Have you ever read that you should think positively when you are feeling anxious?

Have you ever been told to argue back when you have negative thoughts?

How’s that working for you?

Why do affirmations only sometimes produce results?

Because as we argue back to our negative and irrational thoughts, we don’t always believe the new things we are telling ourselves.

What we really believe is our original thoughts – the thoughts that have led us to feel anxiety in the first place.

The other reason that affirmation sometimes produce limited results is that we might not really believe that saying the affirmations will create change in our lives.

So why do affirmations come so highly recommended?

How are these affirmations supposed to work?
If you can get yourself to begin to believe them, if you can begin to see a kernel of truth in what you are saying, then affirmations may help you to install new, more helpful beliefs.

New beliefs!

That is the key to permanently and more positively changing how we feel and react to the world around us.

There is a difference between what we really believe and all of the infinite number of possible thoughts that we are capable of thinking – which we may or may not believe.

It is the thoughts that we really believe that seem to possess the power.

Rather than the thoughts that are positive yet not believable.

Our beliefs are the source of the actions we take. We act ultimately based on what we believe to be true.

It is possible to use affirmations to bring a conscious effort to alter our actions.

But if we do not believe that this new perspective or thought that we are affirming is going to be effective, then we will revert back to what we really believe beneath the self-imposed, positive thoughts.

If you can begin to agree with the thoughts and affirmations you are feeding yourself, you will begin to act from them. And you will indeed be in the process of changing your beliefs.

It can be done through affirmations. But what’s the key?

There has to be something in there that you believe, that you can see as true in some way.

It probably won’t work if you see the affirmations as touchy-feely mumbo-jumbo.

The caveat for anxiety sufferers
For anxiety sufferers, however, the affirmation process may have a limited and disappointing effect.

Here’s why:

If we go into a social situation where we normally feeling significant amounts of anxiety and try to affirm our way through the experience, old beliefs may very easily strong arm our fragile, new, positive thoughts. And create a nerve-wracking experience.

And, as a result of this nerve-wracking experience, affirmations will look like a very ineffective tool.

It is in the deeper realm of our beliefs that the power for having a permanently altered, more calm experience lies.

Go there and see a difference in your feelings of anxiety!

bio = c2005 Sarah Malik, having suffered from anxiety herself, is dedicated to helping people who deal with the anxiety of social situations. To help them to reduce their anxiety and increase their confidence. So that they can experience inner peace and calm – no matter where they are and no matter what they are doing. More information is available at www.sarahmalik.com today. Note to editors: Please feel free to create a live link to this article.

Popularity: 10% [?]

Understanding why and how the happy diet works.

There is a simple explanation and that being is you get to choose what you want to eat. Most diets today prove to be very stressful for many men and women in their quest to lose weight. This is because they are following instructions from others on what they should and should not be eating. How do these people know? What tickles your fancy?

Discover how the happy diet can work for you, what is the happy diet you ask. It is a diet carefully devised by youself with all the things that you like to eat. You get to choose your own meats fresh fruit and vegetables

Diets definitely work if you adhere to all the rules, break them then no results. Now let us get cracking on a diet that makes sense and guaranteed to put a smile on your face
Just imagine your own diet with all the juicy ingredients and succulent meats that suit your palette

Always consult a doctor if you are thinking about dieting or exercising as we individuals all differ in many ways.

A little research on daily intake of carbohydrate protein and fat is an important factor when devising your own diet. I suggest you browse magazines or approach slimming informational centres to find out about your chosen foods.

Find a list of all the foods that you know you are going to enjoy using in your recipes and that are good for helping you to shed those excess pounds. Then narrow it down to the ones that you want to have on your menu.

This part of the happy diet can prove to be very educational and fun to say the least. People accept diets and all the ingredients. This way you get to delve more intimately into the choices you have made for your own personal plan.

After checking all the important factors as in i.e. consulting the doctor and daily intake of fats etc. we are now ready for the physical side of things. A few ideas to help speed up the process (exercise) try dancing round the kitchen table with the kids they make think you are mad but who cares you are on a mission to find the new you.
Spring clean not once a week maybe twice. This will help hurry things along and into the bargain a cleaner house. Remember this is your plan so do it when it suits you. Results will only come if you stick to what you started out to do.
Walking a great form of exercise, why not consider salsa lessons it all helps. Do not expect results over night

For starters (Excuse the pun) throw out the frying pan.
Less grease on the plate to lose weight
Grilling with out a doubt is a far healthier and tastier option.

Cut down (YES) cut out (NO) you can still nibble on little goodies. Just cut down? Watch where others go wrong, most diets of course will not work if the rules are broken. Now why would you want to break the rules on the happy diet when all that is on the menu was chosen by you?
(It makes sense)
Consulting a dietician is a good idea for information. Joining a book club may also prove to be priceless in your quest. Make your own recipes to suit your own taste buds.

http://www.benidormbeaches.com

bio = Hi Kacy is my name and I hope you find this information on planning your own dietary plan useful. A happy diet means a happy person, therefore a lot of smiling people

Popularity: 10% [?]

It’s not a secret that every single woman (and even man) wants to look nice and attractive. We can’t image our day without make up, fashion clothes, fresh breath, white teeth, unwrinkled face, and even some extra pounds make us so upset! Yes, sometimes each extra kilo may destroy individual’s self- reliance. Women try to reduce extra weight by diet, exercising, starvation or they try effective fat removal method – liposuction.

Liposuction (lipoplasty) is a popular form of cosmetic plastic surgery which can help sculpt the human body by eliminating unwanted fat from certain areas of the body (typically the abdomen, thighs, and buttocks). During liposuction, fat is removed by liquefying it and sucking it out through a hollow needle or vacuum device. Is it everything what you know about lipo surgery? If yes, follow these recommendations and get known how to deal with liposuction!

