Although I've been slacking in the blogging department due to life changes, I've been blogging for awhile now and still love it...in the big picture though, I'm not able to afford a flight to the moon as of yet! But, my end goal of financial freedom with online earnings is still believable and achievable which are two keys to success (in my opinion).
Here's a quick update for those online income earners, like bloggers, webmasters and the like...Social Spark is a great way to earn extra income but most importantly they pay instantly, upon request! Yes, there is a payout thresh hold but in no time, you'll reach that mark and be able to accept your first payout...which in the end is really important, don'tcha think lol?!
There is no referral link for them or of course I'd put it here to me along with my earnings so consider this advice another freebie from me to you, cheers!!
November 16, 2010
September 21, 2010
Would you become a walking Billboard? - Tattoo Advertising
Sporting a tattoo in the 'not so new millenium' isn't really unique anymore but, having a solid, block lettered billboard tattoo across your forehead sure is! ...seems like a huge price to pay for cold, hard cash...doesn't it?
The lady below known as Kari Smith, sold her precious skin space as ad space for $10,000 dollars to the Golden Palace. They achieved strides with a Guerilla Marketing technique that still brings them advertising bang for their buck. While she earns some money to better her sons education, a win win! Although, she's now committed to being a walking, talking, living, breathing advertisment for life!!
The lady below known as Kari Smith, sold her precious skin space as ad space for $10,000 dollars to the Golden Palace. They achieved strides with a Guerilla Marketing technique that still brings them advertising bang for their buck. While she earns some money to better her sons education, a win win! Although, she's now committed to being a walking, talking, living, breathing advertisment for life!!
Or the guy shown below, who either forgot his spectacles or received some extra dough ;) ...'cause he's now the proud owner of a Hello Kitty tattoo upon his charming, mystical? forehead. I wonder if he thought it was a skull, lol?
Would you tattoo a web address, logo, symbol or brand name on your body? And if so, for how much?
Learn more about Guerrilla Marketing here (a previous post) or view some other tattoo blunders n' wonders over on my What wrinkles? blog.
Give yourself a Boost with Boost Mobile! - Review your Mobility options...
This is a Sponsored Post written by me on behalf of Boost Mobile. All opinions are 100% mine.
So, I'm out on a mid-week drive on isolated back roads between town A and town B and you guessed it, no cell phone reception! When I and my phone finally locate service, it was subject to long distance fees and roaming charges...hmmm, great service? I think not, which is why I'm intrigued by the flexibility of Boost Mobile.
Boost Mobile offers no roaming charges and no local calling area with a fully functional, unlimited, flat rate service plan and no contract! Perfect for chronic 24/7 users, those social media butterflies, that text, email and blurp updates incessantly on Twitter and Facebook...imagine unlimited connectivity... ;) If I wasn't locked in, I confess, I'd be all over Boost!
Unlimited features seem to be the name of the game with Boost Mobile too, and that even includes their Blackberry Curve Smart Phones and the new Motorola i1 phone with touch screen (powered by Android) that has a national Walkie-Talkie feature and video camera capabilities. Plus you can shop Boost Mobile online or in-store. They offer an array of accessories and customizable options and extras from headsets to chargers, ringtones, games and apps that enable you to travel, get the latest news and even flirt with your latest cutest...
...and you can simply Re-Boost with a worry free, automatic payment plan that enables you to pay securely with a debit or credit card online, on the phone or in person...and activate as easy as 1-2-3!!
So, I'm out on a mid-week drive on isolated back roads between town A and town B and you guessed it, no cell phone reception! When I and my phone finally locate service, it was subject to long distance fees and roaming charges...hmmm, great service? I think not, which is why I'm intrigued by the flexibility of Boost Mobile.
Boost Mobile offers no roaming charges and no local calling area with a fully functional, unlimited, flat rate service plan and no contract! Perfect for chronic 24/7 users, those social media butterflies, that text, email and blurp updates incessantly on Twitter and Facebook...imagine unlimited connectivity... ;) If I wasn't locked in, I confess, I'd be all over Boost!
Unlimited features seem to be the name of the game with Boost Mobile too, and that even includes their Blackberry Curve Smart Phones and the new Motorola i1 phone with touch screen (powered by Android) that has a national Walkie-Talkie feature and video camera capabilities. Plus you can shop Boost Mobile online or in-store. They offer an array of accessories and customizable options and extras from headsets to chargers, ringtones, games and apps that enable you to travel, get the latest news and even flirt with your latest cutest...
...and you can simply Re-Boost with a worry free, automatic payment plan that enables you to pay securely with a debit or credit card online, on the phone or in person...and activate as easy as 1-2-3!!
September 2, 2010
Humour in Advertising - Ally Bank's marketing tactics make me laugh!
Here's another marketing campaign that has me giggling from Ally Bank, formally GMAC. This financial institution uses humour, honesty and children to 'attract' customers to their financial resources. Some say (based on YouTube comments) that it exploits or encourages verbal taunting or teasing but, I don't see it that way. I see them using a humouristic yet realistic twist that actually makes me laugh!?!...Is that wrong?
Check out the three videos posted below and you'll see what I mean (or not ;) These Ally commercials show how we, as consumers, get ripped off by companies because we don't pay attention, we're not asking the right questions and are simply put, arrogant! Ally's ads reassures us with humour that they would never do such a thing to their clients and the kids that Ally Bank's marketing department have chosen (as actors and actresses) are simply priceless. So, while there is humour the morale of the story or ad, is loud and clear without being boring and serious which in my opinion is what makes it a success.
Note: Always read the fine print ;) ...and, remember that in real life, it's just plain wrong to take advantage of someone's innocence or lack of knowledge, regardless of their age!...and, even though these marketing campaigns depict such happenings it also exposes them which leads you to believe they are an honest establishment, doesn't it?
Let me know what you think by leaving a comment, thanks and have an awesome day!
Check out the three videos posted below and you'll see what I mean (or not ;) These Ally commercials show how we, as consumers, get ripped off by companies because we don't pay attention, we're not asking the right questions and are simply put, arrogant! Ally's ads reassures us with humour that they would never do such a thing to their clients and the kids that Ally Bank's marketing department have chosen (as actors and actresses) are simply priceless. So, while there is humour the morale of the story or ad, is loud and clear without being boring and serious which in my opinion is what makes it a success.
Note: Always read the fine print ;) ...and, remember that in real life, it's just plain wrong to take advantage of someone's innocence or lack of knowledge, regardless of their age!...and, even though these marketing campaigns depict such happenings it also exposes them which leads you to believe they are an honest establishment, doesn't it?
Let me know what you think by leaving a comment, thanks and have an awesome day!
August 21, 2010
14 Search Engine Optimization (SEO) Terms
Search Engine Optimization
Terminology
1. Back Link - A back link is a link that points back to the a web page, also known as IBL's (inbound links). They can be placed almost anywhere such as a blog, forum, social media platform like Facebook or Twitter and if placed carefully, as a published comment.
2. Cloaking - Cloaking involves delivering a page to the search engine spider that is different from what the human visitor sees. Cloaking is a violation of the Terms Of Service (TOS).
3. Conversion - The term conversion refers to the ROI with traffic visiting each web pages and judges based on the pages (or websites) individual goals. Traffic that flows to the website and then converts into a customer or client by registering, wants to receive your monthly newsletter or buying a product and/or using your services. Conversion is measured so techniques can be altered, as necessary, if the ROI is low.
4. Gateway Page - A gateway (doorway) page has one purpose, to drive traffic to another page. They aren't designed for humans more so for search engines to achieve higher rankings. One key phrase is generally optimized and a violation of TOS. Varies from a Splash Page because it has very little text and is used as eye candy to entice visitors further...
5. Keywords & phrases - Both keywords and keyword phrases are the words a user uses to search for what they are looking for. As a webmaster, the end goal is to know and use these same search terms or queries within their web pages to increase page ranking with search engines.
6. Keyword Stuffing - When you are adding unnecessary keywords and keyword phrases that are of no use the the human visitor, you are keyword stuffing. They may not even be visible to the naked eye, only to 'search spiders' and is considered SPAM and against TOS! (Even when the stuffed keywords and phrases do pertain to the content, it takes away from the end users experience and is a pain in the ars to read ;)
7. Link Farm - A link farm is a group of separate yet highly interlinked websites created for the purposes of inflating link popularity (otherwise known as Page Rank). Engaging in link farms is a violation of the Terms Of Service with most search engines and could be grounds for banning.
8. Mirror Site - A mirror site is considered a duplicate site that implements the use of similar, yet different, keywords and phrases in an attempt to attract all types of search engine queries. It is usually considered a violation of TOS.
9. Non-Organic Search - The term non-organic search refers to websites and their content. These sites are brought up by search engines as a result of a search by the end user. Most of these types of web pages retrieved in this manner have rrelatively little content, could consist of a link farm feeling and are stuffed with overused keywords and phrases. These pages are popular but, in the end seem to lose out to websites with true, organic content.
10. Organic search - Organic search results are those web pages retrieved by search engines, due again to particular keywords and/or keyword phrases but, they are relevant content usable to the end user! Unique, well written and informative content = A+ organic search results! When I surf for information it's more than frustrating to come across page after page of irrelevant crap before I find what I need.
