internet is increasingly developing into a source of news and information. Even now have beaten the other media except television as the primary source of national and international news. So is the survey conducted by the Pew Research Center for the People and the Press in the United States in December.
40 percent of respondents admitted that they obtain national and international news from the Internet, jumped 20 percent compared to September 2007. For the first time since the survey was held, people said that they mostly rely on the Internet as a news source, compared with a newspaper, which is only 35 percent of respondents selected. Television, still the most superior as the main source of information, which is chosen by 70 percent of respondents.
Trends in the Internet as a source of primary information applies to the young. Nearly 6 out of 10 respondents aged under 30 or rather 59%, stated that they have national and international news online. Meanwhile, the same percentage also said the television. Earlier, in September 2007, 68% said the main news source is television, the Internet compared to 34%.
Among the news of the most widely observed by the public include the financial crisis, rising fuel prices some time ago, the problem bailout, and the U.S. Presidential Election.
Shows the percentage of young people who make it big in the internet as a source of information. This is probably because they are also more active in the Internet and utilize the latest technology. In contrast to their older, perhaps more like the conservative media like television.
Now the news and information circulating on the Internet not only through the news portals only. Starting from emails, blogs to social networking sites played a big part in spreading news and information quickly. Through Twitter, for example, people can directly distribute updates in a few seconds and then immediately spread throughout the world. Then, bookmarking sites like Digg, Delicious and others also play an active role in the spread of news and information important.
So this shows that it is not possible in the next few years, Internet and television roles become equal as the main source of information. In fact, the Internet has a big chance to beat television, given the increasing trend. Estimated, with more and more Internet users around the world, the Internet's role in life will also become increasingly large
Jumat, 23 Oktober 2009
Internet : one of main information sources
Why Google Sacrifice 6 Service?
Label: business zone, technologyInternet giant, Google, also became one of the victims of the economic crisis now engulfing the world. After announcing that they will do layoffs to 100 people and closed some branches. Google also decided to lay off six of their services. 6 service include Dodgeball, Google Catalog Search, Google Mashup Editor, Google Notebook, and Jaiku. One more, Google will remove the ability of users to upload videos on Google Video. This step for efficiency but also for the sake of focus.
Dodgeball
Dodgeball is a service which allows users to convey a message to his friends when he was located at a location close to them, so that might be arranged a meeting. However, this service is only useful if the user's friends are listed in Dodgeball.
Dodgeball was acquired by Google in 2005, but unfortunately not much cared for Google with serious consequences in the year 2007 the two founders of Dodgeball quit Google.
Google Catalog Search
Google Catalog Search, launched in 2001 is a Google service that allows users to search for various product catalogs. However, this service was not too popular. Even so, the technology developed for the Google Catalog is the basis of the Google Book Search
Google Mashup Editor
Google Mashup Editor is a set of tools that allows developers to create web applications and combine them with other Google services like Google Maps and Google Base. Google Mashup Editor is currently in closed beta testing phase. The possibility of this service is stopped because most of the functions already available in the Google App Engine. Thus, the Google Mashup Editor users can switch to Google App Engine.
Google Notebook
Google Notebook, which is similar to Google Docs just more simple, would not be dismissed completely. It's just that, Google will continue its development and there will be no features that increase. This service will be maintained, especially since a lot of users. The reason for this development does not proceed is because Google has other services that offer seruipa functions, such as Google Docs, SearchWiki, Tasks Gmail and Google Bookmarks. However, many argue that these services have not really match the Google Notebook.
Jaiku
Jaiku, which is social networking with a fate similar to Dodgeball, which is less developed post-acquisition. Jaiku shape similar to Twitter, which is a micro-blogging service, but has other advantages such as can import feeds from other services. Google acquired Jaiku in October 2007, but then Google closed the registration for new accounts. In the future, Jaiku will not shut down completely, but uses code that will be open source and entered into the Google Code.
Google Video
Google Video service also will not close completely, but only the possibility the user to upload a new video. Moreover, Google now has a Youtube that much more popular. Google this step simply because they want the focus to the search engines, thus helping users to find videos that they want, such as Google expressed in this blog.
In focus, sometimes we need to sacrifice some things that may deviate from the intended focus. That's what Google is doing now. Just Google it seems necessary to better listen to customers, because Google Notebook was so popular and caused many to lose.
Minggu, 18 Oktober 2009
Countries with the Biggest Economic Gaps
As we all know that the level of economic equality become a socioeconomic reality that happened many countries. This is what the basis for UNDP to conduct research on the countries assessed to have the largest gap of economic disparities in the world. In determining the assessment of the countries that enter into these categories, based on the consideration of the UNDP to measure the Gini coefficient. Where the coefficient of aggregate inequality is measured starting from zero up to a level based on the spread of economic inequality.
Hong Kong and Singapore First and Second Ranks
The sidelines of the number of appreciation for the economic growth in both countries, apparently did not fully deliver positive news. Based on data derived from the UNDP survey, Hong Kong is ranked first as the country has the world's largest economic gap. Gini coefficient values recorded by the survey at the level of 43.4 points. With the spread of income between the rich by 34.9 points and poor by 2 points. The high economic growth is reflected in developments in various sectors including real estate and exports become a mainstay of Hong Kong so far does not seem to be enjoyed by the people of Hong Kong. Problematic developed countries apparently being hit Hong Kong today.
The second country after Hong Kong which have the predicate as a country with the largest economic gap occupied by Singapore. One of countries have positive growth after a hit by the global economic crisis has recorded scores for the Gini coefficient of 42.5 points. Meanwhile, the poor distribution has a score of 1.9 and a score for the community with the economic level of the upper class or the rich having a score of 32.8. Results that have been surveyed by the UNDP berbading apparently negative economic growth of countries where trade is in the third quarter and an increase of 14.5%.
United States in the Third Rank
The world's largest industrialized nations the U.S. is apparently not lost on the rows into a country that has the largest gap of economic disparities in the world is USA. State led by Barrack Obama has recorded in the third sequence in which the Gini coefficient score of 40.8 points gained, with the spread between the poor is worth 1.9 points and the value for distribution of rich people have a value of 29.9. The position of the U.S. experienced worse when compared with the results of a survey conducted by UNDP in the last year, where the U.S. could be in position 5.
The impact of the economic crisis is predicted to continue until next year where it will surely affect the economy of middle-class people down a very Sanat hit and is also expected to further increase the quantity of poor people in the U.S..