First, you have to be sure that liposuction is especially for you. The best candidates for lipoplasty are considered to be normal-weight patients with compact, elastic skin who have an accumulation of fat in certain areas that are resistant to exercise and dieting. A minimum age for liposuction is at least 17. Before surgery don’t use any alcohol and medications – they will slow the effect of anesthesia!

You have to know that surgery itself is painless, but a period of recovery may be very painful. It may be necessary to find a caregiver, who will help with such daily cares as walking you to bathroom, cleaning you incisions, making food and etc.

Every surgery includes a number of complications. It may be swelling, bruising and, of course, pain. The surgeon will prescribe medications that will help you to reduce pain and recommend using ice packs on swollen area of body during the first 3 day after surgery.
Pain attention on what you eat! Select non-spicy food, fresh juice (vegetable or fruit) and drink at least 7-8 glasses of water.

Soon after the surgery you will see the results that are believed to be permanent and enjoy your new look! It is a good feeling to wear everything you want, be it a short dress or bikini, isn’t it?

Use of this article is permitted as long as there are clickable links back to us at:
Liposuction

bio = The owner of http://www.cosmeticmiracles.com website.

Popularity: 10% [?]

With the increase in the number of lung cancer cases in recent years, it is vitally important to educate ourselves on the risks and consequences of asbestos exposure which accounts for over 80% of all mesothelioma cancer cases; a form of cancer, caused by asbestos exposure, that can affect the lungs (Pleural form), abdomen (Peritoneal form), and even the membrane around the heart.. A hefty 2000 new cases are being diagnosed every year according to the National Cancer Institute, and that number is on the rise. This leaves the question to be asked…

Just how dangerous is asbestos exposure?

Significant exposure to any type of asbestos will increase the risk of lung cancer, mesothelioma and nonmalignant lung and pleural disorders, including asbestosis, pleural plaques, pleural thickening, and pleural effusions. This is based on observations of these diseases in groups of workers with cumulative exposures ranging from about 5 to 1,200 fiber-year/mL. The conclusion is supported by results from animal and mechanistic studies.

Tobacco smokers who have been exposed to asbestos have a “far greater-than-additive” risk for lung cancer than do nonsmokers who have been exposed, meaning the risk is greater than the individual risks from asbestos and smoking added together. The time between diagnosis of mesothelioma and the time of initial occupational exposure to asbestos commonly has been 30 years or more.

Asbestos Facts:

1. When asbestos fibers are inhaled, most fibers are expelled, but some can become lodged in the lungs and remain there throughout life. Fibers can accumulate and cause scarring and inflammation. Enough scarring and inflammation can affect breathing, leading to disease.

2. People are more likely to experience asbestos-related disorders when they are exposed to high concentrations of asbestos, are exposed for longer periods of time, and/or are exposed more often.

3. Inhaling longer, more durable asbestos fibers (such as tremolite and other amphiboles) contributes to the severity of asbestos-related disorders.

4. Exposure to asbestos, including tremolite, can increase the likelihood of lung cancer, mesothelioma, and non-malignant lung conditions such as asbestosis (restricted use of the lungs due to retained asbestos fibers) and changes in the lung lining.

5. Changes in the lining of the lungs (pleura) such as thickening, plaques, calcification, and fluid around the lungs (pleural effusion) may be early signs of asbestos exposure. These changes can affect breathing more than previously thought. Pleural effusion can be an early warning sign for mesothelioma (cancer of the lining of the lungs).

6. Most cases of asbestosis or lung cancer in workers occurred 15 years or more after the person was first exposed to asbestos.

7. Most cases of mesothelioma are diagnosed 30 years or more after the first exposure to asbestos.

8. Mesothelioma has been diagnosed in asbestos workers, family members, and residents who live close to asbestos mines.

9. Health effects from asbestos exposure may continue to progress even after exposure is stopped.

10. Smoking or cigarette smoke, together with exposure to asbestos, greatly increases the likelihood of lung cancer.

Signs and Symptoms of asbestosis can include:

Shortness of breath which is the primary symptom

A persistent and productive cough (a cough that expels mucus)

Chest tightness

Chest pain Loss of appetite

A dry, crackling sound in the lungs while inhaling.

If you suspect that you have been exposed to asbestos, speak with your physician immediately and discuss your level of exposure. Early detection of mesothelioma increases your chances immeasurably.

You can get more information about mesothelioma and find helpful information and resources here: Mesothelioma Cancer
bio = Mike Andrews is a research specialist who writes informative and news worthy articles for public distribution. These works stand to improve public relations and brand identity for the companies they represent.

Popularity: 9% [?]

Link popularity is one of the most important aspects of ranking high in Google. As a result, website owners are trying a multitude of techniques in an effort to gain an increase in link popularity. Website owners in the past have tried reciprocal linking strategies, link form submissions, and a variety of time consuming and sometimes meaningless methods to increase their website’s online exposure. They spend countless hours sending e-mails to other website owners for links pointing back to their sites; usually they only see about a 2-3% return on investment for their efforts. This time could have been saved if they would have resorted to other forms of marketing with proven successful track records.

Press release submissions are a form of marketing that has been around for quite some time and doesn’t have any tricky aspects associated with it. This marketing method can generate a plethora of online exposure if you discuss newsworthy topics about your company and use the correct targeting methods. Submitting non-newsworthy company information in a press release will result in an ineffective marketing campaign because online consumers and journalists are only interested in targeted newsworthy stories.

In addition to submitting newsworthy company information, it is necessary to find out who your targeted consumer base is and then take the appropriate marketing measures to ensure greater marketing efficacy within your campaigns.

Your news can be anything from a new business venture, successful client case study, recent company new hire, etc. Give your readers something they can relate to; make them want to come to your website to find out the changes in your company and or industry. The key is to put yourself in you reader’s shoes in order to build a credible relationship with them.