11. Page Rank - Page rank (PR) is used to describe where your web page link appears on the long list of pages brought up by the search engines after a pertinent term is queried. Ideally, you want your page to be #1 or as close to it as possible and yes, over the long run counts too!
12. Search Engine Optimization (SEO) - Search engine optimization is the process of making your web page, website, blog etc. a 'sprider' friendly zone. From what I gather is done best by creating pages with usable, relevant content and keywords (once again ;)
13. Search Engine Results Page/Positioning (SERP) - The term SERP refers to organic search results and where they appear in results after a query. SERP's do not include paid listings.
14. Spider - A Spider is also known as Bot or Robot and is a software program that scans the web for various purposes of both good and evil. They can index web page for search engines or they can harvest e-mail addresses for spammers!
Terminology
1. Back Link - A back link is a link that points back to the a web page, also known as IBL's (inbound links). They can be placed almost anywhere such as a blog, forum, social media platform like Facebook or Twitter and if placed carefully, as a published comment.
2. Cloaking - Cloaking involves delivering a page to the search engine spider that is different from what the human visitor sees. Cloaking is a violation of the Terms Of Service (TOS).
3. Conversion - The term conversion refers to the ROI with traffic visiting each web pages and judges based on the pages (or websites) individual goals. Traffic that flows to the website and then converts into a customer or client by registering, wants to receive your monthly newsletter or buying a product and/or using your services. Conversion is measured so techniques can be altered, as necessary, if the ROI is low.
4. Gateway Page - A gateway (doorway) page has one purpose, to drive traffic to another page. They aren't designed for humans more so for search engines to achieve higher rankings. One key phrase is generally optimized and a violation of TOS. Varies from a Splash Page because it has very little text and is used as eye candy to entice visitors further...
5. Keywords & phrases - Both keywords and keyword phrases are the words a user uses to search for what they are looking for. As a webmaster, the end goal is to know and use these same search terms or queries within their web pages to increase page ranking with search engines.
6. Keyword Stuffing - When you are adding unnecessary keywords and keyword phrases that are of no use the the human visitor, you are keyword stuffing. They may not even be visible to the naked eye, only to 'search spiders' and is considered SPAM and against TOS! (Even when the stuffed keywords and phrases do pertain to the content, it takes away from the end users experience and is a pain in the ars to read ;)
7. Link Farm - A link farm is a group of separate yet highly interlinked websites created for the purposes of inflating link popularity (otherwise known as Page Rank). Engaging in link farms is a violation of the Terms Of Service with most search engines and could be grounds for banning.
8. Mirror Site - A mirror site is considered a duplicate site that implements the use of similar, yet different, keywords and phrases in an attempt to attract all types of search engine queries. It is usually considered a violation of TOS.
9. Non-Organic Search - The term non-organic search refers to websites and their content. These sites are brought up by search engines as a result of a search by the end user. Most of these types of web pages retrieved in this manner have rrelatively little content, could consist of a link farm feeling and are stuffed with overused keywords and phrases. These pages are popular but, in the end seem to lose out to websites with true, organic content.
10. Organic search - Organic search results are those web pages retrieved by search engines, due again to particular keywords and/or keyword phrases but, they are relevant content usable to the end user! Unique, well written and informative content = A+ organic search results! When I surf for information it's more than frustrating to come across page after page of irrelevant crap before I find what I need.
11. Page Rank - Page rank (PR) is used to describe where your web page link appears on the long list of pages brought up by the search engines after a pertinent term is queried. Ideally, you want your page to be #1 or as close to it as possible and yes, over the long run counts too!
12. Search Engine Optimization (SEO) - Search engine optimization is the process of making your web page, website, blog etc. a 'sprider' friendly zone. From what I gather is done best by creating pages with usable, relevant content and keywords (once again ;)
13. Search Engine Results Page/Positioning (SERP) - The term SERP refers to organic search results and where they appear in results after a query. SERP's do not include paid listings.
14. Spider - A Spider is also known as Bot or Robot and is a software program that scans the web for various purposes of both good and evil. They can index web page for search engines or they can harvest e-mail addresses for spammers!
...for more SEO cartoons, see seoz87
August 13, 2010
Travel Industry - Marketing online; are you out of the loop if you don't?
Marketing comes in many forms with the purpose being increased recognition and thus money. It works like that of an 'it takes money to make money' concept that certainly works but, what about the small businesses who have little or no advertising budget to play with? Are they going to be so out of the loop they'll become unnecessary and forgotten?...swallowed up by companies who've taken the initiative to at least create an online presence, if even with only a simple, basic website?
Since getting my laptop I do research and then book my flights online. My two fav's are travelocity.ca and/or westjet.ca, depending on what I'm looking for. Both of these companies have created advertising campaigns in a manner that appeals to me, my funny bone and my pocketbook which is a great combination.
Travelocity's gnome who mumble hums...'I wanna get outta here' makes me smile and while no specific WestJet ads come to mind, the word of mouth chatter regarding their cheap flights sang in my ear.
Post vacation: So, I've just returned from the Okanagan valley with Penticton, BC being the farthest point travelled. The only thing planned was my flight in and out all else was winged as each day came or the night before (see Babblicious blog for more details and pics)...then poof back in TO!
So no, not everyone is in the loop of advertising online. Too bad though because in today's world, with technology at our fingertips I don't understand why everyone wouldn't have at least one free basic yet informative website?!
p.s. I'd recommend not to leave 'getting a room' until too late into the evening because once night falls it's a lot trickier finding your way around an unknown city.
I'd say that even though you may have a good reputation and/or be in a great location, it's always best to cover all the bases especially the free ones! Promoting your business online is highly favourable and it's economical if, you don't mind doing some leg work first.
For example...Since getting my laptop I do research and then book my flights online. My two fav's are travelocity.ca and/or westjet.ca, depending on what I'm looking for. Both of these companies have created advertising campaigns in a manner that appeals to me, my funny bone and my pocketbook which is a great combination.
Travelocity's gnome who mumble hums...'I wanna get outta here' makes me smile and while no specific WestJet ads come to mind, the word of mouth chatter regarding their cheap flights sang in my ear.
Post vacation: So, I've just returned from the Okanagan valley with Penticton, BC being the farthest point travelled. The only thing planned was my flight in and out all else was winged as each day came or the night before (see Babblicious blog for more details and pics)...then poof back in TO!
Kalamalka Lake, Vernon BC
But, I don't book hotel rooms that way, not unless necessary. That's because I've learnt that cheap, clean hotel/motel type inns etc. aren't necessarily advertised online. How did I learn this? Well, while searching and pre-booking rooms (itinerary was required) to travel through Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island and New Brunswick we'd aimed for Halifax first. Unknown to us though, mid August in Halifax is also the annual Busker's Festival so, most hotel rooms were already booked. Which left us with somewhat clean yet overpriced, off the beaten path in seedy location types of lodging (pssst, that weren't in the brochure ;) ...and for a room we pretty much just sleep and shower in, we felt a little rooked. Thus, I stopped booking and instead researched towns and cities separately to discover where the majority of hotels were located. One thing to remember though is that festivals, tournaments and conventions book up rooms quickly within smaller areas!So no, not everyone is in the loop of advertising online. Too bad though because in today's world, with technology at our fingertips I don't understand why everyone wouldn't have at least one free basic yet informative website?!
p.s. I'd recommend not to leave 'getting a room' until too late into the evening because once night falls it's a lot trickier finding your way around an unknown city.
Driving through the Rockies in BC, Canada
July 11, 2010
Digital Marketing = Website promotion & increased Traffic ...you are utilizing it, right?!
An essential goal for online marketers is to tackle website marketing and increase traffic to their website. A popular method in 2010 is to utilize various digital marketing mediums for advertising that also enhance website design all while upping your social status on the web.
Today's marketing techniques require entrepreneurs to move out of their comfort zone and go after their desired audience rather than waiting for the audience to find them!! So, before the competition chases up our figurative skirts we need to step into the next decade embracing both technology and change.
However, due to freedom of choice, we as consumers ourselves control most forms of digital marketing by way of choosing what we watch, listen to, ignore, read or toss and turn on or off...it's an opt-in or opt-out society. Therefore, one must create useful, functional, informative, enjoyable, entertaining visuals and text that grab and retain viewers before the moment and the user are gone.
Today's marketing techniques require entrepreneurs to move out of their comfort zone and go after their desired audience rather than waiting for the audience to find them!! So, before the competition chases up our figurative skirts we need to step into the next decade embracing both technology and change.
What is Digital Marketing...
Digital marketing is the advertising process used to promote brands, products and services using extremely influential platforms we literally 'plug in' such as the internet, television, radio and mobile communication devices. Digital marketing uses various distribution channels to market to the masses like today's youth for example; they are plugged into their hi-tech toys as though they were umbilical cords and adults of all ages, even seniors, are following suit making them all potential end users.
Digital marketing is interactive, to-the-minute and social (therefore personal) like Twitter and Facebook. Whether you've chosen to create a blog for your website, add a how to video or created a new social profile the content is long lasting. Once published on the world wide web the content is either left alone to be discovered organically, pushed directly onto a specific audience with demographics or a bit of both.
