Well, I can tell you this. Acquiring money is certainly tighter than it was even 3 months ago. We all know that banks have always been conservative in the practice of lending capital because the money they are lending belongs to their depositors. However, in speaking with the various banks lately, we have determined that their lending requirements have tightened up even more. In fact they are changing on a daily basis making it very difficult for even the best of us to get capital.
What does that mean for you the business owner? It means you need to make sure that both you and your business have pristine credit. For a good Fico score, the minimum use to be 680. The banks will accept that score but somewhere along the way it has increased. The banks now want a customer to have a 720 and higher for a personal credit score and at least an 80 or higher for your business credit score. The better credit profiles you have for yourself and your business the greater the odds for you to obtain that line, loan or business credit card that you're requesting.
In the past you could borrow money for a business and the credit would be extended to the LLC or the Corporation. You did not have to personally guarantee it, meaning that if something went wrong during the life of the entity and the business was unable to pay for the debts to any of the creditors and declared bankruptcy you were not held personally liable for those debts. They could not come after you for the payment. Unfortunately that is not the case any longer. Too many banks lost incredible amounts of money due to corporation bankruptcy's.
The recent home mortgage fiasco once again caused the banks to further tighten up an already tight market, requiring personal guarantees for even lesser amounts of money. That is the reason it is more difficult today for some individuals to borrow money that had no problem
even 6 months ago.
The banks are not willing to lend you funds if they feel you have the tiniest amount of risk attached. So they look at all of your outstanding debts; car payments, credit cards, mortgage payments, home improvements etc; now add to the mix any debt that you acquired on behalf of your business that you had to personally guarantee, and your debt to income ratio is over what is considered an acceptable level to receive any type of lending.
There is something that you can do to increase those odds. It's called Commercial Credit. If you are a new start-up or ongoing business you need to separate your personal credit from the business, unfortunately this cannot be done by oneself. By separating your credit you appear to be less of a risk to lenders, vendors and other companies wanting to do business with you. It shows that you have made a commitment for the long haul, that you take your business seriously, not as a hobby or on a part-time basis, which will then open the doors to financial opportunities that would not be available without business credit.http://EzineArticles.com/?
Read More ..
Sabtu, 28 Februari 2009
ISO9000 - Quality Management and Economic Downturn
You may have read the title of this article as being relevant to the introduction of the new ISO 900 standard [ISO9001:2008], whereas the intention is to try to protect the integrity of audit and quality management in a time of economic downturn.
While business is prospering there is always a tendency to over populate an organisation, or put another way to find reasons to support activities that might otherwise be considered to be of doubtful value. I guess there may be readers who respond with 'if only', but regardless of any specific meanness of spirit by specific management teams, the generality of the assertion remains true. But then come the lean times, whether general as now, or organisation specific. Besides the unfortunates who just simply go out of business, the usual response of management dealing with reduced business is to decrease expenses.
Unfortunately the simplest costs to recognise and decrease rarely achieve the objective of improving the business performance. Staff cutbacks result in decreased output, but the overhead expenses don't change. Travel, for those who remain employed is severely cut back, so sales and marketing efforts are reduced just as more, not less, orders are needed. And then there is the selection of staff to 'let go'. Here my concern is for the impact on the organisation's performance and reputation through the reduction of staff loosely defined as 'Quality function' people.
For many if not the majority of organisations the Quality function is percieved as a required overhead. Overhead because it doesn't produce anything tangible, while being seen to hemorrhage money that could be used more profitably, and is at the same time required because of its perceived value in the retention of a registration believed to have significant marketing value. While in part these perceptions are true, as ever they are only partly so, and are so because of a lack of management interest in changing the manner in which the business is structured.
These times of economic downturn could be the time for a management team to grasp the nettle of change to rethink and permanently alter its attitude to quality management and its own responsibilities. There is no reason for any organisation to have either a Quality department, or a Head of Quality and the costs that go with it, unless they actually want to do so for their own corporate reasons. Ask any executive why they have a senior manager for Quality, and almost always the response will include considerations on ISO9001 retention, internal audit, and customer interface difficulties. What they mean is they don't understand ISO9001, and over time the Quality function has taken on responsibilities from other functions and become semi-indispensible, often acting as a local guardian of what itself believes to be the company interest. So what could we do differently?
Quality, meaning doing things well - is surely the responsibility of all managers a business. In a manufacturing unit the managers of manufacturing don't claim to be 'not responsible' for the quality of their products. Similarly 'procurement responsibility' includes buying the right items of acceptable quality. For both of these, as for others in the organisation it is common to find the Quality function interfering with both the operation and the authority of local managers. So what can be done to improve this administrative and cost anomaly, without prejudice to the operation and its outward appearance?
The solution is simple. Discard any Quality department that relates to my typical case, managers, staff and position in the organisation's hierarchy structure. Transfer any technical staff masquerading as Quality Engineers to the functions they purport to serve and ensure that the receiving managers understand their new role and responsibilities as being totally responsible for the performance of their unit of business. They have the staff they have the responsibility.
There is left only the simple role of a quality function - the administration of the registered management system. A suitable description of this might be Systems Integrity. It is not necessary to have a manager for this activity, neither is it a full time task. Only Internal Audit remains, and for this the clear answer is to devolve responsibility for that to those competent to deliver results acceptable to the business managers.
Outsourcing the internal audit provides an effective method of generating useful audit outcomes, and a cost lower than any similarly competent local staff could deliver, and free of local bias or distraction.
A good question to ask - "would I have a Quality department' manager and staff if I was starting this company again with my own money"? For me the answer is NO!http://EzineArticles.com/ Read More ..
While business is prospering there is always a tendency to over populate an organisation, or put another way to find reasons to support activities that might otherwise be considered to be of doubtful value. I guess there may be readers who respond with 'if only', but regardless of any specific meanness of spirit by specific management teams, the generality of the assertion remains true. But then come the lean times, whether general as now, or organisation specific. Besides the unfortunates who just simply go out of business, the usual response of management dealing with reduced business is to decrease expenses.
Unfortunately the simplest costs to recognise and decrease rarely achieve the objective of improving the business performance. Staff cutbacks result in decreased output, but the overhead expenses don't change. Travel, for those who remain employed is severely cut back, so sales and marketing efforts are reduced just as more, not less, orders are needed. And then there is the selection of staff to 'let go'. Here my concern is for the impact on the organisation's performance and reputation through the reduction of staff loosely defined as 'Quality function' people.
For many if not the majority of organisations the Quality function is percieved as a required overhead. Overhead because it doesn't produce anything tangible, while being seen to hemorrhage money that could be used more profitably, and is at the same time required because of its perceived value in the retention of a registration believed to have significant marketing value. While in part these perceptions are true, as ever they are only partly so, and are so because of a lack of management interest in changing the manner in which the business is structured.
These times of economic downturn could be the time for a management team to grasp the nettle of change to rethink and permanently alter its attitude to quality management and its own responsibilities. There is no reason for any organisation to have either a Quality department, or a Head of Quality and the costs that go with it, unless they actually want to do so for their own corporate reasons. Ask any executive why they have a senior manager for Quality, and almost always the response will include considerations on ISO9001 retention, internal audit, and customer interface difficulties. What they mean is they don't understand ISO9001, and over time the Quality function has taken on responsibilities from other functions and become semi-indispensible, often acting as a local guardian of what itself believes to be the company interest. So what could we do differently?
Quality, meaning doing things well - is surely the responsibility of all managers a business. In a manufacturing unit the managers of manufacturing don't claim to be 'not responsible' for the quality of their products. Similarly 'procurement responsibility' includes buying the right items of acceptable quality. For both of these, as for others in the organisation it is common to find the Quality function interfering with both the operation and the authority of local managers. So what can be done to improve this administrative and cost anomaly, without prejudice to the operation and its outward appearance?
The solution is simple. Discard any Quality department that relates to my typical case, managers, staff and position in the organisation's hierarchy structure. Transfer any technical staff masquerading as Quality Engineers to the functions they purport to serve and ensure that the receiving managers understand their new role and responsibilities as being totally responsible for the performance of their unit of business. They have the staff they have the responsibility.
There is left only the simple role of a quality function - the administration of the registered management system. A suitable description of this might be Systems Integrity. It is not necessary to have a manager for this activity, neither is it a full time task. Only Internal Audit remains, and for this the clear answer is to devolve responsibility for that to those competent to deliver results acceptable to the business managers.
Outsourcing the internal audit provides an effective method of generating useful audit outcomes, and a cost lower than any similarly competent local staff could deliver, and free of local bias or distraction.
A good question to ask - "would I have a Quality department' manager and staff if I was starting this company again with my own money"? For me the answer is NO!http://EzineArticles.com/ Read More ..
A Profitable Internet Solution to Today's Economic Crunch
Many business owners are struggling to survive today's fallen economy. One of the most effective ways to increase business profits is often overlooked. The answer is right here online. And it's all about becoming more visible to local customers who are seeking the services of local businesses through the use of search engines like Google.The simple solution is to gain visibility through these search engines like Google, Yahoo and MSN so that local customers can find your business. At first glance this statement may seem too simple. But it is?
If you make money selling products or services to local clients you are most likely seeing a serious dent in your profits. Even though these are difficult times and people are not spending money like they used to, with the proper utilization of the Internet search engines, your business can continue to thrive.
How? By gaining more visibility than your competition. When it comes to visibility offline, everyone knows that having your business in a heavily trafficked part of town will bring reap much larger rewards than if your business is far from town where no one ever travels.
When it comes to gaining new customers by means of the Internet, this same rule applies. In order to gain a substantial amount of new customers through the Internet, you need to have a website that is easily found by local customers.
It is amazing just how many business owners do not have a website for their business. What is more amazing is that business owners who have a website are not taking advantage of the one thing that could give their business the ultimate boost in profits.
What could make such a huge difference?
Search engine visibility. More and more people are turning to Internet search engines like Google, Yahoo and MSN to find local services and businesses. Your website may be listed in every one of these search engines. At this point you may be thinking, "My site IS listed in those search engines." However, there is a difference between being listed and being visible.
Let me give you an example. I live in Redding, Ca. Some good friends of mine own a local take and bake fresh food restaurant. The name of their restaurant is Country Entrees. However, the only way you will find that restaurant in Google is if you type in the actual domain name of their restaurant. You won't find their website by typing in Redding take and bake restaurants, low carb restaurants in Redding or Redding restaurants.