Other industrialized nations belonging to the survey conducted by the UNDP is the United Kingdom that entered into the 7th position with a value of the Gini coefficient by 36 points. Gini coefficient values of poor people as much as 2.1 points was recorded, whereas for rich people as much as 28.5.
Other Asian countries into Japan this survey is located at position 27 with a score of 24.9 for the Gini coefficient points. Comparison of the Gini coefficient of poor people in Japan was recorded at 4.8 points, while the Gini coefficient for the rich people in Japan worth 21.7 points.
Rabu, 16 September 2009
Why Starting business in Singapore?
Here is Top 3 reason why Singapore is a great place to set up your business.
1. A Favourable Business Climate
According to the Ministry of Trade & Industry (MTI), there is an estimated 6,000 Multi National Corporations (MNCs) in Singapore. Many of these MNCs have chosen Singapore as the prime location of their Asia Pacific headquarters due to its positive business climate. For example, the World Bank's Doing Business 2009 Report ranked Singapore as the world's easiest place to do business, ahead of New Zealand, United States and Singapore's closest competitor, Hong Kong. The EIU Country Forecast published in February 2008 also rated Singapore as having the best business environment in Asia Pacific and third in the world. These rankings by independent bodies are reflective of the Singapore Government's efforts in providing efficient public sector services that support the private sector growth.
2. Highly Educated Workforce
Singapore boasts one of the most educated workforces in the world. Literacy rate stands at a formidable 96%. 89.6% of resident non students aged 25-39 have secondary or higher qualifications. A further significant testament to the huge importance placed on education, the Singapore Government invested S$7,298.1 million in education in 2008. This comes up to 25.5% of total government operating expenditure, making education the second highest expenditure after security and defence. In addition, Singapore's two long established universities, the National University of Singapore (NUS) and Nanyang Technological University (NTU) also rank favourably on various university ranking surveys.
3. World Class Transportation System
Singapore's Changi International Airport has three heavily used terminals serving over 80 international airlines flying to more than 190 cities in 160 countries. Changi International Airport also handles more than 4,500 arrivals and departures weekly, 37.7 million passengers and 1.85million tonnes of air freight in 2008.
With the high cost of owning private transportation, public transportation is efficient, frequent and spans every far reaching corner of the island. Singaporeans flock to the 70 railway stations of the Singapore's Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) system which has a daily ridership of 1.564 million. The two public bus companies with a fleet of 3,600 single and double decker air-conditioned buses transport nearly 3.12 million daily passenger trips safely to 295 routes islandwide.
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Minggu, 09 Agustus 2009
Google VS Apple
Most of giant companies that compete each other in the technology sector has been the face and the trends shaping the market technology sector, which in turn determine what products will be widely used by both consumers and companies.
History records some of which have participated in shaping the condition of the technology at this time. In the 1980s, the competition between Microsoft and Apple. In an1990-era property giant Bill Gates back to compete with IBM, and in an 2000-era Microsoft dealing with Google. Towards a new decade in 2010-an, virulent form of competition between two giants, Google and Apple. Timpano blown war after the CEO of Google, Eric Schmidt lift the foot from the board of directors of Apple. War was officially opened on 3 August 2009.
Revenue growth, increase in stock prices is something that continues to be by Apple and Google. in the last decade, the company has achieved many successes and the most influence on the economy. Apple and Google are two companies that will be very innovative, but with a very innovative approach to back-off, as it is said Henry Chesbrough, the director of the Center for Innovation pen at the University of California.
Google is the web standard for the open secure. Programmers are allowed to run almost all software tools in almost hardware. In Google's perspective, means that more is better - as long as the program of course, hardware, and web site has a place for advertising on-line Google.
While the point of view of 180 degrees different from Apple with Google. This company is very careful so the ecosystem of software development such as company want. Apple is also very concerned about the control set and super-tight against the software that allowed for the products they use, such as the iPhone.
Apple and Google also have a different approach to the hardware of computer. Google search for as many companies producing hardware tools to create mobile phones and other devices that can be used for the Android OS made them, and perhaps will also do the same OS so Chrome has been officially released.
During this time the difference between the two companies is a little barriering with Eric Schmidt in the Apple board of directors, since 2006. In response to Schmidt decision to withdraw from the board of directors of Apple, Steve Jobs said that Schmidt is a priceless asset that is not for the company. Unfortunately along with the Google into Apple's core business, with Androdi and Chrome, the effectiveness of Schmidt as a board of directors of Apple to be decreased because the remote had not attended in several important meetings in order to avoid the conflict of interest.
Readmore... »»
Sabtu, 01 Agustus 2009
Most peaceful states in the world in 2009
Peace is the embodiment of the prosperity. In 2005 Australia enterpreneur, Steve Kilelea create an index to measure a country of peace. Currently, the Global Peace Index (GPI) to measure 144 countries based on 23 indicators to rank any country which is the most peaceful country in the world. Importance for a business? This can determine the countries that are relatively safe and at the same time reflect the conditions of economic prosperity of these countries.
Countries with income per capita 28.900 U.S. dollars in the year 2008 as the most peaceful country in the world to this epidemic in 2009 after successfully obtaining the highest number in the measurement of GPI. With the unemployment rate of only 4.1%, countries in the South Pacific island that has 4 million people is considered as an example of the ethnic differences can and is a state of peace. New Zealand to obtain nice title is caused by the relationship between the native Maori people with the white settler population.
Denmark and Norway Share Runner-Up Position
Denmark position for the second most peaceful country in the world in 2009, this position has been successfully placed for 2 consecutive years. As other Scandinavian countries, Denmark has good relations with neighboring countries and has a high crime is relatively low. This is fair enough because the 1.8% unemployment rate and income per capita 62.140 U.S. dollars, this country has a high level of prosperity.
Norway shares the position of runner-up with the neighbors, Denmark. Country is rich with natural resources, oil, and natural gas. Countries with per capita income equal to 93.759 dollars in the year 2008 has unemployment rate of 2.6%. The Norwegian government to provide residents social safety net programs such as health insurance. The country is also known very democratic values and get the perfect 10 points, for the general election process, political participation, freedom and the public.
The Champion years ago, Iceland, had come down to three ranking positions in the 4 years is 20,009. Countries with per capita income of 52.390 U.S. dollars and 1.6% unemployment rate is forced to submit trofi champion of New Zealand after the storm crisis a years ago. Industry investment bank which is the main motor 900% increase in stock exchanges in the period 2003 - 2007 collapse due to global financial crisis. This situation has resulted in action demonstration of the victims of violence and cause injury (there is no sacrifice of the soul), and the coalition government to collapse in January 2009 ago. Although the incidence of this incident-GPI is still determined that this country is one of the most peaceful in the world.
