PLAN (24)


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Do you have a plan? It has been said time and time again, "Those who fail to plan, plan to fail." And this is so true with people who start their own home based business.

It is great that the company has a plan for it's vision, it's methodology, it's budget. The problems lies in the fact that most people who become part of the company don't have these things in place when they come to the company.


 In many cases the companies understand this. This is why they go through extensive trouble to prepare getting started right guides and steps in their system. Have you looked at what your company has provide for you?

 

There is a high probability that one of the first items after deciding your why is making a list. This is where most people fail their business before their business empowers and elevates them to then next level.

Part of the reason people fail to plan is because they don't realize how important it is to plan. Another reason is that people may have made plans and they didn't work out they way they wanted them to so people didn't want to experience the disappointment again. Both of these reasons are understandable, but if a person wants to achieve success they must be overridden.

One way to overcome this is to recognize that plans are not the final results. They are guides. The unfavorable outcomes which arise from plans don't mean that planning doesn't work. They mean that our planning skills need to be improved. We also have to understand we can modify our plans to meet situations as they arrive.

I hope that this had been useful. Please let me know with your comments.

About the Author

Clarence Coggins is an Internet Market. He has extensive experience with applying Web 2.0 technology in the promotion of business and educational ventures. He also works a Leads Broker with the Silver Fox Leads Factory to contact him you can email thebestleadscompanyintheworld@gmail.com or call him at 973-943-4073.

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Hello Community, here is great news from Micore Intl CEO!!!

You have to check the website, you will be very thrilled with the upgrades.

Check out our video at http://www.jussuccess.com

 

Ready to get started, just  contact me at juniques@jusmcc

 

Juniques

Independent Micore Intl Hair Consultant

 

AND NOW THE NEWS

 

WE HAVE A NEW WEBSITE! www.MicoreInternational.com It’s probably been a while since you visited our MAIN site anyway....so now is a great time to catch up!

In a few hours or days you will each have your own replicated version of this new site, except your site will have a Retail Shopping Cart embedded in it! THEN your customers can order online from a REAL e-commerce cart! (Sorry for the wait but it will be worth it!)

They are also working on a new Capture Page system with Auto-responder emails for you to use for advertising! (All of your Micoré Prospects have been saved and will be in the new email system)

Your new Consultant replicated website WILL BE (not yet): http://www.micoreintl.com/YOURSITENAME or http://YOURSITENAME.micoreintl.com

The Corporate Site will be on our main domain, with your replicated sites being on the abbreviated domain!

OUR MAIN FOCUS right now is releasing your new replicated website with shopping cart!

Our #2 focus is RE-ACTIVATING all of those who are ready for Micoré #2!

This email is going to all registered Micoré Consultants, Active and In-Active. ALL of you can login to the new Micoré BackOffice and browse around! (Using your normal Micoré login credentials. Soon a password LOOKUP tool will be added to the login page for those who can’t remember their passwords)

 

Many new things will be added into the BackOffice over the next few days & weeks!

 

ALL Members can SHOP in the BackOffice! Login and click on ORDERS then PLACE ORDER!

 

In-Active Members cannot earn Commission, but they can buy product at wholesale for themselves, or to sell at retail to others. (Active Members will receive commission from any In-Active purchasers)

 

Those In-Active Members who are excited about where Micoré is going now and want to RE-ACTIVATE can do so for only $19.95. (As soon as the Re-Activate link is ready)

MAINLY JUST WANTED TO TELL YOU ABOUT THE NEW MICORÉ WEBSITE!

Cheers!

Derrick Alexander, CEO MICORÉ INTERNATIONAL INC

P.S. OUR NEW CAVIAR PLATINUM BRAND AMBASSADOR....GOSPEL SINGER KIM BURRELL...WILL BE FEATURED ON THE MICORÉ WEBSITE IN A FEW DAYS!

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My New Book: CREATING YOUR LIFE PLAN

10744093081?profile=originalEarlier in January 2013 I became extremely depressed and had to disconnect and BE STILL for while to examine, re-discover, re-organize and re-energize my life. In the midst I was able to finally finish a book I've been writing for the past 6+ years. At times I didn't think I was worthy enough to even be writing on the subject matter but these past few months gave me new hope. When it finally appeared on amazon I could feel the noose of life around my neck literally loosen its grips. If you are interested it is now available at http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00BQ4M8S6. Download it, read it, then tell me what you think. Please leave a review on amazon and recommend to family, friends and anyone else if you believe it has helped you and can help others.

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Easy Money

Opening and running a business is a challenging endeavor, and this is especially true for the businesswomen of the world. In America, women only own 30 percent of all businesses, and sadly, first year capital funding for women running companies is 80 percent lower than our male counterparts. These overwhelming disparities make it imperative for female business owners to get ahead in as many ways as possible, but there are still many positive things going on for women in business, and smart business decision-making will continue to increase those positives.  Good networking, business education, and smart money moves like payroll outsourcing can mean a huge step that direction.