Credibility is the central issue to be concerned with when trying to build link popularity online. One press release can generate between 200-500 back-links from credible web sites online in your industry. These back-links are only attained if the other website owners feel that your content is worth having on their own servers. Initially you will see an influx of 500-1000 links pop up in the first week; however, it will decline to about 200-300 solid links from credible sources after about two to three weeks. Most sites will host your content on their home page for a few days and then transfer your information to their archive.

Increased link popularity through the implementation of a credible company press release should not hurt your Google keyword rankings, due to a greater influx of back-links. This happens because your links are coming from industry hubs that are extremely credible online content providers. On the other hand, this can hurt your website if you get carried away with your press release submissions. Remember to take your time and submit valid industry news that relates to your website, company, or industry to stay on Google’s good graces.

bio = Hillary Lane is an Internet Marketing Professional who specializes in press release and article distributiion services. My core competencies lie in link popularity strategies as well as acquiring new clients through the use of RSS technology. To view my website, go to http://www.engine-iuspressrelease.com.

Popularity: 12% [?]

There are a lot of people out there who just don’t have the time to go to a college campus for an education. This can be for many reasons, such as work, finding a babysitter, costs of college courses, or even coordinating it to fit into your busy schedule. There is a solution for this. You can obtain an online college degree.

An online college degree is just as valid as a degree you receive at a regular college campus. In fact a lot of people prefer it. This is because you can get an online college degree from the comfort of your own home. You don’t have to go anywhere to get the online college degree and you can register for the courses for your online college degree at home as well. You also don’t have to commute to go to school, which in turn will save you gas, time, and money. An online college degree program will fit into any busy schedule and is convenient for anyone.

Online college degree programs offer financial aid and assistance just like regular college campuses do. Online college degree programs also offer job placement programming to anyone who completes the courses and obtains the online college degree. Online college degree programs often boast that you can get your degree in half the time it would take from a normal on campus course program. This is true because an online college degree program allows you to take the courses as quickly or as slowly as you want. It is all done at your own pace!

Now that you see the advantages of obtaining an online college degree, let us look at some of the online college degree courses offered. Some are: accounting, teaching, business, computers, criminal justice, legal and paralegal, dental assistance, travel and tourism, and many more. There is even master degree programs offered online so you can even further you education.

The prices of online college degree programs can vary from school to school. It is best to do your research and see what school offers you the best deal and the best education. If you need financial aide, be sure the school offers it before you enroll. Remember, this is an online college degree program so it doesn’t matter where the course is coming from!

You can now see the huge advantageous of obtaining an online college degree. There really aren’t any disadvantages. Only positive things have been said about online college degree programs. You have nothing to lose and everything to gain! Why not give an online college degree program a try? You will find it is truly worth it, for you and for your future.

bio = Jay Moncliff is the founder of http://www.online-degree-center.info a blog focusing on the Online Degree, resources and articles. This site provides detailed information on Online Degree. For more info on Online Degree visit: http://www.online-degree-center.info

Popularity: 12% [?]

Critical illness cover (CIC) is a type of insurance which provides a significant one-off payment if you are diagnosed with a specified life-threatening condition – specified being the important term, because if your illness isn’t in the terms and conditions – you won’t get the payment. Over recent years, critical illness cover has gained in popularity due to lower costs and apparent simplicity.

Critical illness insurance can be sold as part of a mortgage package or additionally as a stand-alone policy. Critical illness cover can also be commonly associated with life insurance, with certain CIC policies paying out either on the diagnosis of a particular illness or on death, but not both, whilst other CIC policies pay out in both events.

When you first purchase the critical illness insurance policy, there might be an option for buy-back insurance, this would permit you to buy additional critical illness cover or life insurance, typically at a minimal cost, after you have made a claim on your existing CIC policy. It is often worth considering such an option, as the survival rates from a critical illness are usually very good and it can be extremely difficult to obtain new cover following a critical illness. Buy-back critical illness cover usually protects against the three major critical illnesses: heart attack, stroke and cancer from which you are most likely to recover, but also risk an attack later in life.

Bear in mind that when you take out life critical illness insurance, there is a standard waiting period between diagnosis and possible payout, from six months to a year for certain conditions, such as total permanent disability. However, if the diagnosis is very transparent, it is possible that the insurer would consider waiving the waiting period. The maximum payout varies from policy to policy thought it’s not unusual to see capped payouts of œ500,000 or œ1 million, though cover for higher amounts might be available on request. When the policy is sold as part of a mortgage package, the lump sum is designed to pay off the loan on the home, but with other policies, there may be no restrictions on how you use the money. Suggested uses may encompass covering living expenses whilst you are off work, though the money could additionally pay for private medical treatment, carer services, home improvements, career retraining, help for your dependents and even a holiday or break away.

Nearly all critical illness insurance policies cover seven main conditions: cancer, heart attack, stroke, kidney failure, coronary artery bypass, multiple sclerosis and major organ transplant. Policy exclusions in critical illness insurance may include Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s disease if diagnosed after the age of 60. Don’t be seduced by long lists of ailments – as other policies may include these but under a broader heading. It is important to note prior to taking out a policy that there may be certain exclusions in the insurance contract which may prevent payout due to life choices and circumstances. According to the Association of British Insurers, the most common exclusions include:

* Aviation
* Criminal acts
* Drug abuse
* Failure to follow medical advice
* Hazardous sports and pastimes
* HIV/AIDS
* Living abroad
* Self-inflicted injury
* War and civil commotion

The consumer organisation Which? estimates that two thirds of the population suffer from a critical illness at some point in their lives. However, whilst the principle of critical illness insurance might be relevant, it is always worth ensuring your policy meets your exact needs, so if the worst happens, you’re not caught out by the small print. It’s important to shop around for quotes and different policies. Comparison sites such as moneynet and moneysupermarket will allow you to do this.

