success in marketing communications to the job, according to a PayScale.com user survey. Most colleges entertain experience obtained outside academia, provided applicants demonstrate an ability to work in and appreciate the complexities of the higher education market.

Compensation

According to a May 2009 Bureau of Labor Statistics estimate, marketing managers at colleges and universities earn an average of $90,560 annually. Standard benefit packages include health, dental and life insurance, retirement plans, paid vacation and holidays, and tuition remission.

Tags: higher education, ability work

Organize A Music Event Concert For Profit

Music concerts require careful planning.

Music concerts often charge for event admission, but the money collected goes to many different items associated with running the event. From hiring technicians, renting equipment, renting the venue and decorating, the costs can pile up. Organizing a concert for profit requires an understanding of these costs as well as having ideas for increasing cash flow before and during the event.

Instructions

1. Create a budget for the concert. Decide how much money you are going to need. Specify these costs in the budget as much as possible, including venue, labor costs, decorations, equipment rental and advertising. Overestimate costs when a figure is unsure, but stay within a feasible limit. Write down sources of revenue that you already have, such as personal contributions, and which sources you would like to pursue for funding, such as sponsors.

2. Negotiate every business dealing involved with the concert. Discuss discounts you can receive for purchasing items in a package deal or for repeated business with a particular company. Offer incentives to the company that will encourage them to give you discounts, such as free advertising at a table or on posters at your event.

3. Choose a date or set of dates and a time to hold the concert. Nothing can be booked, planned, sold or decided upon until the date of the event is known. Choosing a weekend is more likely to bring in larger crowds.

4. Book musicians, singers or bands to perform at your event. Discuss pay rate in advance. Determine the technological needs of the band members. Discuss the housing options the band has if they need to travel into town for the event.

5. Approach sponsors that may be interested in funding your event. If your concert is raising money for a charitable cause, many local community organizations may be willing to give money to help with its organization. If you are planning a much larger event, consider corporate sponsorship. Large corporations often set aside portions of their budget for charitable cause donations or community involvement, especially in return for advertising opportunities at the event.

6. Book a venue for the concert. Create a list of local venues where you would like to hold the concert, keeping in mind the genre of music and size of the band. Order them on the list from most desired to least desired. Call and find out pricing options. Consult with all team members on your organization committee before booking a venue.

7. Decide on ticket prices and whether they will vary by seat location in the venue. Consult your budget to see how much you need to cover base costs before you start producing profit. Determine whether ticket sales are handled by a venue's box office or your organization, which may be cheaper. Decide whether ticket sales will start in advance or at the door, which may increase last minute sales. Print paper tickets yourself instead of hiring a printing company.

8. Advertise the event. List the event on concert sites like Ticketmaster.com. Post flyers around the local community of the venue. Place advertisements on your company or organization's website. Hand out flyers to pedestrians on the street. Create a Facebook event. Place an ad on local radio.

9. Rent sound, audio and video equipment for the concert for the band's performance. Hire the necessary technicians to set up, run and disassemble the equipment the night of the event.

10. Organize food and beverage availability prior to the concert date. Hire a caterer to come and serve food, or prepare food for the event ahead of time using volunteers. Preparing foods with your own committee members will cut down on costs. Use volunteers to run the food stands.

Tags: your event, budget much, charitable cause, hold concert, local community, Music concerts, these costs

External Factors Of Marketing Strategy

External factors of marketing strategy can include competitive decisions and the economy.

There are a number of external factors that can affect a company's marketing strategy. It is crucial for marketing managers to account for these extraneous variables when writing their business plans. Additionally, marketing professionals should continuously research their industries so they can account for various external factors before they affect the business. Companies must be highly adaptable to survive in an ever-changing business environment.

Regulations

Both local and federal regulations can have an impact on a company's marketing strategy. On a small scale, local ordinances may prevent outdoor promotions in certain areas. On a national scale, the government often regulates certain industries more stringently than others. For example, federal regulations have restricted the advertising and promotions of the tobacco industry. Labeling laws covering food products have changed because of the fight against obesity. Also, foreign countries can impose embargoes on U.S. companies, which may hinder their exports to those particular nations.

Economy

The state of the economy can have a major impact on a company's marketing strategy. For example, premium-brand consumer products companies may find consumers switching to cheaper brands during economic downturns. Entire industries, such as the restaurant industry, may also experience decreases in sales because people are not dining out as much. Companies will often need to lower their prices during recessions. Conversely, economic boom periods may put a strain on a company's production and delivery times. Marketers need to adapt their marketing strategies to account for various economic shifts.

Competition

Competitive strategies can also affect a company's marketing strategy. Therefore, it is important for company marketing managers to monitor their competitors on an ongoing basis. One way to monitor competitors is by using a SWOT (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, threats) analysis. For example, companies can study the strengths and weaknesses of their competitors and compare them to their own strengths and weaknesses, according to a writer on QuickMBA, an online reference site. Company marketers can then use key strengths such as superior customer service or quality to ward off competitive strategies. For example, a company may beef up its own customer service department if a competitive company is focusing more on its own customer service.

Technology

Technology is another external factor affecting marketing strategy. All products have a certain life cycle, which includes the introduction, growth, maturity and decline stages. Products often enter the decline stage when new technologies are introduced to the market. Companies will need to decide if they will introduce their own new technology and still keep producing older products. For example, black and white televisions were still around after the introduction of color televisions. A company may even reduce the prices of older products and technologies when introducing new ones.

Tags: marketing strategy, company marketing, company marketing strategy, customer service, strengths weaknesses

Disadvantages Of Advertising With Social Media

Advertising on social networks brings challenges as well as opportunities.

Highly personalized targeting, payment by results and organic sharing by users all make social media advertising sound attractive, but the format has its limitations. It can be difficult to measure how people respond, both quantitatively and qualitatively. It can also be difficult to use the format while sticking to legal requirements and overcoming user irritation.

Conciseness

Writing an advertisement for a social media location requires a concise approach posting in a short space in sites like that provided by Facebook and in particular the famed 140 characters of Twitter. Even if you can encapsulate a message in a short slogan, you may struggle to get across full detailed and legal disclaimers in this short space where "small print" is often impossible. In 2013 the FTC explicitly warned that social media advertisers were responsible for including all legally required disclaimers and gave a stark warning that if you couldn't do this in a particular format, then you shouldn't use that format.