Employee Productivity

There's no doubt that doing payroll is a hassle. For business owners who choose to handle their payroll in house, they take on this hassle themselves. This is far from ideal because this hassle reduces workforce productivity. Just imagine how long doing all of the payroll activities (ie. paychecks, taxes) takes any employee; now imagine what they could be doing instead. It's important to factor in the big picture when running a business, and in such, business owners need to recognize that the cost of outsourcing payroll may be far less than the cost of the tasks that won't get done because time is being unwisely spent.

Money and Savings

Outsourcing a company's payroll is a quick and simple way to save money. Larger corporations likely have the funding and necessity of having large payroll departments, but smaller businesses don't have, nor do they need, the luxury of doing this. The labor costs related to having an employee handle payroll can become overwhelming. In fact, the money saved by outsourcing payroll can even help a company grow. Every dollar saved is a dollar that can be reinvested into the company, and there's no doubt that this will help a business grow exponentially in the long run.

Accountability

Any business owner who does her own payroll has felt the fear of wondering what will happen if something is incorrect on their payroll or taxes. Fortunately, when payroll is outsourced, this accountability lies with the payroll company. It is their responsibility to handle and correct any mistake that they make. If for some reason they choose not to, they can be held liable in civil court and made to pay damages. This peace of mind can go a long way.

Compliance

Ensuring accurate compliance with payroll and tax laws isn't the only legal worry that a person having their payroll done in house will have to consider. The simple fact is that if a company has their own employees handle payroll, they will need to provide security measures. No matter how much a person trusts their employees, they can't chance that certain abuses may be occurring behind their backs.

Payroll companies make a living by providing payroll services, so they have security measures in place that are designed to keep shady practices from occurring. If something like this does occur however, as mentioned earlier, the payroll company is fully accountable and will handle the issue accordingly. This takes a huge hassle off of the hands of the business owners and frees her up to manage the big picture and tend to the myriad other things that need her attention.


If you can identify one change that is almost certain to positively affect your business's growth, there's no reason to avoid making that change. Outsourcing payroll may seem like an added expense, but in reality, it will end up saving money and lessening the items on the critical to-do list. There are enough glass ceilings over female business owners as it is, there's no need to create an extra one.

--


Having operated her small business for the past seven years, Akilah Richards knows first-hand the benefits of outsourcing.  She practices what she preaches by hiring outside help for various facets of her business, and will certainly add payroll experts to her list of priorities when she starts hiring employees.  Learn more about the benefits of outsourcing payroll from the payroll outsourcing specialists at NEBS PAYweb.ca.  

Photo Credit: http://www.flickr.com/photos/firechickenta99/3479600161/

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Fotolia_Marketing-Strategy-e1343894140646.jpg?width=590Image Courtesy of Fotolia

 

"Good plans shape good decisions. That's why good planning helps to make elusive dreams come true." Lester R. Bittel

Recently, I offered a marketing plan review as a door prize for a local business group. When I approached the winner to exchange information, she whispered that she didn’t have a written one; she had it stored in her head. She then asked it a marketing plan was even necessary.

 

Should Your Small Business Have A Marketing Plan?


Absolutely! In fact, as a small business consultant, I've encountered numerous clients who repeatedly make the same mistake… failing to have a plan ‘business or marketing’ in place.

In a recent survey, I asked 200 respondents, ‘of the many issues facing their businesses, what common road blocks hindered their business growth.’ An overwhelming 32% said ‘No Marketing Plan’ was a potential reason for lack of sales and growth.

 

Why Marketing Plan?


Well, a marketing plan is a road map that details a route you should take to successfully promote and expand your business. It is critical to the success of a business, in fact, to all businesses! If a small business wants to achieve its potential, a marketing plan must be implemented!

Marketing is more than just ordering business cards or creating a flyer, it’s how you communicate with your current and potential clients. It is important to get your name out in the business community and differentiate your products and services from that of your competitor. If you don’t market your products or services, how will people know that you are a serious business owner or worse, in business? With a marketing plan, you will have a game plan in place.

A marketing plan is an integral and valuable tool for determining success of your business and the overall direction that your product or service should be taking. It should:

  • Clarify the impact and results of past marketing decisions.
  • Elucidate the external market that a company is competing.
  • Include deadlines for meeting those targets.
  • Prepare a budget for all marketing activities.
  • Set objectives and provide path for future marketing efforts.
  • Require accountability and measures for all activities.

 

7 Key Components of a Marketing Plan


Market Research

Gather information about your target market to include competition, business and industry environment.

When researching, answer the following questions:

  1. Who are your customers?
  2. What do they want or need?
  3. What is important to them?
  4. Who are your competitors? What are their strengths and weaknesses?
  5. What is your businesses environment, locally, regionally, and nationally?
  6. Is your industry doing well?

 

Target Market

Potential customers who have issues that or problems which your products or services can fulfill. Generally, people in this segment possess common characteristics and a relatively high tendency to purchase a particular product or service. Included in a target market are demographic, geographic and psychographic characteristics.

