Boost Your Web Sales With Streaming Audio

Boost Your Web Sales With Streaming Audio

by: Steve Nichols

What do you do with your intranet or internet site once you’ve added words and pictures? How about adding audio as well?

Audio is friendly, direct and ideally suited to getting complex messages across in a short space of time.

Itกs now getting easier to add audio to the net, thanks to increasing bandwidths and innovative new ways of compressing data.

The problem has been that CDquality audio has traditionally been the preserve of ISDN and ADSLequipped users. Basically, there has been too much data to fit down the pipe.

But, borrowing on the same techniques that are used to compress digital photographic images, it is now possible to compress sound to make it fit down a standard dialup 56KBps modem line.

The trick is to compress the audio in a way that doesn’t sound offensive to the ear, but can still pass along the line at about 3 kilobytes per second, given that a dialup modem downloads at about 4ish kilobytes per second.

The next trick is to use streaming technology that can start to play the audio while it is still downloading. As a long as it is downloads fast enough you don’t get annoying stops and starts. You should also end up with a กbufferก. In many cases, the whole audio file will have downloaded long before the user has finished listening to it.

The volume of online streaming audio grew by 118 per cent last year, according to market researchers USbased AccuStream iMedia Research and the top ten internet radio stations received an average of 137.5m tuning hours in the same period, up from 63m in 2003.

Typical audio formats are Real’s Radio Player (as chosen by the BBC), the ubiquitous MP3 (as featured on thousands of youngster’s personal hifis) and Macromedia Flash.

MP3SoundStream (http://www.mp3soundstream.com/cgibin/cppro/go.cgi?snichols1) uses Flash and works well as 98% of computers already have the Flash plugin and the rest can easily download it. Flash takes the MP3 file, combines it with an audio controller button and streams it for you off any server, which means lowcost and ease of use.

So once you have the technology in place, what can you record? The answer is anything. Adding audio to an intranet lets you record a weekly message from the CEO or a sales message. Or why not have a weekly news roundup?

The audio can either be recorded straight into your PC via a microphone and soundcard, or recorded on a Minidisc recorder and then digitised into the computer. Once there you can add music, voiceovers, cuts and fades with a program like Adobe Audition or Sony Soundforge. Music can be bought online for just a few pounds and you can even use free audio editing programmes, like Audacity.

What was once the preserve of the BBC and other highend radio studios is now available on a desktop computer near you but only if you have the skills to match.

FAQs (291 words)

Q. What is streaming audio?

A. It is audio delivered to your computer that can be listened to while it is still downloading.

Q. What’s the advantage over other audio formats?

A. You don’t get an annoying delay while the whole file downloads.

Q. What do listeners need to have on their computer?

A. A soundcard and speaker(s) or headphones, their normal browser software and a socalled plugin – a small piece of software that converts the data into sound.

Q. This all sounds expensive. Is it?

A. Not really. You can get free programs to record your sound, a computer microphone costs less than a tenner and there are free audio editing programs available on the net. You then need to convert the audio file to a streaming format, but there is an increasing amount of software available to do that too. You also need to think about a MiniDisc recorder as these have superseded cassette tape for most applications. Royaltyfree background and intro music is available on CD and via the web for a small fee.

I recommend MP3SoundStream (http://www.mp3soundstream.com/cgibin/cppro/go.cgi?snichols1). Its great, very easy to use and only costs $39.95. Another alternative is Sound Streamer at $34.95 (http://hop.clickbank.net/?snichols/soundstrmr).

Q. What is the quality like?

A. Judge for yourself visit http://www.infotechcomms.co.uk/info10.htm and listen to the demonstration programmes. The trick is to get the quality as high as you can, but still make it playable on an average modemequipped home computer. Once everyone has broadband it will be CDquality for all.

Q. How do I find out more?

A. There is a great ebook available called Audio C4 (http://hop.clickbank.net/?snichols/audioc4). It only costs $29.95 and is worth its weight in gold. There is a list of other useful links at http://www.infotechcomms.co.uk/info11.htm

ENDS

Publishing Guidelines:

You may freely reprint this article in a print or online magazine, ezine, or newsletter provided you leave the byline intact. Please don’t change the content.

About The Author

Steve Nichols is a freelance journalist who runs InfoTech Communications (www.infotechcomms.co.uk). A background in radio means that Steve was ideally placed to take advantage of the arrival of streaming audio via the web.

[email protected]

This article was posted on December 17, 2004

by Steve Nichols

The Financial Power of Gay Weddings – Q & A

The Financial Power of Gay Weddings – Q & A

by: Marianne Puechl

The Financial Power of Gay Weddings – Q & A

Q. Why should people consider gay unions financially profitable?

A. Gay weddings may not be legal just yet, but commitment ceremonies occur regularly throughout the United States. According to statistics from Girlfriends magazine 31% of couples do intend to settle down into a committed relationship. Lesbians and gays who choose to formalize their relationship spend an average of $15,000 on a wedding.

Q. What sorts of goods and services will gay couples purchase for their weddings?

A. Gay and lesbian partners who register with Rainbow Wedding Network, the first wedding gift registry specifically for the gay and lesbian community, purchase the same goods and services as heterosexual couples. Overall their commitment ceremonies very closely resemble heterosexual weddings and include, for example: invitations, jewelry (often custom), florists, wedding coordinators and planners, photographers, limousine services, reception halls, and wedding cakes. When it comes to entertainment, couples may opt for musicians, disc jockeys or something a little more unique; yet it is true that gay and lesbian couples want all of the same amenities and services. They spend a comparable amount of money to straight people and, like any proud couple, want their union to be a remembered ‘event.’