Resources:

http://www.channel4.com/4money/insurance/guides/critical_illness_guide_071003_page1.html (Critical illness insurance guide)

http://www.moneynet.co.uk/insurance/critical-illness/index.shtml (Critical illness price comparison research)

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
bio = About Rachel:

Rachel lives with her high horse in the Scottish mountains, near Edinburgh. Rachel writes for the personal finance blog Cashzilla:

http://www.cashzilla.co.uk

Popularity: 10% [?]

Do you want a rewarding career that will make some descent money? Are you good with numbers? Are you good with paperwork? Do you like anything that has to do with money? If you answered yes, you may be interested in a career in mortgage banking. The best place to get an education on mortgage banking is at The American School of Mortgage Banking. They guarantee success to all of there students.

The American School of Mortgage Banking can teach you all there is to know about mortgage banking. They have several courses that teach you all aspects of mortgage banking. The American School of Mortgage Banking offers a variety of courses at varying times. Some are as short as a few hours, and some are as long as a few days. Upon completion of their courses, The American School of Mortgage Banking also offers job placement and job assistance for as long as you need it. They will also write you a letter of recommendation for future possible employers. Lastly, you are offered free re-attendance to any courses you have completed, for those of you who would like a refresher to any courses you have completed

One of the first mortgage banking courses you should take is in loan origination and loan processing. The first part of this course is an introduction to mortgage banking. It then moves to how to figure the total loan amount and loan payment. Next is buyer approval and qualifications. Finally, this course goes over the different types of loans available and how to do the paper work for them. At the end of the course you will receive a loan origination and loan processing certificate of completion.

The next mortgage banking course you should take is conventional underwriting. This mortgage banking course will teach you the art of underwriting a conventional loan, appraisals, loan approval, liabilities, loan approval amount based on income, and the figuring of a down payment. Upon completion of this course you will receive a conventional underwriting certificate of completion.

Another similar mortgage banking course you should take is FHA underwriting. This mortgage banking course teaches you how to get a HUD loan approval, appraisals, insurance requirements, and FHA loan closing procedures. At the end of the course, you will get an FHA underwriting certificate of completion.

The American School of Mortgage Banking offers so much to its students. They guarantee that upon completion of there courses you will be ready to get out into the work force and join other mortgage bankers. You will leave knowing that you are going to be successful and you will also have a great deal of knowledge to take with you.

bio = Jay Moncliff is the founder of http://www.1stonlinebanking.info a blog focusing on the Banking, resources and articles. This site provides detailed information on Banking. For more info on Banking visit: http://www.1stonlinebanking.info

Popularity: 12% [?]

Embarrassing and unwanted facial hair can be an expensive and confidence shattering issue for many women. Unwanted hair on the upper lip, chin and cheeks usually removed by expensive waxes and depilatory creams can often leave tell tale shadows and cause the skin to sag, increasing the signs of ageing through use of harsh chemicals on the skin.

Here now at last is a surprisingly simple quality product from www.facialhairremover.co.uk that provides you with a quick, easy and effective solution to removing unwanted and embarrassing facial hair in the comfort of your own home and on the move.

EpicareT is the first ever Do-It-Yourself manual hair threading device which offers a new twist on an ancient hair removal technique called “threading” which utilised cotton threads. Facial hair threading is the hottest method of Facial Hair Removal today and continues to grow in popularity worldwide. Trained professionals carry out conventional threading in salons or beauty parlours with the use of a cotton thread however, with the EpicareT facial hair remover no salon appointments or professional expertise is required as no cotton thread is used, saving you both time and money.

In just one simple bend-and-roll movement, the pencil sized EpicareT threader will quickly remove unwanted facial hair from the upper lip, chin or cheeks promoting slower hair re-growth as it effectively removes hair from the roots. At last you can have a great quality product that is so simple to use even a 10-year-old girl can master the art of threading hair removal using the EpicareT facial hair threader.

EpicareT is simply a safe, natural and non messy method of facial hair removal that offers an easy, effective and cost efficient way of removing embarrassing facial hair in the comfort of your own home – or anywhere you can carry the pencil-sized threader.

It can be used over and over, lasting for 6 – 9 months before needing to be replaced.

EpicareT provides instant results at your fingertips. Unlike expensive waxes, where you will usually have to purchase an applicator, wax and extra removal strips separately – the Epicare threader is a complete facial hair removal solution and does all the work without the need for additional purchases or expensive add-ons. It also does not require electricity like epilators do, so can be used anywhere!

To order your own Epicare threader or learn more about EpicareT, visit Another Media Group’s new website at Facial Hair Removal
bio =
Jessica Ross
Webmaster Facial Hair Removal UK

All articles are c Copyright 2005 Another Media Group – Facial Hair Removal UK – All rights reserved.

Popularity: 11% [?]

Many people are out there looking for a job. A local job search can often be difficult. But did you know you can do a local job search right from your own home? You can even do a local job search without even having to get up from your chair. How do you do a local job search? What’s the best way to do a local job search? Let’s go over some of the methods.

The first way people usually do a local job search is from a newspaper. This is not always the best way to do a local job search, but it is commonly used. The first way to do this local job search is to get your local newspaper. You can either have it delivered to your home or purchase it a grocery store or gas station. You then open your newspaper to the classified section and start your local job search. The jobs are sectioned off by their designated fields such as: legal, medical, labor, drivers, sales, etc. Before you start this local job search, you may want to have a resume already made.

The most popular form of a local job search is to go online and do a local job search. There are several websites that offer a local job search. I find the easiest website to use for a local job search to be careerbuilders.com. At this website you begin your local job search by first creating a resume. You can either copy and paste a resume you have already created or you can use the websites free resume builder. You can save up to 5. Next you begin the local job search. First select your city and state. You then select how far away you are willing to work from your zip code. Next you select the categories of job interest and click “enter.” Soon you will have tons of jobs listed from your local job search. You can then select jobs you are interested in and automatically send them your resume. It is the easiest way to do a local job search. Careerbuilder.com even emails you daily with jobs that match the local job search you did on the website.