Even though Country Entrees can be found in Google by people who know the name of their restaurant, an Internet search in Google or Yahoo holds no value for acquiring new customers because their site has not been properly optimized for search engine traffic.
This is the main problem with most local businesses that have a website. In order to improve this situation a website owner needs to do one of two things.
1. Learn how to optimize their website for search engine traffic and do it themselves.
2. Hire a search engine optimization service to do it for them.
The first option is the cheapest way to do this. However, cheap is not always beneficial. Why? Because your time is valuable and learning how to become a search engine optimization specialist will require a great deal of your time and money to get it done right.
In addition to the time you will spend learning how to do this, there are monthly chores that are required in order to maintain a good listing position in the search engines.
The time saving solution is to hire a search engine optimization specialist (SEO). A good SEO specialist will help you understand how to gain more visibility through keyword search terms among other things.
Now that you understand a little more about how search engines can help your business become more visible, it's time to do some homework. Become your own customer and try to locate your business in the Google, Yahoo and MSN.
Is your site visible?
Article by Christine Darrington - Introducing Redding search engine optimization for businesses looking to gain more visibility online. Visit reddingseo.com for more information.
http://EzineArticles.com/ Read More ..
If you make money selling products or services to local clients you are most likely seeing a serious dent in your profits. Even though these are difficult times and people are not spending money like they used to, with the proper utilization of the Internet search engines, your business can continue to thrive.
How? By gaining more visibility than your competition. When it comes to visibility offline, everyone knows that having your business in a heavily trafficked part of town will bring reap much larger rewards than if your business is far from town where no one ever travels.
When it comes to gaining new customers by means of the Internet, this same rule applies. In order to gain a substantial amount of new customers through the Internet, you need to have a website that is easily found by local customers.
It is amazing just how many business owners do not have a website for their business. What is more amazing is that business owners who have a website are not taking advantage of the one thing that could give their business the ultimate boost in profits.
What could make such a huge difference?
Search engine visibility. More and more people are turning to Internet search engines like Google, Yahoo and MSN to find local services and businesses. Your website may be listed in every one of these search engines. At this point you may be thinking, "My site IS listed in those search engines." However, there is a difference between being listed and being visible.
Let me give you an example. I live in Redding, Ca. Some good friends of mine own a local take and bake fresh food restaurant. The name of their restaurant is Country Entrees. However, the only way you will find that restaurant in Google is if you type in the actual domain name of their restaurant. You won't find their website by typing in Redding take and bake restaurants, low carb restaurants in Redding or Redding restaurants.
Even though Country Entrees can be found in Google by people who know the name of their restaurant, an Internet search in Google or Yahoo holds no value for acquiring new customers because their site has not been properly optimized for search engine traffic.
This is the main problem with most local businesses that have a website. In order to improve this situation a website owner needs to do one of two things.
1. Learn how to optimize their website for search engine traffic and do it themselves.
2. Hire a search engine optimization service to do it for them.
The first option is the cheapest way to do this. However, cheap is not always beneficial. Why? Because your time is valuable and learning how to become a search engine optimization specialist will require a great deal of your time and money to get it done right.
In addition to the time you will spend learning how to do this, there are monthly chores that are required in order to maintain a good listing position in the search engines.
The time saving solution is to hire a search engine optimization specialist (SEO). A good SEO specialist will help you understand how to gain more visibility through keyword search terms among other things.
Now that you understand a little more about how search engines can help your business become more visible, it's time to do some homework. Become your own customer and try to locate your business in the Google, Yahoo and MSN.
Is your site visible?
Article by Christine Darrington - Introducing Redding search engine optimization for businesses looking to gain more visibility online. Visit reddingseo.com for more information.
http://EzineArticles.com/ Read More ..
Management's Wrong Decisions During an Economic Downturn
In every economic downturn, the bad decisions made by companies continue to amaze me. Economic struggles and downturns often prompt drastic and reactive decisions by company management. Their instincts are to "cut back" so they close divisions/plants/stores, layoff staff, and implement salary and hiring freezes.
In addition, many strategic initiatives that are critical to successful day-to-day operations, and continued and improved profit generation are stopped or put on hold in an attempt to cut costs. Often, this encompasses training and consulting contracts and programs, including the deployment of process improvement -Six Sigma, Lean, and Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP).
Although it seems logical to cut contracts and programs during an economic downturn, strategic activities of this nature should be enhanced and provided more focus than when "times are good." Companies should instead focus on cash flow to survive the downturn, but keep their strategic programs in place to better position them for the future.
Specifically, here are some examples of how process improvement programs and initiatives can help in good and bad times:
Lean eliminates the waste from processes which can reduce cost and increase cash.
Six Sigma removes the variation in processes which reduces cost and can increase cash by improving quality.
The use of both Lean and Six Sigma identifies the steps and/or employees in a process that are not necessary, thereby allowing targeted reallocation of resources rather than a cross-the-board layoffs.
Management that focuses on directed project selection aligned with changing corporate goals will not only survive, but position themselves beautifully when the economy takes an upward swing.
Dick Booton is an executive recruiter that specializes in assisting organizations with their Operational Excellence (Lean Six Sigma) Deployments through the recruiting of professionals with Lean Six Sigma skills and experience. Dick has experience with various industries (healthcare, financial, distribution, manufacturing and resort management). His contacts in Lean Six Sigma are unparalleled. Contact him to discuss how he can assist your organization.http://EzineArticles.com Read More ..
In addition, many strategic initiatives that are critical to successful day-to-day operations, and continued and improved profit generation are stopped or put on hold in an attempt to cut costs. Often, this encompasses training and consulting contracts and programs, including the deployment of process improvement -Six Sigma, Lean, and Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP).
Although it seems logical to cut contracts and programs during an economic downturn, strategic activities of this nature should be enhanced and provided more focus than when "times are good." Companies should instead focus on cash flow to survive the downturn, but keep their strategic programs in place to better position them for the future.
Specifically, here are some examples of how process improvement programs and initiatives can help in good and bad times:
Lean eliminates the waste from processes which can reduce cost and increase cash.
Six Sigma removes the variation in processes which reduces cost and can increase cash by improving quality.
The use of both Lean and Six Sigma identifies the steps and/or employees in a process that are not necessary, thereby allowing targeted reallocation of resources rather than a cross-the-board layoffs.
Management that focuses on directed project selection aligned with changing corporate goals will not only survive, but position themselves beautifully when the economy takes an upward swing.
Dick Booton is an executive recruiter that specializes in assisting organizations with their Operational Excellence (Lean Six Sigma) Deployments through the recruiting of professionals with Lean Six Sigma skills and experience. Dick has experience with various industries (healthcare, financial, distribution, manufacturing and resort management). His contacts in Lean Six Sigma are unparalleled. Contact him to discuss how he can assist your organization.http://EzineArticles.com Read More ..
All About Branding
In this article i will explain how you can make your brand an succes.
Corporate branding...does not start at your logo and stops at your products. The corporate brand is more than the visible parts, but is very deeply rooted in your company and encapsulates all the customer's interaction with your company.
The holistic perspective ensures consistency in the manifestation of your brand promise, through all media and all levels of customer interaction. You have to approach a brand as a whole.
All who devaluate the important contribution the brand elements and attributes make to the brand, will fail to generate significant value from their branding efforts. Brand encompasses the entire range of the company's corporate identity, products, services, behaviors, distribution channels, technologies, processes, and communication channels. It is the sum total of your customers' experiences and prospects' perceptions.
Tips to create and maintain a strong brand:
» be distinctive, offer something better and different on a dimension customers care about;
» execute this promise very consistently;
» communicate this promise consistently and persistently.
The common goal should be not to only fulfill the needs of your customers, but to exceed their expectations.
Many people ask me what is an brand analysis ?
Brand Analysis Explains "who you are" - "where you are" and "what your condition really is".
Brand analysis produces a clear snapshot of your brand compared to your competitors and its condition in general.
What first surfaces is your current position versus your competition. You have to find out what your competitive share is, through comparing your market growth with the growth of your competitors and study the status quo and the projections for the industry you are in.
These results are complemented by a more subjective analysis gained by interviewing key people and regular staff of your firm and additionally your external partners/alliances. You need questionnaires for this purpose,to get all the right answers from your staff.
Next step is: to explore how the general public sees and experiences your brand. You have to questioning people in malls, on the street and other public places, what you think is important.
You have to conduct a survey with your loyal customers and select the members of your target group and to really get to know them, so you have to develop a specific set of questions to get to the bottom of what you want and need to know. Take care some companies use Pre-fabricated questionnaires, what would be of no good - as each company is different, so that is an problem but also an solution, therefore you have to develop these questions for your company specifically. You also have to talk to the people on the phone, launch a survey on your web site and question them where your products are for sale.
Then proceed to examine if your practiced brand communication is consistent throughout every point of contact with your clientele and review existing product offerings.
This is all necessary in order to develop a comprehensive brand strategy as the next step of branding.
Billy Horner is one of the the founders of Visual Orange Co., Ltd. Offers corporate branding and organizing of Events based in Ayutthaya, Thailand. He has been involved in branding services and marketing for 8 years in Asia and has helped several businesses to succes http://EzineArticles.com Read More ..
Corporate branding...does not start at your logo and stops at your products. The corporate brand is more than the visible parts, but is very deeply rooted in your company and encapsulates all the customer's interaction with your company.
The holistic perspective ensures consistency in the manifestation of your brand promise, through all media and all levels of customer interaction. You have to approach a brand as a whole.
All who devaluate the important contribution the brand elements and attributes make to the brand, will fail to generate significant value from their branding efforts. Brand encompasses the entire range of the company's corporate identity, products, services, behaviors, distribution channels, technologies, processes, and communication channels. It is the sum total of your customers' experiences and prospects' perceptions.
Tips to create and maintain a strong brand:
» be distinctive, offer something better and different on a dimension customers care about;
» execute this promise very consistently;
» communicate this promise consistently and persistently.
The common goal should be not to only fulfill the needs of your customers, but to exceed their expectations.
Many people ask me what is an brand analysis ?
Brand Analysis Explains "who you are" - "where you are" and "what your condition really is".
Brand analysis produces a clear snapshot of your brand compared to your competitors and its condition in general.
What first surfaces is your current position versus your competition. You have to find out what your competitive share is, through comparing your market growth with the growth of your competitors and study the status quo and the projections for the industry you are in.
These results are complemented by a more subjective analysis gained by interviewing key people and regular staff of your firm and additionally your external partners/alliances. You need questionnaires for this purpose,to get all the right answers from your staff.