Q. What attracts gay couples to a business when they look for goods and services for their weddings?

A. Most gay and lesbian couples want to work with businesses that will truly participate with them in the joy of the moment respectfully. This includes the process as well as the ceremony; for instance assisting with picking out just the right engagement ring with the professionalism and enthusiasm that such an occasion warrants. Gays and lesbians often look for businesses advertised in gay publications or that openly support the gay community. If a business owner wishes to work in gay weddings, it is important to establish an advertising presence in local gay publications, to participate in gayoriented events or to provide services at charities affiliated with the gay community. At the very least, displaying a rainbow flag on a website, marketing materials, or the actual place of business is an easy indication of a gayfriendly attitude and mentality.

Q. Are there other special needs or concerns for gay and lesbians who are being married?

A. Gay couples look for a comfort zone when utilizing the services of a vendor. They also may want to employ some creativity in their approach. For example, a lesbian woman may want to purchase a wedding gown or she may prefer a tuxedo. At RainbowWeddingNetwork, advertisers are screened, and conversed with personally before signing on. Advertising contracts stipulate that discrimination based on sexual orientation will not be tolerated. If a representative of a company does discriminate against a gay couple, the Network immediately has the right to discontinue advertising.

Q. How lucrative is the gay honeymooning market?

A. Many people in the gay community like to pamper themselves, show off, and enjoy life. The spending trend which began with the ceremony continues with the honeymoon. Travel statistics show the American gay and lesbian community represents $47.3 million, or about 10% of the travel industry. Eightynine percent hold a valid passport, and 54% budget $3,000 + on a vacation. Not only does the community travel, it travels well and purchases a variety of services while vacationing, to broaden their holiday experience.

Q. What considerations do gay honeymooners have when they select travel services and destinations?

A. Often gay and lesbian honeymooners will do business with a travel agent or travel services that work with openly gay couples, simply to insure that they can travel comfortably; not only enjoy themselves but moreover feel recognized as a couple having the full honeymoon experience.

Q. Is there other special advice to businesses that want to work with gay and lesbian couples?

A. It is most important to remember that gay weddings are not much different from heterosexual unions. These are two people in love who want to pay for respectful service. Treat gay unions as any other, and make certain there is good communication. Dialogue with your gay clients, as you would with any others. This leads to common ground, and the ability to provide the most ideal services for the particular couple with whom you are doing business!

About The Author

Marianne Puechl is coowner of www.RainbowWeddingNetwork.com, the first exclusive gay and lesbian wedding registry online. The site includes a directory of over 4,000 screened, gayfriendly businesses nationwide and in Canada. RWN was launched in 2000, and the first GLBT Wedding Expo will occur in Boston, Massachusetts on May 2, 2004.

[email protected]

This article was posted on February 26, 2004

by Marianne Puechl

Cกmon Rich, Tell Me What To Do…

Cกmon Rich, Tell Me What To Do…

by: Richard Grady

I get hundreds of emails per week and as you might expect, many of the emails contain similar questions. There are probably ten questions that I get asked most. I will save nine of them for another time as I want to talk about just one of the top ten questions today.

The basic form of the question varies but essentially it is the same and here it is:

กI have read everything I can about marketing online.

I understand how to get traffic to my website.

I know how to make my website appealing to customers.

I know about generating income with กbackendก products.

I understand everything you have taught me over the past X years….

BUT WHAT DO I ACTUALLY DO?ก

Yup, the question is simply กWhat should my online business actually be what should I offer what do I do?ก

Of course, this is the $64,000 question and there is no easy answer. If I could pluck guaranteed business ideas out of the air every time someone asked for one, I would be a rich man. Unfortunately, I can’t and neither can anyone else. Even if someone did have a pool of surefire ideas, would they really be willing to share them with others for nothing?

However, I can try and help you come up with your own idea by making suggestions and eliminating some, almost certainly, bad ideas.

Firstly, do something that interests you and that you know about if you are not interested in your product and don’t have the first clue what you are talking about, I can guarantee that you will not be successful. For example, don’t try and sell products about making money on the Internet if you yourself are not making money on the Internet.

Secondly, don’t do something that is already being done by thousands of other people unless you can add a highly unique ‘twistก. For example, you will never make any money setting up a general online auction site there are already plenty of established sites with millions of registered members. Why would anyone want to use a brand new auction site with no members when they can sell on eBay?

Thirdly, (and I know I keep banging on about this but it is important), find a small market that is easy to target rather than a huge, general market. Small doesn’t have to mean กsmallก on the Internet. The money is in the niche markets trust me.

I know how hard it is to come up with an original idea but it isn’t impossible and plenty of people do it everyday. If you can’t come up with something yourself, spend time surfing the Net and กbrainstormingก with others in forums such as: http://www.traderonlineforum.com

Copyright 2004 Richard Grady

About The Author

Richard Grady has been helping people earn online since 1998. Find out more about Richard at: http://www.thetraderonline.com. Free wholesale search engines: UK http://www.wholesale118.co.uk and US http://www.thewholesaletrader.com.

This article was posted on November 01, 2004

by Richard Grady

Data Recovery 1on1

Data Recovery 1on1

by: Dan Fisher

For this weeks report we are talking with Greg Duffield of ACS Data Recovery http://www.acsdata.com

Q: Greg, since the late ก90กs there has been tremendous growth within the data recovery industry, why is that and what does it mean to the consumer?

A: Well, in the last 10 years the amount of data stored digitally has increased tremendously. With this trend towards simplification of file storage, the trend for losing this data has also increased.