The last local job search website you may be interested in is monster.com. This website is probably the most popular, but not as user friendly. It is very similar to careerbuilder.com except that they do not send out email alerts for jobs you may be interested in.

Finding a great job is very important. Finding the best job is not always easy. Use the information you have just been given wisely. With it you should have no trouble finding the perfect job.

bio = Jay Moncliff is the founder of http://www.1st-job-search.info a blog focusing on the Job Search, resources and articles. This site provides detailed information on Job Search. For more info on Job Search visit: http://www.1st-job-search.info

Popularity: 13% [?]

Home networks are becoming more common. If you have never heard network terminology device names like router, hub, etc may seem confusing. This article explains what makes up a home network.

Home networks are becoming more common. People want to be able to share a single broadband Internet connection to several computers in the house. There are many different devices that you can use to make up your home network. If you have never heard network terminology device names like router, hub, etc may seem confusing.

The purpose of most of these devices are to control how the network passes around information. This information is sent in the form of “packets”. I will refer to the term packet several times in this article. It simply means the data that the network is transporting. I will now explain the purpose of the major components of a home network.

What is a Hub

A hub is a device that has several Ethernet ports on the back of the device. One of these ports will likely be labeled “Uplink”. This port allows you to connect multiple hubs together, if you run out of ports on your hub. If you do not have an uplink port on your hub, the hub can not be easily extended if you run out of ports.

A hub is a device that attaches multiple computers on an Ethernet network. If you have a number different computers that you want to connect together, you could connect each to the hub. Any packet that is sent out by any computer on the network will immediately be transmitted to the other computers. Each computer will determine if the packet was really intended for it, and filter out packets that were intended for other computers.

You really should not use a hub in a modern home network. You should always use a switch in place of a hub. Switches will be discussed in the next section.

What is a Switch

A switch is a device that has several Ethernet ports on the back of the device. One of these ports will likely be labeled “Uplink”. This port allows you to connect multiple switches together, if you run out of ports on your switch. If you do not have an uplink port on your switch, the switch can not be easily extended if you run out of ports.

A switch serves the same function as a hub. It allows you to connect multiple computers together, so that they can exchange packets. However, a switch is much more efficient than a hub. A switch will only send Ethernet packets to the computer that the packet was intended for. Because of this you should always use a switch in place of a hub.

What is a Router

A router is a device that has several Ethernet ports on the back of the device. One of the connectors will be labeled WAN. You should connect the WAN port to the Ethernet connection on a broadband source, such as a cable or DSL modem. The other ports on the router can be connected other computers or switches/hubs that will share the WAN connection.

Routers allow you to share your broadband connection with multiple computers in your house. Rather than connecting your computer directly into your cable or DSL modem you connect the router to the cable or DSL modem. Now any computer that you connect to the router will have access to the Internet.

If you run out of ports on your router you can always connect an additional switch to the router. To connect a switch to a router simply connect the switch’s “uplink” port to one of the routers Ethernet ports. Of course, don’t connect to the router’s WAN port. The WAN port should only be connected to something such as a cable or DSL router.

Some routers come with additional features installed. Most routers also include a firewall. Firewalls are discussed in the next section. Some routers will also include a wireless access point (WAP). The WAP allows you to use wireless devices, such as wireless laptops, with the Internet.

What is a Firewall

A firewall controls traffic flow between your network and the Internet. A firewall can be either hardware or software. Windows XP SP2 or higher includes a software firewall. A hardware firewall is included with most routers.

A firewall is a very good idea. It can protect you from inbound virus attempts. By inbound virus attempt I mean other computers that will connect to your computer and attempt to infect your computer. You do not want to run a computer directly connected to the Internet, without a firewall. There are just too many other computers out there that can connect and infect you without you even noticing.

What is a Network Attached Storage (NAS)

A network attached storage device is s device that allows a hard drive to be shared across the network. This hard drive is NOT attached to any of your computers. It is simply made available by the NAS. This can be a convent way to add a hard drive that can be accessed by several computers on your network. The other common way to add a network hard drive is to simply share a folder on one of your computers. However, with the NAS, you do not need to keep one of your computers on at all times.

There are two types of NAS commonly available. The first type comes with a build in hard drive. The second accepts a USB or Firewire external hard drive. The advantage to using a USB or Firewire hard drive is that you can upgrade the hard drive if it ever were to become too small.

What is a Print Server

Just like you can buy a device to allow you to share a hard drive, you can do the same with a printer. A print server connects directly to your printer. Your printer is then shared to all of your computers on the network. This is convent because you do not need to leave the printer hooked to a computer, which must be turned on to print.

Conclusions

As you can see there are many different components. Perhaps the final component that I have yet to mention is the cable. These components are connected together with CAT5 Ethernet cable.

You are now ready to pick out the components for your home network!

bio = Jeff Heaton is author, consultant and college instructor. Jeff maintains the “Heaton Research” website that contains many Java tutorials and other computer programming information.

Popularity: 10% [?]

MP3 is the latest and the most popular audio format that is used now. This acronym stands for MPEG Layer 3. It is a compressed audio format with a compression ratio of up to 12: 1. The sound quality of the audio in this format is very high. A normal audio file, which is 1200 KB in size, can be stored in just 100 KB if it is using the MP3 format. The size of the audio files is very small when compared to other formats of audio files. This makes it easily portable.

Where to get MP3 audio files?

MP3 audio files are widely available in CDs now. Almost any album that is released in the world is also sold in the MP3 audio format. These albums in the MP3 formats are also available in some websites that are dedicated for MP3 downloads. You can also purchase these MP3 CDs at any audio store meant for that purpose.