However, due to freedom of choice, we as consumers ourselves control most forms of digital marketing by way of choosing what we watch, listen to, ignore, read or toss and turn on or off...it's an opt-in or opt-out society. Therefore, one must create useful, functional, informative, enjoyable, entertaining visuals and text that grab and retain viewers before the moment and the user are gone.
In the days of old, advertising was printed and went via word of mouth by a newsboy ...'newspaper, get your newspaper, read all about it, newspaper...'. Nowadays, it's 'visit me on Facebook', 'follow me on Twitter', 'embed my video' , 'check out my live podcast', 'text me', 'subscribe to newsletter', 'opt in for updates' or 'have you seen my YouTube video'! ...a myriad of cost effective mixed media resources at our fingertips!!
Digital marketing tips...
- Self created visual designs ought to begin with basics, using the KISS method (keep it simple stupid) then work up to excellence as you learn. Focus on quality not quantity.
- Become 'sticky' by creating unique content and a pleasant, useful user experience that stands out and above the others in your field. Aim for dynamic functionality, even if you're at the barely tolerable but still slightly interesting stage.
- Create your marketing pitch, page, ad, video, ad, microblog into an easy to understand format that navigates with ease. Pictures are worth a thousand words yet too many become filler fluff. Finding an engaging balance that grabs attention on all levels, is a great goal.
- Know and understand the ideas and concepts you're conjuring up with your chosen text and images. Does it make sense, is it necessary and is it cohesive to all other related material?
Expanding into social media for the first time? Consider it an adventure and take baby steps if necessary ;) What is Network Marketing? & What is Twitter? There was a time when I thought I'd never be on Twitter and yet now I find myself tweeting daily, funny eh, how things change? I'm a follow me, follow you type of girl @ tmcmarketing!
July 8, 2010
Do I need Business Cards ...and mugs, pens, magnets, staplers, calendars...?!?
I've fallen prey to emails, flyers, brochures, print ads, phone calls, faxes and face to face calls to action from sales people wanting me to glam up my business with printed office supplies. I'm thinking is this for kicks or is it a necessity because however tempting, I don't need logo slathered pens, buttons, staplers and mugs? Do I?
Well, the answer is actually yes but, only in moderation (like with food) and within a logical budget! The business card is a bare minimum must have for any entrepreneur, including those of us who are online (even though we don't get out much ;) get motivated, get out of the house!). Many entrepreneurs don't need all the bells and whistles of a full on printed marketing campaign.
Getting your logo across America doesn't guarantee success but may invite bankruptcy if you get hooked on 'the look' of a wicked speil & sales rep! I finally ordered my business cards from Vista Print (see my review posted within the right sidebar). My shopping cart was immediately loaded with bobbles and trinkets sporting my Babblicious brand but by order time it was picked clean.
No, you generally don't go bankrupt buying office supplies but it can be the first foot in the grave in a string of poor business decisions.
You need business cards because...
- they leave a gentle reminder of who you are, what you do and where to find to you.
- when left behind as a calling card, they speak for you when you cannot.
- they are an affordable, face to face marketing method that also enables you to sell yourself.
- the common exchange of business information will be simplified and easily remembered by both parties.
- they give your business the initial heir of professionalism (now you need to maintain it ;)
Well, the answer is actually yes but, only in moderation (like with food) and within a logical budget! The business card is a bare minimum must have for any entrepreneur, including those of us who are online (even though we don't get out much ;) get motivated, get out of the house!). Many entrepreneurs don't need all the bells and whistles of a full on printed marketing campaign.
Getting your logo across America doesn't guarantee success but may invite bankruptcy if you get hooked on 'the look' of a wicked speil & sales rep! I finally ordered my business cards from Vista Print (see my review posted within the right sidebar). My shopping cart was immediately loaded with bobbles and trinkets sporting my Babblicious brand but by order time it was picked clean.
No, you generally don't go bankrupt buying office supplies but it can be the first foot in the grave in a string of poor business decisions.
You need business cards because...
- they leave a gentle reminder of who you are, what you do and where to find to you.
- when left behind as a calling card, they speak for you when you cannot.
- they are an affordable, face to face marketing method that also enables you to sell yourself.
- the common exchange of business information will be simplified and easily remembered by both parties.
- they give your business the initial heir of professionalism (now you need to maintain it ;)
July 3, 2010
Quotes to Inspire...
The measure of success is not whether you have a tough problem to deal with but, whether it's the same problem you had last year. John F. Dulles
God gives every bird a worm, but he does not throw it into the nest. Swedish Proverb
The tragedy of life is what dies inside a man while he lives. Albert Einstein
Artist June Seed
Inspiration comes in many forms but lives on from within... 'moi'
June 27, 2010
29 Ways to Stay Motivated while Working from Home
1. Reward yourself for minor and major achievements, no one else will!
2. Shift your thinking and stimulate your brain by solving a jigsaw puzzle, word game or quiz.
3. Amuse yourself with quips, quotes, jokes and other debauchery that'll have you crackin' a smile!
4. Pretend you can't hear the other person on the phone, just to see how loud they'll talk.
5. Your company mascot awaits you at the local animal shelter, he/she is just as lonely as you are ;)
6. Keep in sync with the rest of 'your' world ie; get in and out of your pj's as necessary.
7. Mix up your routine by treating yourself to a spontaneous breakfast on the town.
8. Take your paperwork, briefcase, laptop etc. outdoors for a change of scenery.
9. Socialize, face to face, with living things that have a pulse rather than chattin' it up with your stapler!
10. Shift the monotony by taking lots of mini breaks throughout the day.
11. Attempt to ignore duties outside of work ie; household tasks (they aren't going anywhere).
12. Break down goals into small chunks so they're easier to tackle and finish ;)
13. Create a list of short and long term goals (aka; needs and wants) and actually check them off!
14. Plan your most difficult, dreaded tasks for when you're at your most productive.
15. Making mountains from mole hills is easy, so don't do it, make a tea and chill!
16. Personal calls and visitors, yes! Clingers who assume that you're free 'cause you're at home, no!
17. Use social media sites, such as Twitter and Facebook, to feel connected and in the loop.
18. Keep your tummy tamed by having snack foods and beverages on hand munchie attacks.
19. Silence instills the loneliness, turn on the TV or radio for background noise.
20. Brace yourself for this one...get out of the house!!
21. Create a schedule based on your desired life which ensures you still make time for a life.
22. Don't freak and stress over mistakes because you're going to make them, everyone does.
23. Embrace change and revamp your home office, hair do, junk drawer, online profile or personality!
24. Create a 'wall of self expression' using a chalk board or roll of newsprint tacked up on the wall.
25. Implement the perks and spoil yourself with 'at home' luxuries, simply because you can.
26. Sing, shout, chant or dance naked, whatever it takes to relieve stress before it builds and blows!
27. If your only contact with the outside world is the delivery guy you better have him ring twice ;)
28. Learn to amuse yourself with quips, quotes, jokes and way too silly behavior for your age.
29. Remember you can pick your friends, you can pick your nose but you can't pick your friends nose!
2. Shift your thinking and stimulate your brain by solving a jigsaw puzzle, word game or quiz.
3. Amuse yourself with quips, quotes, jokes and other debauchery that'll have you crackin' a smile!
4. Pretend you can't hear the other person on the phone, just to see how loud they'll talk.
5. Your company mascot awaits you at the local animal shelter, he/she is just as lonely as you are ;)
6. Keep in sync with the rest of 'your' world ie; get in and out of your pj's as necessary.
7. Mix up your routine by treating yourself to a spontaneous breakfast on the town.
8. Take your paperwork, briefcase, laptop etc. outdoors for a change of scenery.
9. Socialize, face to face, with living things that have a pulse rather than chattin' it up with your stapler!
10. Shift the monotony by taking lots of mini breaks throughout the day.
11. Attempt to ignore duties outside of work ie; household tasks (they aren't going anywhere).
12. Break down goals into small chunks so they're easier to tackle and finish ;)
13. Create a list of short and long term goals (aka; needs and wants) and actually check them off!
14. Plan your most difficult, dreaded tasks for when you're at your most productive.
15. Making mountains from mole hills is easy, so don't do it, make a tea and chill!
16. Personal calls and visitors, yes! Clingers who assume that you're free 'cause you're at home, no!
17. Use social media sites, such as Twitter and Facebook, to feel connected and in the loop.
18. Keep your tummy tamed by having snack foods and beverages on hand munchie attacks.
19. Silence instills the loneliness, turn on the TV or radio for background noise.
20. Brace yourself for this one...get out of the house!!
21. Create a schedule based on your desired life which ensures you still make time for a life.
22. Don't freak and stress over mistakes because you're going to make them, everyone does.
23. Embrace change and revamp your home office, hair do, junk drawer, online profile or personality!
24. Create a 'wall of self expression' using a chalk board or roll of newsprint tacked up on the wall.
25. Implement the perks and spoil yourself with 'at home' luxuries, simply because you can.
26. Sing, shout, chant or dance naked, whatever it takes to relieve stress before it builds and blows!
27. If your only contact with the outside world is the delivery guy you better have him ring twice ;)
28. Learn to amuse yourself with quips, quotes, jokes and way too silly behavior for your age.
29. Remember you can pick your friends, you can pick your nose but you can't pick your friends nose!
June 21, 2010
How to Fix Mandatory 'Titles' - Blogger Gadgets - Glitch
For those using Google's Blogger or Blogspot blogging platform, you may have noticed that I believe as of today there has been a 'change' as to how gadgets are entitled which can normally be left blank. Apparently, it's now mandatory to have a title on all widgets as soon as you attempt to edit them.