Intrusiveness

While advertising is widely expected in media such as print and broadcast and in display form on websites, the jury is still out on public attitudes to social media advertising. One limitation is that many social networks took time to build up advertising, with some users getting used to the idea of the services being largely ad-free -- making them resentful when ads start appearing. Another is that the highly targeted nature of social media ads can mean users find the ads intrusive. This annoyance can make it more difficult for individual advertisers to create a good impression.

Measurability

One of the key advantages of online advertising is that you can find out exactly how many people come to your site from an ad on a specific Web page. This can be much trickier with social networking where the visitor comes from a link from a particular tweet or status update that could be listed on one of many different feeds or timelines. A further limitation comes from the fact that users may be following a link while using one of many third-party applications to read updates rather than visiting the social media website in question. Twitter conceded some of these limitations in September 2011 when announcing the introduction of specialist Web analytics tools.

Sentiment

It can be tempting to simply measure the number of people who mention your company on social media following an advertisement and assume this is a sign of its success. The problem is that this doesn't take account of what people are actually saying about you: having lots of discussion may be a bad thing if they are mocking or condemning your campaign. Trying to make sense of this can require complex tools that try to automatically detect tone, a process known as sentiment analysis. Even this can be limited by people using sarcasm and irony when mentioning your firm.

Tags: social media, comes from, media advertising, short space, social media advertising, social networks

Effectiveness Of Tl15 Safes

Keep your jewelry and other valuables in a TL-15 safe.

TL-15 safes are typically used as jewelry safes inside a jewelry store, although they might also be used in a pawn shop or a home. They provide protection for valuables because of their burglary and fireproof ratings. Some insurance companies may give you a discount on homeowner insurance if you use one.

Burglary Rating

A burglary rating, expressed in minutes, indicates how long a safe will resist break-in by a professional locksmith. A TL-15 safe will resist break-in for 15 minutes, which is a long time for a burglar who must work quickly to keep from being caught.

Fireproof Rating

A fireproof rating, expressed in minutes or hours, indicates how well a safe will protect contents during a fire. For example, a safe with a rating of 1 1/2 hours/350 degrees could be exposed to 1,700 degrees for 1 1/2 hours, and the temperature inside would not rise above 350 degrees.

Locking Mechanism

Locking mechanisms available are combination dials and electronic keypads. A four-number combination increases the security of a combination dial. To open a safe with an electronic keypad, you enter a combination on the keypad.

Tags: safe will, expressed minutes, rating expressed, rating expressed minutes, resist break-in

Start A Business In Marine Boat Detailing

Boat detailing is more than a janitorial service and potentially more lucrative than a similar automotive service. You have to know boats and "boat people" as well. You'll need to understand care for and clean marine finishes, fabrics and brightwork (which is not brass or polished metal, but unpainted woodwork). If you live near the water, you might be surrounded by marinas and boaters. Boaters are talkative; your work will speak for itself. Good work may be the only advertising you will ever need.

Instructions

Start a Business in Marine Boat Detailing

1. Educate yourself. Learn everything you can about boats. If you have never been on a boat, then go boating with friends as often as possible and ask every question that comes to mind about their boat and how things on it work. Read books about boating and subscribe to magazines devoted to boating. Pay attention to advertisements for boat detailing; these ads can give you ideas for services to be provided. Learn what cleaning and supplies and equipment are specifically for boats and learn all you can about them.

2. Find out who your competitors are and if there is another boat-detailing business in the area; and, if so, ask local boaters how much they charge and what services they provide. Knowing what services your competition provides may mean there is a specific niche for your business: if no one cleans engine rooms or engine compartments, then engine rooms may become your bread and butter. Ask about their reputation; if they won't polish brightwork, be sure to emphasize good for unpainted teak trim in your business dealings.

3. Find out who and where your potential customers are. Have some business cards printed. Talk to marina operators and let them know you are considering opening a boat-detailing business locally. Then ask where the local boaters go to have their boats detailed. Give the marina manager a business card. Let your friends who own boats know what you're doing and ask them to spread the word among their fellow boaters.

4. If you have special skills such as woodworking, sewing or doing upholstery repair and replacement, be sure that local boaters know this. These skills may represent "extra services" or they may become a mainstay of your business.

5. Start small, as a sole proprietorship. One person with a mop, broom, deck squeegee and cleaning supplies can clean a boat; the corporate office can come later. Offer to do one boat in each marina in your area for free. This builds good will and, if your work is good, word of mouth will bring more customers.

Tags: local boaters, your business, about their, Boat Detailing, boat-detailing business

Publish A Book Inexpensively

Publish a Book Inexpensively

Perhaps the hardest part about writing a book is publishing it without breaking the bank. Self-publishing is the easiest way to print a book, though your fame may not reach outside your social circle. Getting a big-name publishing house to publish your book takes extra effort and time, but doing so may get your book featured in book stores across the nation.

Instructions

The Easy Way - A Paper Copy

1. Print your manuscript.

2. Create a cover featuring the book's title, your name and any relevant graphics or designs. This may be created using construction paper or design software.

3. Punch holes into the manuscript and cover.

4. Using brass fasteners, put your book together.

The Crafty Way - A Bound Copy

5. Tear the binding from an old book.

6. Using your word processor's margin feature, adjust the format of your manuscript to the size of your binding.

7. Print manuscript.

8. Punch holes into the manuscript.

9. Thread the yarn through the holes and fasten to the cover's old binding or a new binding, found at craft stores.

Stepping It Up - Self-Publishing

10. Using an online self-publisher (like iUniverse or Blurb), format your manuscript to a software template.

11. Choose a typeface, and determine whether you want a hard or soft cover and what that cover will look like.

12. Wait for the publisher to complete your book. Some will even add your book to a seller's inventory, like Amazon.

The Professional Way - Getting a Publisher

13. For a nonfiction book, submit a query with sample chapters and a synopsis to publishers. For fiction, complete and send the entire manuscript.

14. Keep submitting your manuscript to publishing houses. More submissions increase your chance of selection.

15. If your work is picked up, work with an editor or other representative at the publishing house.

Tags: your book, your manuscript, Book Inexpensively, format your, format your manuscript, holes into

Inexpensive Gifts For Neighbors

Whether it's a new neighbor who has just moved into the neighborhood, or a neighbor who has fallen ill, there are plenty of inexpensive gifts you can give to those living in your neighborhood. Inexpensive gifts for neighbors can be bought or handmade. Some great gifts, like time and help, are free and aren't even tangible objects.

Plants and Gardening Items

Gardening items and plants either for the garden or for indoors are a very popular and inexpensive gift to give a neighbor. You will find a wide variety of plants in your local nursery and if you know when to shop seasonally, you can get quite good discounts.