MP3 downloads

Free MP3 downloads are also available in some of the websites. You need to become a member of these sites for a fee to download unlimited number of songs in the MP3 format. Some of the sites charge you for each song that is downloaded. Free MP3 downloads for testing the quality of the audio is usually provided by most of these websites. Websites like www.napster.com allow free MP3 downloads if you have MP3 players from select manufacturers. You can download directly to the player by using the software provided by the website.

How to play a MP3 audio file?

To play a MP3 audio you need separate players whether it is software or a physical player that can be carried. MP3 software players are used in your PC to play MP3 audio. Physical players from many branded manufacturers are available in the market to play these MP3 audio files.

MP3 Ringtones

With the advent of the mobile phones, it has become a fashion to make your mobile call you with your favorite songs as Ringtones. Youngsters particularly teenagers are more interested in using Ringtones of the songs they like. This has picked up in such a manner that MP3 Ringtones are now being sold in websites. Many websites sell Ringtones in the MP3 format. The mobile you are using should be capable of playing the Ringtones in the MP3 format to use these MP3 Ringtones. These websites provide you with an interface to select the model of the mobile phone you have and then download MP3 Ringtones that suit your mobile phone model.

bio =

For more information, visit The MP3 Info Center

David Chandler

For your FREE Stock Market Trading Mini Course:
“What The Wall Street Hot Shots Won’t Tell You!” go to: The Stock Market Genie

Popularity: 10% [?]

Those gurus who tell you “It is easy to make big money online” should be shot. Starting an Internet business is easy but getting sales is not. Why? The misery with online business is that you are always marketing to people who don’t want your product.

Don’t hope for too much for traffic is not definite but definable. Some people say “When I launch my site, I will do 3 weeks of marketing and make big money.” Well, that’s a dream. You cannot get massive traffic in a short sharp campaign. Unless you go into 3 months to 3 years of steady sales drive, you won’t make money.

Therefore, you have two options: quit or work harder. If you choose to work harder, then don’t work extra hard, work extra smart.

Online marketing is like fishing in troubled waters. You have to do it piece by piece. Research, read, and learn various traffic techniques and apply them one by one. Here, you will learn that what works for one site may not work for you.

You have to also pay for traffic tools and services for there’s no free lunch. Then you think of limited resources. Remember that it takes money to make money. There are loads of experts out there who will help you or give you there trade secrets in exchange for dollars. Raising funds is part of traffic generating.

Finally, avoid changing your business concept. The concept is often fine, you only need more traffic.

bio = Bright Johnson is the author of “Why Your Site Is Not Making Sales” which can be downloaded free at http://superriches.com
You can distribute this article but you must include the bylines.

Popularity: 12% [?]

Information based marketing is one of the oldest and most effective techniques for bringing targeted prospects to your site and converting them into buyers. This is part of the reason that software, and distribution services that make the process of article promotion easier are so popular lately.

Though the various tools you can use to make the process of distributing your articles more easily are invaluable in getting your content the most exposure, that’s only half of the story.

Getting article marketing to work for your site lies primarily in two things:

The article you’re submitting, and
The preparation you do before a single word of your content is written.

Since those two determining factors make at least 50% of the difference in bringing you success, let’s take a look at what the most common mistakes are in that area, and how to overcome them.

Mistake #1 – Confusing the Reason to Promote with Articles with the Reason to Write Articles

There are three key benefits to promoting an article – branding, lead generation, and as a corollary, online promotion, particularly as part of your optimization efforts.

Yet there is only one reason to write an article, and that is to inform your audience. If your article is not geared towards this as its primary purpose, you will fail to see the three benefits of promotion – because no one will want to read your article.

How many links you’re able to generate by submitting your article to hundreds of sites will matter little if you’re unable to get them picked up by publications, or read by people who search for information.

Sure, if you know what you’re doing all those links pointing back to your site will count for something in your search engine results – but remember that generating links to your site is only one part of optimizing your site for Google, Yahoo or MSN.

To overcome this issue, you’ll need to figure out how to get people to read what is in your article, and then click through to your site from your resource box. The best start to a solution is to produce better content.

In the end it’s a matter of choice. You can get a little exposure from increased link backs, on a very basic level, or enjoy massive exposure from a little extra work.

Mistake #2 – Starting The Article Promotion Process without a Plan

Not every article can fulfil all three purposes of promotion. Some will work better for branding, others can generate leads and increase sales. But if you don’t start out with a plan for what the function of your article should be, you’ll end up unhappy with the results.

To overcome this issue, before you write a single word, decide what purpose the article is supposed to serve. An article meant to brand you as an expert should display your knowledge. One for generating leads may need to be geared towards solving a very specific problem.

An article that gets published every where and helps to make you known is not meant to have the same level of exposure as hyper-targeted content geared towards a narrow group of people. Learning the difference will help you know what kinds of articles to write.

Mistake #3- Publishing Content That Doesn’t Help Your Reader

Maybe you’re thinking: “All I want is links back to my site – any visitors the article generates is gravy.”

Well guess what? Not all article banks and directories are going to accept your content automatically. You can double the number of sites you can submit to by writing articles that the directories want to share with readers. And all it takes is one publisher with a hundred thousand readers to increase your potential audience tenfold.

So if you want article marketing to work for you, write articles that publishers want in their publications.

This also means obeying the standard guidelines, running a spell check, researching a good topic to write about, or even hiring a writer to produce articles on your behalf.

Mistake #4 – Failing to Maximize the Promotional Opportunities of Article Marketing

You already know that articles marketing can help you generate additional links back to your site. But did you know that you can get more visitors and better search engine results from articles in a variety of ways?

You can mention your desired keyword in strategic places, though you should take care not to overdo this. Some people will also tell you to make use of anchor text, which can also is an effective method. However, you should know that the majority of directories and publications aren’t able to support this.