 

Executive Summary

A brief summary which includes the main points of the plan; generally shared with people you approach with your plan, such as investors or lenders who may want to read a synthesized version to determine if they are interested in it before taking the time to read it in depth.

 

Situation Analysis

The evaluation of operations to determine the reasons for the gap between what was or is expected, and what has happened or will happen.

 

SWOT Analysis

A formal outline to identify and frame a company’s’ growth opportunities; SWOT is an acronym for an organization's internal Strengths and Weaknesses and external Opportunities and Threats.

 

Marketing Strategy

A process that allows a company's to concentrate its limited resources on the greatest opportunities to increase sales and achieve a sustainable competitive advantage.

 

Budget

Estimates tied to specific allocation of revenues. A budget is required to have a successful marketing plan.

  • Yearly marketing budget
  • Expected return after investment
  • Breakdown of expected expenditures


In conclusion, as you can see, a marketing plan serves as your road map. It is critical for the success of your business. If writing a marketing plan seems a little intimidating, click here for FREEtools to help you.


Sylvia Browder is a small business consultant, trainer and author. She is founder of National Association Women on the Rise, a virtual community for aspiring and established women entrepreneurs. For the past 6 years, she has worked as Project Director of the Women's Business Center; and served as an online volunteer SCORE counselor since 2004. For FREE weekly articles go to Sylvia Browder's Blog for Women Entrepreneurs, http://www.sylviabrowder.com.

 

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All Fresh Out of Excuses

You've heard it all already: What are your goals for 2012? Be sure to write down your plan and strategies for 2012... That is all fine and dandy. And actually activities you should be doing but the bottom line is if you don't know why you're doing them then you're not going to achieve anything in 2012. Sorry to be blunt but let's be real. If you haven't gotten past your excuses for why you haven't done anything in 2011, you're not going to do anything in 2012. Don't act like you don't know what I'm talking about. You know, those excuses you come up with when you're telling people why your business plans haven't moved past just a mere idea, for example:

1. " Oh yeah girl, I want to start a basket-weaving business but I am looking for business loans" (Don't have money)

This excuse MAY  apply if you're trying to open a mall or restaurant chain. But if you are starting a small business, that will mostly be web-based then this is NOT a good excuse. There are so many FREE sources out there that will get you up and running with a website, social networking sites, and ways to market, in no time. The most you would need (besides getting the basket weaving materials) would be $50-$200 MAX (And if you don't have $50 to spare, to start your business, then you absolutely need to start your business!). You would definitely need to buy a domain name ($15 more or less), and perhaps a website host (but not needed at first) and then design everything on your own. This is all something you can do if you free up an evening after work. So that excuse is...ALL FRESH OUT!

2. "I want to start a wood-carving business but girl, my boo would not support me!" (Family/spouse are not supportive)

This can be difficult to handle but you have to distinguish what type of support you're "not" getting. If you have family members telling you, "you will fail" and that "you are not capable of starting a business on your own", then unfortunately, you may need to excuse some people from your life. Or at least, not share with them what you're doing because that is negative energy.

On the other hand, you might have people who don't say those things but won't buy your products, attend business meetings with you, or want to hear all you go through. THAT'S OK! You're in business for yourself, so do it yourself. Once you're laughing to the bank, they'll want to hear all about what you did and you can decide how much information you want to share then. :) This is not being mean or discounting anyone's opinion, but the biggest part about starting a business is exuding your self-confidence. With confidence comes a responsibility of doing what you are motivated to do, REGARDLESS of what others say. You are going to have people talk about you, you are going to have some failures, but if you focus on your motivation and goals you WILL be prosperous. You cannot care about what others think or what they may say. Even if they think this is just another one of your "crazy" ideas or something you've never tried before. Step out on faith and do what you gotta do! So this excuse is...ALL FRESH OUT!

3. "I want to start a calligraphy writing business but I"m scared, girl!" (Being afraid)

Congratulations! At least you're admitting it now. :) Surprisingly, this is not a rare excuse to have. Starting a new business is a new venture. Anything new, can be scary at times. So it's completely understandable if you are afraid. Some people are afraid of what is needed to start a business, some people are afraid of the outcome of having a business, and some people are afraid of the success they can attain from a business. That is all apart of human nature which is why you must have faith and be motivated to accomplish more than the average person. You won't know what you're capable of until you try. Remember, "Do not be afraid... for the Lord will be your confidence and will keep your foot from being caught" Proverbs 3:25-26. Now this excuse is..ALL FRESH OUT!

4. "I want to start an iron sculpting business but I don't know where I'd begin!" (Don't know what to do/lack of education/unaware of competition)

This will require some work on your part. In order to know what to do, you will have to research, read, and talk to some people with experience. That is not hard to do if you focus on the goals you are trying to accomplish in your business. Get books about starting the type of business you're interested in and read it in sections. Don't start at the beginning if you don't need it. Go to the chapters that are relevant to you.