This morning I was editing a widget and when it came time to save the widget red text appeared that said 'required field must not be blank'...? Huh?! Try again, same thing and again and yet again...meaning that apparently the title field on all widgets now have to contain content.
According to the Blogger Forum, this appears to be just a semi permanent glitch that they will be looking into so, in the meantime, if you need a quick fix?!
How to Fix your Blogger Gadget's new 'Title' issue...
- add the following HTML code in the title field before saving
How I found the fix...
- visited Blogger's Help Forum ...this forum can be quite helpful, whether you're just reading or if you need to ask questions.
More ...Help with HTML
Thankfully, no hair was pulled during the search, implementation or sharing of this quick n' easy solution ;)
This morning I was editing a widget and when it came time to save the widget red text appeared that said 'required field must not be blank'...? Huh?! Try again, same thing and again and yet again...meaning that apparently the title field on all widgets now have to contain content.
According to the Blogger Forum, this appears to be just a semi permanent glitch that they will be looking into so, in the meantime, if you need a quick fix?!
How to Fix your Blogger Gadget's new 'Title' issue...
- add the following HTML code in the title field before saving
How I found the fix...
- visited Blogger's Help Forum ...this forum can be quite helpful, whether you're just reading or if you need to ask questions.
More ...Help with HTML
Thankfully, no hair was pulled during the search, implementation or sharing of this quick n' easy solution ;)
June 19, 2010
How to Download WordPress Plugins using HostGator's cPanel
When I first began with WP & HostGator one of my first missions was to get plugins onto my blog but I just couldn't seem to find an answer for the questions I wasn't sure if I was even asking right, hence this tutorial.
This WordPress plugin installation guide is designed for those using HostGator's cPanel and was created for whomever needs a step by step, hold my hand 'cause I have no idea what I'm doing tutorial. Please read this post in it's entirety before you proceed.
Downloading and installing plugins begins with knowing what plugins you want and or need to enhance both the front and the back end of your website/blog. Over 10,000 WordPress compatible plugins can be found here at http://www.wordpress.org/ > Extend > Plugins
How to Download & Install Plugins for WordPress via HostGator's cPanel...
- Open your WordPress wp-admin account in one window
- Open your HostGator cPanel in another window > File Manager
- Have your chosen WP Plugin open in another window (make sure it's compatible with your version of WP) > Click on the big, red 'Download' button
- Save it to your 'Download' folder (pay attention to the file the plugin is being stored in)
- Go to your HG cP window > Files > File Manager
- Click 'Go' (assuming your info is stored in the same root folder as mine, shown below. If it's not, then you will have to wing it on your own from here)
- File Manager > scan down on left sidebar > www > wp-content > plugins > the big window on the right shows your current plugins (if there are any)
- Upload your Plugin to HG cP (top of File Manager, yellow file folder with the big green arrow) > locate the file you just downloaded from WP to your computer
- Hit F5 (refresh) and your Plugin should be in the right hand window > www > wp-content > plugins >place cursor over plugin (the small yellow file) > right click > extract > agree > close
The plugin you just downloaded. uploaded and extracted ought to be viewable as a blue folder and as a yellow one
- Go to http://...yourwebsite...com/wp-admin panel > plugins > inactive (your plugin ought to be here) > activate & adjust settings (if required)
Congratulations!!
p.s. ...be warned that even though the teacher is in, this tutorial may not be 100% perfect and I don't offer tutoring outside of this explanation so please, use at your own risk ;)
Thanks for visiting and feel free to comment!
This WordPress plugin installation guide is designed for those using HostGator's cPanel and was created for whomever needs a step by step, hold my hand 'cause I have no idea what I'm doing tutorial. Please read this post in it's entirety before you proceed.
Downloading and installing plugins begins with knowing what plugins you want and or need to enhance both the front and the back end of your website/blog. Over 10,000 WordPress compatible plugins can be found here at http://www.wordpress.org/ > Extend > Plugins
How to Download & Install Plugins for WordPress via HostGator's cPanel...
- Open your WordPress wp-admin account in one window
- Open your HostGator cPanel in another window > File Manager
- Have your chosen WP Plugin open in another window (make sure it's compatible with your version of WP) > Click on the big, red 'Download' button
- Save it to your 'Download' folder (pay attention to the file the plugin is being stored in)
- Go to your HG cP window > Files > File Manager
- Click 'Go' (assuming your info is stored in the same root folder as mine, shown below. If it's not, then you will have to wing it on your own from here)
- File Manager > scan down on left sidebar > www > wp-content > plugins > the big window on the right shows your current plugins (if there are any)
- Upload your Plugin to HG cP (top of File Manager, yellow file folder with the big green arrow) > locate the file you just downloaded from WP to your computer
- Hit F5 (refresh) and your Plugin should be in the right hand window > www > wp-content > plugins >place cursor over plugin (the small yellow file) > right click > extract > agree > close
The plugin you just downloaded. uploaded and extracted ought to be viewable as a blue folder and as a yellow one
- Go to http://...yourwebsite...com/wp-admin panel > plugins > inactive (your plugin ought to be here) > activate & adjust settings (if required)
Congratulations!!
p.s. ...be warned that even though the teacher is in, this tutorial may not be 100% perfect and I don't offer tutoring outside of this explanation so please, use at your own risk ;)
Thanks for visiting and feel free to comment!
June 14, 2010
Alter your Blogger Blogspot Blog ie; get a 3 Column Layout!
When I first began to blog with Google's Blogger platform the templates they offered suited my level of understanding just fine but, I also knew at some point I'd want more (such a girl eh!). At the time though, learning to modify a CSS Style Sheet, HTML or even downloading an unzipped file for a free template was beyond my grasp. And now, it's not (big smiles)!! I also couldn't brush it under the rug any longer so long story short...
I spent a full day searching for and trying out numerous tutorials and none of them worked! Until, I found Adding a Third Column to your Blogger Blog created by GardenBloggers.com. It's a simple, easy to follow tutorial with a 'find this piece of code' and 'change it to that piece of code' teaching style I love! You can view the end results of the 3 column blog tutorial on What Wrinkles? or Ontario's Cottage Country blogs anytime you like ;) but they've since been tweaked due to...
...and the even shorter route which enables 3 column, 2 column, 1 column layouts and more, at the click of a button!! I conveniently discovered this method the day after altering code via the above tutorial (go figure!)...
I spent a full day searching for and trying out numerous tutorials and none of them worked! Until, I found Adding a Third Column to your Blogger Blog created by GardenBloggers.com. It's a simple, easy to follow tutorial with a 'find this piece of code' and 'change it to that piece of code' teaching style I love! You can view the end results of the 3 column blog tutorial on What Wrinkles? or Ontario's Cottage Country blogs anytime you like ;) but they've since been tweaked due to...
...and the even shorter route which enables 3 column, 2 column, 1 column layouts and more, at the click of a button!! I conveniently discovered this method the day after altering code via the above tutorial (go figure!)...
Apparently, Blogger has a 'new' (to me) blogging platform called Blogger in Draft which is a lot more versatile than the original version many use today. Here's the addy for their informative blog (also entitled Blogger in Draft) which will enlighten you further. Or, access the draft mode directly via this web address http://draft.blogger.com/ and you will be taken to the draft platform.
I'd suggest you save a copy of your blog first, directly to your computer, and then go into 'draft' mode.
The looks, layouts, options etc. are quite different (in a good way ;) so if you do end up messing around with some of these new choices you'll at least have the original you started with.
Good luck and please feel free to comment!
June 11, 2010
What is an RSS Feed & How do I Find it?
Being asked for your website's RSS Feed is very common when you have content on the internet but, what is an RSS Feed, how do I find it and what do I do with it?
For those who love to read web content rather than publish it, if you subscribe to a feed for a particular website that content will be streamed directly to you in one concise format. And for those who create the web content, this enables worldwide syndication of your content by streaming it out to every reader who wants it!
What is an RSS Feed?
The RSS portion stands for Rich Site Summary or Really Simple Syndication, an international web format used to instantly transfer web content from one location to another using a Feed, hence the term RSS Feed. The Feed portion transfers current web content across the internet making it accessible to anyone who subscribes to that feed or knows the feed address (URL).
Most every published webpage has syndicated the content with an RSS Feed. You can find the feed by first locating the RSS Feed symbol shown above (or a variation thereof like XML, RDF or Atom) and click on it. The web address (URL) that shows in the address bar within that new window, is the RSS Feed for that site.
My website can be accessed via babblicious.ca (web address) or it can be viewed with the RSS Feed http://babblicious.ca/?feed=rss2 or http://feeds.feedburner.com/babblicious (renamed as such via feedburner.com). If you are the owner/operator/webmaster of web content sites like FeedBurner enables tracking of feed statistics, customizing and monetizing.