Plants tend to be popular gift items for neighbors especially because you likely walk by or drive by your neighbor's house daily. You can tell at a glance if they like hanging basket plants or if they have a garden, or are planning one.

Baked Goods

Traditional, but simple and always appreciated, baked goods are appropriate to give to neighbors for many occasions from housewarming, to a death in the family, to sickness and birthdays. Cookies, pies, brownies and cakes are the most popular items to give as gifts, but don't forget the option of homemade candies. There are many cookie companies that deliver homemade cookie baskets and cookie bouquets, if you aren't good at baking yourself. These gifts tend to be very affordable.

Your Time

Don't underestimate or undervalue the gift of your time. Time is worth something as well, especially in our busy culture. If you want to give a housewarming gift to a new neighbor but don't have the extra cash or anything available to make a gift, then consider the least expensive gift of all, a donation of your time. Perhaps they need help getting their garden set up or help with unpacking or painting their walls.

If your neighbor gets sick, if you can't afford a get-well basket of flowers, why not donate your time to help them out by weeding their garden, or doing laundry, dishes or other household chores while they're feeling under the weather? You could also volunteer to get some shopping done for them or transport their kids. In this situation, be sure they understand this is a gift because they are sick, otherwise they may feel like they can ask you all the time to do these things. If they do, you can always say no. A gift of your time should never be an obligation.

Tags: your time, gift your, gift your time, their garden, time help, your neighbor

What Are Some Pointers To Help Adolescents Not To Be Influenced By Others

Supporting kids in the things they enjoy can help them resist outside influences.

Adolescence can be difficult. As young people emerge from childhood and move toward adulthood, they are learning to think for themselves and make their own decisions. Because they're still developing their critical thinking skills, adolescents can sometimes be influenced by others, whether by their peers or by outside influences such as advertising and marketing. However, a little support can make it easier for adolescents to stay independent.

Peer Pressure

Peer pressure is often a problem for adolescents. Although there are many benefits to a close peer group, a desire to belong can encourage teens to pick up bad habits. Succumbing to peer pressure usually occurs due to a desire for validation. Praise and reward adolescents when you see them resisting peer pressure, and make sure they know how much you value them for their independence and individuality. Be explicit about why you're congratulating them. If you need to criticize their behavior, do it compassionately and in private---don't scold.

Marketing

Marketing and peer pressure go hand-in-hand to encourage conformity. Young people are exposed to advertisements that encourage them to think that they won't be valued unless they drink the right sodas or wear the right shoes. As with peer pressure, the key here is to remind adolescents that they're valued for their individuality. The more confident they feel about their own identities, the less vulnerable they will be to attempts to make them feel incomplete without consumer products.

Discussing Outside Influences

One of the problems parents and educators face when dealing with outside influences is that adolescents are very perceptive. When adults succumb to outside pressure in the home or workplace, but try to teach their children or students not to, this comes off as hypocrisy. It's best to acknowledge this when talking to adolescents; they never respond well to being preached to, but a sympathetic perspective that treats them as equals will often be successful.

Teaching Critical Thinking

Parents and teachers can't always be there to help adolescents cope with pressure. It's important, therefore, to teach the skills that will help them make the right choices. Talk through possible situations and practice analyzing situations critically. Ask teens to explain the choices they would have made and the reasoning for them. Participating in discussions with them rather than simply making rules or giving instructions will help develop the critical skills needed for dealing with future situations.

Tags: outside influences, dealing with, help them, peer pressure, peer pressure

Design A Certificate Of Achievement

Create a custom certificate of achievement for any occasion.

A certificate is often given to students, employees or volunteers in recognition of achievement. The minimal information needed on a certificate of achievement includes the recipient's name, the date and reason for the certificate. The signature of the presenter and graphics are often included too. You can design a certificate of achievement using any word-processing program. Alternatively, you can download a certificate template or make a certificate online at a free certificate maker site, where you'll fill in the pertinent information and print a certificate ready for presentation and framing.

Instructions

Create a Certificate of Achievement with a Word Processing Program

1. Open a new document in your word-processing program. Change the page layout to landscape, if desired.

2. Choose a border for your certificate, if borders are available in your word-processing program. Alternatively, plan to print your certificate of achievement on paper with a pre-printed border, if desired.

3. Create a certificate template with the words "Certificate of Achievement" or "Achievement Award" centered across the top in a large, bold font.

4. Place the words "This award is presented to" in a medium-size font, followed by the recipient's name in a large, bold font on the next two lines. Alternatively, use the underscore key to create a line on which to write the recipient's name in pen.

5. Add the words "for outstanding achievement in" and state the reason for the certificate in a medium font in the space below the recipient's name.

6. Add lines for the presenter's signature and the date of the award at the bottom of the certificate.

7. Center all lines of text, adjust the line spacing and add graphics, as desired. Print your completed certificate.

Create a Certificate of Achievement Online

8. Go to a certificate-making site such as PrintableCertificateMaker.com or TomMcCabe.com, or download a certificate template from the Microsoft Office site.

9. Follow the instructions and enter the pertinent information for your certificate.

10. Print your completed certificate. Use paper with a border, or colored or novelty paper, if desired.

Tags: recipient name, certificate template, word-processing program, your certificate, your word-processing program

Wire Money To England

The easiest method for wiring money to England is through your bank.

Wiring money to England is convenient, cost effectve, and secure. Transferring money to England may require the money to be wired through several banks, however, which will add to the cost of the transfer. There are no restrictions for transferring money to England from the United States, and there is little paperwork at the bank. England is in the Greenwich Mean Time Zone/Western European Time Zone, so it is important to plan your time when you are wiring money to England.

Instructions

1. Determine the amount of money you want to wire. Keep in mind that there will be a fee to wire the money and there will be a fee on the other end to receive it. Typical international wiring fees are between $40 and $65. There is a limit of $50,000 per day for international wire transfers. Also, be aware of the exchange rate between the U.S. dollar and the British pound. Get current exchanges rates by using the calculator located in the Resources section.

2. Make a note of the recipient's name, bank account number, mailing address including the country and postal codes, the bank's routing number, and the amount of money you want to transfer. Reconfirm that your details are correct with the recipient. Write the information down to ensure that you have everything you need and to avoid any mistakes during the wire transfer process. Mistakes will delay the transfer.