Japan, Asian tiger
This country just place by China's state with the largest GDP of the world after the U.S.. The country is facing the most severe recession since the second world war due to the global financial crisis that the export sector.But in fact the country is still as one of the most peaceful country in the world. The only Asian representative in the ranking of 10. To fulfill the position 7, a country with per capita income of 38.580 U.S. dollars and the unemployment rate of 4% is a country with high crime and murder the lowest in the world. The country is the main export product is high-technology products and fish.
Sabtu, 27 Juni 2009
three business options
There are new business opportunities available online each and every day. The internet marketplace is the largest in the world and only continues to grow. With the current state of the economy it has grown even faster as more and more people turn to it for a backup income and financial security. If you're looking to get your online career started but aren't sure exactly where to start, here are three of many popular ways to get involved.
Network marketing, also known as multi-level marketing (MLM) is a great way to get started because you can learn the ins and outs of the internet business world and generate an income while you're doing it. The way it works is that you sell the company's product and recruit new distributors to also sell the product and they do the same. You make a commission from your sales and all the sales of everyone recruited under you. There are many companies to choose from and not all of them are legitimate so it's important to do your research and choose a business that sells a valuable product, has been around for a while, boasts a duplicable marketing and training system and has strong leadership.
A second popular option is direct sales. Unlike MLM, with direct sales you do not recruit distributors and you make all the sales yourself. However, the products are usually high end and priced much higher, and you make a much larger commission. With most companies you get the product straight from the wholesaler at cost and sell it to the consumer at retail. The benefit of doing direct sales online, like with MLM, is that you can use technology to your advantage and set your system on autopilot to automatically generate orders and take customer information.
If you're not interested in getting involved with an existing online company you may want to try freelancing. Many companies, especially with so many layoffs, outsource several services to freelancers. If you have a talent or skill that businesses or people need such as writing, photography, graphic design, HR consulting or even cake decorating, you can create a website and easily become the CEO of your own personal business.
The internet is the one job market that never runs dry because it provides an open platform for you to create the career you've always dreamed of.
Source:
http://www.wealthoutcomes.com
Jumat, 01 Mei 2009
Why we Choosing Outsource?
Outsourcing has become an invaluable business strategy in the recent times. Business enterprises and entrepreneurs both, make use of outsourcing to enhance their business proceedings. They choose to outsource their business operations when they lack the necessary knowledge, skills, equipments to complete the tasks themselves or just cant afford to devote quality time to the same. This is the prime advantage of outsourcing, where you can hire service providers to complete the chores that you cannot do by yourself.
Generally, entrepreneurs and business enterprises do have the tools and softwares and knowledge to process their business operations themselves. When you are running a business, you might as well have skills and equipments to complete the various processes involved. This becomes even more important about the core business processes. However, it still makes sense to outsource certain tasks even if you are self sufficient in completing them at your end.
Outsourcing works on the concept of comparative advantage. Businesses might have all the requisite tools and knowledge and time for the tasks but outsourcing still would be an advantageous option. You just need to know the right time to outsource.
When you need to Save Money There are times when businesses and entrepreneurs need professional services of some kind but are unable to afford the costs of an in-house employee or a professional freelancer. This is when you can outsource the work to offshore service providers, the services of whom come at a considerably cheaper rate. You don't necessarily have to choose the cheapest option. Rather, you should focus on selecting the most cost competitive one where you get the best of services for the most competitive rates. Even if the hourly rates of offshore providers are the same as in-house employees, you will still save on all the costs associated with payroll, taxes, benefits and legal expenses.
When you need On-Time Delivery Businesses also go through times when they are at their bursting points and when you need to refuse client requests and projects because you are unable to complete all the projects by yourself. Or even if you are able to complete it that is because you work 24 X 7 and slog yourself. Instead of losing out on business opportunities, what you can do is outsource the task to third party service providers and continue making money and building your client base. It is very important to have a strong network of reliable vendors, especially so if your business has a fluctuating workload. When there is increased workload, you can simply contact your vendors for assistance. Moreover, you also have a back-up in case any unforeseen circumstances come in that may delay the project past the destined deadline. And not meeting deadlines is a huge blow to your business credibility.
When you need to Complete More Work As business owners you would like to know about all the aspects of your business and complete more and more work in the least possible time. This is where outsourcing comes in. by outsourcing the non-peripheral works to an external service provider, you would be able to concentrate on the core competencies of your business and accomplish more in less time.
Kamis, 23 April 2009
Project Management - Why a Project Initiation Document is so Important in a Successful Project
Many people perceive that generating reams of documentation such as plans and reports are the key to delivering a successful project.. As experienced Project Managers will tell you, this is rarely the case except when it comes to the creation of one piece of project documentation; namely the Project Initiation Document.
Essentially the Project Initiation Document is the key reference document for a project. Think of it as the project "Bible" which will be constantly referred to throughout the project lifecycle when questions of scope and delivery approach are raised.
It is a project document in which is detailed everything related to the project such as:
* Project Definition
* Business Case which details why the project should be done
* Scope of what the Project is delivering
* Strategy to deliver the project
* Project Team structure and Governance
* Communications Plan
* Quality Plan
* Project Risks, Issues and Assumptions
* Project Controls
* Project Budget
* High Level Project Plan
* Project Exceptions criteria
External observers often think that Project Manager's fears about project scope are overdone, but scope creep is without a doubt one of the major reasons why projects fail. Anyone who has experienced a flood of Project Change Requests throughout a project will attest to that!
However having a detailed and accurate Project Initiation Document tends to stop the majority of such problems for the simple reason that when Business Stakeholders try to change Scope, it is easy to refer them back to the Project Initiation Document. Further since this document will have been formally Approved by the Project Stakeholders and other interested parties, it is hard for anyone to say that they didn't know what the project was going to be delivering.
It is for this reason that a Project Manager should spend time on what is admittedly not a straightforward nor simple document to write. The problem is that all too often Project Managers are tempted to skim over this document in their desire to get the project started as soon as possible to meet extremely tight deadlines. However by doing this they are simply storing up problems for the future and the very real possibility that they are initiating a project which will have no chance of succeeding.