For those who love to read web content rather than publish it, if you subscribe to a feed for a particular website that content will be streamed directly to you in one concise format. And for those who create the web content, this enables worldwide syndication of your content by streaming it out to every reader who wants it!
What is an RSS Feed?
The RSS portion stands for Rich Site Summary or Really Simple Syndication, an international web format used to instantly transfer web content from one location to another using a Feed, hence the term RSS Feed. The Feed portion transfers current web content across the internet making it accessible to anyone who subscribes to that feed or knows the feed address (URL).
For example; websites like cnn.com, youtube.com and blogs like mine ;) that offer constantly changing content can be accessed with one click in your feed reader. Such a time saver! You need't visit each of your favorite sites daily, just simply scan through topic titles and brief summaries in the reader and visit only if you find something of interest. A variety of RSS Readers are available such as Bloglines, Feedreader, My Yahoo, NewsGator or Google's feed reader.
How do I find your my RSS Feed or someone else's?...
My website can be accessed via babblicious.ca (web address) or it can be viewed with the RSS Feed http://babblicious.ca/?feed=rss2 or http://feeds.feedburner.com/babblicious (renamed as such via feedburner.com). If you are the owner/operator/webmaster of web content sites like FeedBurner enables tracking of feed statistics, customizing and monetizing.
June 8, 2010
Pepsi & FIFA World Cup 2010! Unique & Funny TV Promo
To all sports fans...the 19th 2010 FIFA World Cup will be the most watched sporting event on TV over the next month, will you be watching? The in international football tournament is scheduled to begin June 11th and continue until July 11, 2010 in South Africa!! Oh, and I'm excited for you not me ;) although this commercial for Pepsi & FIFA is pretty funny and certainly unique.
Preferred ad over say, the current creepy designer diaper Ad for Huggies or these past advertising flops!
Preferred ad over say, the current creepy designer diaper Ad for Huggies or these past advertising flops!
June 7, 2010
TV Commercial - Creepy or Cute?!? Huggies Jean Diapers 2010
Have you seen the latest TV commercial released by Huggies Diapers? The advertising campaign revolves around 'designer' denim diapers and this adorable toddler. But, in this particular Huggies ad, the little boy is wearing a Risky Business style outfit and struts down a busy street while being gawked at by adults!?
I don't know about you but this Huggies commercial just plain bothers me! Maybe I'm over protective but this commercial falls into the 'just another bad marketing campaign' category, for me.
What irks me to the point of blogging?...seeing a little boy wearing a Risky Business style outfit strutting down the street being gawked at by adults!?!?
Huh!? Where are all of the other cute babies, puppies, toys, giggling and overall sweetness that takes place within a 'parklike' setting or at Nana's house, the daycare etc.!? is this creativity or creepiness?
Check out the video and judge for yourself! If you feel like it, let me and everyone else know what you think by making a comment.
Huggies® Jeans Diapers Hit the Streets!
Thanks for visiting!
I don't know about you but this Huggies commercial just plain bothers me! Maybe I'm over protective but this commercial falls into the 'just another bad marketing campaign' category, for me.
What irks me to the point of blogging?...seeing a little boy wearing a Risky Business style outfit strutting down the street being gawked at by adults!?!?
Huh!? Where are all of the other cute babies, puppies, toys, giggling and overall sweetness that takes place within a 'parklike' setting or at Nana's house, the daycare etc.!? is this creativity or creepiness?
Check out the video and judge for yourself! If you feel like it, let me and everyone else know what you think by making a comment.
Huggies® Jeans Diapers Hit the Streets!
Thanks for visiting!
June 3, 2010
Web coding required!...but I'm fluent in English, not HTML?!
The online entrepreneur is a versatile, curious, multi-tasker who may not have a formal degree in IT, tech, business or marketing yet they're able to thrive in an online community. Why? Well, webtechie gurus, webmasters and the like do so because of communication. Not normal, verbal chatter, not even the hand written form, at least not in any language an english lit degree could cypher.
Even the 'language' Lorem ipsum, that was plastered all over my first Ebay template, had me Sed aliquet malesuada odio, quis placerat magna aliquam in. Proin eu tempor mauris. Suspendisse potenti. Proin ipsum tortor, tristique eu porttitor vulputate, ullamcorper vel dolor. Integer aliquam hendrerit porta...stumped! I actually had to ask the lady what the heck these words meant because on my end the syntax was unrecognizable?! Ha, ha she laughed back so hard at my ignorance but, it does show you (sadly, me at the time ;) how broad the term language really is.
So, my adventures behind the scenes on the WWW were at one point OMFG!?!! and now they're just OMG!?! with hope for a bright future.
Good luck to you! and please feel free to comment.
This savvy crew uses code! They talk, type and no doubt dream code! Not Morse Code, or secret code that gets you in the boyz club either, it's a whole other language...there's HTML, XHTML, CSS, PHP, SQL, ASP and even SOAP (which you can't even wash with) along with oodles of others. Most of which are all absolutely foreign, yet required if, one wants to extend beyond being just an end user of the internet.
Even the 'language' Lorem ipsum, that was plastered all over my first Ebay template, had me Sed aliquet malesuada odio, quis placerat magna aliquam in. Proin eu tempor mauris. Suspendisse potenti. Proin ipsum tortor, tristique eu porttitor vulputate, ullamcorper vel dolor. Integer aliquam hendrerit porta...stumped! I actually had to ask the lady what the heck these words meant because on my end the syntax was unrecognizable?! Ha, ha she laughed back so hard at my ignorance but, it does show you (sadly, me at the time ;) how broad the term language really is.
Do you need Code Training & Tutorials for free, like it did (and still do)?! My newest, favourite site is W3Schools. They offer help with most everything so it's bookmarked in my fav's as a 'must have' web reference. I also use this Practise Board for HTML code editing because it enables me to see the end results immediately. Tables for Beginners is for...tables ;) and I've used it for years, a tad cheesy in appearance but, it helped me wrap my head around the 'process'.
So, my adventures behind the scenes on the WWW were at one point OMFG!?!! and now they're just OMG!?! with hope for a bright future.
Good luck to you! and please feel free to comment.
June 1, 2010
Blogger or WordPress...which do you prefer?
It seems that when attempting 'webmaster' type tasks for the first, even second or third time, there's a gigantic learning curve and nothing ever seems easy, maybe it's just me ;) I know that when my online adventures first began I was incapable of sending a simple email and lately, I'm feeling just as inept!
My latest project babblicious.ca has me investing time into WordPress where I'm attempting to create my newest website/blog portal. Babblicious is all about Babblicious Bloggers & Babblicious Readers uniting! At least it will be, when it's finally set up! I've been all over HostGator for the past month learning, or attempting to learn what they offer (thanks to a great salespitch but that's a whole other post, grrr!...they are definitely all about the hosting)...I piddled around with option after option for templates, how to's and live help x# of times to discover they don't have what I need. Well yes they do but no one ever suggested WordPress and by that time was practically talked out of it. And now, it's WordPress! That is WordPress 101 to 1001 plus a run around a-z, a few ?'s on the forum and thankfully Babblicious is finally (partially) underway enough to mention it publicly. Ahhh, gotta love technology! ;)
So, I do recommend Blogger for newbies simply because you don't need a server to host the blog plus if you qualify you can use Adsense to possibly earn income. I'm taking the word of many a blogger who says I'll love the freedom and versatility that I can achieve with WordPress so, hence Babblicious. But, I'm leaving my other blogs here on Blogger, at least for now.
In the end, both here at Blogger and there at WordPress hold different expectations for me (along with each individual blog/project) so I'll just spread my wings a little bit at first and see what happens ;)
Thanks for visiting and please feel free to leave a comment!
My latest project babblicious.ca has me investing time into WordPress where I'm attempting to create my newest website/blog portal. Babblicious is all about Babblicious Bloggers & Babblicious Readers uniting! At least it will be, when it's finally set up! I've been all over HostGator for the past month learning, or attempting to learn what they offer (thanks to a great salespitch but that's a whole other post, grrr!...they are definitely all about the hosting)...I piddled around with option after option for templates, how to's and live help x# of times to discover they don't have what I need. Well yes they do but no one ever suggested WordPress and by that time was practically talked out of it. And now, it's WordPress! That is WordPress 101 to 1001 plus a run around a-z, a few ?'s on the forum and thankfully Babblicious is finally (partially) underway enough to mention it publicly. Ahhh, gotta love technology! ;)
So, I do recommend Blogger for newbies simply because you don't need a server to host the blog plus if you qualify you can use Adsense to possibly earn income. I'm taking the word of many a blogger who says I'll love the freedom and versatility that I can achieve with WordPress so, hence Babblicious. But, I'm leaving my other blogs here on Blogger, at least for now.
In the end, both here at Blogger and there at WordPress hold different expectations for me (along with each individual blog/project) so I'll just spread my wings a little bit at first and see what happens ;)
Thanks for visiting and please feel free to leave a comment!
May 27, 2010
Anthony Morrison's TV Infomercial - Am I the newest Hidden Millionaire? ...tee hee
Anyone who knows me also knows, I love TV! If I'm awake the 'idiot box' keeps me entertained with background noise from dawn til dusk. When I'm up too late though my TV gets littered with cheesy infomercials selling crap products and get rich quick gimmics.