3. Determine where you want to wire the money from. The easiest, and typically the cheapest, location is your bank. Your bank has all your account details and the wire can come directly from your checking or savings account. Banks typically charge their own customers a lower fee than noncustomers. If you do not have a bank account, any bank will conduct a wire transfer, but you have to pay in cash. You can also wire money through online financial and currency exchange websites, such as PayPal, Western Union, Xoom or OnlineFX. Larger banks also have online money wiring options.

4. Once you turn your paperwork over to the bank official, she will take care of the rest. The wire transfer should arrive within two business days. The funds will be immediately removed from your account.

5. Check with your recipient in two to three business days to ensure the money was transferred properly.

Tags: money England, wire transfer, amount money, amount money want, bank account, business days, from your

Job Description For Expressive Artists

Expressive artists use a variety of mediums to express emotion.

While some artists accurately portray images in their artwork, other artists deliberately distort reality to convey general or specific feelings. These artists, called expressive artists, sometimes create art as a hobby or sell an occasional art piece. However, many expressive artists have managed to find full-time work, or have managed to attract enough attention to sell enough artwork to make a living.

Significance

Expressive artists are artists who attempt to depict the personal emotions of a particular scene rather than trying to create objective images. The way in which the art is produced is very stylized and particular to the artist who creates the artwork. Oftentimes, brush strokes are agitated, colors are intense and proportions are off. This artwork is meant to create an emotional reaction in those who view the paintings. These emotions are elicited through distortion, exaggeration, primitive images and fantasy.

Function

Expressive artists sell their art to galleries, private collectors and public commissioners. They also seek out government grants that are awarded to artists. Expressive artists who broaden their artistic skills can possibly find other work as illustrators or designers.

Conditions

Expressive artists work in a variety of settings. Some work directly for art studios, while others work out of their home. Some of the art materials used by expressive artists can produce fumes that are bad for the health of the artist. Some artists also develop back strain and eye strain from sitting and staring at a piece of artwork for a long period of time. Some expressive artists have a hard time finding places to sell their artwork, which can be stressful.

Training

Fine arts colleges provide students with training in a variety of art methods. However, a large percentage of expressive artists are self-trained, and there are usually no educational requirements for an artist to be able to sell his own work. Instead, to find artist jobs, an expressive artist needs to construct a portfolio of her best pieces of art to persuade recruiters to hire her.

Outlook

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, in 2008, 23,600 fine artists held jobs. The need for artists is expected to grow by 12 percent between 2008 and 2018. However, there are a large number of talented artists who compete for art jobs, making competition for these art jobs very keen. The median earnings for salaried artists in 2008 was $42,650, according the Bureau of Labor Statistics. However, many artists work part-time for commission, which pays a varied amount.

Tags: Expressive artists, artists have, artists work, Bureau Labor, Bureau Labor Statistics, expressive artists

Questions To Ask Property Management Companies

If you're looking for a way to manage a rental property with less stress and a much lower investment of your time, a property management company may be the choice for you.

However, hiring a company to manage your property without asking the right questions is a recipe for disaster. From simple contact information to the recruitment of tenants, you have to know what issued to raise to make the right choice.

Contact Info

You must know contact the property management company in case there's a problem. Also ask the company if they allow you to use email communication for non-emergency situations. It saves time and is much more convenient for your busy lifestyle. For emergency situations, does the company have a cell phone number you can contact? Having multiple options to reach your property manager is essential.

Repairs

Is the property management company you're considering responsible for repairs? Do you pay separately for repairs, or is it included as part of your contract? Do they hire an outside company to take care of household maintenance? If so, how much does it cost? What kinds of repairs are you responsible for? How much cash reserve does the company require to cover repair expenses?

Yard Maintenance

Who is responsible for mowing the lawn, raking the leaves and shoveling the snow? If your property manager handles these requests, your property will be more attractive to potential tenants. Busy families will enjoy the time savings of not having to do yard work. Single parents and people with disabilities may also find your property more attractive to rent if yard work is not required. Are you responsible for hiring additional help for the upkeep of the yard?

Contract

If you and your property management company aren't working well together, how hard will it be to get out of the contract? What is the length of the contract? What is the fee for early termination? Hope for the best, but be prepared for the possibility that it may not work out.

Vacancy Fees

Some property managers charge a vacancy fee. This fee covers the company's cost of advertising, the time spent showing the property to interested tenants, and other charges associated with filling the vacancy. Ask if the company charges a fee for vacancies, the amount of the fee, and how it is billed.

New Tenants

How effective is the company you're considering at filling vacancies? What means are used to advertise your property? Does the company have a website with high-quality pictures of its properties? Do they take advantage of the free rental listings available on the web, and of local classifieds? What percentage of the company's current properties are vacant? Without tenants, your property isn't making any money. Hiring a company that will effectively market your property is essential.

Tags: your property, management company, property management, property management company, company considering, company have, contract What

Sell A Product To Boutiques

You've toiled over your wares for months, maybe even years. Classy, sophisticated jewelry, accessories, adult toys, clothing pieces and/or shoes. Now it's time to start getting them out on the market. If you are trying to get your items into the hands of upscale customers in your community, you are going to have to learn sell your product to boutiques.

Instructions

1. Perfect your products so that they are error-free. For example, if you are planning to sell a line of bracelets to boutiques, make sure that the decorate pieces do not fall off or look cheap when it's time to show them. If selling clothing, assure that all of the buttons are on securely and the fabric is of the best quality. You cannot sell to a boutique with poorly manufactured products.

2. Hold a "showing party." Send professionally designed and printed invitations to boutique owners in your area. Be sure to let them know that you will have your products along with delicious food, cocktails and maybe even a little bit of entertainment. Have your party in an elegant location that is clean, spacious and well lit. Ask for guests to RSVP to be sure that you will have guests, and also invite your friends. Ask everyone to look very nice.

3. Set up a special table for the goods and display them in the same way you would want them to be displayed in a store. Put small sample bags together containing your products that are specially addressed to your guests from the boutique. Place a lacy, attractive guest book on the table so that you can ask guests to sign in.

4. Be a gracious host. Offer your guests a drink and socialize with them. Don't bombard them immediately with a sales pitch about your products; leave that for later. Allow the boutique owners and representatives to mix and mingle for at least 10 to 15 minutes before guiding them toward your product table.

5. Allow the boutique owners to test and sample your products freely. Always maintain a lighthearted, fun attitude while interacting with them. Talk to them about the most important feature of each product, and be sure to place a gift bag in their hands before they leave.