So to give a project the best chance of successfully delivering, it pays to devote time to getting the Project Initiation Document written correctly and approved by all the Project Stakeholders to ensure the project approach and scope is agreed upfront.
sources:
http://www.my-project-management-expert.com/
www.wikipedia.com
Senin, 23 Februari 2009
17 Ideas You Can Steal to Grow Your Business Without Spending Money. by Liz Walker
This week we're sharing what we call "ideas to steal". They are all real-life ideas from successful businesses — action steps you can pick up and run with right away, without having to research, test or otherwise delay implementing. And, you don't need to spend money to do them.
Pick three that you can sink your teeth into, and don't hesitate to contact us if you want more information or help implementing them — these days we all have to work together.
- Bill faster. Your receivables can count for 40 - 50% of your actual assets. Don't batch invoice: bill as soon as you can.
- Simplify your business. Weed out the unprofitable and the hard-to-sell.
- Simplify your marketing message.
- Get your business and your web site listed in relevant directories. To find directories, Google the name of your town plus "directories url" (e.g. "cobourg directories url").
- Learn to delegate. Figure out what you do that turns dollars. Then delegate the rest.
- Encourage employees to explore more efficient approaches to their tasks instead of relying on their standard way of doing things.
- Don't forget suppliers. They might not be on your payroll, but they are more apt to do a few things for you at no charge because you really take care of them.
- Work faster. If you can condense three four-month jobs into three three-month jobs, you can do one more job in the year.
- Reward your team for meeting budgets and time lines. A 5% bonus is cheaper than a 20% increase in costs.
- Cut overhead by automating most of the non-producing items like accounting, customer care, voice mail, sales reporting, ordering and record keeping.
- Make sure you've clearly outlined project scope, and don't be afraid to charge your customer for changes.
- Offer to be a spokesperson on your specialty when your local media need an expert opinion. Send them a relevant press release every month.
- Give something valuable away on your web site; at your front counter; when you send out your invoices; when you deliver goods. This should be free to you, but valuable to the recipient, for example, coupons or a "How To".
- Highlight offers, features, promotions and news in your email footers, invoices and letter signatures.
- Start accounts with Twitter.com, Facebook.com and LinkedIn.com and post articles.
- Go where your audience is on the web. If your potential audience hangs out on forums, then post to those forums. Become a trusted advisor.
- Get your supporters to refer you.
author
Marketing Masters, Ken & Liz are Duct Tape Marketing Authorized Coaches and authors of The Buzz. http://www.marketingmasters.ca
Jumat, 20 Februari 2009
Become a Manager in 7 Easy Steps (and Get Yourself Out of the Detail of a Subject)
One of the biggest challenges when moving up the career ladder is knowing how to give up control of the 'detail', i.e. influence and decision making of technical subject matters. To some people, it's losing their edge - their very basis of power and expertise. This can be a big misconception, particularly by those people who are already feeling the pull towards management and leadership positions.
Have you been through this journey yourself?
Breaking out of this mindset can take a long time, yet it can be achieved by eventually realizing that having a strong understanding of the concepts of a subject, and how to make it sound sensible and accessible to the layman, is even more powerful. Our role must be able to influence people outside of our subject matter. Decisions of funding, risk management and acceptance of business cases are generally performed by other people in our organization, so it is these people that we must learn to appeal to and build relationships with.
There are seven steps to take that will take use through this journey from subject-matter expert into a manager.
1) Understand the overall concept and value of a subject,
2) Know how it fits into the big picture and the business environment,
3) Develop messages and models that articulate its value to our organization,
4) Learn how our subject matter impacts other departments in our organization,
5) And how it is influenced by the work of other departments,
6) Understand its costs to our organization and our customers, and
7) Learn how to describe it in simple, plain language
This is the most powerful application of a subject!
It takes a brave person to make these steps, and confidence is the key. We don't really leave our subject behind, rather, we learn how to make use of it in the wider business context and demonstrate its value to colleagues outside of our department. It is then that we can manage our subjects as a Manager.
The author of this article Simon Stapleton is a coach helping Information Technology professionals with their Career Development, Commercial Development and Personal Development. His website http://www.simonstapleton.com
Starting a Business with 7 things
Label: business zone, marketing1) Why are you starting up a business?
Setting up a business is a time intensive task - you need to be dedicated and focused in order to be successful. The rewards of starting up your own business can be great, but think carefully if you have the attributes and right sort of personality to cope with going it alone. What is your goal for starting a business? Is it financial reward or the freedom that comes from being your own boss? What is your motivation?
2) Skills
Identify your skills and particularly your weaknesses. Be honest and ask others for input. If you are less hot in certain areas, outsource these areas of the business or seek professional advice when you need it. Spend your time doing what you are good at.
3) Company Structure
You will need to decide what business structure you will trade under (sole trader, limited company, or partnership) and what obligations and responsibilities you will have as the owner of a new business.
4) Funding
Even if you have the best idea in the world, you are unlikely to make a killing instantly. Make sure you have enough money to live on for 6 to 12 months before committing yourself to self-employment. Alternatives include approaching the bank or an investor. Both these options will require a solid business plan.
5) Competition
Thoroughly research all your competitors. Identify weaknesses they may have and try to ensure your product or service is better. Competition is a very healthy thing, but you need to do constant research and never be complacent.
6) Marketplace
Make sure that there is a market for your product or service. Do plenty of market research and take notice of what your potential customers tell you. You can get very useful feedback that will improve your product or service.
7) Marketing
How are you going to reach you target market? The best product in the world will fail if it has no route to market. Think about your ideal customer - what do they do? What do they read? Where do they go? If you can answer these questions you will begin to identify the best places to advertise.
The author of this article is Tref Griffiths who is the CEO of the online speed-networking website http://www.networkology.com
Kamis, 12 Februari 2009
The Top 7 Overlooked E-bay Success Tips
Last year alone, millions of people made a profit on e-bay. Some were just selling odds and ends, while some ran huge businesses exclusively on e-bay. The amount of commerce done on the internet is only expected to increase, making prospects for e-bay users bright. You very well may be one of the people who's discovered the great benefits of making money from e-bay auctions. I myself have been an e-bay user for a little over a year and have had great success with my auctions.
When my friend began her business on e-bay selling high end purses, it started out quite rocky. Her auctions weren't getting the hits she wanted and usually sold off of one bid, instead of creating the bidding frenzy that beautiful bags like she had should have!
So, she called me up knowing I had been successfully using e-bay for almost a year at the time. She gave me her login information (we're best friends- she trusts me!) and asked me to check her her sales and current auctions and see if I noticed where the problem was. When I saw her current auctions, alot became obvious!