Next step is: to explore how the general public sees and experiences your brand. You have to questioning people in malls, on the street and other public places, what you think is important.
You have to conduct a survey with your loyal customers and select the members of your target group and to really get to know them, so you have to develop a specific set of questions to get to the bottom of what you want and need to know. Take care some companies use Pre-fabricated questionnaires, what would be of no good - as each company is different, so that is an problem but also an solution, therefore you have to develop these questions for your company specifically. You also have to talk to the people on the phone, launch a survey on your web site and question them where your products are for sale.
Then proceed to examine if your practiced brand communication is consistent throughout every point of contact with your clientele and review existing product offerings.
This is all necessary in order to develop a comprehensive brand strategy as the next step of branding.
Billy Horner is one of the the founders of Visual Orange Co., Ltd. Offers corporate branding and organizing of Events based in Ayutthaya, Thailand. He has been involved in branding services and marketing for 8 years in Asia and has helped several businesses to succes http://EzineArticles.com Read More ..
Keep Your Management Focus in Uncertain Economic Times
"Stick to the knitting" and ask yourself "Does it make the boat go faster?"
These are well known terms used by management experts and a world renowned leader.
Tom Peters and Bob Waterman used the phrase "stick to the knitting" in their book "In Search of Excellence". Stick to the business you know best. Stick to what you're an expert in and don't diversify too widely in uncertain economic times. If you're a software company, don't be tempted to go into the coffee shop business in an attempt to create another income stream. Stick with what you're good at and what you know well.
When times are tough, hone down your product or skills, refine what you do and make everything as efficient and as good as possible. Hone, refine and make efficient everything that you are and everything you do to survive the storm.
Be sure what your long-term focus is and keep to it.
"Does it make the boat go faster?" was a question continually asked by Sir Peter Blake who won the America's Cup in 1995 and 2000. He was to sailing and waters what Sir Edmund Hillary was to climbing and the mountains. Blake was a New Zealander, a native of Auckland who was knighted in 1995. He was killed in December 2001 on the Amazon, shot by pirates aboard his boat. He was a great leader and manager - highly regarded because of the man he was, because of everything he had achieved and because of everything he represented. He was utterly focused but always open to all suggestions from his team. He continually asked: "Does it make the boat go faster?"
Peter Blake's view was the epitome of keeping focus. No matter what suggestions are put forward for improvement and initiatives, the only really important question to ask in economic downturn is "will it improve the business" ("Does it make the boat go faster?") If the initiative is cosmetic, you don't have the time or energy to devote to it because your focus has to be on the key business. The color of the curtains won't stop the house sliding down the hill. Even if you promised new curtains last year, they are the last thing to consider if there's a landslide expected. It's far better to save the money scheduled for curtains and put it to earth moving machines.
Keeping your focus involves using binoculars too. The current economic woes are not just about your company and your business. Your situation is connected with everything else that's going on in the world.
For logistical reasons and to be inspired by new ideas, managers have to watch what's happening everywhere. Managers need to be aware of changing trends, population, demographics, social changes and tipping points.
You have to be aware of and implement any and every strategy that helps you get through the day to day and makes your boat go faster.
"Management by walking about" (MBWA) is an excellent way of keeping in touch with staff and keeping your finger on the pulse of what's going on and how everything is going. Nothing beats face-to-face contact, your availability and your approachability when times are tough.
You can read more on "Management by walking about", leadership, communication and other manager skills at "Managers Need To Know".
Elizabeth Best co-founded Managers Need To Know - http://managersneedtoknow.com.
Managers Need to Know offers a ground-breaking approach to management training and support, saving managers both time and money.
You can currently join Managers Need To Know as a Free Member to explore and experience this Unique Resource for Managers.
Elizabeth is a management consultant, specializing in manager development and renowned for her focused practical advice.http://EzineArticles.com/ Read More ..
These are well known terms used by management experts and a world renowned leader.
Tom Peters and Bob Waterman used the phrase "stick to the knitting" in their book "In Search of Excellence". Stick to the business you know best. Stick to what you're an expert in and don't diversify too widely in uncertain economic times. If you're a software company, don't be tempted to go into the coffee shop business in an attempt to create another income stream. Stick with what you're good at and what you know well.
When times are tough, hone down your product or skills, refine what you do and make everything as efficient and as good as possible. Hone, refine and make efficient everything that you are and everything you do to survive the storm.
Be sure what your long-term focus is and keep to it.
"Does it make the boat go faster?" was a question continually asked by Sir Peter Blake who won the America's Cup in 1995 and 2000. He was to sailing and waters what Sir Edmund Hillary was to climbing and the mountains. Blake was a New Zealander, a native of Auckland who was knighted in 1995. He was killed in December 2001 on the Amazon, shot by pirates aboard his boat. He was a great leader and manager - highly regarded because of the man he was, because of everything he had achieved and because of everything he represented. He was utterly focused but always open to all suggestions from his team. He continually asked: "Does it make the boat go faster?"
Peter Blake's view was the epitome of keeping focus. No matter what suggestions are put forward for improvement and initiatives, the only really important question to ask in economic downturn is "will it improve the business" ("Does it make the boat go faster?") If the initiative is cosmetic, you don't have the time or energy to devote to it because your focus has to be on the key business. The color of the curtains won't stop the house sliding down the hill. Even if you promised new curtains last year, they are the last thing to consider if there's a landslide expected. It's far better to save the money scheduled for curtains and put it to earth moving machines.
Keeping your focus involves using binoculars too. The current economic woes are not just about your company and your business. Your situation is connected with everything else that's going on in the world.
For logistical reasons and to be inspired by new ideas, managers have to watch what's happening everywhere. Managers need to be aware of changing trends, population, demographics, social changes and tipping points.
You have to be aware of and implement any and every strategy that helps you get through the day to day and makes your boat go faster.
"Management by walking about" (MBWA) is an excellent way of keeping in touch with staff and keeping your finger on the pulse of what's going on and how everything is going. Nothing beats face-to-face contact, your availability and your approachability when times are tough.
You can read more on "Management by walking about", leadership, communication and other manager skills at "Managers Need To Know".
Elizabeth Best co-founded Managers Need To Know - http://managersneedtoknow.com.
Managers Need to Know offers a ground-breaking approach to management training and support, saving managers both time and money.
You can currently join Managers Need To Know as a Free Member to explore and experience this Unique Resource for Managers.
Elizabeth is a management consultant, specializing in manager development and renowned for her focused practical advice.http://EzineArticles.com/ Read More ..
Running a Small Business - The Seven Fatal Mistakes
The failure rate for young small businesses is apallingly high. Any business is definitely a risk. But your chances of success will be dramatically increased if you aviod these seven fatal mistakes.
1. Inexplicitness.
Succes in business and life has never been achieved through vagueness. Explicit objectives are the drivers of achievement. Setting out clear goals for your business allows you to develop strategies to achieve your goals and to create plans which will ultimately drive your business to success. Without goals, strategies and plans, you are just depending on luck- and how has that worked for you so far?
2. Apathy.
Few human activities require a greater commitment than operating a business. Success without commitment just doesn't happen. And apathy for your business will mean commitment is impossible. Commitment requires passion. You are the closest person to your business, and if you are not passionate about it, why would your employees or customers be? If you aren't passionate about what you are doing, find something that you are passionate about and do that instead.
3. Pride.
Pride in your business is a good thing, but being so proud that you don't ask for advice or help will seriously limit your ability to grow. No-one knows it all. Successful business owners surround themselves with smart people.
4. Inactivity.
If you are waiting for others to recognise your brilliance, you may be waiting a long time. Business is generated through taking action. And the best idea in the world just remains an idea until someone takes action on it. There is no return from inactivity.
5. Non-perseverance.
Giving up at the first hurdle will never result in success. The chances of success with out some dispappointments are low. Thomas Edison tried 10,000 different filaments before he invented the light bulb. Perseverance is essential for success.
6. Guessing.
If you do not measure the response of each action and tactic of your business, from marketing to service delivery, you are just guessing about what is working and what is not. Without good data on your performance, your choices between what you should fix, and what you should leave alone will be random, and end up demoralising you and your staff. And while you are guessing, your competitors are improving through measuring their activities, and leaving you behind.
7. Disorganisation.
If there is no organisation in your business, you will have no control over your expenses, you will lose efficiency, and your clients will go to someone who can provide reliable service. Systems ensure that your services are provided consistently following your best practice, no matter who is providing your service. They eliminate the cost of non-compliance, and ultimately create a saleable asset of your business. Without systems, your business will always depend on you being there and you will forever be reacting to events and fighting fires. Such a business has no long term future.
I am sure you can think of other sins you may wish to add to this list, however when you make sure that you don't commit any of these, your business is far more likely to achieve the goals you have set for it and prosper.
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1. Inexplicitness.
Succes in business and life has never been achieved through vagueness. Explicit objectives are the drivers of achievement. Setting out clear goals for your business allows you to develop strategies to achieve your goals and to create plans which will ultimately drive your business to success. Without goals, strategies and plans, you are just depending on luck- and how has that worked for you so far?
2. Apathy.
Few human activities require a greater commitment than operating a business. Success without commitment just doesn't happen. And apathy for your business will mean commitment is impossible. Commitment requires passion. You are the closest person to your business, and if you are not passionate about it, why would your employees or customers be? If you aren't passionate about what you are doing, find something that you are passionate about and do that instead.
3. Pride.
Pride in your business is a good thing, but being so proud that you don't ask for advice or help will seriously limit your ability to grow. No-one knows it all. Successful business owners surround themselves with smart people.
4. Inactivity.
If you are waiting for others to recognise your brilliance, you may be waiting a long time. Business is generated through taking action. And the best idea in the world just remains an idea until someone takes action on it. There is no return from inactivity.
5. Non-perseverance.
Giving up at the first hurdle will never result in success. The chances of success with out some dispappointments are low. Thomas Edison tried 10,000 different filaments before he invented the light bulb. Perseverance is essential for success.
6. Guessing.
If you do not measure the response of each action and tactic of your business, from marketing to service delivery, you are just guessing about what is working and what is not. Without good data on your performance, your choices between what you should fix, and what you should leave alone will be random, and end up demoralising you and your staff. And while you are guessing, your competitors are improving through measuring their activities, and leaving you behind.
7. Disorganisation.
If there is no organisation in your business, you will have no control over your expenses, you will lose efficiency, and your clients will go to someone who can provide reliable service. Systems ensure that your services are provided consistently following your best practice, no matter who is providing your service. They eliminate the cost of non-compliance, and ultimately create a saleable asset of your business. Without systems, your business will always depend on you being there and you will forever be reacting to events and fighting fires. Such a business has no long term future.