Before computers you had to worry about your office burning down, or some other manmade or natural disaster that might have effected your paper files. Now with just about everything stored on computers, the fear is no different and the possibilities of catastrophic data loss occuring are actually greater.

The end result has been an influx of data recovery firms throughout the world assisting consumers with the recovery of their lost data. The benefit and the downfall to the consumer is having these companies openly competing for their business.

Q: The open competition is a downfall to the consumer as well?

A: Absolutely. For some companies, data recovery has become the latest กget rich quickก scheme. So they shop the market, see what the trends in the industry are and then offer subpar services at a substantially discounted rate. Many of these companies advertise complete data recovery for as little as $99 with no evaluation fees. Unfortunately for the consumer, this usually results in hidden service charges, and additional expense when the data is found กunrecoverableก. The sad part is, is that much of this data is actually recoverable, but the firm attempting the recovery just didn’t have the expertise to complete the task successfully.

Q: How do you see this effecting the data recovery industry as a whole?

A: I think the firms dedicated to providing their customers quality service will stand out no matter what. People like to make fun of used car dealers, well in that industry there are real sleaze balls and at the same time there are classA superior dealers that really do what is right. You see the same thing in every industry, and data recovery is no different.

Q: What should the consumer expect when they have lost their important data due to a hard drive crash or other calamity?

A: First of all, they will probably get a wide range of prices. On average I would say pricing for a standard IDE hard drive will probably run anywhere from $700 to $2,900. Thatกs a pretty big spread.

I would say stick with companies that do not charge an evaluation fee first and foremost. Many times an experienced data recovery technician can determine the type of hard drive failure within the first few seconds of starting the drive up. You know you’re either going to have to open the drive or your not. That element alone has a tremendous impact on the final price of the recovery and it can narrow the price band substantially.

When you send your drive in, don’t expect it to be completed overnight. We try to give our customers reasonable expectations, because thereกs nothing worse than making promises you can’t keep. We basically run our business by under promising and over delivering. We are up front with our customers and we know the boundaries of data recovery as far as what is and isn’t possible. As a consumer I would suggest you search until you find companies with a similar business philosophy. In other words, be wary of companies promising complete data recovery in less than 24hours. Depending on the amount of data needing to be recovered it can take that long just for the imaging.

Q: Where do you see data recovery going in the future?

A: I see consumers being supplied with more and more powerful tools to complete the easier recoveries on their own. However, there will always be a need for experienced data recovery firms simply because of the intricasies involved with invasive recoveries. These types of recoveries have to be performed in a class100 or better clean room.

Thanks for taking the time to be with us Greg, and best of luck to you in the future.

A: Thanks Dan, itกs been great.

About The Author

Dan Fisher is the owner of DataRecoveryReport.com a site dedicated to posting news, information, and white sheets regarding data recovery.

Greg Duffield is the founder of ACS Data Recovery http://www.acsdata.com ACS specializes in providing data recovery services to clients worldwide.

Copyright 20042005 DataRecoveryReport.com. This article may not be altered and can be distributed freely.

[email protected]

This article was posted on December 19, 2004

by Dan Fisher

Persistence, Patience, Dedication The Nick Marti

Persistence, Patience, Dedication The Nick Martin Interview

by: Ofa Morgan & Paul Penafiel

Name: Nicholas John Martin aka Nick Martin

Age: 24

Residence: Copenhagen, Denmark (Europe)

Business name: LifeStyleNetworker

Business address: http://www.LifeStyleNetworker.com

Business description: Free lead generation and list building system with inbuilt email capabilities.

Q) First of all, can you tell us how you got started in internet marketing and what sparked off Life Style Networker?

A) I first got started with Internet Marketing in May 2000 when I was using the internet to search for a job in the US. Iกve always wanted to visit America and try it out for size. One day I fell over an ad with the headline กEarn $50.000 in 90 daysก and thought hell yeah!

I knew absolutely nothing about the internet at that time. I had just got my first email address lol. So I pursued the idea of earning $50.000 in 90 days and all I had to do was buy 4 reports and resell them … The first report told me I had to bulk mail loads of email addresses, so I started searching for a way to do that.

I got enrolled into the Internet Marketing Warriors looking for a bulk emailer software. It was there I met my first sponsor Quentin Brown and thatกs when I learned that harvesting emails and bulk mailing was a no no in Internet Marketing.

From there I started my learning curve. I read everything I could get my hands on and started building my first website. I can’t quite remember how I learned about Surf4Hits programs, but it was at that moment I knew they were the key to my traffic problems!

At that time there were only a handful of them out there so I joined them all and started surfing like mad.

After some time I thought to myself that there had to be a clever way of advertising these Surf4Hits, so one could build a decent downline in them. And thatกs how I started thinking about LifeStyleNetworker.

Q) And how long did it take to take it from the idea stage to reality?

A) Well the first version was actually called TTAN (TheEliteTeamUp Advertising Network) and it took me a few days to get the first script I had working like I wanted it to.

From there it has been a steady development and lotกs of changes have been made to get the LSN we see today. I like to think of LSN as my little baby lol. Always tinkering with the site and coming up with new ideas for it.

Q) Give us an example of a specific challenge you encountered in the beginning stages of Life Style Networker. How did you overcome it?

A) My members have definitely helped me a lot! When I was running TTAN, I soon after learned of a site called MoneyLegs and started working that program. I could see that Doug (the owner) had a much more advanced software and I couldn’t keep up with such a competitor.

That was the time when I decided to let TTAN go and asked all my members at that time to join me in MoneyLegs.