So, I compiled a list of things that I had used which had made me successful which I suggested she implement into her own auctions. I even revised the auctions she had active at the time. One of those auctions- a gorgeous brown Coach purse- sold for $546.00. She had listed it for $125.00. It was her biggest sale yet and she was thrilled.
The funny thing is, the methods I use are not some internet guru secrets. They are just things I picked up during my time using e-bay, but seem to be overlooked alot of the time. Here are what I have found to be the top 7 overlooked tips for successful e-bay auctions:
1. The Importance of a Good Title- When you're creating a title for your auction, you've gotta think like a buyer. When I checked my friend's listings, she had a beautiful, brand new brown patchwork Coach purse titled as 'coach purse'. This is way too general! A buyer knows what they want; in your title, include color, any brand name, main keywords that people will search, and condition is possible. I changed her title to "Brown & Beige Patchwork Coach Purse-Brand New". By the next day, it had over 100 new hits. Previously her auctions were hardly even reaching 100 hits throughout the whole 5 days.
Another mistake people often make is writing things like 'The best wristwatch ever!!!!" Even if you do believe you're selling the best wristwatch ever, is this really what a buyer is searching for? Of course not. Use a more descriptive, detailed title like 'Gold Armani Wrist Watch w/ Leather Band-New".
One more thing when it comes to titles: make sure keywords are included. For example, whatever the item you're selling actually IS, include that in the title. On e-bay, I mostly sell high end women's heels. I always make sure to include in my title 'Womens Shoes" because this is a common keyword. An example of a title I would use is:
"Brown Marc Jacobs Womens Silver Stud Pumps Shoes"- I know that 'pumps shoes' sounds awkward, but many women will search for "marc jacobs womens shoes", and I want to be sure my item shows up in the results. Use these tips when creating your title and you'll be sure to see increased traffic to your auction.
2. Give honest descriptions- Sure, that stain, tear, or other defect may be sooo small that it's almost impossible to notice. Still, mention it in your auction. If you send an item out and a buyer realizes that the item has a defect that you didn't mention in the auction description, they will be disappointed and very possibly leave you negative feedback. Anyone familiar with e-bay knows that feedback is everything. It is what makes people feel comfortable buying from you and proves that you are a trustworthy, reliable buyer.
It's best to provide a photo of any defects so potential buyers can see what they're getting. And believe me, if you say that there's a defect but don't show a picture, people will e-mail you asking for some. I have sometimes had a defect so tiny on a shoe that I couldn't even get it to show up in a picture. If that's the case, say it! Provide a picture of the area where the defect is and also explain in your listing that it's so miniscule that you can't get it to show up in the picture. Buyers will trust you much more and be way more willing to buy from you in the future. You also won't have to deal with an unsatisfied customer who can damage your feedback rating and make future potential buyers hesitant or even completely dissaude them from buying from you.
3. Offer International Shipping- So often I see sellers who are providing great products but don't offer international shipping. Let me tell you- about 30% of my sales are to international buyers, and very often international buyers will pay more for products. I never understood why people are restraining their own sales potential by not offering international shipping.
Remember, the buyer is the one who pays the shipping, not you!! Even though international shipping is expensive, you are not paying it! And don't be discouraged thinking sending things internationally is difficult- it's super simple and not much different then sending things within the country. If you use USPS (the method I find most efficient for prices and service), you may have to fill out a short customs sheet that takes no more than a minute. Don't be lazy! Offer international shipping and see your sales soar!
4. Send a Thank You card with your purchase- You can get packs of black decorative cards from any general store, WalMart, or even discount chains like TJ Maxx. Buy a couple packs and with people's packages, send a nice thank you card.
You don't have to write a dialog, just a simple "Name of Buyer, Thanks so much for your bid! Enjoy your purchase, and I hope to do business with you in the future! Your Name or Business Name" If you want to really go all out and rake in some super feedback, include a small free gift. When I sell a pair of shoes I usually include a free headband or pair of earrings. If you'd like to try this out, try to find something that compliments whatever it is that you're selling. You could also include a little bag of candy or some tea light candles (go to the dollar store for great knick knacks and free gift ideas). Use your imagination to make your customers satisfied and loyal!
5. Offer combined shipping Buyers love combined shipping. If you offer a good combined shipping deal, and have more than one item they're interested in, they're ten times more likely to buy both items. Some people choose to determine combined shipping depending upon the two items the buyer is interested in, while others have set shipping rules. A good example is to charge $_.__ for the first item and offer to send the second item free, or for $1.00-$2.00 more. Usually the additional weight of the package isn't much so it's possible to offer combined shipping without losing any profit at all. Determine your own rates depending on the weight of the items you sell and the shipping service you use.
6.Keep communication with Buyers open and offer more pictures upon request. Of course in your listing you must include good pictures to attract buyers. Most people include 2-4 pictures per listing, depending on the size of the items and any special details you've got to show. I always include at least 3 pictures, and more if I feel the item needs more pictures of some detail it has that is unique.
Even though you have already provided your buyers with good pictures, it's helpful to write in your listing "Contact me with any questions or for more pictures. (with your contact info)" This is another method that makes buyers instantly trust you more and feel more comfortable placing bids. They feel that the communication lines are open and that they can get more info on the item if needed. And don't be discouraged thinking that you'll spend the whole day responding to e-mails requesting more photos; If you've already included good pictures, most people won't bother asking for more. Of over 50 listings where I've written this, only one person ever asked me for additional pictures. Check your e-mail though at least once a day to see if you've got any questions, people love quick responses and will reward you with good feedback for your effective communication.
7. Always use Delivery Confirmation- This is a biggie! Make sure that when you post your shipping costs, delivery confirmation costs are included so buyers aren't questioning the extrra expense when they receive their invoice. Delivery confirmation is a cheap effective way to ensure both your own and the buyer's investment.
First of all, you do not want to get scammed. What? Scammed? Yes, it happens. I know that most of the scamming referred to on e-bay is about sellers who scam their buyers, but don't be naive; we sellers are also at risk. Although the majority of the e-bay community is good people who are just trying to conduct legitimate transactions, there are those rotten apples which make it hard for all of us.
The usefulness of delivery confirmation was brought to my attention my an acquaintence of mine who does some selling on e-bay. He sold some very high quality digital remote for around $250.00. He shipped the item using delivery confirmation, and after about a week told me he received an e-mail from the buyer saing she'd never received the product. She filed a whole complaint with e-bay and made a big fuss about it. GOOD THING he had the delivery confirmation number and was able to prove that the product had been shipped to her address. Don't let one of these scammers get a chance to cheat you out of your money.