This morning for example it was an infomercial for Anthony Morrison the author of The Hidden Millionaire. The spot ran like a professional news interview on the Hansen Report. Anthony answers questions and discusses how his program is going to relieve all of 'your' financial burdens if...?
In my slumbered, dreamy haze Anthony Morrison and his little infomercial sounded believable. He markets himself very well ;) and his good boy looks and charm aide in his sales approach. But, his bag of tricks just didn't do it for me.
Anthony Morrison - Scam or Not a Scam?
I couldn't say for sure because I'm not willing to risk it; I've googled him etc. and done my homework and so far the answer is a big fat ...nah!!
The book entitled, The Hidden Millionaire is available via Amazon for $3 bucks'ish' plus shipping. I'd recommend getting that, first. Or, see if you can find a copy at the library. Anthony Morrison has a wealth of knowledge and there is no denying he makes money. His program, the books, cd's, dvd's, seminars, speaking engagements etc. make him his money but will that make us money too? ...nah!!
The last 'seen on TV' product that came into our home...You're Gonna Love my Nuts!
This morning for example it was an infomercial for Anthony Morrison the author of The Hidden Millionaire. The spot ran like a professional news interview on the Hansen Report. Anthony answers questions and discusses how his program is going to relieve all of 'your' financial burdens if...?
That's the big ?, the big if!? What if I spend my already hard earned money on yet another 'program' and a) I don't get rich and b) I'm out the original money...keep asking ?'s and...
Does it sound too good to be true?
Have you done your own research?
Have your seen other people's reviews on the product?
Have you checked with the BBB?
Can you find the same information cheaper?
Do you really believe you will learn multi-million dollar secrets for just $19.95?!
What magical information does he have that requires thousands of dollars after the fact (refer to last?)?
...from what I've read you're apparently preened, poked and then prodded with personal questions, high pressure sales tactics and semi-useless information with the end result being, they just simply want more money!!?!
In my slumbered, dreamy haze Anthony Morrison and his little infomercial sounded believable. He markets himself very well ;) and his good boy looks and charm aide in his sales approach. But, his bag of tricks just didn't do it for me.
Anthony Morrison - Scam or Not a Scam?
I couldn't say for sure because I'm not willing to risk it; I've googled him etc. and done my homework and so far the answer is a big fat ...nah!!
The book entitled, The Hidden Millionaire is available via Amazon for $3 bucks'ish' plus shipping. I'd recommend getting that, first. Or, see if you can find a copy at the library. Anthony Morrison has a wealth of knowledge and there is no denying he makes money. His program, the books, cd's, dvd's, seminars, speaking engagements etc. make him his money but will that make us money too? ...nah!!
The last 'seen on TV' product that came into our home...You're Gonna Love my Nuts!
May 25, 2010
To Windows users ...have you used your 'Snipping Tool' yet?
Oddly enough, I didn't know I even had a 'Snipping Tool' let alone what it was, where to find it or what the heck I'd use it for...that is until recently, when I needed it for a sponsored post on my What Wrinkles? blog.
If you use your personal computer as I do, for work purposes, then you too may find it a very handy little tool. You can add or take information from a spreadsheet, proposal or webpage to share during business meetings, use in seminars, explain actions in webinars, add content to websites or blogs...
Use your Snippng Tool to snip or capture full or partial screenshots anywhere on the web or your pc, basically any open window! Grab the entire shot or narrow in on a specific area of a picture, text or both you can also choose to make it rectangular, freeform or full screen. Once you've captured the information you can use the pen feature to write notes, point to a specific area or highlight. Once finished simply email it or save it to your computer as a PNG, JPEG, GIF or HTML..
How to find your Snipping Tool application on Windows 7+, XP & Vista...
If you use your personal computer as I do, for work purposes, then you too may find it a very handy little tool. You can add or take information from a spreadsheet, proposal or webpage to share during business meetings, use in seminars, explain actions in webinars, add content to websites or blogs...
Use your Snippng Tool to snip or capture full or partial screenshots anywhere on the web or your pc, basically any open window! Grab the entire shot or narrow in on a specific area of a picture, text or both you can also choose to make it rectangular, freeform or full screen. Once you've captured the information you can use the pen feature to write notes, point to a specific area or highlight. Once finished simply email it or save it to your computer as a PNG, JPEG, GIF or HTML..
How to find your Snipping Tool application on Windows 7+, XP & Vista...
> click on your pc's 'start' button (onscreen, bottom left ;)
> accesories
> Snipping Tool
May 17, 2010
Marketing campaigns gone wrong! 'New' Coke, Gerber...what were they thinking?
When putting together your next marketing campaign consider what history has already proven, you can never do enough research and some ideas are just plain lousy! Advertising blunders are in most cases discovered after they've been unleashed to the public. So, although they were created with the best of intentions the end result was disastrous. Imagine spending thousands of dollars just to realize you've managed to generate a campaign that confused and/or insulted your end user causing mass loss of appeal!
Imagine investing hundreds of thousands of dollars to fully implement an advertising disaster such as the Gerber baby food campaign many years ago in Africa. Their ad used the exact same picture successfully utilized here in North America...the adorable caucasian baby, only it crashed due to lack of sales. Upon further research Gerber's discovered that due to literacy issues in Africa (many people not able to read) companies use pictures to depict what's inside the container! ...imagine that, it's kind of funny in a gross way ;) but I'm sure glad the initial research wasn't my job ikes and ewww!
Whether your campaign is regional or international research is imperative and ought to be done thoroughly. Ads that work well in North America may be a total failure if launched elsewhere for many reasons. Text and illustrations have their own meanings based on where you live. What we see, understand and interpret such as pictures, logos, words, statements, cliches, puns or sayings can be easily misunderstood elsewhere.
Imagine investing hundreds of thousands of dollars to fully implement an advertising disaster such as the Gerber baby food campaign many years ago in Africa. Their ad used the exact same picture successfully utilized here in North America...the adorable caucasian baby, only it crashed due to lack of sales. Upon further research Gerber's discovered that due to literacy issues in Africa (many people not able to read) companies use pictures to depict what's inside the container! ...imagine that, it's kind of funny in a gross way ;) but I'm sure glad the initial research wasn't my job ikes and ewww!
Botched marketing extends over to Coke and Calvin Klein...remember in 1985 when they released 'New' Coke? I do because I was an original Coke fan and was crushed! I did go back temporarily to Coke Classic but by that time they'd already lost me to Pepsi. I'm still a proud Pepsi girl! The Calvin Klein ad although short made me immediately question the whole concept and was almost uncomfortable, what were they thinking!?
May 12, 2010
Get into MyLikes... Share and earn income while Marketing your own Brand
The other day while tweeting I stumbled across a link from one of my followers that mentioned how much they loved a particular product. Due to my own dislike of the same product I was drawn to the link and clicked it! What I found was a website entitled MyLikes that is chalk full of people's opinions on anything from restaurants to fashion. Upon further investigation I discovered that MyLikes is a word of mouth advertising platform that drives traffic to websites and it's also another way to generate income!
Controlled and uncontrolled word of mouth campaigns are one of the oldest forms of advertising with bad news travelling first and fastest ;) With global communication via internet platforms such as these social hubs, people communicate which creates a buzz that generates traffic and in turn income... Do you remember Mrs. Oleson from Little House on the Prairie? She'd eat up and spit out gossip in a fury, imagine if she had a laptop...
MyLikes uses the power of the public and the influence they have over 'their' people to create an incredible spin-off of interested end consumers. MyLikes enables us as influencers to create paid and unpaid endorsements for products and services we like or don't like then post them to our website, blog, Twitter account or YouTube.
MyLikes believes that by paying the influencers on either a cost-per-click or cost-per-tweet basis they are more apt to make endorsements based on products and services relevant to their audience...a key component when selling ;)
Payments from MyLikes are made through PayPal (got that account setup yet?) or you may donate your earnings to charity. MyLikes also enables you to stock pile your earnings to create your own advertising campaign.
Controlled and uncontrolled word of mouth campaigns are one of the oldest forms of advertising with bad news travelling first and fastest ;) With global communication via internet platforms such as these social hubs, people communicate which creates a buzz that generates traffic and in turn income... Do you remember Mrs. Oleson from Little House on the Prairie? She'd eat up and spit out gossip in a fury, imagine if she had a laptop...
MyLikes uses the power of the public and the influence they have over 'their' people to create an incredible spin-off of interested end consumers. MyLikes enables us as influencers to create paid and unpaid endorsements for products and services we like or don't like then post them to our website, blog, Twitter account or YouTube.
MyLikes believes that by paying the influencers on either a cost-per-click or cost-per-tweet basis they are more apt to make endorsements based on products and services relevant to their audience...a key component when selling ;)
Payments from MyLikes are made through PayPal (got that account setup yet?) or you may donate your earnings to charity. MyLikes also enables you to stock pile your earnings to create your own advertising campaign.
May 8, 2010
Attend the Xerox International Jazz Festival in Rochester, New York!! - June 2010
This is a Sponsored Post written by me on behalf of goviral. All opinions are 100% mine.
As well, Xerox presents an "American Idol" style music competition leading up to the 2010 Xerox Rochester International Jazz Festival. “Jazz Star: The Search for a New Sensation,” is a talent competition that raises money for local youth programs and may assist in catapulting a special talent into jazz stardom.