I am sure you can think of other sins you may wish to add to this list, however when you make sure that you don't commit any of these, your business is far more likely to achieve the goals you have set for it and prosper.
http://EzineArticles.com/ Read More ..
How to Plan For the Future
Retirement, no matter how far away it is, always creeps up on you, and before you know it, its upon you. Regardless of whether you have just started your career, or have been working for over 25 years, it is important that you start saving up for retirement, as you won't have a monthly income to support yourself.
Common sense says that the early you star saving for your retirement, the more you will have saved up when that time rolls along, not only because you will be saving more money over time, but because if you have your retirement plan in a high yield investment, like a 401(K) for instance, you will be gaining interest on your money every year. Think of it like this: you start with $100 in a shoebox in the top of your closet, and every year you deposit another $100 into the shoebox for ten years; you have saved $1000. Now take that same $100 a year and put it in a high yield bank fund offer 10% return on your money. Now after ten years, instead of only saving $1000, you have saved almost $2000. That is a 200% return on your money in the long run.
Obviously the most important part of saving for the future is saving. A good philosophy to live by is "pay yourself first." This means that as soon as you receive your income cheque, before paying the bills, the mortgage, or any of your other expenses, you set aside a certain amount for your savings. It doesn't matter if you are saving only $100 per month or $1,000 per month. A good way to gauge the amount you should be saving is it should be about 10 percent of your monthly income. For example, if you are making $1,500 a month, you should put aside $150 for your retirement. This may not seem like a lot, but take a closer look. $150 a month for one year is $1800 saving per year. If you work for 20 years, that is $36,000. However, this doesn't take into account interest, which will accumulate your savings of $150 a month to almost $200,000.
Though most companies offer pensions to their employees, it is not a good practice to rely solely on a pension after you retire. Many companies have changed their policy regarding pensions, and the amount employees get for their pension has been reduced. It is good to take advantage of your company's 401(K) plan. You can use a percentage of your income to invest in stock, money markets, stock, or mutual funds. The advantage of the 401(K) is that it is not taxed until you withdraw your money from it, meaning you have more money to earn interest.
ttp://ezinearticles.com/?How-to-Plan-For-the-Future&id=1117202 Read More ..
Common sense says that the early you star saving for your retirement, the more you will have saved up when that time rolls along, not only because you will be saving more money over time, but because if you have your retirement plan in a high yield investment, like a 401(K) for instance, you will be gaining interest on your money every year. Think of it like this: you start with $100 in a shoebox in the top of your closet, and every year you deposit another $100 into the shoebox for ten years; you have saved $1000. Now take that same $100 a year and put it in a high yield bank fund offer 10% return on your money. Now after ten years, instead of only saving $1000, you have saved almost $2000. That is a 200% return on your money in the long run.
Obviously the most important part of saving for the future is saving. A good philosophy to live by is "pay yourself first." This means that as soon as you receive your income cheque, before paying the bills, the mortgage, or any of your other expenses, you set aside a certain amount for your savings. It doesn't matter if you are saving only $100 per month or $1,000 per month. A good way to gauge the amount you should be saving is it should be about 10 percent of your monthly income. For example, if you are making $1,500 a month, you should put aside $150 for your retirement. This may not seem like a lot, but take a closer look. $150 a month for one year is $1800 saving per year. If you work for 20 years, that is $36,000. However, this doesn't take into account interest, which will accumulate your savings of $150 a month to almost $200,000.
Though most companies offer pensions to their employees, it is not a good practice to rely solely on a pension after you retire. Many companies have changed their policy regarding pensions, and the amount employees get for their pension has been reduced. It is good to take advantage of your company's 401(K) plan. You can use a percentage of your income to invest in stock, money markets, stock, or mutual funds. The advantage of the 401(K) is that it is not taxed until you withdraw your money from it, meaning you have more money to earn interest.
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The Economic Recovery - A Confidence Game
The state of the economy is must see TV every night. It's like watching a bad reality show or a very slow, very gruesome train wreck. Seriously, it is engrossing. Given all the expert opinions and such, it can be easy to lose site of an important fact - the economic recovery is a confidence game.
Think back to 2004. You know, back when you had just bought that new Cadillac Escalade to park in your track home that was so new the paint was still tacky to the touch. Did you give a second thought to buying that gas hog? Not a chance. After all, this is what everyone did. You bought a house and then a bunch of toys. If you needed money, you could just refinance your home. Intelligent cocktail party discussion consisted of debates over how low rates had to go before you could refinance again.
Looking back, those days seem tragically funny compared to now. Of course, looking back always involves 20/20 vision, but there is something at the heart of those times that has fundamentally changed now - confidence. One of the biggest issues confronting us as a nation and, indeed, a world is consumer confidence. In technical terms, this phrase refers to an analysis of how you will shop for things. I am talking about something else.
What are you doing with your money these days? Obviously, you try to pay your basic bills for housing, energy, food, clothes and so on. What about any additional cash that you have? Are you going out and spending it or are you holding onto as much of it as possible because you aren't sure how you'll be doing a few months from now? My definition of consumer confidence is simple. If you are going out and spending the money now, then confidence levels are high. If you are hoarding it, then your confidence levels are low. Guess what you, me and most people are doing? We're hoarding it.
Perception is often reality. The perception around the country at the moment is we are in a world of hurt. Sadly, perception is spot on with reality at the moment. This causes everyone to reconsider their personal situation. I actually have stuffed a few closets full of cups that just need hot water to create a meal. Do I think it will get that bad? No, but you can never be sure and a lot of people are thinking this way. Until that changes, the economic problems are going to persist.
President Obama is getting a lot of grief over his economic plans. I'm a Republican, but even I can admit he walked into a tsunami of problems and there is no real answer. Is there a lot of fluff in the stimulus plan? Yes. Does it make me angry? Oh, yes. Is it realistic that the plan would be pork-free? No. That's not the way Washington works. Just look at what my party did for eight years.
The bigger issue with the effort of President Obama needs to be understood. The President is doing something and that is comforting to people. This comforting process is all about turning the perception of problems around. If perception can be changed, then confidence in the country and future will soon increase. If confidence goes up, the economy will rebound. In the end, it is all a confidence game.
Stephen Teak writes about economic issues and factoring for FactoringCompanyInformation.com - your source for factoring solutions to your financing needs.http://ezinearticles.com/?The-Economic-Recovery---A-Confidence-Game&id=2010173 Read More ..
Think back to 2004. You know, back when you had just bought that new Cadillac Escalade to park in your track home that was so new the paint was still tacky to the touch. Did you give a second thought to buying that gas hog? Not a chance. After all, this is what everyone did. You bought a house and then a bunch of toys. If you needed money, you could just refinance your home. Intelligent cocktail party discussion consisted of debates over how low rates had to go before you could refinance again.
Looking back, those days seem tragically funny compared to now. Of course, looking back always involves 20/20 vision, but there is something at the heart of those times that has fundamentally changed now - confidence. One of the biggest issues confronting us as a nation and, indeed, a world is consumer confidence. In technical terms, this phrase refers to an analysis of how you will shop for things. I am talking about something else.
What are you doing with your money these days? Obviously, you try to pay your basic bills for housing, energy, food, clothes and so on. What about any additional cash that you have? Are you going out and spending it or are you holding onto as much of it as possible because you aren't sure how you'll be doing a few months from now? My definition of consumer confidence is simple. If you are going out and spending the money now, then confidence levels are high. If you are hoarding it, then your confidence levels are low. Guess what you, me and most people are doing? We're hoarding it.
Perception is often reality. The perception around the country at the moment is we are in a world of hurt. Sadly, perception is spot on with reality at the moment. This causes everyone to reconsider their personal situation. I actually have stuffed a few closets full of cups that just need hot water to create a meal. Do I think it will get that bad? No, but you can never be sure and a lot of people are thinking this way. Until that changes, the economic problems are going to persist.
President Obama is getting a lot of grief over his economic plans. I'm a Republican, but even I can admit he walked into a tsunami of problems and there is no real answer. Is there a lot of fluff in the stimulus plan? Yes. Does it make me angry? Oh, yes. Is it realistic that the plan would be pork-free? No. That's not the way Washington works. Just look at what my party did for eight years.
The bigger issue with the effort of President Obama needs to be understood. The President is doing something and that is comforting to people. This comforting process is all about turning the perception of problems around. If perception can be changed, then confidence in the country and future will soon increase. If confidence goes up, the economy will rebound. In the end, it is all a confidence game.
Stephen Teak writes about economic issues and factoring for FactoringCompanyInformation.com - your source for factoring solutions to your financing needs.http://ezinearticles.com/?The-Economic-Recovery---A-Confidence-Game&id=2010173 Read More ..
Stock Market Crashes 900 Points in 2 Days - Yes it Can, Change We Can Believe In
President Elect Obama's critics are now saying; "Be careful what you wish for!" In the two days after Obama was elected President of the United States the stock market crashed over 900 points. This was the second biggest drop in 2-days, and it has not happened since 2001 after the terrorists attacked the World Trade Center buildings.
Apparently, Wall Street and the investor is not confident in an Obama Administration and feel that the voters gave the Democrats a mandate to deficit spend, add thousands of pages of regulations hampering business activities and a blank check to bail out businesses and create social programs.
All these sayings are contrary to free market capitalist economic beliefs. It should not be surprising that Wall Street reacted this way and it shows that we are in for a prolonged recession as the Democrats keep spending. Next up we can expect the UAW along with the automakers to tap into hundreds of billions of dollars of taxpayer money for their bail out.
The airlines will be next to lobby to get free money from the government and the government will not only be in the banking business; they will be in the auto business, the real estate business, the insurance business, the mortgage business and probably the airline businesses too.
When businesses are no longer in business, but rather have government as their partners in commercial enterprises; they will be less successful, less efficient, more bureaucratic and they never turn a profit. Other nations, which have gone down the slippery slope have done nothing more than increased unemployment, make their businesses less competitive in global markets and continue these governments continue to deficit spend eventually destroy their economies.
To further protect their businesses they alter trade laws and create protectionism to prop up these inefficient and failing enterprises. These companies become unable to innovate or keep up until they fail catastrophically or bring down the entire country.
This great nation, the United States of America, is founded upon capitalistic and free market theory. It has worked very well for us and brought us to where we are today as the strongest and most economically viable nation in the history of mankind. All that is about to change, but, I ask; Is not change you can believe in?
http://ezinearticles.com/?Stock-Market-Crashes-900-Points-in-2-Days- Read More ..