Making delivery confirmation a requirement is also something that will make serious bidders trust you more and see that you're a legitimate business person who wants to secure shipment. Think about it; if someone requests NOT to use delivery confirmation, you can guess where their intentions are. The extra .75 is not breaking anyone's piggy bank, so don't feel bad about it.
There you have it! Use these highly useful yet highly overlooked tips to generate more traffic to your auctions and enjoy higher sale prices. To e-bay success!
Check out http://www.freelancemommystudio.com for more e-bay and work at home tips and programs!
Copyright Jamie Sloan 2008, Re-use of this article is permitted along with author's name and link to website http://www.freelancemommystudio.com
Rabu, 04 Februari 2009
How To Write A Successful Business Plan
Whether you are planning to start a brand-new business, expand an existing company, or get financing for a business venture, you will need to write a business plan. A business plan not only lends your business a sense of credibility, but also helps you to cover all your bases, increasing your chances of success.
Although writing a business plan can be a lengthy, intimidating project, it is not necessarily difficult. Here is an overview of how to write a successful business plan.
What to Include in Your Business Plan
Your business plan needs to demonstrate that you have thoroughly considered all aspects of running your business. To that end, the standard business plan has nine major sections, covering everything from your business’s mission statement to a detailed financial analysis.
Executive Summary
The first – and most important – section of your business plan is the executive summary. This section is so important that it should literally be the first thing the reader sees – even before the table of contents! However, it should also be written last, as you’ll have a better understanding of the overall message of your business plan after you’ve researched and written the other sections.
One of the most important parts of the executive summary is the mission statement. The mission statement is only three or four sentences long, but it should pack the most punch out of everything else in your business plan: Those four sentences are responsible for not only defining your business, but also capturing the interest of your reader.
The rest of your executive summary should fill in the important details that the mission statement glosses over. For instance, your executive summary should include a short history of the business, including founder profiles and start date; a current snapshot, listing locations, numbers of employees, and products or services offered; and a summary of future plans and goals.
This section is a candidate for a bulleted format, which allows you to list main points in a manner that is easy to scan. Avoid using too much detail – remember, this section is a summary. A page or two is usually sufficient for an executive summary.
Market Analysis
The next section of your business plan focuses on market analysis. In order to show that your business has a reasonable chance for success, you will need to thoroughly research the industry and the market you intend to sell to. No bank or investor is going to back a doomed venture, so this section is sure to fall under especially close scrutiny if you are looking for financing.
Your market analysis should describe your industry, including the size, growth rate, and trends that could affect the industry. This section should also describe your target market – that is, the type or group of customers that your company intends to serve. The description of your target market should include detail such as:
• Distinguishing characteristics
• The needs your company or product line will meet
• What media and/or marketing methods you’ll use to reach them
• What percentage of your target market you expect to be able to wrest away from your competitors
In addition, your market analysis should include the results of any market tests you have done, and an analysis of the strengths and weaknesses of your competitors.
Company Description
After your market analysis, your business plan will need to include a description of your company. This section should describe:
• The nature of your business
• The needs of the market
• How your business will meet these needs
• Your target market, including specific individuals and/or organizations
• The factors that set you apart from your competition and make you likely to succeed
Although some of these things overlap with the previous section, they are still necessary parts of your company description. Each section of your business plan should have the ability to stand on its own if need be. In other words, the company description should thoroughly describe your company, even if certain aspects are covered in other sections.
Organization and Management
Once you have described the nature and purpose of your company, you will need to explain your staff setup. This section should include:
• The division of labor – how company processes are divided among the staff
• The management hierarchy
• Profiles of the company’s owner(s), management personnel, and the Board of Directors
• Employee incentives, such as salary, benefits packages, and bonuses
This goal of this section is to demonstrate not only good organization within the company, but also the ability to create loyalty in your employees. Long-term employees minimize human resource costs and increase a business’s chances for success, so banks and investors will want to see that you have an effective system in place for maintaining your staff.
Marketing and Sales Management
The purpose of the marketing and sales section of your business plan is to outline your strategies for marketing your products or services. This section also plans for company growth by describing how the growth could take place.
The section should describe your company’s:
• Marketing methods
• Distributions methods
• Type of sales force
• Sales activities
• Growth strategies
Product or Services
Following the marketing section of your business plan, you will need a section focusing on the product or services your business offers. This is more than a simple description of your product or services, though. You will also need to include:
• The specific benefits your product or service offers customers
• The specific needs of the market, and how your product will meet them
• The advantages your product has over your competitors
• Any copyright, trade secret, or patent information pertaining to your product
• Where any new products or services are in the research and development process
• Current industry research that you could use in the development of products and services
Funding Request
Only once you have described your business from head to toe are you ready to detail your funding needs. This section should include everything a bank or investor needs in order to understand what type of funding you want:
• How much money you need now
• How much money you think you will need over the next five years
• How the money you borrow will be used
• How long you will need funding
• What type of funding you want (i.e. loans, investors, etc.)
• Any other terms you want the funding arrangement to include
Financials
The financials section in your business plan supports your request for outside funding. This section provides an analysis of your company’s prospective financial success. The section also details your company’s financial track record for the past three to five years, unless you are seeking financing for a startup business.
The financials section should include:
• Company income statements for prior years
• Balance sheets for prior years
• Cash flow statements for prior years
• Forecasted company income statements
• Forecasted balance sheets
• Forecasted cash flow statements
• Projections for the next five years – every month or quarter for the first year, with longer intervals for the remaining years
• Collateral you can use to secure a loan
The financials section is a great place to include visuals such as graphs, particularly if you predict a positive trend in your projected financials. A graph allows the reader to quickly take in this information, and may do a better job of encouraging a bank or investor to finance your business. However, be sure that the amount of financing you are requesting is in keeping with your projected financials – no matter how impressive your projections are, if you are asking for more money than is warranted, no bank or investor will give it to you.
Appendices
The appendix is the final section in your business plan. Essentially, this is where you put all of the information that doesn’t fit in the other eight sections, but that someone – particularly a bank or investor – might need to see.
For instance, the market analysis section of your business plan may list the results of market studies you have done as part of your market research. Rather than listing the details of the studies in that section, where they will appear cumbersome and detract from the flow of your business plan, you can provide this information in an appendix.