There are alternatives to this method that are just as effective, if not more so, but they require more space to explain.

It’s not just about the links back to your site either. Part of doing well with article marketing is getting picked up by publishers with large audiences, or gaining the ability to leverage other brands due to the quality of your work.

Better search engine results are great.

But by themselves they don’t put money in your pocket – there are a myriad of factors that can turn your article marketing efforts into an opportunity to increase your income, not just the number of visitors to your site.

bio = Tinu Abayomi-Paul is a Web Promotion Specialist who runs the Free Traffic Tips Blog. You can read part two of this article at http://www.freetraffictip.com/article-marketing and learn about three more common mistakes even veteran article marketers make.

Popularity: 10% [?]

Forex Capital Markets are foreign exchange markets where the currencies are been bought and sold continuously for profits. The capital markets of forex are present globally and transactions are non-stop in this forex cash market. Whether its Sydney or Tokyo, one would find aggressive forex dealers and brokers peering into their computer screens and on the telephone for minor changes that might affect this currency trade.

The forex trade is carried out for profits that can be gained by buying and selling of the currencies. Currencies are always bought and sold in pairs. Let us take an example to clarify the forex deal

A trader trades in Euros/ Us Dollars. (All figures are samples only) He purchases 10,000 Euros on Jan 1 when the EUR/USD rate is .9600. Then he sells these Euros at the market rate of 1.1800. On August 1. Therefore he gets 11,800 USD. Thereby making a cool forex transaction profit of USD 2200.

Since all currencies are bought and sold in pairs, one needs to decide the pair of currency that you would like to do your currency transactions in. In this example EUR is the base currency and the USD is called the quote or the counter currency. If you have bought Euros (simultaneously selling dollars), then you have based your decision on the fact that Euros may appreciate in the future. Therefore by selling Euros back into dollars you would be getting more dollars and thus making a profit.

If your assumption is that the US market is going to appreciate, then you would placing a SELL Euro/USD. Therefore you will sell Euros while (simultaneously buying USD). This USD may be sold at a later stage to book a profit.

Operating in the financial and forex trade, its important to understand that there are many factors, which affect the forex dealing. The business market conditions, the political scenario, threat of climatic disasters or impending farm output increase. All these factors play a crucial role in the forex markets.

Forex dealers trade on forex trading platform or a session. These are sophisticated software’s, which provide the forex dealers with real time news and analysis on the currencies that they are dealing in. On this they execute buy and sell orders and well as stop order. Of course these are also linked to the forex margin account. Thus it gives the forex dealers ample leeway to make transactions with a small investment. The forex trade is competitive market where more credit worthy that the institution or the dealer, the better their source of information and quality of data is. Therefore this helps them to make better deals in the currency transactions and make better profits.

bio = Learn about Currency Trading. Market Leader Explains Process. For more in depth info visit:

http://www.forex-made-easy.biz/forex-capital-markets

Popularity: 10% [?]

10 Tips for Killer Website Design

Does website design make a difference in how long people will visit your website or if they’ll stay and shop? You bet. You’ve seen the websites that scream “bad idea” and you know those folks are losing potential customers to their ineffective website design. Whether you are an internet newbie or an experienced marketer, you should understand that good website design is part of the success equation.

So here are my 10 tips on how to create killer website design that will invite potential customers in instead of scare them away.

1. Easy Navigation- The road to success

When people come to your website they are usually searching for something in particular. It might be recipes for a healthy low fat diet that takes less than 30 minutes to prepare or what is the best business to start online. Whatever they want, you need to have the answer. So ask yourself, why do people come to my website? When you know that then you know you should make it easy for them to find it.

I have been on countless websites that make it difficult for me to do business with them. And you know what my first response is? “Next!”
I am onto the next website to see if they can answer my question. People don’t want to waste their time hunting for things that should be easy to find.

So, if people come to your website to find widgets, have a button easy to see and locate that says “Widgets”. People have been trained to look to the left of the website for the navigation bar.

2. Flashing Gizmos – The exit ramp to a dead end street

You’ve seen those sites where the elephants are dancing and the poker chips are running across the screen asking you to click on them.the only thing they have ever done for me is give me a headache and to reach the “let me get out of here as fast as I can” button on my computer.

If you are a running a professional site, please don’t use flashing graphics. Guaranteed you are encouraging people to leave your site. People have come to you for information. Not to click on an ad or have their brain scrambled.

Make your website a pleasant environment for the customer to be in. Just like a store. Think about when you go to the mall. You want to go in a store that is clean, well laid out, has good customer service and the products you are looking for. Your website should reflect this. If it is what you expect in your shopping experience then does it not reason, your customers are looking for this in your website.

What about music? Well, it depends. On most business sites I would suggest not. But let’s say you have a realtor by the ocean who rents out homes for summer vacations. They have music that sounds like the ocean is lapping at the foot of your desk. I think music is appropriate in this venue but I would definitely have it “off” as people log onto your site and give them an option to turn it on. Don’t forget many people are surfing in their office environment and don’t want the boss to find out. If your music is loud or on as people log onto your site and can’t find a quick way to turn it off, they will leave your site faster than a cat that just saw the jaws of a Doberman!

3. Color – Enhancing the highway scenery

Color is an individual preference but studies show that colors have an affect on people’s emotions. Look at the top sites like Amazon; their layout is simple and so is their color scheme.

My recommendation would be to go with the flow. If you have a financial investment site then conservative colors seem to follow. If you sell beach items then lots of fun colors apply. If you have a bridal shower website, I would say soft pastels. Think about your audience and you will know the color scheme.

4. Page Links – I-95 to your destination

This is a no brainer but make sure all of your buttons are hyperlinked to a page and the right destination page. No one including Goggle likes broken link pages. It can be tedious but do it anyway. As you hover over the button and look down in the left-hand part of your screen, you will see the hyperlinked page. Just verify that yours are correct.