Apparently, Wall Street and the investor is not confident in an Obama Administration and feel that the voters gave the Democrats a mandate to deficit spend, add thousands of pages of regulations hampering business activities and a blank check to bail out businesses and create social programs.
All these sayings are contrary to free market capitalist economic beliefs. It should not be surprising that Wall Street reacted this way and it shows that we are in for a prolonged recession as the Democrats keep spending. Next up we can expect the UAW along with the automakers to tap into hundreds of billions of dollars of taxpayer money for their bail out.
The airlines will be next to lobby to get free money from the government and the government will not only be in the banking business; they will be in the auto business, the real estate business, the insurance business, the mortgage business and probably the airline businesses too.
When businesses are no longer in business, but rather have government as their partners in commercial enterprises; they will be less successful, less efficient, more bureaucratic and they never turn a profit. Other nations, which have gone down the slippery slope have done nothing more than increased unemployment, make their businesses less competitive in global markets and continue these governments continue to deficit spend eventually destroy their economies.
To further protect their businesses they alter trade laws and create protectionism to prop up these inefficient and failing enterprises. These companies become unable to innovate or keep up until they fail catastrophically or bring down the entire country.
This great nation, the United States of America, is founded upon capitalistic and free market theory. It has worked very well for us and brought us to where we are today as the strongest and most economically viable nation in the history of mankind. All that is about to change, but, I ask; Is not change you can believe in?
http://ezinearticles.com/?Stock-Market-Crashes-900-Points-in-2-Days- Read More ..
Surviving the Economic Crisis - The Effects of Deflation
Inflation, and Deflation are dirty words in the World of the economist, high inflation leads to wiping out the value of savings, deflation has the same effect but wipes out fixed assets by devaluing them. In the new post 2008 economy, we expect to experience both.
Deflation for many people who have assets in cash, and a regular income is good news. Companies are forced to lower prices, whilst the cost of assets like a home, land, car, boat or even aircraft decrease, as more people cannot get credit, and afford them.
Another effect of deflation is to lower salaries and wages, which means those with assets, and this regular income will save more, and afford more then before the crisis started. The haves will actually grow "wealthier", whilst those in debt without a high income, will grow materially poorer.
This double edged sword favors those with an income, who do not own toxic or negative assets. People with steady jobs like Government Officials, Police, the Military, Teachers, and people who own debt free businesses, running at a profit. All you need to do is to save, rather than spend, and slowly join this group of people who should be able to invest in the new cheaper homes on the market, and even stocks that will bottom out in price at some stage.
So how do you start benefiting from Deflation?
Make sure you simply save, and go bargain hunting. Life will feel like you can afford that large house, because the price yesterday has dropped to the price of a small affordable house today. The key is a having a steady income, whilst you save to invest in real assets that will become undervalued, considering experts admit property has been overvalued by as much as 40- 80% in some countries like the UK, Spain and the USA.
Turning your savings into cheap tangible assets, that either generates an income or provides you with a buffer against poverty. Is the key to thriving in the new economic climate.
Awards you an International Academic recognition for your previous academic, and life experience in the form of a degree.
http://EzineArticles.com/ Read More ..
Deflation for many people who have assets in cash, and a regular income is good news. Companies are forced to lower prices, whilst the cost of assets like a home, land, car, boat or even aircraft decrease, as more people cannot get credit, and afford them.
Another effect of deflation is to lower salaries and wages, which means those with assets, and this regular income will save more, and afford more then before the crisis started. The haves will actually grow "wealthier", whilst those in debt without a high income, will grow materially poorer.
This double edged sword favors those with an income, who do not own toxic or negative assets. People with steady jobs like Government Officials, Police, the Military, Teachers, and people who own debt free businesses, running at a profit. All you need to do is to save, rather than spend, and slowly join this group of people who should be able to invest in the new cheaper homes on the market, and even stocks that will bottom out in price at some stage.
So how do you start benefiting from Deflation?
Make sure you simply save, and go bargain hunting. Life will feel like you can afford that large house, because the price yesterday has dropped to the price of a small affordable house today. The key is a having a steady income, whilst you save to invest in real assets that will become undervalued, considering experts admit property has been overvalued by as much as 40- 80% in some countries like the UK, Spain and the USA.
Turning your savings into cheap tangible assets, that either generates an income or provides you with a buffer against poverty. Is the key to thriving in the new economic climate.
Awards you an International Academic recognition for your previous academic, and life experience in the form of a degree.
http://EzineArticles.com/ Read More ..
Selasa, 24 Februari 2009
Food to Avoid When Dieting in Tough Economic Times
In tough economic times as we now face, it is very hard to be on a diet and eat healthy. Let's face it - it's cheaper to eat junk food than it is to eat healthy food. So what do you do if you are trying to determine food to avoid when dieting in tough economic times?
One problem facing dieters is the fact that the foods that are cheap are generally fattening. This is especially true in the winter, when we tend to eat comfort food. Let's look at a few of the cheap meals to get some idea of the amount of calories that you gain from them.
1. Macaroni and cheese. Probably the most all-time favorite comfort food, macaroni and cheese can wreak havoc with your diet. If you dress up macaroni and cheese with such things as sausage or hamburger, it gets even worse. Stouffer's Mac and cheese contains about 529 calories, 25.7 g of fat with 10.6 g of saturated fat. All this in a 12 ounce serving.
2. Stay away from cream-based soups. Another favorite comfort food, they're loaded with cream and also loaded with calories. They also tend to be high in sodium. Top those with saltines and cheese like many people do, and the sodium level goes out of sight.
3. Cheese and cream-based casseroles may be the perfect comfort food, and even start out with healthy ingredients like broccoli, green beans or potatoes. You then add cream, butter, and canned soups and top them with cheese, bacon, and breadcrumbs. This will drive the calories right through the ceiling.
4. Avoid chilies and stews that are loaded with ground beef, sausage or cheese. You can make them yourself with small portions of lean meat, plenty of vegetables and beans, and they will be nutritious and filling. If you order these dishes when you eat out, they will be loaded with calories, grams of fat, and saturated fat.
5. Stay away from potpies. Although the ingredients may be healthy and good for you, you get a double dose of fat because of the top and bottom crust.
Although these meals may be cheap to make and easy to prepare, in the long run they can only hurt you. Sure, you can save money on your food budget. You more than make up for that, though, when you consider the cost to you in health care and in quality of life.
For more information on eating properly and yet staying within a tight budget, and ideas about food to avoid when dieting in tough economic times, visit our website today.
Alden Smith is a freelance writer that spent many years working with people having weight loss issues while participating in vocational rehab. He believes that the best weight loss advice should be made readily available to anyone having weight loss issues.
/EzineArticles.com Read More ..
One problem facing dieters is the fact that the foods that are cheap are generally fattening. This is especially true in the winter, when we tend to eat comfort food. Let's look at a few of the cheap meals to get some idea of the amount of calories that you gain from them.
1. Macaroni and cheese. Probably the most all-time favorite comfort food, macaroni and cheese can wreak havoc with your diet. If you dress up macaroni and cheese with such things as sausage or hamburger, it gets even worse. Stouffer's Mac and cheese contains about 529 calories, 25.7 g of fat with 10.6 g of saturated fat. All this in a 12 ounce serving.
2. Stay away from cream-based soups. Another favorite comfort food, they're loaded with cream and also loaded with calories. They also tend to be high in sodium. Top those with saltines and cheese like many people do, and the sodium level goes out of sight.
3. Cheese and cream-based casseroles may be the perfect comfort food, and even start out with healthy ingredients like broccoli, green beans or potatoes. You then add cream, butter, and canned soups and top them with cheese, bacon, and breadcrumbs. This will drive the calories right through the ceiling.
4. Avoid chilies and stews that are loaded with ground beef, sausage or cheese. You can make them yourself with small portions of lean meat, plenty of vegetables and beans, and they will be nutritious and filling. If you order these dishes when you eat out, they will be loaded with calories, grams of fat, and saturated fat.
5. Stay away from potpies. Although the ingredients may be healthy and good for you, you get a double dose of fat because of the top and bottom crust.
Although these meals may be cheap to make and easy to prepare, in the long run they can only hurt you. Sure, you can save money on your food budget. You more than make up for that, though, when you consider the cost to you in health care and in quality of life.
For more information on eating properly and yet staying within a tight budget, and ideas about food to avoid when dieting in tough economic times, visit our website today.
Alden Smith is a freelance writer that spent many years working with people having weight loss issues while participating in vocational rehab. He believes that the best weight loss advice should be made readily available to anyone having weight loss issues.
/EzineArticles.com Read More ..
How Can You Double Your Mileage?
The increasing fuel price has shaken everybody to the core. If we look around we will find that all the people who are using any type of vehicle is asking this question, how can we double our mileage?
Yes, doubling the mileage will surely give a lot of relief as it will reduce the use of fuel. This will help to save money. There are many ways of reducing fuel consumption and increasing the mileage of your vehicle. You can develop some habits and methods related to efficient driving and save fuel or you can use the products which claim to increase mileage but may not be as fruitful as it claims to be.
What is the best method to double mileage?
The best method that can be adopted to double the mileage is the new system which offers the use of half water half fuel strategy. Through this system you will contribute towards preservation of nature and the environment as there will be lesser smoke and gas to pollute the environment and increase global warming. The installation of the water system will save the money that you were thinking of investing on a new car fitted with all the latest devices. It is very easy to install the system in the vehicle with the kit which provides all the tools so that you can do the fitting by yourself. This system converts water into hydrogen which is used as a substitute for fuel.
Advantages of the half water half fuel system
It will reduce the use of fuel and help in saving money. It is the best method of doubling the mileage at low cost. There will be no pollution problem as there will be no foul emission of gas. The only thing that will remain behind is water. It will increase the engine performance as there will be less deposit of carbon on the engine as the system helps to remove carbon. If the fuel meter of your vehicle reaches nil you will not be stranded on the road, you can immediately convert the system to the water fuel through the generator and refuel your vehicle and take it up to the fuel station to get a refill. It keeps the car cool so the fuel efficiency is increased.
So you see this half fuel half water system is the best way to double the mileage of your vehicle without incurring any heavy monetary cost. It also increases the life of the engine and helps to double the mileage of the vehicle at low cost. This is the system which can be easily induced by anybody whether he is using a car, a truck or a big car.
: http://EzineArticles.com/ Read More ..