The response to that really took me by surprise! So many people emailed me and wanted me to continue what I was doing. There were also some who wanted to take over the site. Thatกs when I realized how much people liked my idea.

So thanks to my founding members support, I decided to drop TTAN and go even bigger and started work on LifeStyleNetworker 🙂

Q) What are your day to day responsibilities?

A) Emails! I answer support emails and post in my support forum. I wish more members would use the forum, but I guess itกs much easier to email Nick 🙂

Q) What aspects of running your own business do you enjoy the most?

A) When I receive PayPal payment Notifications . We must admit thatกs a good feeling, but to be perfectly honest what I really enjoy is when I get ‘thank youก emails from my members.

Thatกs when I really feel like Iกm making a difference and helping others. Of course the money is great, but there is nothing like ‘thank youก emails 🙂

Q) And which do you enjoy the least?

A) Hmm, thatกs a good question. I really love running my own business, but there are always some emails that I just don’t get answered immediately. The days when I open my inbox and see a lot of unanswered emails, thatกs probably what I enjoy the least.

Q) Why do you favour using traffic exchanges as one of the main Life Style Networker promotional techniques?

A) Because they work! Simple as that 🙂 There is no one in the whole world that can show me a better way to generate free traffic to a webpage period!

Surf4Hits programs really work if you know how to work them and whatกs even better you get results immediately. Surf 100 sites and you will see your hit counter going up almost immediately.

Q) Where do you see Life Style Networker 5 years from now?

A) The whole idea of LifeStyleNetworker is showing ordinary people how to get started with building their lists of contacts for free. In 5 years time thatกs exactly what LSN will be doing.

I will keep my eyes and ears open for any new free traffic generators that come along and will incorporate them into LSN. I will never put a price tag on LSN and it will always be free to use for members.

Q) How do you handle stress? What do you do to unwind?

Hehe … stress whatกs that? I love to play golf and have been playing for 8 years now. Thatกs really my passion and my goal in life is to be able to play anywhere in the world I like.

When I feel like unwinding I go to the golf course or driving range and hit a load of balls 🙂

Q) What advice would you give to someone reading this whoกd like to start their own online business program?

A) I would say that if they feel strongly enough about it then just do it and see it as a vehicle for developing their skills. Don’t expect to be a pro or even act as one. Be professional but be personal.

I see too many program owners being all administrative and hiding behind admin emails. Don’t be afraid to show that you are a real person after all thatกs who we like working with the best.

Oh and a shameless plug here at the end, they might want to take a look at http://www.LimitedEditionPro.com for a cool software to help them 😉

Q) What personal qualities do you feel an internet marketer needs in order to succeed?

A) Three words: Persistence Patience Dedication!

Thatกs what it takes to conquer the world. Any of us who have these three qualities will see success no matter how we pursue it.

About The Author

Ofa Morgan is the owner of Blue Moon Offers, a site where you can win a prize for your complaints. Find out how by visiting: http://www.bluemoonoffers.com. Paul Penafiel is a กdie hardก Life Style Networker. To learn winning surf4hits strategies while building your list of contacts at the same time. please go to: http://tinyurl.com/hmky.

[email protected]

This article was posted on October 17, 2003

by Ofa Morgan & Paul Penafiel

4 Easy Steps to Better Online Customer Support

4 Easy Steps to Better Online Customer Support

by: Bina Omar

Customer support is very important when you’re running a business, whether your business is on or off the net. If your customer support is hopeless, youกll soon find your customers running away from you and worse, telling others to stay away too.

If you’re like many of us out there, the last thing you want to do is to spend the whole day replying to customer support emails. Here are 4 easy steps to help improve your customer support and at the same time reduce the time you spend replying to queries. The trick here is to help your customers help themselves before you help them.

Step 1: Start with a Knowledge base / FAQs

The first step to your support system is to set up a knowledge base or, if you have a quite straight forward product, a Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) section. This will save you a lot of time. Your customers will also be happier since they can find answers to their questions immediately. If you’re just starting out, it is still a good idea to set up a knowledge base/FAQs. Just sit down and think of all the possible questions that your customer would ask. Maybe not all. Start with a few and you can always add more to it as time goes by.

Step 2: Set up a Forum

A forum is a great addition to your customer support system. The forum should be the second place your customer would turn to for help. A lot of people associate a forum to discussions, moderating, a lot of work and a headache to maintain. This is only true if you use a forum as a discussion area.

Instead, you should use it as a customer support tool. Just create different forum categories for eg., pre sale questions, member questions, one category for each product. A forum is an excellent way to provide customer support because:

There is a search function for the customer to find related posts

You could easily set up a forum for free. Most good web hosts now has a one click forum installation function.

You don’t have to worry about your replies being caught by your customersก email filters

If you get a question youกve answered before, just give them a link to the answer in another post.

Usually, other forum members are willing to answer a question that theyกve managed to solve … for free.

Hiring extra help is as easy as adding a new moderator.

Step 3: Install a Ticket help desk

Not all queries can be handled via a knowledge base and a forum. Sometimes there is a need for your customers to send you private information such as usernames and passwords.

When a situation like this arises, you will need a way for your customers to send you the information without others being able to see it. One of the best ways to handle this is to set up an online ticket help desk.

A ticket help desk system will allow your customers to create a user account and log a ticket into your system. They can then send whatever information they need to send. You can even allow them to attach files. Most good help desks will also allow you to prepare prewritten responses for repetitive queries.

Again, a good web host would also have some kind of help desk script installation available at a click.

Step 4: Use a good email software

And finally, you have the good ole email. Which should be the last thing your customers resort to. After implementing the above three systems, you will find a remarkably reduced amount of emails you need to reply to. Customers are getting wiser. Most know that emails are seldom replied to. So, they would only resort to this as a last resort.