Luckily with starting your own business, you don't necessarily need an MBA to run one (although, more education never hurts), but you definitely need to read more about what you need and talk to people with some experience. If you don't know anyone with experience then Black Business Women Online and TheCEOmamma Network are great resources to reach out to knowledgeable women, that are willing to help.

Most importantly, you must be aware of your competition. Who else has successful iron sculpting, calligraphy, or basket-weaving businesses online? What types of specials are they offering? What type of newsletters or perks do they offer their customers on Facebook or Twitter? You must be aware of these companies so you know what to do and what not to do. You can't be like others, but by observing the competition you can get more ideas and perhaps build a successful competitive company. So this is excuse is...ALL FRESH OUT.

There are a lot of resources that will help you get rid of all these excuses. Stop going around talking about what you want to do and actually DO it! 2012 is the year. You've had these ideas for a while now is the time to do something with them. Be different from others around you that are stuck in the same "talk about it, but NOT about it" mentality. Make 2012 a year of checking goals OFF of your list as ACCOMPLISHED! You can do it, you just have to stay focused and motivated. Write down your goals for 2012 for your business and then institute a plan.

If you need help with manifesting your business ideas and dreams, this may help. The GPS Plan includes a business plan and schedule, domain name, website, getting you started, and more! This deal is ALMOST free. I want you to start 2012 out right! Contact me for more details at tamara@garrisonprosperitysolutions.com.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Tamara Garrison-Thomas

www.garrisonprosperitysolutions.com

www.busy925.com

www.peoplewhoprosper.com

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Introducing the RELaunch of the Garrison Prosperity Solutions Blogsite. Here you will find all the information you need to build and sustain a business, with NO NONSENSE, just business.

We also offer:
  • Success Coaching
  • Business Plan Writing Services
  • Website/Blog Creation
  • Network Marketing Business Services
  • and introducing, PeopleWhoProsper.Com (coming soon!)
Subscribe to the blog today to receive weekly advice on building a successful business. By subscribing to the blog, you will receive an exclusive copy of The Lazy Person's Ultimate Guide to Starting a Business: 5 steps to Starting and Marketing Your Business.

Use G.P.S. to guide you on your journey to prosperity. If you don't start now, then when? Let me help you.

www.garrisonprosperitysolutions.com

See you at the top!

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LinkedIn is a powerful social network for business growth. As recent as March 2011, LinkedIn reported more than 100 million registered users, spanning more than 200 countries and territories worldwide. Imagine the exposure using LinkedIn as a part of your strategic plan? If used properly, LinkedIn is a superb and very effective networking and marketing tool! Are you LinkedIn? If not, then why not? Here are 6 ways to incorporate LinkedIn as a part of your company’s marketing strategy:

Create Your Profile
We can all use new contacts to keep our business open. By joining LinkedIn and developing your profile is a great way to personally brand yourself as a leading industry expert. LinkedIn allows you to connect and continue to build relationships. Not only do you have access to your 1st connections, but you can gain exposure to a second and third tier of contacts. Even more, once you create a LinkedIn profile, you’ve established an identity on the website which is searchable. Here are a few tips to create a stellar presence:
  • Create your profile to match your target audience.
  • Highlight your expertise and the benefits of connecting with you.
  • Ask for recommendations from former employers, colleagues or clients
  • Make sure you convey a polished and professional image
  • Examine invitations to connect before accepting to ensure there’s a match with your profile
Gain Competitive Advantage
Do you know your competitive advantage? According to Wikipedia, competitive advantage is “strategic advantage one business entity has over its rival entities within its competitive industry.” If you are serious about business, you want to be at the forefront of any changes or trends in your industry. By establishing a presence on LinkedIn, gives you full access to resources, news, support and information.

In turn, you can continually create superior value for your customers and profits for your company.

Ask for Recommendations
If you are of good character and have built a successful professional reputation, then there is no reason not to ask your clients, colleagues, former employers or anyone familiar with you for a recommendation. With that being said, I suggest asking only people you know. Too many times I’ve been asked to give recommendations by people that I don’t know which is very awkward.

A client recently wrote “Sylvia is an excellent Life Coach and Advisor. She has given superb guidance and offered insight that has jump started my company's success. I will forever be thankful for her counsel in how it has helped my bottom line. Sylvia is reliable, trustworthy and offers out-of-the-box ideas and solutions. If you are in a slump and need genuine directions - contact Sylvia Browder!”

Create a Group
Make your online presence felt by creating a group specific to your industry to share common interest. This allows you to connect with like-minded professionals for networking, collaboration and lead generation. As a group creator, be sure to share your knowledge and expertise by answering discussion questions and posting relevant information. Here are a few tips to optimize your marketing efforts:
  • Add RSS feed of your blog to drive traffic back to your website.
  • Include links to your Facebook, Twitter and other social network sites.
  • Stay in contact with your members by sending a message on a regular basis.
  • Include keywords about your business in the description of your group.
In 2009, I created National Association of Women on the Rise, a professional group for women entrepreneurs which currently have over 251 active members.