Yes, doubling the mileage will surely give a lot of relief as it will reduce the use of fuel. This will help to save money. There are many ways of reducing fuel consumption and increasing the mileage of your vehicle. You can develop some habits and methods related to efficient driving and save fuel or you can use the products which claim to increase mileage but may not be as fruitful as it claims to be.
What is the best method to double mileage?
The best method that can be adopted to double the mileage is the new system which offers the use of half water half fuel strategy. Through this system you will contribute towards preservation of nature and the environment as there will be lesser smoke and gas to pollute the environment and increase global warming. The installation of the water system will save the money that you were thinking of investing on a new car fitted with all the latest devices. It is very easy to install the system in the vehicle with the kit which provides all the tools so that you can do the fitting by yourself. This system converts water into hydrogen which is used as a substitute for fuel.
Advantages of the half water half fuel system
It will reduce the use of fuel and help in saving money. It is the best method of doubling the mileage at low cost. There will be no pollution problem as there will be no foul emission of gas. The only thing that will remain behind is water. It will increase the engine performance as there will be less deposit of carbon on the engine as the system helps to remove carbon. If the fuel meter of your vehicle reaches nil you will not be stranded on the road, you can immediately convert the system to the water fuel through the generator and refuel your vehicle and take it up to the fuel station to get a refill. It keeps the car cool so the fuel efficiency is increased.
So you see this half fuel half water system is the best way to double the mileage of your vehicle without incurring any heavy monetary cost. It also increases the life of the engine and helps to double the mileage of the vehicle at low cost. This is the system which can be easily induced by anybody whether he is using a car, a truck or a big car.
: http://EzineArticles.com/ Read More ..
Sabtu, 21 Februari 2009
Marketing in an Economic Downturn - Crisis Marketing Suggestions
Traditionally, during a period of economic downturn, the marketing budget has been the first to suffer. Yet this is the worst thing you can do. To maintain momentum during an economic downturn, the focus should not be on reducing your marketing activity but rather on extending a more targeted approach to both your marketing activity and your existing and new customer base.
This is a prime opportunity to offer long term ROI for your business for when conditions improve, being able to capitalize on competitive market share and develop key relationships with your core customers. And you're focusing on reducing your marketing budget?
In this article, we examine a series of key initiatives to allow you to capitalize on the economic downturn and build long term sustainability for you business.
1. Focus on customer relationships. Staying true to your customer base and maintaining regular contact with existing and new customers. The loyalty that you show them now will be rewarded by extending your market share and ensuring the viability of your business when conditions improve. It's important that you listen to your customers and find out how their needs have changed and address these concerns. Incorporate cost effective marketing relationship tools such as Blogs, podcasts and social networking sites. Remember, it's highly likely that your competitors have cut their marketing efforts, reduced their quality staff and are failing to offer their customers the level of attention they deserve. Every situation presents an opportunity, so capitalise on this situation!
2. Focus on supplier relationships. Relationships are not just about your customers, your focus should also be directed to your suppliers and developing industry alliances. Think about how your suppliers business has been affected. Look to develop online links (including SEO webpage links), customer offers that benefit your suppliers, your business and your customers. Look for new alliances, even if this involves your competitors. I'm reminded of a time when two competing businesses were able to buy and promote stock more cost effectively in diverse regional areas. Suppliers will agree to the benefits of split deliveries and advertises will agree to provide group media buys.
3. Extend Online Marketing Efforts Whilst the rate of traditional media has been declining, the growth of internet marketing has been expanding, and for good reason. It provides measurable results, it can be trade targeted, it's cost effective and with the right skills, you can do it all yourself. It is estimated that there are 1.46 Billion online users in the world and over 4 Billion web pages with popularity growing at an unprecedented level. (Stats link here)
Cost effective internet or online marketing initiatives include:
a). Ensuring that you have a modern website presence (preferably a Content Management System or CMS). This means that the look, feel and content of the website needs to be in keeping with today's market and relevant design to you customers. It's amazing how many websites have content that is over 12 months old, are poorly or completely not optimized, don't encourage customer registration via the site or the blog, no loyalty associated, not focused on the correct target audience or miss valuable target segments such as the wholesale trade!
b). Regular customer focused email campaigns
c). Regular e-newsletters and e-bulletins
d). Search Engine optimisation or SEO - this has become one of the most critical areas of market share. To achieve higher natural search engine ranking is paramount to your business success. Your objective should be a top 5 ranking for your industry group. We will touch on this subject in a separate Blog entry.
e). Developing a social media marketing strategy for your business
f). Introduce podcasts to relevant market segments
g). Providing blog entries relevant to your website
h). Develop online vouchers to encourage customers to regularly visit your website, physical business or franchise stores (customer loyalty)
i). Update your website home page regularly (it's a bit like a window display in a department store) - keep it fresh
4. Publicity is often forgotten in the marketing mix, yet it's as old as the hills and happens to generate fantastic market share, new customer interest and loyalty. Essentially, look for opportunities to introduce new products or services when your competitors are cutting back. Get on board with your local media suppliers and generate editorial, press-releases and online marketing campaigns to promote your products/service and long term loyalty.
5. Competitive Watch. What does it really cost for you to start analysing your competitors? We are not just talking about their shop window or their product sales and service. Do you know if they are reducing staff? Are there good staff available? Have you done a SWOT analysis on each of your top five competitors? Have you visited their website and looked at their source code for clues as to their keywords, SEO campaign, page ranking, online marketing strategies? How do you really compare? Do you even know what to look for?
http://EzineArticles.com/ Read More ..
This is a prime opportunity to offer long term ROI for your business for when conditions improve, being able to capitalize on competitive market share and develop key relationships with your core customers. And you're focusing on reducing your marketing budget?
In this article, we examine a series of key initiatives to allow you to capitalize on the economic downturn and build long term sustainability for you business.
1. Focus on customer relationships. Staying true to your customer base and maintaining regular contact with existing and new customers. The loyalty that you show them now will be rewarded by extending your market share and ensuring the viability of your business when conditions improve. It's important that you listen to your customers and find out how their needs have changed and address these concerns. Incorporate cost effective marketing relationship tools such as Blogs, podcasts and social networking sites. Remember, it's highly likely that your competitors have cut their marketing efforts, reduced their quality staff and are failing to offer their customers the level of attention they deserve. Every situation presents an opportunity, so capitalise on this situation!
2. Focus on supplier relationships. Relationships are not just about your customers, your focus should also be directed to your suppliers and developing industry alliances. Think about how your suppliers business has been affected. Look to develop online links (including SEO webpage links), customer offers that benefit your suppliers, your business and your customers. Look for new alliances, even if this involves your competitors. I'm reminded of a time when two competing businesses were able to buy and promote stock more cost effectively in diverse regional areas. Suppliers will agree to the benefits of split deliveries and advertises will agree to provide group media buys.
3. Extend Online Marketing Efforts Whilst the rate of traditional media has been declining, the growth of internet marketing has been expanding, and for good reason. It provides measurable results, it can be trade targeted, it's cost effective and with the right skills, you can do it all yourself. It is estimated that there are 1.46 Billion online users in the world and over 4 Billion web pages with popularity growing at an unprecedented level. (Stats link here)
Cost effective internet or online marketing initiatives include:
a). Ensuring that you have a modern website presence (preferably a Content Management System or CMS). This means that the look, feel and content of the website needs to be in keeping with today's market and relevant design to you customers. It's amazing how many websites have content that is over 12 months old, are poorly or completely not optimized, don't encourage customer registration via the site or the blog, no loyalty associated, not focused on the correct target audience or miss valuable target segments such as the wholesale trade!
b). Regular customer focused email campaigns
c). Regular e-newsletters and e-bulletins
d). Search Engine optimisation or SEO - this has become one of the most critical areas of market share. To achieve higher natural search engine ranking is paramount to your business success. Your objective should be a top 5 ranking for your industry group. We will touch on this subject in a separate Blog entry.
e). Developing a social media marketing strategy for your business
f). Introduce podcasts to relevant market segments
g). Providing blog entries relevant to your website
h). Develop online vouchers to encourage customers to regularly visit your website, physical business or franchise stores (customer loyalty)
i). Update your website home page regularly (it's a bit like a window display in a department store) - keep it fresh
4. Publicity is often forgotten in the marketing mix, yet it's as old as the hills and happens to generate fantastic market share, new customer interest and loyalty. Essentially, look for opportunities to introduce new products or services when your competitors are cutting back. Get on board with your local media suppliers and generate editorial, press-releases and online marketing campaigns to promote your products/service and long term loyalty.
5. Competitive Watch. What does it really cost for you to start analysing your competitors? We are not just talking about their shop window or their product sales and service. Do you know if they are reducing staff? Are there good staff available? Have you done a SWOT analysis on each of your top five competitors? Have you visited their website and looked at their source code for clues as to their keywords, SEO campaign, page ranking, online marketing strategies? How do you really compare? Do you even know what to look for?
http://EzineArticles.com/ Read More ..
Rabu, 18 Februari 2009
An Innovative Solution For the Current Economic Crisis
The nature of the current economic crisis is such that it cannot be resolved with the standard array of tools at the disposal of the President. What's required is a sustainable, renewable solution, one that transcends the immediate financial crisis and actively - proactively - deals with the new paradigm of economics we are now dealing with.
The Prosperity Mandate offers a brilliant proposal that is both inspiring and doable. The centerpiece of this financial paradigm is to convert net worth (not Government funding) into liquidity, which then funds the economy. What this means is that is that over a trillion dollars can be infused into the banking system as a sophisticated investment without a single dollar of direct government funding. Thus, the current economic crisis is resolved with a sustainable recovery plan and renewable funding mechanism - not through government bailout - with massive job creating capital investment in ideas whose time has come.
In essence, net worth is transformed into liquidity in the following manner: Tax credits are issued to investors for cash deposited into CDs, which are then pledged as collateral on Fund America programs. These CDs earn tax-free interest. The U.S. government will guarantee the CD against bank default on the principal. The CD guarantees generate loans invested in the new economy, creating jobs, developing infrastructure, fostering urban renewal, developing Green energy manufacturing, and funding ecological technologies.
Each loan has a PayBack scenario to pay off and release the collateral CDs. The government does not foot the bill, but rather, provides the incentives for investors to do so. Every time a collateral pledge is released through cash pay back or permanent financing, the CDs can be renewed, and the pattern begins again. This recovery plan requires oversight, risk management, and transparent real time accounting, as well as banking, reporting, regulation, and review.