Don’t make a mistake of putting your email address on your web site. Use a form. With email filters rampant on the net, also remember to inform your customers that your email may be trapped by their email filter.

There you go. Just set these up and youกll find your customer support a lot easier to handle.

© 2004 Bina Omar

About The Author

Bina runs the WebSite Workshop that provides tools & training to help newbies build web sites. Subscribe to Binaกs ezine กWebBriefcase!ก & get your free course on กHow to Make Your Own Web Site in 7 Easy Stepsก mailto:[email protected]

This article was posted on September 08, 2004

by Bina Omar

The Workfromhome Fashion Primer

The Workfromhome Fashion Primer

by: David Leonhardt

Last week, I reported how writers, stayathome parents and online marketing geeks had chosen careers as hermits:

http://www.thehappyguy.com/hermit.html

Thousands of workfromhome hermits responded, confessing that they were wearing their pajamas while reading my column. Fortunately very few sent me photos. Here are some of the questions they asked:

Q: Is it acceptable to wear pajamas at high noon if Nobody sees me, or am I committing a fashion fauxpas.

A: It is totally acceptable to wear pajamas at high noon. You can even wear them at low noon. In fact, you can wear them all day long. The only exception is in England you must not wear pajamas at tea time. Pajamas and tea don’t mix. The combination can be lethal. (See the November 2002 report: กSpontaneous combustion among British workathome hermits.ก)

Q: How should I handle กcasual Fridaysก in my workplace?

A: I have replaced casual Fridays with กformal Thursdaysก. Every Thursday, I take my daughter to the play center, forcing me to shower, shave and don formal wear. Don’t go overboard, though. My threepiece suit includes jeans, tshirt and shoes.

Q: But what if I never go out?

A: Then stick to casual Fridays. Why not make Friday the day you wash your pajamas? All Nobody will see is the back of your chair, anyway.

Q: What if FedEx Guy comes to the door?

A: Tell FedEx Guy itกs casual Friday, and ask him if he really wants to see how workfromhome hermits celebrate casual Fridays.

Q: If I work from home, do I still need a purse?

A: Of course. Without a purse, what would you carry to the bathroom? Make sure your purse matches your pajamas, though. You would not want Nobody to catch you with a poorly coordinated wardrobe. Personally, I don’t have a purse, but thatกs just a guy thing.

Q: What about taking out the garbage?

A: When the odor starts to repel the postman, you might need to take out the garbage (just in case there is a rare check in the mail). Wear your pajamas to the curb, but I suggest replacing your slippers with shoes. Snowshoes are recommended in Edmonton…except in July and August. Don’t walk to the curb if you live on a houseboat.

Q: I feel so alone. Is that normal?

A: Get over it. You are part of a glorious economic movement, where people around the world choose to reject antiquated social norms and barricade themselves in their homes to make $53,976 in the first week of their new businesses. How could you feel lonely with so much money?

Q: Wow. I made only $3 in my first week. I bet my husband $3 that I could stay in my home office for three straight days without coming out. I won the bet, but I was forced to shower.

A: Thatกs not a question.

Q: OK, what if I make only $3 a week?

A: You might have to share your pajamas with Nobody…until you can afford a second pair.

Q: Is this really a growing trend?

A: Yes. The International Institute of Social Isolation reports that by 2055, 95% of people will be operating a home based business. The National Organization for Studying You (NOSY) reports that by 2055, 95% of people will be sharing their pajamas with Nobody…until they can afford a second pair.

Q: Wow. Thatกs a lot of pajamas. What does this mean for the future.

A: It means the pajama industry will become a major economic force.

Q: Do you know any good pajamabased mutual funds I could invest in to take advantage of this trend?

A: No, but how rich can you get investing $3 a week, anyway?

Thatกs it, everything you wanted to know about fashion etiquette for the workfromhome hermit. One more thing: if you provide feedback to this article on a casual Friday, please turn off your web cam.

About The Author

David Leonhardt writes the Happy Guy humor column:

http://www.thehappyguy.com/positivethinkingfreeezine.html

and A Daily Dose of Happiness:

http://www.thehappyguy.com/dailyhappinessfreeezine.html .

He also wrote Inspiration & Motivation To Go

http://www.thehappyguy.com/l/dailymotivationinspiration.php

and Climb Your Stairway to Heaven: the 9 habits of maximum happiness:

http://www.thehappyguy.com/happinessselfhelpbook.html

[email protected]

This article was posted on March 10, 2004

by David Leonhardt

Humanize the Sales Process

Humanize the Sales Process

by: Amy Fox

Q & A

Amy Fox, Accelerated Business Results

ขHumanize the Sales Experienceข

Q. Sometimes when I’m presenting to clients, I sense that the customer tunes out. Is there a better way to communicate with a customer or engage them?

A. Salespeople get caught up in the hype of their own product and lose touch with their client’s reality sometimes. You may be an expert in your field, but you have to assume the client is not. Most clients do not speak techese, so you have to couch the conversation in language that is familiar.

Q. In high tech sales situations, what are some ways of obtaining better results on sales calls?

A. Start by shifting the focus from you to your client. Instead of presenting information to a client on your first sales call, try asking the client what expectations they have for the meeting. You can build a list of desired results from their answer. Try using questions that put the client in the driver’s seat. For example, ขWhat would you like to learn more about?ข or ขHow can I help resolve these issues?ข

Q. Are clients actually put off by technical language?

A. It depends, because there are instances when it is appropriate. If you’re speaking to a technical person who expects you to inform them about these aspects, go ahead. In many cases, the decision maker is not technical, so speaking in terms the client does not understand wastes their time. Even worse, they feel uncomfortable. Do you know anyone who would buy under these circumstances? There is no easier way to lose a sale then alienating a client.