6. Send a thank-you card to the boutique owners the very next day after your party, thanking them for their presence and reminding them once more of the name of your product. If you are a more "hands-on" type of person who is very social, you may have better results by actually visiting the store to say hello in about a week.

Tags: your products, boutique owners, your product, Allow boutique, Allow boutique owners

Start A Small Business Or Deli

Start a Small Business or Deli

Starting a small business, such as a small deli, is an exciting and challenging endeavor. Essentially, you are taking control over your how you earn money; you will be your own boss. This means you need to carefully plan every detail. If you want to start a deli, detail every aspect, from funding to marketing, and from inventory to hiring employees; every detail must be described. Poor planning will often lead to a failed business.

Instructions

1. Draft a business plan. A business plan will be like the user manual for your business. In the plan, describe your small business (or deli), discuss your competition, explain how you will fund your business (with loans, personal savings or other money sources), and detail how you will market your product and manage the business. Business plan templates are available online from the U.S. Small Business administration at sba.gov/smallbusinessplanner/index.html.

2. Find financing. Using your business plan as a starting point, work toward getting financing. If you plan to get a bank loan, take your business plan with you. Describe your small business. If you are starting a deli, describe what you plan to carry at the deli, such as exotic meats and cheeses, and where you plan on operating the deli.

3. Legally organize your business. With funding in hand, take the legal steps to form your business. Meet with an attorney and discuss tax incentives and the pros and cons of various business forms, such as partnership, sole proprietorship, or corporation. Use the forms provided at your State's Department of Labor to officially form your business.

4. Lease or purchase a location to run your business. If you are thinking about running a small deli, ask around at local grocery stores and food stores to see if they have space you can lease within the building. Otherwise, look to rent or to purchase a location.

5. Market your business. Follow the guidelines in your business plan. Determine who will be your target customers. For example, a deli may do well in a college town, where you could place fliers and advertisements in dormotories and school buildings. Include a budget for marketing and advertising to get your name out there.

6. Hire employees. Especially for starting a deli, hire employees with prior food service. Applicable to all small businesses, hire reliable employees. This is your business, so choose the best possible people to staff it.

7. Open your doors. Once you have filed all the forms your State requires to operate your small business (check with your local Department of Labor), acquired funding and a location, hired employees and done a little marketing, take the plunge and open your doors.

Tags: your business, business plan, your business plan, your small, your small business, Business Deli, Department Labor

Make A Flyer For A Bake Sale Benefit

Cookies are a common bake sale goodie.

Bake sales can provide an avenue for schools, youth organizations and charity organizations to raise money to help purchase equipment, attend functions or support research initiatives. Whether aiming for local or regional coverage, a bake sale benefit requires an eye-catching flyer to help promote the event and increase attendance--and thus sales. When creating a flyer, keep in mind the cause and the audience to help create a focused and attention getting marketing tool.

Instructions

1. List the details to state on the flyer. Include information pertaining to the date and time of the bake sale. Note the location and any specifics related to parking options. Emphasize the charity or organization the bake sale is supporting. Mention any corporate sponsors to ensure they receive proper recognition.

2. Locate a software program to help with creating the bake sale benefit flyer. Options include word processing applications and software programs geared specifically towards creating banners, flyers and other print advertisements. In a pinch, contact a printing solutions company in your area to help with the layout and construction of the flyer.

3. Design the bake sale benefit flyer. Use a font and style large enough to garner attention. Whether you choose to print the flyer in black and white or color, make sure the flyer is legible and properly aligned on the page. Add the specifics, such as date and time. Highlight the available bakery items for sale and add a picture of baked goods for added flair. List contact information for those that may have questions. Add corporate logos and sponsorship information.

4. Print the bake sale benefit flyer. For large print jobs, consider contacting a printing professional or local office store. These companies can quickly produce a large quantity of quality copies for a fee.

Tags: bake sale, bake sale benefit, benefit flyer, sale benefit flyer, date time, help with

Stop Cell Phone Telemarketing Calls

Cell phone calls from telemarketers can be unnecessarily disruptive.

From minor irritations to major hassles, telemarketing calls have begun to intrude more and more on the average American's life. With the prevalence of cell phones, callers have begun to target potential clients on-the-go as well as at home, throughout the day. Most people would like to stop these calls but don't know how; with a simple tool, you can stop cell phone telemarketing calls to your phone.

Instructions

1. Open your Internet browser and go to the National Do Not Call Registry website. This website, set up by the US government, is a directory of citizens who do not wish to be contacted by telemarketers. This can prevent calls to your cell phone through the threat of potential legal action.

2. On the left-hand side of the screen, click the button that reads "Register a Phone Number."

3. Fill out the form on the following page. You will need an email address and up to three numbers, land lines or cell phones, that you wish to take off of call lists.

4. Click "Register" when you have entered and verified your information.

5. Go to your email account and open the email from the National Do Not Call Registry. Click on the link to activate your listing on the Do Not Call Registry.

Tags: Call Registry, calls your, cell phone, cell phones, have begun, National Call, National Call Registry

Check Whether A Business Is Legitimate

How Do I Check Whether a Business Is Legitimate?

To determine the legitimacy of a business, you need basic research skills. You will want to look up current licenses, check with consumer watchdog groups and fact-check any claims. It's also helpful to know investigate tenant status. In essence, you need to be a mini-private investigator to bring to light whether a company is legal.

Instructions

1. Find out the full name of the business and any possible DBA (Doing Business As) name. Confirm the business address and company officers' names to successfully match the business license information using an online database for the state where the business is incorporated. Tax ID and articles of incorporation are public information, so these should be found. Otherwise, it is a red flag and should be probed further.

2. Contact watchdog groups that monitor the behavior of businesses, such as the Better Business Bureau and Angie's List. Electricians, for example, may be reviewed and rated on sites like Angie's List.

3. Contact clients that may be mentioned in references or testimonials. Reach out and inquire about their experiences. Look for positive adjectives that describe the work being completed in a timely fashion. Be sure to ask: Would you hire them again? If not, why not? Select a minimum of three clients randomly to avoid bias as much as possible.

4. Find out about lease agreements. The landlord may have eviction proceedings against the business, which could be another red flag. Office sharing is another suspicious sign, because the business name may not be displayed anywhere. Therefore, the business could easily disappear without notice. There should be some type of permanent signage and business advertising. Further, the business should be in good standing with the landlord. Make a phone call, and ask how long the business has been a tenant; less than a year is not a good sign, unless the business recently expanded.

5. Call the main office to determine legitimacy. The voice mail or secretary should not mention another business name, unless it is legally tied. For example, a DBA name is acceptable.