Join a Group
An important thing to consider when researching groups is to only join those that are relevant to you. Once you are a member, lend your professional knowledge by interacting with other members, respond to posts; share tips and articles; get connected to potential customers and partners; or test a new idea to get the reaction of group members.

I am currently a member of 48 professional women and small business groups. I schedule an hour per week to interact with most of them. This has been beneficial as I’ve gained contacts, new clients and new members joining my LinkedIn group.

Recruit Employees
Need to hire an employee? There are many benefits to companies looking to fill job vacancies. They can post jobs, recruit and hire qualified candidates. In a recent statement by LinkedIn officials, “We combine job listings, candidate search, trusted referrals and the power of networks to give you results." This allows you to find qualified candidates easily by using search options.

In addition, you can read recommendations of potential candidates to determine their character. To optimize your experience in researching potential candidates:
  • Search for resumes. Some job seekers will post their resume and it gives employers an advantage of scoping out a candidate in advance.
  • Change your status to ‘hiring’ as this will alert candidates that you are currently hiring. This allows them to freely seek your company out.
In conclusion, by following these tips, will allow you to market, grow and connect with people that matters for the success of your business.

WANT TO USE THIS ARTICLE IN YOUR E-ZINE OR WEB SITE? You can, as long as you include this complete blurb with it: Sylvia Browder is founder of National Association Women on the Rise, a virtual community for aspiring and established women entrepreneurs. The association’s mission is to provide professional and personal resources while uplifting and empowering women entrepreneurs through collaboration, education, mentoring, spiritual and peer support, leadership and networking. She has served as an online volunteer SCORE counselor since 2004. For FREE weekly articles go to Sylvia Browder’s Blog for Women Entrepreneurs, www.sylviabrowder.com. She can be contacted at info@nawomenrise.com.
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I've been talking to some ambitious friends AGAIN! And this particular friend has an actual clothing line coming out. We were talking about how he would go about copyrighting his brand name and the logo and I realized that there might be more up-and-coming merchandisers/designers that don't know about this process. So, this week, I'm going to talk about how to copyright your logo, website, blog or business name. OR in using the actual term, TRADEMARK your "stuff". I used 'copyright' in the title because most people confuse the two. However, as I researched this subject I found out some interesting things...

 

Copyright is actually not the same as a trademark. According to the U.S. Copyright Office, a copyright provides protection for original works in the realms of music, poetry, movies, literature, etc. In fact, copyright exists as soon as the publication exists. It is just advised to register your publication with the U.S. Copyright Office for legal purposes. Some people also like to publish the copyright facts on their publications and make sure there is public record. Registration fees vary from $35 to $80. And it's more to renew, get copies or search copyright records. Believe it or not, people steal ideas so you want to make sure you're protected. And for a mere $35 at least, I'd say it's a good idea to make sure your writings are safe, LEGALLY.

 

Now to the good stuff. A trademark is what is used to protect patents, trademarks, and ideas. This is handled in the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). So a business name, logo or even business idea would fall under the trademark category. It is often confused with copyright but now you know the difference. The reason you would want to register for a trademark is to get legal use of a service mark (™,℠,®) for your word, phrase, symbol, or design.

 

The benefits of getting the service mark is to protect your name! Keep people from stealing your ideas. Just like with copyright, if you claim ownership, you can use the ™ and ℠ symbols on your business name or logo at any time. But owning the federal trademark registration obviously has it's benefits legally. Some of which include, being able to defend your logo in federal courts, being listed in the USPTO database, and the use of the ® symbol. YES! You MUST be registered with the USPTO to use that symbol on your logos, etc. You can't even use it if your application for registration is pending. So there are great benefits to registering your business name and logo.

Now, keep in mind, the USPTO has the right to deny your registration application. Especially if there's a similar logo. So, you need to research and make sure your business name and logo are UNIQUE and fit federal regulations. When filing an application for trademark registration (or to get a service mark) you must file one application per category(class) you the need the service mark for. FOR EXAMPLE, if you need a service mark for a t-shirt logo AND for the store marquee, you must submit two applications. Application fees vary from $275-$325, depending on the type of application you submit.

I know it sounds a bit complex and confusing but registering your business name and logo are so worth the protection. Especially if you're an owner that offers services/goods, merchandiser, designer, or inventor that's about to BLOW UP!  You can of course find out more and get an application at www.USPTO.gov.

For help on a business plan and development contact us today!

 

 

Tamara Garrison-Thomas

http://www.garrisonprosperitysolutions.com/

garrisonprosperitysolutions@gmail.com

http://www.businessadvice2011.blogspot.com/

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Online Promotion Plan

For the next few months this column will be dedicated to the newly published author. It will offer tips to help you promote your new book.

I can’t promise you a bestselling book, but I can promise you ways to get your name and book in front of readers.

As a new writer your time is very precious so you don’t want to wait to the last minute to try to come up with a promotion plan. I suggest you start planning six months before the release. This will give you a chance to do a little at a time and you won’t feel overwhelmed.

Take a moment to answer these questions and you will be on your way to creating your online promotion plan.