Q. What’s the best way to speak about a technical product to a nontechnical person?

A. Refrain from using acronyms and technical jargon. Some common words that are not generally understood are IPSEC, T1s, WIFI, Routers. Concentrate on the problem they need to fix or the result they want to achieve. If the client needs a technical description, they’ll ask for it. Otherwise, avoid using these words.

Q. What are some other key ways I can improve the sales experience for my clients?

A. You need to humanize the sales experience. Once you learn to communicate in ways that relate to and reach they client, you regain your most distinguishing feature – yourself. Shorten your presentations by focusing on the capabilities and solutions you can provide in the client’s unique business environment. Learn to listen closely, catch key phrases, and hone in on their needs, not your own sales agenda. Incorporate business terms that are meaningful to the client in your dialogue.

Q. Do you think the first meeting with a prospective client should be a factfinding interview?

A. That is one way of thinking about it. Keep in mind clients don’t consider your products and services just for the heck of it. They either have a problem they need to fix or a result that must be achieved. The salesperson’s job is to use questions to uncover their business challenges and concerns. The goal in the first meeting is to set the foundation to build a relationship.

Q. When I’m presenting my high tech solution, how do I position it to come across persuasively so that the customer wants to purchase it?

A. Don’t simply explain what your product does and how it works. Present the value it brings to their business. For example, most salespeople would sell a highspeed internet connection that claims to be x times faster, rather than selling a solution that allows the client to process orders at a higher rate resulting in increased revenues. Demonstrate the benefits by linking back to how it will solve problems and achieve results.

About The Author

Amy Fox has designed and delivered sales training for Fortune 500 telecommunications and technology firms for companies such as Global Crossing Telecommunications, Cincinnati Bell, and Trivantis. Ms. Fox has taught M.B. A. courses at Xavier University on creating a coaching culture. Amy Fox founded Accelerated Business Results in 2003.

[email protected]

This article was posted on December 12, 2003

by Amy Fox

Paul Penafiel Tells It Like It Is

Paul Penafiel Tells It Like It Is

by: Ofa Morgan

Name : Paul Penafiel

Age : 37

Residence: Vancouver, B.C. Canada

Q) When did you first start out online?

A) It all started in 2000.

Q) Whatกs the main focus, programwise of your promotional activities?

A) Right now, Iกm focussing on building my list through the Life Style Networker leads generating program.

Q) How did you find out about this program and why have you chosen to promote it?

A) I found out about this program while surfing through various surf4hits programs. I just fell in love with this program because it makes sense.

I got sick and tired of being scammed and lied to for so long, that I couldn’t take it anymore, so Iกve decided to start my own optin list to share my experience with other people and so far, itกs very rewarding.

Q) What challenges do you face as an internet marketer?

A) Staying focus is and will always be a challenge as we are bombarded with overhyped ads, new programs popping up every single day plus can’t find the time to promote due to full time work.

My main challenges I face as an internet marketer are motivating, training, educating, convincing people to stay active in your organization.

Other things such as finding quality prospects and leads is also a challenge for me as there are less and less venues to find good places to advertise.

Q) Have you found ways of overcoming these obstacles and if so, what are they?

A) Not really, but I have learned to diversify areas where to advertise, you have to be literally everywhere. Tools such as autoresponders help but I prefer the person to person approach as I get better results.

Q) What advice would you give to someone whoกs just starting out online?

A) Find a good leader to look up to, ask a lot of questions, grab as any tools and resources as possible to educate yourself about everything, from learning basic html to how to write killer ad copy and how to promote online.

But the most important advice I can give to a newbie is start an optin list, period.

Q) Have you found any marketing techniques that really work for you?

A) Yes! For the first time in my internet marketing life, my article got published, horraayy! It felt so good, my first taste of success is sooo sweet.

From that article I received several leads and signups to my LSN page.

The other technique I use in surf4hits programs is I promote to 10 sites, find which ones get the most unique hits in a given week, then buy hits from the program that stands out.

When your credits run out, you do the process all over again as traffic from surf4hits programs fluctuates.

Q) Where can people find you if they want to know more about your business?

A) They can always email me at [email protected] or call me personally on my cell at 6047838725. Iกm also active at various forums especially on Adtactics and LSN.

Q) Internet marketing can be pretty stressful at times, how do you unwind?

A) I play golf at local golf courses or go to my local driving range and just beat the heck on the golf balls and sometimes I play golf in my backyard until my neighbour complains.

Q) Lastly, have you heard any good jokes lately?

A) Woman Says, Man Hears

What a woman says:

This place is a mess! Cกmon, you and I need to clean up. Your stuff is lying on the floor and youกll have no clothes to wear if we don’t do laundry right now!

What a man hears: Blah, blah, blah, blah, CกMON, blah, blah, YOU AND I, blah, blah, blah, blah, ON THE FLOOR, blah, blah, blah, blah, NO CLOTHES, blah, blah, blah, blah, RIGHT NOW.

About The Author

Ofa Morgan is the owner of Blue Moon Offers, a site where you can get free content and product reviews, submit your articles and win a prize for your rantกnกrave. To find out how, visit: http://www.bluemoonoffers.com

[email protected]

This article was posted on September 09, 2003

by Ofa Morgan

Looking for Help Writing Google Adwords?