6. Determine how much Internet presence is used by the business. If company has a website with plenty of contact information and details, that is a good sign. Another positive is if the business responds to emails, ideally within 24 to 48 hours. Look for overall consistency, current legal status and clients that are willing to praise the product.

Tags: Angie List, Business Legitimate, business name, Check Whether, Check Whether Business, clients that

Healthcare Marketing Techniques For Television

TV ads like infomercials can be extremely popular, depending on the product.

The healthcare industry is enormous, with billions of dollars spent each year. The money spent on healthcare is expected to continue increasing as the population ages. Those working the healthcare industry must market themselves to stay competitive. No matter what area of healthcare a company or practitioner is in they must do some form of marketing to attract business. Television advertising is a great way to reach regional or national audiences.

Instructions

1. Define a medium. There are traditionally two types of TV advertising: short commercials, those that play in between scheduled entertainment programs; and infomercials, longer, 30 minute to 1 hour commercials that are structured like a show, in which an advertiser buys air time to promote their product. Some health care products lend themselves to both, or one of these mediums. The key question to ask when deciding which format to use is, "Can I explain my product in 30 seconds or less, or could I easily fill up a half hour with content?'. Many advertisers choose to produce both formats. However, producing an infomercial is typically more expensive.

2. Write down the pitch. Collect and organize all product information, marketing/sales papers and market research. Define the key points that must be included in the commercial. For example, there may be studies that link the product to a certain health benefit, but it would not be time efficient to name all of them. Instead, mention that "numerous medical studies conducted at/by .... link product XYZ to increased health..."

3. Brainstorm a concept. A concept is the story of the commercial. The concept should naturally incorporate all the product information without seeming pushy or too informational. For example, a private skin clinic may choose a concept that follows the life of a young woman. The woman may notice a skin problem, find out about the clinic, research the clinic, come for a consultation, be treated and leave happy. During this process a voice-over may outline features of the clinic, services provided and credentials of the doctors working there.

4. Always sell the benefits. The problem/solution method works well for television commercials. Viewers may not feel they have a problem or that their health concern is important. Advertisers can build up the problem by discussing the risks of a health condition and consequences that can occur when treatment is not received. Advertisers can then offer the solution to the problem by presenting their product and demonstrating how well it works.

Tags: healthcare industry, link product, product information, their product

Out Of The Box Promotional Ideas For Events

Incorporate a known character, such as Santa Claus, into your event promotion ideas.

If you are in charge of promotional ideas for your business or organization, then you want to come up with fresh ideas that grab the public's attention. This is especially true if you are promoting your brand at an event where there may be other competitors vying for the attention of your customers.

Giant Food Item

People love to see a spectacle when they are attending an event. One way to create a spectacle is to create "world's largest" or "giant" food item for the public to see. For example, you might work on a way to cook the world's largest hamburger. You can then have a hamburger wrapper made with your company logo and and name that surrounds the burger when it is complete. After the task is complete, people can enjoy eating pieces of the hamburger that you and your staff pass out. If you really want to create a spectacle, try to beat the "Guinness Book of World Records." Contact the Guinness organization for the official rules. You can then invite local media to get even more attention for your company or organization.

Celebrity Autographs

If there is a celebrity who has endorsed or uses your brand, you can hire that celebrity to sign autographs and take pictures with patrons at company events and meetings. Contact the appearance agent for the celebrity and ask what travel requirements and daily rates the celebrity requires for signing autographs and taking pictures. Also, discuss who will pay for the autograph materials such as photos, posters and books. After signing the contract with the celebrity, advertise that the celebrity will be attending the event. You can also create a special item with your company name and logo that the celebrity will sign at the event. For example, if your company produces calendars and you hire a baseball celebrity, you might produce a calendar of that celebrity both playing baseball and using your brand. The celebrity can then sign the item for people attending the event.

Thank You Gift

When people go to events such as concerts, fairs or sporting events, they expect to pay for items including food, beverages and apparel. One out of the box promotional idea is to actually give a sample of your product away or produce pieces of apparel such as a T-shirt or hat visitors of the event can wear. Not only will they get a free gift, but everyone walking around with your free gift will be serving as an advertiser for your company.

Lodging Advertising

If your company or organization is participating in an event with many other vendors, you want to reach out to them before they get to the event so that they know you are there. Since many events do deals with area hotels, inquire with those hotels if you can place promotional advertising items on the doors of the people you know are there for the convention or event. For example, instead of a "Do Not Disturb" sign, make a "Do Disturb" sign. On the back of the sign, give your location within the event, as well as a coupon for your product or service. This will entice the people attending to make sure to visit your location. An alternative is to place someone outside the hotel with fliers offering the same information so people receive it before they get in the car on the way to the event.

Tags: your company, that celebrity, attending event, with your, your brand, attention your

Auto Advertising Ideas

Auto Advertising Ideas

Successful auto retailers maintain a high volume of potential customers through innovative advertising strategies. Whether you focus on new car sales, uses cars or a mixed sales strategy, reaching potential clients motivated to buy is the key to your long-term success. The best auto advertising ideas increase exposure of your company, encourage lot visits and lead to higher sales volume.

Local TV Program

Reach potential customers in their homes through a fast-paced, entertaining local television program. Create a program that features many of your cars and special offers in a highly stylized manner that is entertaining. Consider models, on-air prizes, competitions and "slashing prices" routines to entice customers to your car lot. Maintain a rapid pace for maximum car exposure and to maintain your audience's attention. You can build up a fan base by creating "personalities" out of your sales staff, which can lead to increased lot visits by individuals wanting to meet your staff members.

Referral Program

Create a referral program with local repair services, tow truck and insurance companies. Distribute cards to these businesses that can be given to their customers who are in need of a new automobile. For every customer who purchases a vehicle from a referral, provide a monetary reward. Consider putting a coupon or discount offer on the card to encourage their customers to visit your car lot.

Recalls

Use recall announcements to send targeted advertising messages to your potential customers. If a customer purchased a vehicle from you that are part of a recall, send a letter that describes the recall and provides convenient options to perform any needed repairs or upgrades to fix the problem. Enclose an offer for a discount on a new vehicle purchase. When the customer comes to your auto lot to repair the recall issue, you will have the chance to upgrade them to a new vehicle or replace another family car.