1. Is your book release or information about your book included in your email signature?

2. Do you own a site or blog?

3. Have you researched the sites/blogs that promote your genre?

4. Have you made of list of sites/blogs to introduce yourself to?

5. Have you written your introduction letter?

6. Have you sent out your letters to the sites/blogs?

7. Have you researched the online radio shows that promote your genre?

8. Have you created your list of online radio shows you want to be on?

9. Have you sent out your letters to the online radio shows?

10. Have you created at least five articles that focus on your books’ theme?

11. Have you researched forums that promote your genre?

12. Have you created your list of forums you want to be on?

13. Have you sent out letters to the forums?

14. Have you researched the online book clubs?

15. Have you created a list of online book clubs that promote your genre?

16. Have you sent out letters of intro?

17. Have you scheduled chats or skype chats?

18. Have you researched the online magazines that promote your genre?

19. Have you created a list of online magazines you want to be featured in?

20. Have you requested interviews from these magazines?

21. Have you researched their advertisement prices?

22. Have you created a budget for your online promotion?

23. Have you scheduled your online advertisement?

24. Have you decided if you would do a blog tour?

25. If yes, have you set up the blog tour?

Next month we will break down these questions to get you started on creating your plan.

Can’t wait to next month, contact me –sormag@yahoo.com I’m available for private online promotion coaching.

LaShaunda is the creator of SORMAG – Shades Of Romance Magazine. She has 11 years of experience on online promotion, most she learned from trial and error. She has taught workshops on online promotion and is available for private online promotion coaching.
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Well, hello! If you're just joining us, you'll see I've been writing blogs for a few months now( the one in 2010 was, "99 days to Win in 2010" ) and it's been a blast. It may come as a surprise to some, or confusion to others, but believe it! This is a part of the many hats that I wear. I LOVE helping others with business matters. My goal is to educate as many people as I can on all business details. Whether you own a Subway or a Network Marketing Coin Business, I can help! So click FOLLOW to the right and follow my blog for 2011, "Get Your Blessin' in 2011: Business Ideas & Advice" (www.businessadvice2011.blogspot.com).

 

So today's topic was touched on last year but I'm going there again. For a few weeks we will be focusing on building a proper and working business plan, website and/or blog, and marketing strategies. So let's start with the website(my book on building a business plan is coming out in February! Keep your eyes and ears open for it!). Anyhow, I was thinking about all the action I get from my site, and wanted to talk to you about how to build a successful website, for....(wait for it...) FREE! There are several resources for this and if you know anymore, follow my blog and comment below with your suggestions. But lets start with wix.com. I'm not too familiar with this site, but it allows a lot of video and flash player options. Tis really cool for a unique website, trying to reach a more chic crowd.

 

Another resource that I like is...Weebly.com! I found Weebly to be very easy to use. You don't even need a domain name they can give one to you and you're set. I have a hard time sitting for a long time trying to figure things out and with Weebly I didn't have any formulas to decode or vast instructions to read. Weebly has numerous templates you can use that will fit any business you are marketing. You can also monetize your site (that means MAKE MONEY!). Weebly has Google Adsense AND an affiliate program you can all use for....(here it is again)FREE!

 

For a very minimal monthly fee you can receive the following features: audio player, password protection, up to 10 websites, more MB space and MORE! I don't need those features CURRENTLY, but I look forward to upgrading my membership.

 

I highly suggest Weebly.com as a tool to create your website! It's fun, it's simple and it's....(drum roll please) FREE! Check it out! Talk to you soon!

Tamara

P.S. If you are not sure of what type of business you want to market or build a website for, check out my website or email me at tgarrison11@gmail.com. I can help you find a business you would be interested in starting (trust me, I have my ways)! If you have any questions about a domain name, or any of these resources, email me at tgarrison11@gmail.com. I'll be happy to answer your questions.

 

http://www.garrisonprosperitysolutions.com/

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READY       SET       GO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

 

The foot  race has begun for 2011. Are you prepared? Have you updated your business plan even if its just a bullet list of what your goals are for 2011.

All indications are that the new year will continue the major changes in the way people do business on and off line. Have you thought though what it will take to accomplish your goals? What are the major pieces and players you have to put in place? How will you subdivide these major pieces into doable tasks?

 

IN 2010  60 million people in the US accessed the web through mobile devices. Are your websites and blogs  mobile ready? The web has shortened our attention span many will not scroll around to view you site. THEY WILL JUST LEAVE. Which costs you money.

 

Think about what you have to do to prepare for 2011 and stay flexible.

 

Have a happy and Blessed New Year.