Looking for Help Writing Google Adwords?

by: Scott Foreman

With the holidays in ขfull swing,ข shopping is frenzied and buying is at the high point for the year. With even the most rudimentary business knowledge, you know that fourth quarter of the year is always the strong quarter for retailers. People are buying like crazy and each year, the economy picks up a little more steam and people have a little more disposable income.

As Pay Per Click (PPC) advertisers, we know that we must take advantage of this season. This can be a gold mine of opportunity. Whatever product you may be promoting, people are generally more likely to buy. There are exceptions, of course, but we need to be taking advantage of shoppers’ willingness to purchase items they may not normally purchase.

When writing advertisements for PPC services, there is one technique that tends to get attention. After all, attention is really what we’re after. It’s the merchants’ job to write effective sales copy. It’s the merchants’ job to sell the product. With PPC advertising, our only job is to get the click. That’s it.

So what’s the technique for getting people’s attention? You’ve already seen and fallen ขvictimข to it. Ask questions. You may be reading this because you recognize my name and like my past articles, but more than likely, you were caught by the title. When writing short ads whose sole intent is to get clicks, ask questions that searchers want answered.

If a searcher goes to a search engine and types in ขshoes,ข what ad title would get more attention: ‘Shoes’ or ‘Looking for Shoes?’ Both titles have the requisite keyword there, but one states a fact (rather blandly) and the other answers a question. When it all comes down to it, isn’t that what many searchers want, questions answered? How about this example: ‘Tie a Bowtie’ or ‘How Do I Tie A Bowtie?’ I think you can see the question seems to address the searcher’s concern more thoroughly than the statement.

The next PPC campaign you start, try asking a question in your ad title. If you can also make sure that the product answers that question, you’ve got a powerful combination of eyecatching ad and problem solving product.

Remember, be good to yourself and never underestimate the power associated with the intensity of your passion.

Wishing you Success,

Scott Foreman

[email protected]

Copyright 2004 Foreman Enterprises

We will pay you TWO WAYS to run this article!

First, we will pay you up to $25 for every person who visits our site and purchases a product as a result of you running or posting this article.

PLUS, once you confirm we will give you a FREE DISPLAY AD in our Internet Success Newsletter (thatกs how much we appreciate it)!

Make sure that you get your affiliate ID at: http://www.buildpassiveincome.com/affiliate

This article may be reprinted for use in newsletters and websites provided that the information box is kept intact. Email notice of intent to publish is appreciated but not required: [email protected]

About The Author

Wayne and Scott Foreman are coowners of www.buildpassiveincome.com

This Secret Book Made Terry Dean Rich! You Can Get it Free IF you click below now (you won’t believe the simple techniques it reveals that ANYONE can use)

http://www.BuildPassiveIncome.com/secret

[email protected]

This article was posted on December 20, 2004

by Scott Foreman

Internet is my true agent

Internet is my true agent

by: Dessislava Oundjian

You know the type that doodling type. Every time there is a pen and paper on the table, they will be sketching something down, with a mysterious smile, giggling quietly and making funny faces. Vlad Kolarov is no exception however, he has built a carrier out of his funny habit. If you are no Internet stranger, probably you have already seen his work. It might be a Yahoo ecard, or a funny cartoon on some web site, a greeting card or even his online portfolio (http://www.vladkolarov.com). Vlad has been around for some time.

Q> Why did you decide to become a cartoonist?

R> I don’t think I ever had a choice. Obviously I was born with the cartoon gene Iกve always loved to doodle and create my own little world on paper. As a kid at school I noticed that my cartoons made people laugh and brought me some respect. Thatกs a nice feeling. So to get paid to do it is the best. In spite of my law education (which I actually have never used), I decided to follow my stars and become a fulltime cartoonist/illustrator. It turned out to be a very tough job but I also love the fact that I make my own hours and work at home. And itกs great having a job that deals with humor.

Q> So how did it all start?

R> It all started in 1989 (my God! That makes me almost as old as the Triceratops). It was a very exciting time. After some time freelancing, I landed a job as a cartoonist for the biggest Bulgarian daily newspaper ก24 hoursก. Several years later I decided to expand my horizon and moved to Vancouver, BC with my family. I’ve been living and working there ever since I love the place!!!

Q> Vlad, how do you find new markets? Do you make any กcold callsก or do you wait for the clients to call you?

R> Finding new markets is the key to being a successful freelancer. As an artist working at home you should be always looking for new clients. I contact magazines, websites, greeting card companies, etc… Also, they contact me. I find having a web site portfolio very useful (check it out http://www.vladkolarov.com). A freelancer MUST promote himself in every way possible. If one simply waits for clients to come to him, theyกll never make it.

Q> Share a marketing secret with our readers.

R> Always be creative! For example my latest idea is to use the power of the Internet and turn my fans into my agents. Anyone who recommends me and brings in a new client will receive 15% commission of what I get. So if you want to make some extra money spread my name around:)

Q> You have such a wonderful drawing style! Do you have any art training?

R> No. I’ve had some art classes, but I was not very good so gave up and started drawing what I like instead. I noticed that my style changed a lot during the years, and eventually it is what you see now. I am a fan of the simple forms, so that is what I am after. Less is more (except in the bedroom):)

Q> What is the schedule of a man กworking @ homeก?

R> My day starts at around 8AM. I start with answering my mail, then drawing cartoons and promoting my work. The nice thing is that each day is a new challenge with a different project and a different client, so I never get bored. This usually goes till 8PM six days a week. Freelancers must work as many hours as possible.

Q> What is the business side of cartooning?