Imagine, as an example that the parents of newlyweds want to empower their children to lead self-reliant lives. After figuring out how much of a mortgage the newlyweds can afford to pay based on their incomes, the two families go to the bank, deposit CDs, and pledge them as collateral to secure a loan for lot acquisition and home construction. As time passes, a new home is built and a new mortgage is funded, which pays off the loans and releases the security pledges. The families did not give anything away - they merely facilitated a wealth-building process by converting their net worth into liquidity for the sake of economic growth.
The Fund America Trillion Dollar stimulus plan is entirely doable, friendly to both big business and the newly unemployed, ecologically sustainable, and ready to be implemented for a full economic recovery that ushers in a new paradigm of cultural interdependence. Citizens be encouraged! Reach out to your Congressperson and Senator to ask for support for the The Prosperity Mandate Fund America Tax Initiative. Create a Job -- Get a Tax Break! Invest in America - Pay less tax! We are in a period of great transformation, and now is the time to implement a truly sustainable economic and renewable solution for the current economic crisis.
N. Katz is the founder and visionary of The Prosperity Mandate organization. Previous highlights of his professional career include being an entrepreneur who has started, funded, and advised companies from dinner napkin to Fortune 100 companies. He has taken start ups public through Initial Public Offering, served in the Executive suite of two public companies and on the Board of Directors of several companies. Mr. Katz completed the Executive Program in Management at the John E. Anderson Graduate School of Management at the University of California Los Angeles.
When asked how does he continually think outside of "The Box", Mr. Katz replies somewhat perplexed..."What Box?"! He explains, "Most people look at a problem, then at the tools and resources at their disposal, and then try to create a road map from where they are to where they want to go using those tools. I start with the end result and always work to find one logical step back from there until I arrive at the present. It is just a more liberating way of finding solutions." His Prosperity Mandate is an innovative solution to the current economic crisis that is a brilliant example of his out of the box thinking.
http://EzineArticles.com/ Read More ..
The Prosperity Mandate offers a brilliant proposal that is both inspiring and doable. The centerpiece of this financial paradigm is to convert net worth (not Government funding) into liquidity, which then funds the economy. What this means is that is that over a trillion dollars can be infused into the banking system as a sophisticated investment without a single dollar of direct government funding. Thus, the current economic crisis is resolved with a sustainable recovery plan and renewable funding mechanism - not through government bailout - with massive job creating capital investment in ideas whose time has come.
In essence, net worth is transformed into liquidity in the following manner: Tax credits are issued to investors for cash deposited into CDs, which are then pledged as collateral on Fund America programs. These CDs earn tax-free interest. The U.S. government will guarantee the CD against bank default on the principal. The CD guarantees generate loans invested in the new economy, creating jobs, developing infrastructure, fostering urban renewal, developing Green energy manufacturing, and funding ecological technologies.
Each loan has a PayBack scenario to pay off and release the collateral CDs. The government does not foot the bill, but rather, provides the incentives for investors to do so. Every time a collateral pledge is released through cash pay back or permanent financing, the CDs can be renewed, and the pattern begins again. This recovery plan requires oversight, risk management, and transparent real time accounting, as well as banking, reporting, regulation, and review.
Imagine, as an example that the parents of newlyweds want to empower their children to lead self-reliant lives. After figuring out how much of a mortgage the newlyweds can afford to pay based on their incomes, the two families go to the bank, deposit CDs, and pledge them as collateral to secure a loan for lot acquisition and home construction. As time passes, a new home is built and a new mortgage is funded, which pays off the loans and releases the security pledges. The families did not give anything away - they merely facilitated a wealth-building process by converting their net worth into liquidity for the sake of economic growth.
The Fund America Trillion Dollar stimulus plan is entirely doable, friendly to both big business and the newly unemployed, ecologically sustainable, and ready to be implemented for a full economic recovery that ushers in a new paradigm of cultural interdependence. Citizens be encouraged! Reach out to your Congressperson and Senator to ask for support for the The Prosperity Mandate Fund America Tax Initiative. Create a Job -- Get a Tax Break! Invest in America - Pay less tax! We are in a period of great transformation, and now is the time to implement a truly sustainable economic and renewable solution for the current economic crisis.
N. Katz is the founder and visionary of The Prosperity Mandate organization. Previous highlights of his professional career include being an entrepreneur who has started, funded, and advised companies from dinner napkin to Fortune 100 companies. He has taken start ups public through Initial Public Offering, served in the Executive suite of two public companies and on the Board of Directors of several companies. Mr. Katz completed the Executive Program in Management at the John E. Anderson Graduate School of Management at the University of California Los Angeles.
When asked how does he continually think outside of "The Box", Mr. Katz replies somewhat perplexed..."What Box?"! He explains, "Most people look at a problem, then at the tools and resources at their disposal, and then try to create a road map from where they are to where they want to go using those tools. I start with the end result and always work to find one logical step back from there until I arrive at the present. It is just a more liberating way of finding solutions." His Prosperity Mandate is an innovative solution to the current economic crisis that is a brilliant example of his out of the box thinking.
http://EzineArticles.com/ Read More ..
Senin, 16 Februari 2009
Time to Redefine the Economic Paradigm
The world Bank recently released it's long awaited forecast for the World economic future. "The financial crisis is likely to result in the most serious recession since the Great Depression," said Justin Lin, it's Chief economist. The global economy is captured in a downward spiral as never witnessed before. Whereas before, economies were more localized and had more immunity to outside forces, now Globalization has ensured that one big failure in the machine can create a systemic event that brings down all the component parts. The inevitable failure of a few major banks has demonstrated just how much havoc can be wreaked from Alaska to Beijing.
Emerging markets, dependent on mature market consumption, are teetering on the edge of Bankruptcy as Private capital inflow has been drying up and is forecast to reduce by half next year. The volume of world trade is set to decrease by 2.1%, the biggest drop for 33 years. Oil exporting countries from Venezuela to Russia are seeing revenue crash as demand across the world decreases. Poor countries, on the other hand, have experienced a decrease in the cost of living as food and oil prices drop. In an unforeseen twist of fate, Globalisation has enriched poorer countries and impoverished richer ones.
Greece is in the throes of a revolution as their people mount a massive protest against the country's history of corruption and economic mismanagement. Originally born of the alleged murder of a 15 year old boy by Greek police, the momentum was maintained by deeply rooted history. Is this a sign of things to come ? As economic conditions deteriorate across every continent, blame will be apportioned and it won't be hard to find easy targets. Shortage of food, homelessness, unemployment are now realities for an ever increasing number of people who have never known a life like this before. We are watching our own Governments waste the money we could be using constructively to prepare and mitigate for harder times. Attempts to restore the economic activity of nations through liquidity injections in to failing banks will achieve nothing when the basics of this same economy rely on a volume of activity that was sustained by inflated wealth through credit. The only reason we bought so much stuff was because we could always pay the bill off later.
So it's no big surprise that "We're almost in an air pocket, where we don't have a new global driver of growth." as said by Thomas Mayer, the chief European economist for Deutsche Bank. Sorry Thomas, we're all tapped out. Unrealistic growth was the problem in the first place. Growth of an economy through a regulated monetary system, consumer saving, profits ploughed back in to production, balanced budgets is one thing, but unhinged consumption and imaginary accounting by the Financial "Industry" to inflate wealth was always destined to arrive at cardiac arrest. Financial companies are supposed to provide credit to individuals and real industries to grow the economy. When they discovered that there was money to be made giving loans to anyone who could hold a pen, they officially became usurers. When they opened the casino and took bets on anything that could go one way or another, from the economic health of a country to whether interest rates would go up or down, they opened the gates to their own destruction and consequently that of their victims. Even ordinary citizens got caught up in the act as stocks were bought and sold like candy. We have a Stock market that may as well take it's cue from the atmospheric conditions on Pluto. It certainly has nothing to do with economic realities on the ground.
Lack of regulation and the quest for short term profit at the expense of long term sustainabilty has brought the World to it's knees. A new paradigm is desperately needed to restore sanity to a world gone mad. As we travel the downside we cannot expect the same failed mechanisms to save us. The actions of Governments the world over so far is to try and blow air in to a burst balloon; no matter how hard they blow it will never be able hold it's form. It's time to admit that we have overextended the system to the inevitable breaking point and now the remaining pieces must be reassembled in to something that does not need wizardry to keep it upright.
http://EzineArticles.com Read More ..
Emerging markets, dependent on mature market consumption, are teetering on the edge of Bankruptcy as Private capital inflow has been drying up and is forecast to reduce by half next year. The volume of world trade is set to decrease by 2.1%, the biggest drop for 33 years. Oil exporting countries from Venezuela to Russia are seeing revenue crash as demand across the world decreases. Poor countries, on the other hand, have experienced a decrease in the cost of living as food and oil prices drop. In an unforeseen twist of fate, Globalisation has enriched poorer countries and impoverished richer ones.
Greece is in the throes of a revolution as their people mount a massive protest against the country's history of corruption and economic mismanagement. Originally born of the alleged murder of a 15 year old boy by Greek police, the momentum was maintained by deeply rooted history. Is this a sign of things to come ? As economic conditions deteriorate across every continent, blame will be apportioned and it won't be hard to find easy targets. Shortage of food, homelessness, unemployment are now realities for an ever increasing number of people who have never known a life like this before. We are watching our own Governments waste the money we could be using constructively to prepare and mitigate for harder times. Attempts to restore the economic activity of nations through liquidity injections in to failing banks will achieve nothing when the basics of this same economy rely on a volume of activity that was sustained by inflated wealth through credit. The only reason we bought so much stuff was because we could always pay the bill off later.
So it's no big surprise that "We're almost in an air pocket, where we don't have a new global driver of growth." as said by Thomas Mayer, the chief European economist for Deutsche Bank. Sorry Thomas, we're all tapped out. Unrealistic growth was the problem in the first place. Growth of an economy through a regulated monetary system, consumer saving, profits ploughed back in to production, balanced budgets is one thing, but unhinged consumption and imaginary accounting by the Financial "Industry" to inflate wealth was always destined to arrive at cardiac arrest. Financial companies are supposed to provide credit to individuals and real industries to grow the economy. When they discovered that there was money to be made giving loans to anyone who could hold a pen, they officially became usurers. When they opened the casino and took bets on anything that could go one way or another, from the economic health of a country to whether interest rates would go up or down, they opened the gates to their own destruction and consequently that of their victims. Even ordinary citizens got caught up in the act as stocks were bought and sold like candy. We have a Stock market that may as well take it's cue from the atmospheric conditions on Pluto. It certainly has nothing to do with economic realities on the ground.