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Seven Pitfalls of Business Failure

Patricia Schaefer, Attard Communications, Inc., advises aspiring entrepreneurs that the latest statistics from the Small Business Administration (SBA) show that "two-thirds of new employer establishments survive at lease two years, and 44 percent survive at least four years." This is a far cry from the previous long-held belief that 50 percent of businesses fail in the first year and 95 percent fail within five years.Better success rates notwithstanding, a significant percentage of new businesses do fail. Expert opinions abound about what a business owner should and shouldn't do to keep a new business afloat in the perilous waters of the entrepreneurial sea. There are, however, key factors that -- if not avoided -- will be certain to weigh down a business and possibly sink it forevermore.1. You start your business for the wrong reasonsWould the sole reason you would be starting your own business be that you would want to make a lot of money? Do you think that if you had your own business that you'd have more time with your family? Or maybe that you wouldn't have to answer to anyone else? If so, you'd better think again.On the other hand, if you start your business for these reasons, you'll have a better chance at entrepreneurial success:You have a passion and love for what you'll be doing, and strongly believe -- based on educated study and investigation -- that your product or service would fulfill a real need in the marketplace.You are physically fit and possess the needed mental stamina to withstand potential challenges. Often overlooked, less-than-robust health has been responsible for more than a few bankruptcies.You have drive, determination, patience and a positive attitude. When others throw in the towel, you are more determined than ever.Failures don't defeat you. You learn from your mistakes, and use these lessons to succeed the next time around. Head, SBA economist, noted that studies of successful business owners showed they attributed much of their success to "building on earlier failures;" on using failures as a "learning process."You thrive on independence, and are skilled at taking charge when a creative or intelligent solution is needed. This is especially important when under strict time constraints.You like -- if not love -- your fellow man, and show this in your honesty, integrity, and interactions with others. You get along with and can deal with all different types of individuals.2. Poor ManagementMany a report on business failures cites poor management as the number one reason for failure. New business owners frequently lack relevant business and management expertise in areas such as finance, purchasing, selling, production, and hiring and managing employees. Unless they recognize what they don't do well, and seek help, business owners may soon face disaster. They must also be educated and alert to fraud, and put into place measures to avoid it.Neglect of a business can also be its downfall. Care must be taken to regularly study, organize, plan and control all activities of its operations. This includes the continuing study of market research and customer data, an area which may be more prone to disregard once a business has been established.A successful manager is also a good leader who creates a work climate that encourages productivity. He or she has a skill at hiring competent people, training them and is able to delegate. A good leader is also skilled at strategic thinking, able to make a vision a reality, and able to confront change, make transitions, and envision new possibilities for the future.3. Insufficient CapitalA common fatal mistake for many failed businesses is having insufficient operating funds. Business owners underestimate how much money is needed and they are forced to close before they even have had a fair chance to succeed. They also may have an unrealistic expectation of incoming revenues from sales.It is imperative to ascertain how much money your business will require; not only the costs of starting, but the costs of staying in business. It is important to take into consideration that many businesses take a year or two to get going. This means you will need enough funds to cover all costs until sales can eventually pay for these costs.4. Location, Location, LocationYour college professor was right -- location is critical to the success of your business. Whereas a good location may enable a struggling business to ultimately survive and thrive, a bad location could spell disaster to even the best-managed enterprise.Some factors to consider:Where your customers areTraffic, accessibility, parking and lightingLocation of competitorsCondition and safety of buildingLocal incentive programs for business start-ups in specific targeted areasThe history, community flavor and receptiveness to a new business at a prospective site5. Lack of PlanningAnyone who has ever been in charge of a successful major event knows that were it not for their careful, methodical, strategic planning -- and hard work -- success would not have followed. The same could be said of most business successes.It is critical for all businesses to have a business plan. Many small businesses fail because of fundamental shortcomings in their business planning. It must be realistic and based on accurate, current information and educated projections for the future.Components may include:Description of the business, vision, goals, and keys to successWork force needsPotential problems and solutionsFinancial: capital equipment and supply list, balance sheet, income statement and cash flow analysis, sales and expense forecastAnalysis of competitionMarketing, advertising and promotional activitiesBudgeting and managing company growthIn addition, most bankers request a business plan if you are seeking to secure addition capital for your company.6. OverexpansionA leading cause of business failure, overexpansion often happens when business owners confuse success with how fast they can expand their business. A focus on slow and steady growth is optimum. Many a bankruptcy has been caused by rapidly expanding companies.At the same time, you do not want to repress growth. Once you have an established solid customer base and a good cash flow, let your success help you set the right measured pace. Some indications that an expansion may be warranted include the inability to fill customer needs in a timely basis, and employees having difficulty keeping up with production demands.If expansion is warranted after careful review, research and analysis, identify what and who you need to add in order for your business to grow. Then with the right systems and people in place, you can focus on the growth of your business, not on doing everything in it yourself.7. No WebsiteSimply put, if you have a business today, you need a website. Period. At the very least, every business should have a professional looking and well-designed website that enables users to easily find out about their business and how to avail themselves of their products and services. Later, additional ways to generate revenue on the website can be added; i.e., selling ad space, drop-shipping products, or recommending affiliate products.Remember, if you don't have a website, you'll most likely be losing business to those that do. And make sure that website makes your business look good, not bad -- you want to increase revenues, not decrease them.When it comes to the success of any new business, you -- the business owner -- are ultimately the "secret" to your success.For many successful business owners, failure was never an option. Armed with drive, determination, and a positive mindset, these individuals view any setback as only an opportunity to learn and grow. Most self-made millionaires possess average intelligence.What sets them apart is their openness to new knowledge and their willingness to learn whatever it takes to succeed.There you have the pitfalls - what will set you apart in 2010?