Xerox is proud to be an Official Partner of the Rochester Jazz Festival with proceeds benefiting the City of Rochester Bureau of Recreation’s Biz Kid$ Real. This is an amazing program that teaches the fundamentals of business development to children, including financial planning, research, sales and marketing! The Rochester Public Market, the Credit Education Bureau and the Farmers Market Federation of New York and the Biz Kid$ Real program works with a team of youth that will ultimately produce healthy snacks for the New York State Fair.
Love Jazz music?... don't miss out on the
Enjoy some lively Jazz music in the month of June as the popular Xerox Rochester International Jazz Festival entertains fans in the heart of downtown. This music festival attracts more than 125,000 people from around the world each year with the week long 9th edition taking place from June 11-19, 2010 in Rochester, NY.
Marquee musicians that will be performing at various downtown locations include Gladys Knight, Herbie Hancock and Jeff Beck!
As well, Xerox presents an "American Idol" style music competition leading up to the 2010 Xerox Rochester International Jazz Festival. “Jazz Star: The Search for a New Sensation,” is a talent competition that raises money for local youth programs and may assist in catapulting a special talent into jazz stardom.
Xerox is proud to be an Official Partner of the Rochester Jazz Festival with proceeds benefiting the City of Rochester Bureau of Recreation’s Biz Kid$ Real. This is an amazing program that teaches the fundamentals of business development to children, including financial planning, research, sales and marketing! The Rochester Public Market, the Credit Education Bureau and the Farmers Market Federation of New York and the Biz Kid$ Real program works with a team of youth that will ultimately produce healthy snacks for the New York State Fair.
Jazz and multi-talented, educated youth who appreciate the arts...
wow, how cool is that!
Love Jazz music?... don't miss out on the
9th Edition of the Xerox Rochester International Jazz Festival!!
May 7, 2010
I'm Loving my new Excel Spreadsheet!
For months I've been talking about home office organization and how important it is stay on top of things, so I'm happy to say the daunting task of organizing my own office space is finally complete!
Why do I love my newest spreadsheet? Well, despite the fact it took me hours to wrap my head around the task of creating it, it was actually fun and fulfilling (how sad is that ;) Designing functional, usable spreadsheets that are immediately utilized is a trend I hope to continue. It was time well spent which as we all know when you're running your own business is key; every minute counts and every minute wasted just gets added somewhere else.
I've now got everything contained, organized and color coded in a fashion that enables me to find info on all of my blogs and my new website which is 'coming soon', social media sites, emails, usernames etc.
Why do I love my newest spreadsheet? Well, despite the fact it took me hours to wrap my head around the task of creating it, it was actually fun and fulfilling (how sad is that ;) Designing functional, usable spreadsheets that are immediately utilized is a trend I hope to continue. It was time well spent which as we all know when you're running your own business is key; every minute counts and every minute wasted just gets added somewhere else.
I've now got everything contained, organized and color coded in a fashion that enables me to find info on all of my blogs and my new website which is 'coming soon', social media sites, emails, usernames etc.
Here's a list of my Twitter accounts, see how they're in such a neat row ;) ...just so you know, if you follow all of them you will get some duplicate information.
Cheers to being organized and in time for the weekend!
Cheers to being organized and in time for the weekend!
(p.s. it's Mother's Day on Sunday)
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crazy4costumes
tmcmarketing
central_ontario
whatwrinkles
urbabblicious
May 4, 2010
Marketing and Promotion Techniques for Small Businesses on a Budget
As a small business owner cutting costs whenever and wherever possible is more than financially beneficial, it's often done out of necessity. Yet, the requirements of marketing and promotion don't disappear! You still require a cost effective marketing plan with a small budget or an exceptional no budget plan. So, how does a frugal entrepreneur ensure they are doing the most for their business while increasing their bottom line?
In order to accomplish successful, self promotion you need to consider numerous tasks that ought to be utilized to the best of your ability regardless of the nature or type of business you have. Marketing involves a healthy component of skill, talent, familiarity and passion. You will need to work at some techniques while others you will come more easily, naturally.
It's important to entwine all of the following marketing techniques at some point but initially begin with just a few then incorporate others as you learn, grow and gain confidence in your abilities. You'll be surprised at how simple personality traits such as your smile draw in potential customers, you are now your own walking billboard!
Promotion and Marketing Techniques for Small Businesses on a Budget...
- Public Speaking may make your toes curl but don't panic. Begin with baby steps like introducing yourself first, in a two on two conversation, that's a good start ;) Face to face marketing multiplied x 2...offer a firm handshake, a smile and speak. Get into some generic small talk with potential customers and be aware of your behavior, demeanor, personality and don't forget to listen and be confident you are being gauged. When you think you're ready for full on public speaking practise in front of the mirror first. Pace yourself, listen to your tone of voice, breathing patterns and pauses as well, know what you are talking about! Prepare an interesting, informative speech rather than a omg, is this ever going to end speech.
- Network marketing is like public speaking only way better because it has more of a social vibe and it isn't or needn't be so formal, staunchy or uptight. Nowadays, online social media marketing sites like Twitter and Facebook are huge marketing tools that generate traffic while you stay in your pajamas chatting about your greatest new gadget...
- Create brochures and newsletters, not one or the other ;) but both at some point. Newsletters are generally sent via opt-in emails on a monthly basis and contain current and future business operations such as upcoming sales, what's new and what's coming etc. While brochures contain all pertinent business information in a glance for a long term period and they are designed to get someone's attention, be informative and memorable.
- Low cost advertising takes on many forms such as placing an ad in the newspaper or posting signage on bulletin boards or even having you child wear a sandwich board in lieu of chores. I went through a drive thru one time and when it was my turn to order and pay the lady she said it was already paid for by the guy in front of me. Hmmm, nice! I check around and see his vehicle pulling onto the street and across the back is a 1-800 # and the name of his handy man business. I never needed him but certainly would have called him, if I did! Be sure to have a website, blog or some form of social media marketing platform or landing page. In today's day and age there is no excuse not to have one.
- Create a reason to draw attention to yourselves then prepare a press release to make the who's who aware of what you are doing. It could be a fund raiser for charity, the community or even the school. If you know someone famous that helps but if not just do something spectacular that shows your potential customers who you are, what you stand for and what you offer. Motivations shine with this one so be careful not to make it all about you!
- Cold calling potential customers and clients isn't easy but from a girl who's sold carpet cleaning, duct cleaning and raised funds via the phone, it does get easier. Prepare a general script to follow along with some common questions and answers you think they may ask. Have them both beside you along with a notepad. Grab the old phonebook and tear out page one in your contact area and begin making your cold calls. Keep general notes and specific notes if you have an interested client. Just jot down their name, contact info and what they're interested in or why they couldn't commit at this time etc. Familiarity on the second call makes things easier especially if you've confirmed it's okay to call back.
- Volunteer some of your 'extra' time by helping others in the community either at the school, church or selfless project you believe in. If you do this for no other reason than just because it feels good networking will occur naturally, all on it's own.
- Group your talents with other business owners and entrepreneurs to create a project based on your combined efforts. Choose a business/es that compliments what you have to offer for a win win scenario. Skills and talents are meant to be shared and learned; by grouping together you accomplish all sorts of short and long term tasks. It's also a great way to save time, money all while networking.
In order to accomplish successful, self promotion you need to consider numerous tasks that ought to be utilized to the best of your ability regardless of the nature or type of business you have. Marketing involves a healthy component of skill, talent, familiarity and passion. You will need to work at some techniques while others you will come more easily, naturally.
It's important to entwine all of the following marketing techniques at some point but initially begin with just a few then incorporate others as you learn, grow and gain confidence in your abilities. You'll be surprised at how simple personality traits such as your smile draw in potential customers, you are now your own walking billboard!
Promotion and Marketing Techniques for Small Businesses on a Budget...
- Public Speaking may make your toes curl but don't panic. Begin with baby steps like introducing yourself first, in a two on two conversation, that's a good start ;) Face to face marketing multiplied x 2...offer a firm handshake, a smile and speak. Get into some generic small talk with potential customers and be aware of your behavior, demeanor, personality and don't forget to listen and be confident you are being gauged. When you think you're ready for full on public speaking practise in front of the mirror first. Pace yourself, listen to your tone of voice, breathing patterns and pauses as well, know what you are talking about! Prepare an interesting, informative speech rather than a omg, is this ever going to end speech.
- Network marketing is like public speaking only way better because it has more of a social vibe and it isn't or needn't be so formal, staunchy or uptight. Nowadays, online social media marketing sites like Twitter and Facebook are huge marketing tools that generate traffic while you stay in your pajamas chatting about your greatest new gadget...
- Create brochures and newsletters, not one or the other ;) but both at some point. Newsletters are generally sent via opt-in emails on a monthly basis and contain current and future business operations such as upcoming sales, what's new and what's coming etc. While brochures contain all pertinent business information in a glance for a long term period and they are designed to get someone's attention, be informative and memorable.