New Residents

Target families or individuals who have recently moved into your community. Send a welcome letter and offer your services for sales and service. Enclose a coupon for a free oil change or other service to entice them to your car lot and become familiar with your company. New residents may find they need a different size or type of vehicle due to climate and driving conditions in your community. You can obtain lists of new residents from companies such as InfoUSA.com.

Tax Refund

Advertise a special promotion around tax refund time that offers to double the amount of someone's refund off the price of a new car. Advertise this message on radio announcements and in television spots. You will target individuals who have sufficient funds to pay for a down payment and who have earned enough money to qualify for a refund.

Tags: potential customers, Advertising Ideas, Auto Advertising, Auto Advertising Ideas, individuals have, their customers, vehicle from

Use Drama To Help Children

Use drama to help children by giving them a way to express difficult emotions.

The use of drama, either in a classroom setting, at home or in organized activities, can help children overcome social obstacles and improve their language skills. Dramatization motivates children because it's fun and gives them a chance to practice situations they may struggle with in real life. Increased self-confidence, a working imagination and the ability to work with others are other benefits children can gain from the use of drama. In dramatic play, children use language they may not use in other situations, solve problems and learn cooperative skills.

Instructions

1. Use role-playing techniques to help children communicate feelings and prepare for new situations. Practice with a child handle an argument with a peer and ask someone for help with a difficult problem.

2. Motivate and excite children with dramatic use of your voice and body while telling them stories about famous people or historical figures. Act out a story or recite a monologue to peak their interest.

3. Involve children in acting out stories to expand their imaginations and give them experience in expressing emotions. Many children who have difficulty expressing emotion find it therapeutic to act out an emotion in a play.

4. Practice acting out different emotions with children as an activity to help them understand and connect with their own feelings.

5. Give children a chance to use dramatization in free play time by providing dress-up clothes, props and mirrors. Children will gain language skills and self-confidence as they act out different real-life situations, such as going to the grocery store or teaching school.

6. Ask children to tell stories using dolls or puppets. This can help children express thoughts, feelings and ideas they may be too inhibited to share when being themselves.

7. Give children structured dramatic play assignments, such as miming feelings of anger or silliness, to build self-confidence and understanding of their emotions. Have them act out a story or a situation dealing with bullying or friendship to teach them empathy.

Tags: help children, dramatic play, Give children, language skills

List Of American Book Publishers

List of American Book Publishers

Book publishing is a volatile industry, and the number of publishers in business varies. According to The Literary Marketplace, there are roughly 3,000 United States book publishers. Larger publishers concentrate on novels, current events and other books of general interest. Many smaller publishing houses are niche publishers; they usually limit the books they publish to specific genres.

Large Publisher: Random House

Random House, according to Para Publishing, is one of six U.S. publishing conglomerates. Its various divisions publish virtually all types of books. Authors are generally paid a royalty based on a percentage of the book's selling price. Most Random House divisions are at its headquarters building.

Random House

1745 Broadway

New York, NY 10019

(212) 782-9000

randomhouse.com

Large Publisher: McGraw Hill

McGraw Hill was one of the top 12 publishers by revenue in 2006. Best known for textbooks, it also publishes books on other topics, including business, medicine, math and engineering. Authors are generally paid a royalty based on a percentage of the book's selling price.

McGraw Hill

1221 Avenue of the Americas

New York, NY 10020

(212) 904-2000

(212) 512-2000

mcgraw-hill.com

Niche Publisher: Graywolf Press

Graywolf Press is among the best known "small presses," publishers that specialize in non-commercial, "literary" books. According to its Website, Graywolf publishes 27 books annually, including collections of poetry, memoir, essays, novels and short stories. Authors are generally paid a royalty based on a percentage of the book's selling price.

Graywolf Press

250 Third Avenue North, Suite 600

Minneapolis, MN 55401

(651) 641-0077

graywolfpress.org

Niche Publisher: Playscripts

Playscripts, Inc., like most play publishers, issues acting editions: bound scripts sold to actors and theater companies. It publishes plays for community theaters, smaller professional theaters and children's theaters. It also produces a new catalog each fall. Playscripts' royalty payments are a percentage of the selling price of each script sold and of the fee paid by a theater for each performance of the play.

Playscripts, Inc.

450 Seventh Avenue, Suite 809

New York, NY 10123

(866) 639-7529

playscripts.com

Niche Publisher: F+W Media

"A Cup of Comfort," issued by F+W Media's Adams Media division, is one of the largest inspirational publishers. According to its Website, it has more than 30 titles in print. Each book contains short, true inspirational stories on one theme, such as "Christmas" and "Dog Lovers." Authors are paid a flat fee for their stories. Unlike most publishers, online submissions are encouraged, and queries are not necessary.

F+W Media

4700 E. Galbraith Road

Cincinnati, Ohio 45236

(513) 531-2690

fwmedia.com (F+W Media)

cupofcomfort.com (A Cup of Comfort)

Tags: Random House, selling price, Authors generally, Authors generally paid, based percentage, based percentage book, book selling

Design A Tea Room

A tea room is a soothing spot to find respite with a hot pot of tea. The room will typically have one or more table and chairs. A china cabinet is also needed to store tea pots and tea cups and possibly a tea serving cart. The tea room should have natural sunlight and be large enough to hold a group of people for afternoon tea. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Choose a room that is large enough to hold tables to seat the number of people who might be there for afternoon tea. Know what kind and size of tables will be used in the room before picking the room to ensure it will be adequate.

2. Choose a room with adequate natural lighting. A tea room should have a cheery feel and enough natural light that daytime tea gatherings will not require the use of artificial lighting.

3. Find a china cabinet that is the proper style and size for the tea room. You will use this cabinet to store teapots and teacups. Place the china cabinet so it is not in the way of the tables or walkways. You should be able to open the china cabinet when needed without disturbing people in the room.

4. Place a tea cart with several shelves in an area near the tables. This cart will be used to serve tea as well as pastries, scones and sandwiches.

5. Pick paint colors for the walls that match the tone of the tea room. Pastel colors convey serenity, while bold, vivid colors work if your tea room is designed to be energizing.

6. Add a couch for guests to relax on before or after tea is served. A comfortable chair or two is also a nice addition.

7. Find wooden benches to place in front of windows to hold flower boxes in bloom with geraniums, pansies, hyacinths or petunias.

8. Hang art that captures the tone of the tea room. Use either boldly colored abstract art for a dramatic room or soothing scenes of nature or flowers for a serene tea room.

9. Pick curtains for the tea room. A traditional tea room might use lacy, sheer or floral print curtains. A modern tea room may have curtains in bold colors or a dramatic fabric like silk.