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Got a great idea but you can't seem to get started? You need motivation!Motivate- The term motivate means 1.supply a motive to; be the motive of 2. stimulate the interest of American century DictionaryHow can you discover a motive to succeed? What can stimulate your interest to pursue your dream?When I think back on ways I got self motivated when I felt in a slump and just couldn't get started it boils down to one thing for me...Re-igniting my vision for life. As a singer/songwriter and keyboardist I get very pumped up watching other very successful individuals with the same talents. Suddenly my vision comes alive I start revisiting the passions of my youth in music, my dreams and my goals.Expose yourself to success articles, stories and people who are doing what you'd like to do.Maybe you're saying I don't know what I want to do, I have so many ideas. Everyone has a purpose for life, a reason for your being here. Do the following: Stop what you're doing : )Close your eyes and try to revisit a time in your childhood before you were conditioned by the thoughts of others and their desires for your life (about age 8 - 10) what were your dreams, what gave you great joy, fulfillment?Can you remember what you wanted to be when you grew up?What is it that you enjoy doing that if you weren't paid a dime you would still findyourself committed to it?Open your eyes : ) Write it down.What three things are hindering you from accomplishing your dream.Is it money? Develop a plan to increase your income. Eliminate the money vacuums. (i.e. eating out everyday? Going to the grocery store everyday instead of developing a menu to save time, gas and money?) or a Latte everyday?Is it your health? What are your eating habits? Have you been to the doctor lately for a physical and follow-up.Do you exercise daily. A little goes a long way, just start!Is it education? Don't limit yourself because of this, however, you can assess the education that is necessary to fulfill your dreams. Courses, seminars, Community College, online studyetc.Change your attitude toward life! The winner's creed is a very powerful statement about our thought life.Whatever you think about yourself, situation or life is what you become.See yourself successful. See that child who saw no impossibilities if you see it you can achieve it! I'm not saying to change everything over night or become super-positive before making a move. I am saying that you have to choose change, choose life and be determined to move forward. POWER-UP! It's not too late, everything you need is within you.How can you use one of the keys above to move you forward before you hit the pillow tonight?Write down your answer and use his as an area of focus this week.Update your progress at week's end.Thing Big. Dream Big. Play a bigger game!Secure your seat at my free Teleseminar series for savvy women, woman entrepreneurs andthose that aspire to be."Dreams alive! Purpose, Passion and Prosperity"Register hereHow to re-ignite your vision for life© Robin Tramble
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For immediate release: September 14, 2009Memphis, TennesseeDiscipleship International Event on October 3, 2009Join Discipleship International for the official launch of their faith-based personal, financial, and professional development ministry programs, under the leadership of finance expert Michael Anthony Farmer!This ministerial kickoff event will feature cuisine by Tony Johnson Catering and will give a sneak preview to attendees about the type of professional ministry provided ongoing.Location: 7285 Winchester Street, Suite 105, Memphis, TNMr. Farmer will also be a guest on September 28th, 2009 with Christie B. Taylor’s radio program. The show will air at 9PM/8PM Central Time on blogtalkradio.com/livinglifeListeners may call in to 347-327-9733 to listen in. To call in with questions and comments, audience members may press 1.For more information please visit http://d-intl.org discipleshipintl@aol.com or by calling 901-553-8901.Media inquiries:Sharen RooksThe Sharen Rooks AgencyOnline Inquiry Form: www.sharenrooksagency.com/ContactSharen.html

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FOUR SECRETS TO A SUCCESSFUL JOINT VENTURE

Four Secrets to a Successful Joint VentureEvery successful Joint Venture should include a Clear Objective, The Right Partner, A Great Plan, Good Management.1. Objective - Have a clear objective. You should know what you want to accomplish right from the beginning. The company that you partner with will want to know and see that you are clear about what you want to accomplish by partnering with them. Be aware that your joint venture partner may not have the same objective as you, which is fine as longs as they compliment each others.2. Choosing the right joint venture partner is very important. The right partner in your joint venture will create a win win situation for both parties or all parties involved. You need to take ample time to search out and find the right partner / company that has similar objectives to yours and one that is interested in going into a joint venture. Some businesses might want to joint venture, but don’t have the same objective as you and their objective do not compliment yours. This is not and will not be a good joint venture for you…Move on from this one if you should come across it. You want to find a company or business partner that have an interest in going into a joint venture and that have objectives that are similar to your or that at least compliment yours. If you come across this person, a joint venture could be considered. What both parties want should come into alignment with each other, so not to clash with one another later.3. Have a great plan for your venture. Work out how you are going to go about negotiating and Continue
Saundra WatsonJoint Venture Network for Women
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