Lack of regulation and the quest for short term profit at the expense of long term sustainabilty has brought the World to it's knees. A new paradigm is desperately needed to restore sanity to a world gone mad. As we travel the downside we cannot expect the same failed mechanisms to save us. The actions of Governments the world over so far is to try and blow air in to a burst balloon; no matter how hard they blow it will never be able hold it's form. It's time to admit that we have overextended the system to the inevitable breaking point and now the remaining pieces must be reassembled in to something that does not need wizardry to keep it upright.
http://EzineArticles.com Read More ..
Minggu, 15 Februari 2009
$819 Billion Economic Stimulus Package 2009 - So What!
The U.S. House passed President Barack Obama's $819 billion stimulus package without any Republican votes. The 244 to 188 vote yesterday sends the measure to the Senate, where Republicans will have more power to demand changes. They are calling for more tax cuts, less spending and a bigger focus on housing in the measure
..SO WHAT!
Among the changes Republicans are seeking: a plan to have the federal government back fixed-rate 4 percent mortgages. The Senate is likely to begin work on the stimulus plan on Feb. 2. The measure is separate from the administration's plan to shore up the banking system, which may cost in excess of $1 trillion.
Again..SO WHAT!
Now, being realistic and serious, these are very important and dire times. News concerning the 2009 stimulus package is very relevant and vital to our economy. Its like an episode of 'ER' or 'House'. The patient (i.e. economy) is surviving only on life support. The doctors (Democrats and Republicans) both agree major surgery is needed, they just can't agree upon which procedure is best for the patient.
Democrats want more spending. Every stimulus bill dollar spent equates to $1.50 in return stimulated dollars in the economy. Major draw back is it takes longer to get into the patients circulatory system. Republicans argue for more tax cuts. This translates into $0.75 in stimulated dollars from every $1 tax cut. Their plan delivers less money into the economy, but it gets there more quickly. And as a side note, there is always a chance that people will save the extra money instead of spending it to stimulate the economy.
So who's right and who's wrong? Important things to consider, but I still say..SO WHAT!
This is what I mean. One thing that's certain is that people's credit scores are shot! This is why I say SO WHAT about the $819 Billion Stimulus Bill..when it comes to repairing your credit. Regardless of who wins their way on the bill, that doesn't mean that your credit scores will magically increase overnight. This is something YOU will have to deal with YOURSELF! And your best weapon will be knowledge. Using this knowledge to repair your credit will allow you to take advantage of some the opportunities that are currently available. Real estate is one such opportunity that comes to mind. Those who are in a position to buy these foreclosure homes will benefit tremendously when the market begins to stabilize and rebound.
It's important to understand the 5 major factors that determine your credit score and how you can LEGALLY manipulate them in your favor! Click the link below to begin your journey to financial recovery.
Legally Manipulate Your Credit Score
Christopher Wright, Financial Cancer Specialist
GoodCreditApproval.com
http://www.Internet-SmallBusiness.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Christopher_Wright Read More ..
..SO WHAT!
Among the changes Republicans are seeking: a plan to have the federal government back fixed-rate 4 percent mortgages. The Senate is likely to begin work on the stimulus plan on Feb. 2. The measure is separate from the administration's plan to shore up the banking system, which may cost in excess of $1 trillion.
Again..SO WHAT!
Now, being realistic and serious, these are very important and dire times. News concerning the 2009 stimulus package is very relevant and vital to our economy. Its like an episode of 'ER' or 'House'. The patient (i.e. economy) is surviving only on life support. The doctors (Democrats and Republicans) both agree major surgery is needed, they just can't agree upon which procedure is best for the patient.
Democrats want more spending. Every stimulus bill dollar spent equates to $1.50 in return stimulated dollars in the economy. Major draw back is it takes longer to get into the patients circulatory system. Republicans argue for more tax cuts. This translates into $0.75 in stimulated dollars from every $1 tax cut. Their plan delivers less money into the economy, but it gets there more quickly. And as a side note, there is always a chance that people will save the extra money instead of spending it to stimulate the economy.
So who's right and who's wrong? Important things to consider, but I still say..SO WHAT!
This is what I mean. One thing that's certain is that people's credit scores are shot! This is why I say SO WHAT about the $819 Billion Stimulus Bill..when it comes to repairing your credit. Regardless of who wins their way on the bill, that doesn't mean that your credit scores will magically increase overnight. This is something YOU will have to deal with YOURSELF! And your best weapon will be knowledge. Using this knowledge to repair your credit will allow you to take advantage of some the opportunities that are currently available. Real estate is one such opportunity that comes to mind. Those who are in a position to buy these foreclosure homes will benefit tremendously when the market begins to stabilize and rebound.
It's important to understand the 5 major factors that determine your credit score and how you can LEGALLY manipulate them in your favor! Click the link below to begin your journey to financial recovery.
Legally Manipulate Your Credit Score
Christopher Wright, Financial Cancer Specialist
GoodCreditApproval.com
http://www.Internet-SmallBusiness.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Christopher_Wright Read More ..
January 2009 Economic Solutions
First, we should focus on our liquidity. Liquidity is the measurement of current assets (primarily cash, collectible receivables and inventory) compared to current liabilities (primarily payables, credit cards, short-term debts). One of the challenges will be to increase the current assets, especially cash, and reduce current liabilities. Having cash management discipline will be crucial. Several ways to increase liquidity are equity infusion, increasing margins (which we will discuss later) and conducting business with clients we know, businesses we understand and have good character. Additionally, financial institutions are not currently lending nor can small businesses count on financial institutions to lend in the future. Thus small businesses cannot count on receiving working capital through a line of credit to help fuel growth. Therefore, small businesses will have to fuel their own growth. Building liquidity will help small businesses be able to fuel this future growth.
Operational efficiency and productivity will be another area to focus on. In an environment of lower revenues new solutions will be necessary. Since you may not be able to grow your margins through revenues you will need to look at the cost side of the equation. One way to reduce costs is to be more efficient through revamping the work flow to save time (labor) or improve efficiency of materials used. One example is to purchase new equipment which could save out-sourcing, material costs and reduce utilities. One of my clients was able to install a new piece of equipment for $30,000 which has reduced his costs by $50,000 per year. This new piece of equipment paid for itself in less than one year.
Stay focused! Everyday business owners get distracted by a lot of little things. On top of the distractions I have noticed an increase amount of complaining about the economy. Unfortunately, complaining attitudes usually building on one another. Small business owners will need to stay focused and use their time and energy on finding solutions and spotting opportunity, not on complaining. I was told as a child that it was ok to complain if I had three solutions for every complaint. Staying focused will help us become more creative and find solutions through these challenging economic times.
The Boy Scout's motto is "Be Prepared". Business owners need to be prepared as well and to have a game plan for the future. Forming a plan for your business will help you stay focused on what tasks need to be done, priorities and to find creative solutions for your business. While staying focused is more for the short-term, having a plan will allow you to plan for the mid to long-term.
For extra credit, you can test your attitude. Being a small business owner is difficult. I believe a business owner needs to show a great attitude, be optimistic, but be grounded to reality. Being grounded to reality usually crashes into the other two. For example, a few years ago when I warned my clients and business associates of the real estate bubble I was viewed as a pessimist, not a realist and now as I mention spotting opportunity and preparing for growth I am labeled as a cheerleader instead of a realist.
These four items will take sacrifice and creative thinking. I recommend forming a board of advisors or a CEO roundtable to help you through the process. Forming these types of groups can be done for free. I used basic improv classes to help jump start the creative process though Blank Stage Productions. I will also be more than happy to send a few minutes on the telephone with you (mind you tax season is about to start so I cannot be too generous).
Mark Wyssbrod, Proacitve CPA, has been helping small businesses achieve their goals since 1999. His proactive philosophy stems from the fact that traditional tax preparers are usually simple historians who react to their client's prior and current positions. Such a reactive stance means trying to fix mistakes after those mistakes are already made. Mark would rather prevent any mistakes in the first place. You can reach Mark at (770) 664-8583.
Barron's Weekly
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mark_Wyssbrod Read More ..
Operational efficiency and productivity will be another area to focus on. In an environment of lower revenues new solutions will be necessary. Since you may not be able to grow your margins through revenues you will need to look at the cost side of the equation. One way to reduce costs is to be more efficient through revamping the work flow to save time (labor) or improve efficiency of materials used. One example is to purchase new equipment which could save out-sourcing, material costs and reduce utilities. One of my clients was able to install a new piece of equipment for $30,000 which has reduced his costs by $50,000 per year. This new piece of equipment paid for itself in less than one year.
Stay focused! Everyday business owners get distracted by a lot of little things. On top of the distractions I have noticed an increase amount of complaining about the economy. Unfortunately, complaining attitudes usually building on one another. Small business owners will need to stay focused and use their time and energy on finding solutions and spotting opportunity, not on complaining. I was told as a child that it was ok to complain if I had three solutions for every complaint. Staying focused will help us become more creative and find solutions through these challenging economic times.
The Boy Scout's motto is "Be Prepared". Business owners need to be prepared as well and to have a game plan for the future. Forming a plan for your business will help you stay focused on what tasks need to be done, priorities and to find creative solutions for your business. While staying focused is more for the short-term, having a plan will allow you to plan for the mid to long-term.
For extra credit, you can test your attitude. Being a small business owner is difficult. I believe a business owner needs to show a great attitude, be optimistic, but be grounded to reality. Being grounded to reality usually crashes into the other two. For example, a few years ago when I warned my clients and business associates of the real estate bubble I was viewed as a pessimist, not a realist and now as I mention spotting opportunity and preparing for growth I am labeled as a cheerleader instead of a realist.
These four items will take sacrifice and creative thinking. I recommend forming a board of advisors or a CEO roundtable to help you through the process. Forming these types of groups can be done for free. I used basic improv classes to help jump start the creative process though Blank Stage Productions. I will also be more than happy to send a few minutes on the telephone with you (mind you tax season is about to start so I cannot be too generous).
Mark Wyssbrod, Proacitve CPA, has been helping small businesses achieve their goals since 1999. His proactive philosophy stems from the fact that traditional tax preparers are usually simple historians who react to their client's prior and current positions. Such a reactive stance means trying to fix mistakes after those mistakes are already made. Mark would rather prevent any mistakes in the first place. You can reach Mark at (770) 664-8583.
Barron's Weekly
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mark_Wyssbrod Read More ..
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