- Low cost advertising takes on many forms such as placing an ad in the newspaper or posting signage on bulletin boards or even having you child wear a sandwich board in lieu of chores. I went through a drive thru one time and when it was my turn to order and pay the lady she said it was already paid for by the guy in front of me. Hmmm, nice! I check around and see his vehicle pulling onto the street and across the back is a 1-800 # and the name of his handy man business. I never needed him but certainly would have called him, if I did! Be sure to have a website, blog or some form of social media marketing platform or landing page. In today's day and age there is no excuse not to have one.
- Create a reason to draw attention to yourselves then prepare a press release to make the who's who aware of what you are doing. It could be a fund raiser for charity, the community or even the school. If you know someone famous that helps but if not just do something spectacular that shows your potential customers who you are, what you stand for and what you offer. Motivations shine with this one so be careful not to make it all about you!
- Cold calling potential customers and clients isn't easy but from a girl who's sold carpet cleaning, duct cleaning and raised funds via the phone, it does get easier. Prepare a general script to follow along with some common questions and answers you think they may ask. Have them both beside you along with a notepad. Grab the old phonebook and tear out page one in your contact area and begin making your cold calls. Keep general notes and specific notes if you have an interested client. Just jot down their name, contact info and what they're interested in or why they couldn't commit at this time etc. Familiarity on the second call makes things easier especially if you've confirmed it's okay to call back.
- Volunteer some of your 'extra' time by helping others in the community either at the school, church or selfless project you believe in. If you do this for no other reason than just because it feels good networking will occur naturally, all on it's own.
- Group your talents with other business owners and entrepreneurs to create a project based on your combined efforts. Choose a business/es that compliments what you have to offer for a win win scenario. Skills and talents are meant to be shared and learned; by grouping together you accomplish all sorts of short and long term tasks. It's also a great way to save time, money all while networking.
April 28, 2010
What is Guerrilla Marketing?
Guerrilla marketing is a technique used to generate a frenzied buzz around a product or service using unconventional promotions, loads of imagination and in most cases, a very small ad budget. The concept is to attract the maximum amount of attention with the least amount of money.
For the small business owner, guerrilla marketing is an ideal advertising solution that pushes the limits of creativity with potentially amazing end results. The goal is to develop a creative, unexpected and definitely public campaign that attracts hoards of attention! A good public disturbance, so to speak ;) such as free product giveaways, contests or the unleashing of some crazy stunt using an over sized, inanimate object. Videos can reach an international audience overnight while billboards and pictures speak volumes without having to say anything at all.
If you're lucky, you create an advertising campaign that goes viral!
Jay Conrad Levinson developed the term Guerrilla Marketing. In the following video, Jay describes his technique as "the truth made fascinating" and states that a great guerrilla marketing campaign needs to consist of "time, energy, imagination and information".
Video: What is Guerrilla Marketing? Jay Conrad Levinson...
Pics: Guerrilla Marketing campaigns in action...
For the small business owner, guerrilla marketing is an ideal advertising solution that pushes the limits of creativity with potentially amazing end results. The goal is to develop a creative, unexpected and definitely public campaign that attracts hoards of attention! A good public disturbance, so to speak ;) such as free product giveaways, contests or the unleashing of some crazy stunt using an over sized, inanimate object. Videos can reach an international audience overnight while billboards and pictures speak volumes without having to say anything at all.
If you're lucky, you create an advertising campaign that goes viral!
Jay Conrad Levinson developed the term Guerrilla Marketing. In the following video, Jay describes his technique as "the truth made fascinating" and states that a great guerrilla marketing campaign needs to consist of "time, energy, imagination and information".
Video: What is Guerrilla Marketing? Jay Conrad Levinson...
Pics: Guerrilla Marketing campaigns in action...
April 27, 2010
Tax Filing Deadline is April 30th, have you filed your taxes?
Just a quick reminder to Canadians... April 30th is the income tax filing deadline!!
Many people are under the impression that if you have a small business you don't need to file your income tax return until June 15th, period. This is incorrect!
- If the end result on your tax return states you owe Revenue Canada (the government) money, you have to both file your taxes and pay the outstanding balance by April 30th! If you do not do so, you will be charged with a late filing fee along with combined interest payable on the entire amount left outstanding.
- If the end result on your tax return states you have a zero balance owing or a refund amount coming back to you, then yes, your tax filing deadline is June 15th.
Please contact Revenue Canada; Business & Self Employment sector @ 1-800-959-5525 if you have any questions.
Remember, the onus is always on the taxpayer. Having a 'Lack of knowledge' or 'playing dumb', simply doesn't work. In the end, it's best to just file on time. Putting off the inevitable by avoidance, just prolongs the torture ;)
Many people are under the impression that if you have a small business you don't need to file your income tax return until June 15th, period. This is incorrect!
- If the end result on your tax return states you owe Revenue Canada (the government) money, you have to both file your taxes and pay the outstanding balance by April 30th! If you do not do so, you will be charged with a late filing fee along with combined interest payable on the entire amount left outstanding.
- If the end result on your tax return states you have a zero balance owing or a refund amount coming back to you, then yes, your tax filing deadline is June 15th.
Please contact Revenue Canada; Business & Self Employment sector @ 1-800-959-5525 if you have any questions.
Remember, the onus is always on the taxpayer. Having a 'Lack of knowledge' or 'playing dumb', simply doesn't work. In the end, it's best to just file on time. Putting off the inevitable by avoidance, just prolongs the torture ;)
April 19, 2010
8 Marketing Techniques to Grow your Business
The following tips, once applied, will assist your business to grow by offering reasons for current customers to stay interested while also attracting new, potential customers.
Ask yourself these two questions first:
What makes our business special?
What is our unique advantage against the competition?
Then apply these 8 Marketing Techniques to your Business...
- Continuously add new products and services to your website.
- Become an invaluable resource, the 'go to' place for your niche market.
- Assist your customer base by providing a seamless, easy to use web interface.
- Provide free information and resources pertinent to your site, your customers needs and wants.
- Remain competitive in all aspects of your business. Offer incentives to purchase with you!
- Maintain a high level of customer service, sometimes that's all that sets you apart from the others.
- Learn to adapt to changing needs within society, your customers and potential, future customers.
- Promote the benefits and end result of doing business with you ie; your guarantee, discounts, customer support, faster service, easier transactions, cheaper costs etc.
Ask yourself these two questions first:
What makes our business special?
What is our unique advantage against the competition?
Then apply these 8 Marketing Techniques to your Business...
- Continuously add new products and services to your website.
- Become an invaluable resource, the 'go to' place for your niche market.
- Assist your customer base by providing a seamless, easy to use web interface.
- Provide free information and resources pertinent to your site, your customers needs and wants.
- Remain competitive in all aspects of your business. Offer incentives to purchase with you!
- Maintain a high level of customer service, sometimes that's all that sets you apart from the others.
- Learn to adapt to changing needs within society, your customers and potential, future customers.
- Promote the benefits and end result of doing business with you ie; your guarantee, discounts, customer support, faster service, easier transactions, cheaper costs etc.
April 14, 2010
Get Satisfaction and Digital Point Forum - Two very helpful resources for both online marketers & business to business enquiries.
If you've been following my recent posts regarding various pay per post blogging options you may have found a lack of information to assist in your journey. Not from me silly ;) but from the actual companies themselves. It took me a few searches and some backtracking to finally realize that all the help I need is found on the website Get Satisfaction.
Get Satisfaction is an online community of fellow bloggers, tweeters, users, consumers and companies sharing and expressing themselves with help, advice, thoughts and opinions.
For example; IZEA connects bloggers with advertisers via SocialSpark, Sponzai, IZEA etc. When the bloggers and the advertisers require assistance to perform their required tasks the faq's and help sections aren't broad enough to cover the huge spectrum of questions. Hence, Get Satisfaction which connects IZEA, their platforms, bloggers, advertisers and even the end consumer together, within a community. From a business to business perspective, this community helps to reduce support costs for companies by enabling customers and users to get answers from each other first, in a public forum type of setting. Questions and answers are archived and easily searchable by everyone.
Digital Point Forums has been a huge wealth of information for me as an online marketer and entrepreneur. There are thousands of searchable questions and answers along with what I feel to be a very helpful like minded community. If you find you have questions regarding affiliate opportunities, Google Adwords or Adsense, search engine optimization, social networks, link development, ecommerce, domain names, adult sites, copy writing and legal issues.
Get Satisfaction is an online community of fellow bloggers, tweeters, users, consumers and companies sharing and expressing themselves with help, advice, thoughts and opinions.
For example; IZEA connects bloggers with advertisers via SocialSpark, Sponzai, IZEA etc. When the bloggers and the advertisers require assistance to perform their required tasks the faq's and help sections aren't broad enough to cover the huge spectrum of questions. Hence, Get Satisfaction which connects IZEA, their platforms, bloggers, advertisers and even the end consumer together, within a community. From a business to business perspective, this community helps to reduce support costs for companies by enabling customers and users to get answers from each other first, in a public forum type of setting. Questions and answers are archived and easily searchable by everyone.
Digital Point Forums has been a huge wealth of information for me as an online marketer and entrepreneur. There are thousands of searchable questions and answers along with what I feel to be a very helpful like minded community. If you find you have questions regarding affiliate opportunities, Google Adwords or Adsense, search engine optimization, social networks, link development, ecommerce, domain names, adult sites, copy writing and legal issues.
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