Tags: china cabinet, Choose room, enough hold, large enough, large enough hold

Get A Walking Event Together

Walking events are great ways to raise awareness in your community for charities and wellness.

Walking events provide an outlet to generate funds and raise awareness of special causes in your community. Interest groups, schools and community leaders can help you announce the event, gather resources to pay for the hosting site and strengthen community connections for your business. Well-known walking events include the March for Dimes, Susan G. Komen 3-Day for the Cure, Making Strides Against Breast Cancer, Fall Pier to Pier Run/Walk in New York and other events across the nation. You can organize an event like these or develop your own for local causes in your community.

Instructions

1. Write an outline explaining the purpose, audience and expected outcome you would like to achieve from hosting a walking event. Identify a cause to donate funds to, such as charities, schools or nonprofits of your choice. If the event sponsors awareness, develop a plan to invite certain organizations to provide funding to host the walking event in your city. Conduct research to find the costs for hosting an event in the city in order to create sponsorship packages that invite organizations to participate.

2. Contact organizations in your community to propose sponsorship opportunities to fund your event. Request permits to host your event in your city. Check local requirements with your county's deeds office before announcing the event's location to participants. Traffic and participant control is necessary; speak with the police chief to hire off-duty officers to attend the event.

3. Recruit and train volunteers on the principles of fundraising to sponsor teams in the competition. Use publishing software to create brochures, flyers and announcements to share in your community. Work with knowledgeable community leaders to promote your events within their networks of family, friends and colleagues. Use your project timeline to keep track of tasks, notes and costs.

4. Offer local businesses opportunities to have tents, refreshment stations and other activities available for spectators. Propose a price list for spaces available at your host site then advertise locations through local newspapers, word of mouth and other grassroots marketing.

5. Pay for the hosting site, vendors' base pay and other fees for the event. Make sure you have documentation from all transactions. Ensure volunteers stay to manage the cleanup phase of the event. Offer volunteers awards for outstanding work.

Tags: your community, causes your, causes your community, community leaders, event your, event your city

Bank Teller Interview Tips

Bank tellers are the face of the financial institution and should have polished people skills and background knowledge of banking. Employers look for conservatively dressed candidates with a pleasant personality and a strong grasp of banking. You will need to demonstrate that you are dependable, reliable and capable of handling a variety of people in a friendly, professional manner throughout the day.

Show Your People Skills

Bank tellers are the financial institution's first line in customer sales and service. You may be required to make sales and referrals in addition to making transactions. Employers want candidates who exude a friendly, approachable exterior while remaining professional and knowledgeable about bank products and services.

Demonstrate you are the person for the job by recalling specific customer service and sales experiences in previous jobs. Discuss a variety of experiences, even those outside of banking, to show that you are versatile and can adopt your customer service style to a variety of settings.

Use a former example of teamwork or leadership if you don't have prior work experience. Recall how you used your skills to manage a project or how you resolved a conflict using your communication abilities.

Smile and make eye contact throughout the interview. Most employers require bank tellers to make eye contact, smile and call the customer by name, so demonstrate that you understand what's required throughout the interview.

Demonstrate Your Knowledge

Show your future employer that you understand how a bank works behind the scenes. If you have previous bank teller experience, discuss some of the highlights such as having your drawer always balanced at the end of the day or that you led the tellers in loan referrals.

Prospective bank tellers have a leg up on the competition if they have computer skills. If you have knowledge of specific spreadsheet or word processing software, be sure to mention that during the interview.

If this is your first job out of school, discuss your interest and accomplishments in finance classes. Talk about your involvement with the school bank, if your school participated in an on-site banking program.

Pull Out Awards

Former employer or school recognition is important in this competitive environment. Let your future employer know that you were recognized for being an exceptional employee or student by detailing why you were recognized.

Banks value sales and service recognition awards, so be sure you highlight any special designations. Discuss any product or overall total sales increases if you were awarded for sales.

Service is an extremely important part of being a bank teller, so explain why you received a service award and its meaning to your former employer or school.

Remember to include any industry-based awards. Awards for balanced drawer or no charge-offs are important because it tells your future employer that you are consistent and sharp on the job.

Tags: future employer, your future, your future employer, bank teller, bank tellers, Bank tellers, customer service

Be A Fashion Merchandising Buyer

A career as a fashion merchandising buyer sounds glamorous and exciting. But the job isn't just like shopping. Buyers have to decide what will sell well in a store, sometimes up to two years in advance, and how much of each product to buy.

Fashion merchandising buyers can work for small boutiques or large department stores and wholesale distributors. Buyers who work for smaller stores will typically purchase all the store's inventory, while larger department store buyers will likely have a specialty such as women's sportswear or jewelry. The job could even include buying fabric for a designer label.

So how do you land a job as a fashion merchandising buyer?

Instructions

1. Be a trendsetter.

Do you always seem to know which trend is right around the corner? Were you wearing the summer's must-have item last summer? Then you may have a talent for fashion buying.

Does your trend quotient need some help? Study magazines, browse stores, and keep an eye out for the evolution of trends, from seeing the newest dress style in a high-end magazine until it's in every store in your local mall.

Fashion buyers need to be aware of trends and what will be selling well for the season they are buying for. Sometimes buying one to two years ahead, fashion merchandising buyers need a strong sense of style and a knowledge of past and present fashion trends.

2. Get experience.

Working in a retail environment is an excellent background for a future fashion merchandising buyer. Through helping customers, you'll learn about their preferences, their dislikes, and their habits, all essential knowledge for becoming a successful fashion buyer.

3. Study.

Any fashion buyer should be a student of fashion in general, studying the latest magazines and fashion shows.

It's very helpful, and in some areas a prerequisite, to have a degree in fashion merchandising, business, or marketing. If you choose to major in fashion merchandising, make sure to take at least several courses in business and marketing.

4. Polish your skills.

Strong math ability, an understanding of inventory, negotiating skills, and a flexible attitude are important attributes for fashion merchandising buyers. Brush up on this knowledge with courses and reading books and articles to hone your fashion buying skills.

5. Network, network, network.

Industry contacts are extremely important to land a job as a fashion merchandising Buyer. How do you make these connections? Use all the opportunities available to you. If you are a student at a fashion school, go to as many events as possible. Career counselors, professors, and even fellow students can also prove invaluable to your network. Last but not least, the contacts you make during internships and in retail jobs can be very helpful.

Tags: fashion merchandising, fashion merchandising, merchandising buyers, business marketing, buyers need