Other information that should be relegated to an appendix includes:
• Credit histories for both you and your business
• Letters of reference
• References that have bearing on your company and your product or service, such as magazines or books on the topic
• Company licenses and patents
• Copies of contracts, leases, and other legal documents
• Resumes of your top managers
• Names of business consultants, such as your accountant and attorney
Writing a Successful Business Plan
Despite the quantity of information contained in your business plan, it should be laid out in a format that is easy to read. Just like with any piece of business writing, it is important to craft your business plan with your intended audience in mind – and the bankers, investors, and other busy professionals who will read your business plan almost certainly won’t have time to read a tedious document with long-winded paragraphs and large blocks of text.
Business plans for startup companies and company expansions are typically between twenty to forty pages long, but formatting actually accounts for a lot of this length. A strong business plan uses bullet points throughout to break up long sections and highlight its main points. Visuals such as tables and charts are also used to quickly relay specific information, such as trends in sales and other financial information. These techniques ensure that the reader can skim the business plan quickly and efficiently.
Think of your audience as only having fifteen minutes to spend on each business plan that comes across their desks. In that fifteen minutes, you not only have to relay your most important points, but also convince the reader that your business venture merits a financial investment. Your best bet is a well-researched business plan, with an organized, easy-to-read format and clear, confident prose.
How to Successfully Navigate Your Business through an Economic Downturn
Label: business zoneAn economic downturn is a phase of the business cycle in which the economy as a whole is in decline.This phase basically marks the end of the period of growth in the business cycle. Economic downturns are characterized by decreased levels of consumer purchases (especially of durable goods) and, subsequently, reduced levels of production by businesses.
While economic downturns are admittedly difficult, and are formidable obstacles to small businesses that are trying to survive and grow, an economic downturn can open up opportunities. A well-managed company can realize the opportunity to gain market share by taking customers away from their competitors. Resourceful entrepreneurs capture the available opportunities, from an economic downturn, by developing alternate methods of doing business that were never implemented during a prior growth period.
The challenge of successfully navigating your business through an economic downturn lies in the realignment of your business with current economic realities. Specifically, you, as the business owner, need to renew a focus on your core clients/customers, reduce your operating expenses, conserve cash, and manage more proactively, rather than reactively, is paramount.
Here are best practices that will help you to successfully navigate your business through an economic downturn:
Goals:
The primary goal of any business owner is to survive the current economic downturn and to develop a leaner, more cost-effective and more efficient operation. The secondary goal is to grow the business even during this current economic downturn.
Objectives:
• Conserve cash.
• Protect assets.
• Reduce costs.
• Improve efficiencies.
• Grow customer base.
Required Action:
• Do not panic… History shows that economic downturns do not last forever. Remain calm and act in a rational manner as you refocus your attention on resizing your company to the current economic conditions.
• Focus on what YOU can control… Don’t let the media's rhetoric concerning recessions and economic slowdown deter you from achieving business success. It´s a trap! Why? Because the condition of the economy is beyond your control. Surviving economic downturns requires a focus on what you can control, i.e. your relevant business activities.
• Communicate, communicate, and communicate! Beware of the pitfall of trying to do too much on your own. It is a difficult task indeed to survive and to grow your business solely with your own efforts. Solicit ideas and seek the help of other people (your employees, suppliers, lenders, customers, and advisors). Communicate honestly and consistently. Effective two-way communication is the key.
• Negotiate, negotiate, and negotiate! The value of a strong negotiation skill set cannot be overstated. Negotiating better deals and contracts is an absolute must for realigning and resizing your company to the current economic conditions. The key to success is not only knowing how to develop a win-win approach in negotiations with all parties, but also keeping in mind the fact that you want a favorable outcome for yourself too.
Recommended Best Practice Activities:
The Nuts and Bolts… The following list of recommended best practice activities is critical for your business' survival and for its growth during an economic downturn. The actual financial health of your particular business, at the outset of the economic downturn, will dictate the priority and urgency of the implementation of the following best practice activities.
1. Diligently monitor your cash flow: Forecast your cash flow monthly to ensure that expenses and planned expenditures are in line with accounts receivable. Include cash flow statements into your monthly financial reporting. Project cash requirements three-to- six months in advance. The key is to know how to monitor, protect, control, and put cash to work.
2. Carefully convert your inventories: Convert excess, obsolete, and slow-moving inventory items into cash. Consider returning excess and slow-moving items back to the suppliers. Close-out or inventory reduction sales work well to resize your inventory. Also, consider narrowing your product offerings. Well-timed order placement helps to reduce excess inventory levels and occasional material shortages. The key is to reduce the amount of your inventory without losing sales.
3. Timely collection of your accounts receivable: This asset should be converted to cash as quickly as possible. Offer prompt payment discounts to encourage timely payments. Make changes in the terms of sale for slow paying customers (i.e. changing net 30 day terms to COD). Invoicing is an important part of your cash flow management. The first rule of invoicing is to do it as soon as possible after products are shipped and/or after services are delivered. Place an emphasis on reducing billing errors. Most customers delay payments because an invoice had errors, and therefore, will not pay until they receive a corrected copy. Email or fax your invoices to save on mailing time. Post the payments that you have received and make deposits more frequently. The key is to develop an efficient collection system that generates timely payments and one that gives you advance warning of problems.
4. Re-focus your attention on your existing clients/customers: Make customer satisfaction your priority. A regular review of your customers' buying history and frequency of purchases can reveal some interesting facts about your customers' buying habits. Consider signing long-term contracts with your core clients/customers which will add to your security. Offer a discount for upfront cash payments. The key is to do what it takes to keep your current customers loyal.
5. Re-negotiate with your suppliers, lenders, and landlord:
i) Suppliers: Always keep your negotiations on the level of need, saying that your company has reviewed its cost structure and has determined that it needs to lower supplier costs. . Tell the supplier that you value the relationship you have developed, but that you need to receive a cost reduction immediately. Ask your supplier for a lower material price, a longer payment cycle, and the elimination of finance charges. Also, see if you can buy material from them on a consignment basis. In return for their price concessions, be willing to agree to a long-term contract. Explore the idea of bartering as a form of payment.
ii) Lenders: Everything in business finance is negotiable and your relationship with a bank is no exception. The first step to successful renegotiations is to convince your lenders that you can ultimately pay off the renegotiated loan. You must point out to your lenders why it would be in their best interest to agree to a new arrangement. Showing them your business plan and your action plan that includes your cost-savings initiatives, along with "the how" and "the when" of the implementation of your plan is the best way to achieve this goal. Explain to them that you will need their cooperation to insure that you can survive, as well as, grow your business during the economic downturn. Negotiated items include: the rate of interest, the required security to cover the loan, and the beginning date for repayment. A beginning date for repayment could be immediate, within several months or as long as a year. The key is to realize that your lender will work with you, but that frequent and continual communications with them is critical.
iii) Landlord: Meet with your landlord. Explain your need to have them extend the term of your lease at a reduced cost. Make sure you have a clause in the lease agreement that entitles you to have the right to sublet any or all of the leased space.