R> Tough…Professional cartooning IS a business. I am the president of Cardsup Greetings Ltd., which is a fullservice multimedia company. We (it is a company, remember?) specialize in humor, but we do almost everything web design, interactive animation, web hosting, logo design, etc. We also provide humor content to web sites right now we have packages of daily cartoons and ecards that work great for marketing web sites.

Q> What is the best thing for you as a cartoonist?

R> Being my own boss. Being able to work from home. Having my wife and kids around me. Cartooning can be quite rewarding:)

Q> Where does your inspiration come from?

R> I am often asked that question…The truth is that after all these years my inspiration comes from the bills I have to pay…Deadline a inspirational too. This is a creative business, and as such, you need some reality biting you from behind.

Q> Is there a secret for being successful?

R> There are no secrets. Being successful comes with a lot of work. You won’t be successful if you sit all day in from of the television set. You must promote yourself and produce new material each and every day.

Q> Do you work with any agencies? Do you think they help the artists?

R> No. I’ve had my share of rejection slips. Agencies are business representatives. In some cases they can help having someone out there promoting your work is nice. But they are not a guarantee for success and if you can do the work you don’t actually need them. That’s why I LOVE the Internet that is my true agent! And remember, if you recommend me you’ll get paid!

Q> Tell us a bit about the selling process. Do you have set rates for your work and do you give discounts?

R> I do have set rates, rates that I usually charge but I am very flexible. Each client has a different budget and a different need. There are a lot of factors that go into determining how much a cartoon costs, and there is always that negotiating process. No client is too small or too big for me. I never turn away clients.

Q> Vlad what’s up with the name?

R> Contrary to the wide spread rumor, I am not related to Dracula. I was, however, born in a small town on the river Danube relatively close to Transylvania. That could explain my taste for dark humor.

Q> Do you ever laugh at your cartoons?

R> Guilty, your honor! That has happened from time to time. But what I prefer is seeing the others laugh at them that is my biggest reward!

Q> How do people react when you tell them you are a cartoonist?

R> Most of them do not understand what that is…May be it’s my accent, or may be it’s such an exotic profession. How many cartoonists do you know?

About The Author

Dessislava Oundjian is the marketing Guru behind http://www.etoon.com one of the largest searchable cartoon databases in the world. Find Tshirts and other custom apparel, get information about licensing our cartoons or send ecards.

This article was posted on April 07, 2004

by Dessislava Oundjian

Google Rank Cake

Google Rank Cake

by: Tia Scott

Google Rank Cake

6 cups thick content mix

1 jar word of mouth, whipped

2 tablespoons meta tags

1 cup creativity

In a bowl, stir content mix with 1 cup creativity. Stir. If hard, let sit overnight

Stir in meta tags.

Heat server to 100 degrees. In a 1024×768 pan or two 800×600 pans, pour mix. Beat in meta tags.

Let bake for one year.

While baking, prepare word of mouth.

Pagerank and Linkback will start to form on cake. Spread with a spoon of new content batter every 13 weeks.

Bake until done.

FAQS/Comments

Q. Should I buy content batter from the box or attempt to make it myself?

A. Content batter usually tastes best homemade. Although some people might want to get it over with and buy the mix from a box, it’s all according to your taste. I, personally, believe homemade is more rich and adds your own personal touch.

Q. What if I’m out of creativity?

A. There are many, many people making these cakes and I’m sure they won’t mind if you took a taste for inspiration. Sometimes the batter just needs a little beating. On the other hand, there are many people willing to give you free content batter in exchange for credit.

Q. I have baked for a year and pagerank nor linkback will grow!

A. Is the server set to the right temperature? Did you check it frequently? Several factors can contribute to lack of pagerank and linkback growth. Make sure you didn’t do anything to make your cake stale.

Q. What brand of meta tags do you recommend?

A. Honestly, it doesn’t matter. The generic ones are just as good as the expensive ones. So I wouldn’t worry too much about spending tons of money on them. Actually, the best way is to make them yourself. Get creative. Mix meta tags and jot down relevant words that go with your content mix. Slice and dice, mix and match. It also helps to use a mix of creativity and scripting.

Q. I heard word of mouth was hard to come by. So how am I supposed to get 1 jar!

A. Easy. Give ‘em something to talk about. You’ll have the whole jar in no time.

Q. I do not have the patience to wait a whole year for Google Rank Cake! I have money and I will buy the biggest one there is!

A. Good luck and see you at the unemployment line. Google Rank Cake cannot be bought. Ever! While it’s true you can purchase the sprinkles which appears next to the Google Rank Cake, however you can never purchase the cake itself.

Q. Is it okay to let my Google Rank Cake bake longer than a year?

A. Yes. In fact, the more you let it bake, the richer it will get. Just as long as you remember to spoon on fresh content batter every so often to prevent dryness.

Q. My friend’s cake is the biggest I’ve seen and mine is the second biggest. But I’ve used more content batter and meta tags than him!

A. Boy, I remember the day when having a cake that was one layer too small was something to truly fuse about. You’ll have your day too, just remember to keep adding content batter and creativity.

I’d love to hear how your Google Cake Rank turned out! And remember, it’s not the size of the server that matters, but the person behind it!

About The Author

กIgnore what other people think you like and listen to your heart, it’s your passions in life no one can rightfully criticize.ก

Tia is CEO of Client Centers, LLC, an internet and graphic service business based in Florida since 2000.

She also owns and maintains NerdByte.com

Tia Scott

CEO

Client Centers, LLC

www.clientcenters.com

http://business.clientcentersnetwork.com

http://www.nerdbyte.com

[email protected]

This article was posted on January 27

by Tia Scott