6. Re-evaluate your staffing requirements: This is a very critical area. Salaries/wages are a major expense of doing business. Therefore, any reduction in the hours worked through work schedule changes, short-term layoffs or permanent layoffs has an immediate cost saving benefit. Most companies ramped up hiring new employees in the good times, only to find that they are currently overstaffed due to slow sales during the economic downturn. In terms of down-sizing your staff, be very careful not to reduce your staff to a level that forces you to skimp on customer service and quality. Consider the use of part-timers or the current trend of outsourcing certain functions to independent contractors.
7. Shop for better insurances rates: Get quotations from other insurance agents for comparable coverage to determine whether or not your present insurance carrier is competitive. Also, consider revising your coverage to reduce premium costs. The key is to have the right balance-to be adequately insured, but not under or over insured.
8. Re-evaluate your advertising: Contrary to the other cost-cutting initiatives, evaluate the possibility of increasing your advertising expenditures. This tactic realizes the advantage of the reduced "noise" and congestion (fewer advertisers) in the marketplace. The downturn period a great opportunity to increase brand awareness and create additional demand for your product/service offerings.
9. Seek the help of outside advisors: The use of an advisory board comprised of your CPA, attorney, and business consultant offers you objectivity and provides you with professional advice and guidance. Their collective experience in working with similar situations in past economic downturns is invaluable.
10. Review your other expenses: Target an across-the-board cost-cutting initiative of 10-15%. Attempt to eliminate unnecessary expenses. Tightening your belt in order to weather the downturn makes practical, financial sense.
Proactively managing your business through an economic downturn is an enormous challenge and is critical for your survival. However, through well-planned initiatives, an economic downturn can create tremendous opportunity for your company to gain greater market share. In order to take advantage of this growth opportunity, you must act quickly to implement the above best business practices to continue realigning and resizing your company to the current economic conditions.
Copyright © 2008 Terry H. Hill
You may reprint this article free of charge in your newsletter, magazine, or on your website, provided that the article is unedited, and that the copyright, author's bio, and contact information below appears with each article. Articles appearing on the web must provide a hyperlink to the author's web site, http://www.legacyai.com
Terry H. Hill is the founder and managing partner of Legacy Associates, Inc, a business consulting and advisory services firm. A veteran chief executive, Terry works directly with business owners of privately held companies on the issues and challenges that they face in each stage of their business life cycle. To find out how he can help you take your business to the next level, visit his site at http://www.legacyai.com
To download a copy of this article, click on this link: http://www.legacyai.com/Article_Downturn.html.
Selasa, 03 Februari 2009
Play the Brain Game for Gain
Our workgroup was in the middle of a spirited brainstorming session � a free form session where creativity is encouraged, judgment is suspended, and the best ideas often come after ten or more minutes. The ideas were flying fast and furious, as they should, when the group gets momentum. The energy was intoxicating. And, in a fit of inspiration, I one employee suggested, "Why don't we reverse the order of the deliverables!?"
While nine other people energetically accepted this offer as worthy of inclusion on their flip chart of ideas, their manager scowled "That will never work!"
Thus ended a productive brainstorming session. Sadly, the manager was unclear on the concept at play. She replaced a brainstorm with a brain fart and stunk up the entire process.
A Different Kind of Collaboration
Brainstorming is a special type of meeting, with its own ground rules, tempo and ethos. It's also an invaluable tool for idea generation, problem solving, innovation, teambuilding and creativity. Whether you are tasked with creating new sales contests, new strategic initiatives or simply trying to break the doldrums of your day-to-day routines, brainstorming carries the day.
Rules That Rock!
By definition, brainstorming is unlike your typical meetings. Its unbounded by traditional rules where pre-determined people speak on pre-determined subjects for prescribed times. Like a jam session of Jazz musicians, all you need to do is begin recording and let the sounds begin. Remember, the key is to record it all. Later you can go back and edit out that which might not be considered beautiful music.
In Brainstorming sessions everyone is equal, all ideas are worthy of consideration, all judgment is suspended and a person's rank or status is irrelevant. The goal is to fill the air with ideas, depart from conventional thinking, and allow the smorgasbord of strategies, ideas, inspirations and epiphanies to cross-pollinate each other. Think of brainstorming meetings as magnificent melting pots, a veritable giant stew bowl where bouillabaisse bubbles and bursts, unleashing new, exciting and innovative initiatives. Consider a skilled facilitator for best results, though this isn't a requirement.
The B-List: Preparing for Your Meeting
The following recommendations will insure a successful session, whether it's a stand-alone brainstorm or part of a larger meeting or event:
- Adorn your environment with art, toys, games, crayons, colored markers or other stimuli to get the juices flowing and invite fun, free thinking and playfulness.
- Consider special written invitations in advance to set the tone, expectations and goals for the session
- Create a mental and/or physical ice breaker to loosen everyone up.
- Consider lava lamps, beanbag chairs and even bubble-gum and bubble makers to loosen everyone up.
- Encourage participation by all
- Language is key. Use sentences such as "What if we�?", "How about�", "Let's try�", or "Suppose we�"
- Check your skepticism, negativity and ego at the door. It's not about whose ideas are embraced. All ideas should be received, for the benefit of the group your mission.
- Employ the "Yes, AND�" approach instead of a "Yes, BUT�" stance in response to others' ideas.
- Remind people to suspend judgment throughout the session
- Assign a scribe or tape record the meeting. Consider a graphic recorder. (Visit www.GraphicRecorders.com for one I recommend.)
- Allow enough time for people to loosen up. Often the best ideas occur once the group has gotten over any self-consciousness and gathered momentum
Remember, like mastermind groups, brainstorming sessions rely on the reality that when multiple brainpower is applied the results are greater than the sum of their parts. You will generate great results from the blend of talent, experience, ideas and perspectives that naturally result from giving everyone equal footing and freeing them of the usual restrictions of time, structure and rules.
By the way, what if�?
San Francisco Bay Area-based Professional speaker Craig Harrison's Expressions of Excellence!� provides sales and service solutions through speaking. For information on keynotes, training, coaching, curriculum for licensing and more, call (888) 450-0664, visit http://www.ExpressionsOfExcellence.com or E-mail excellence@craigspeaks.com for inquiries.