5. About Us – Is your map reliable?

People usually want to know basic things before they do business with you. Who are you, how do I get a hold of you, what is your product or service guarantee, will you resell my email address, what is your privacy policy, when will I get the product, etc. You need to answer these questions to create trust between you and your potential customer.

6. Sitemap – How do I find my way around this big city?

Let’s say you have a lot of products or pages and resources. A sitemap helps people where to find what they are looking for quickly without have to rummage through your whole site like a lost soul. They are not hard to create but are useful for large sites. It also helps the search engines to know what you are about very quickly.

7. Fast Loading Pages – All lanes are go!

There is nothing worse than slow loading pages. You can optimize your graphics for your website. People hate to wait. You can check your page load time and page rank on Alexa.com. Slow pages equal death to an online business.

8. Shopping Cart – Need to buy some souvenirs

If you are selling items or services, you need a reliable and well organized shopping cart. I have seen some websites that have a zillion products listed and to email them for orders. What a nightmare! Yes, the shopping carts will charge you a fee but it is worth it for them to handle the transaction. There are many good shopping carts available and I would research them based on your business’ needs.

9. Templates or Original Design- Chevrolet or Porsche

People often think that to have a website designed is going to cost thousands. So they opt for the templates and throw together sites. There is nothing wrong with this approach except I can tell the difference between what I call a “canned” site and one that was created from scratch. While I don’t think a website that uses templates will turn off a customer, I just think it may not be as appealing.

Have fun with your online business. You can go to any number of photography sites and download professional photos from cows to race cars. This will make your site look more customized.

Again, I recommend that you shop for a good web designer. I paid around $400 for a basic site to go up. I know others would have charged me $1000 or more. That’s why you need to shop and see examples of their work.

10. Customer Service – The Finish Line!

Okay so how is customer service a website design? Well, customer service should be written all over your site. From tips, to free reports, to guarantees, to fast and reliable shopping. People want to know you know what you are talking about and can deliver the goods they want.
Give a little and I guarantee you’ll get in back tenfold.

bio = Jan Peterson, founder of http://www.goldstarreview.com, has researched and reviewed over 500 online and offline business opportunities.
FREE reports available. Find out where the money is and isn’t.

Popularity: 12% [?]

A credit card is a form of borrowing that often involves charges. Credit terms and conditions affect your overall cost.
So it’s wise to compare terms and fees before you agree to open a credit or charge card account. The following are some important terms to consider that generally must be disclosed in credit card applications or in solicitations that require no application. You also may want to ask about these terms when you’re shopping for a card.

If you don’t understand the language, credit card offers and statements could lead you to deep debt — or at least furious frustration. For the big scoop on the fine print, here’s what these frequently used credit card terms mean.

1.Average daily balance — This is the method by which most credit cards calculate your payment due. An average daily balance is determined by adding each day’s balance and then dividing that total by the number of days in a billing cycle. The average daily balance is then multiplied by a card’s monthly periodic rate, which is calculated by dividing the annual percentage rate by 12. A card with an annual rate of 18 percent would have a monthly periodic rate of 1.5 percent. If that card had a $500 average daily balance it would yield a monthly finance charge of $7.50.

2.APR(Annual percentage rate) — A yearly rate of interest that includes fees and costs paid to acquire the loan. Lenders are required by law to disclose the APR. The rate is calculated in a standard way, taking the average compound interest rate over the term of the loan, so borrowers can compare loans.

3.Balance transfer — The process of moving an unpaid credit card debt from one issuer to another. Card issuers sometimes offer teaser rates to encourage balance transfers coming in and balance-transfer fees to discourage them from going out.

4.Cash-advance fee — A charge by the bank for using credit cards to obtain cash. This fee can be stated in terms of a flat per-transaction fee or a percentage of the amount of the cash advance. For example, the fee may be expressed as follows: “2%/$10″. This means that the cash advance fee will be the greater of 2 percent of the cash advance amount or $10.

The banks may limit the amount that can be charged to a specific dollar amount. Depending on the bank issuing the card, the cash advance fee may be deducted directly from the cash advance at the time the money is received or it may be posted to your bill as of the day you received the advance. The cost of a cash advance is also higher because there generally is no grace period. Interest accrues from the moment the money is withdrawn.

5.Card holder agreement — The written statement that gives the terms and conditions of a credit card account. The cardholder agreement is required by Federal Reserve regulations. It must include the Annual Percentage Rate, the monthly minimum payment formula, annual fee if applicable, and the cardholder’s rights in billing disputes. Changes in the cardholder agreement may be made, with written advance notice, at any time by the issuer. Rules for imposing changes vary from state to state, but the rules that apply are those of the home state of the issuing bank, not the home state of the cardholder.

6.Finance charge — The charge for using a credit card, comprised of interest costs and other fees.

7.Floor — The minimum rate possible on a variable-rate loan or line of credit, after any initial introductory rate period. For example, on a credit card with the Prime rate as its index, no matter how low the Prime rate drops, the rate on the line may never decrease below the stated rate floor.

8.Free Period — Also called a “grace period,” a free period lets you avoid finance charges by paying your balance in full before the due date. Knowing whether a card gives you a free period is especially important if you plan to pay your account in full each month. Without a free period, the card issuer may impose a finance charge from the date you use your card or from the date each transaction is posted to your account. If your card includes a free period, the issuer must mail your bill at least 14 days before the due date so you’ll have enough time to pay.

9.Minimum payment — The minimum amount a cardholder can pay to keep the account from going into default. Some card issuers will set a high minimum if they are uncertain of the cardholder’s ability to pay. Most card issuers require a minimum payment of two percent of the outstanding balance.

10.Over-the-limit fee — A fee charged for exceeding the credit limit on the card.

11.Periodic rate — The interest rate described in relation to a specific amount of time. The monthly periodic rate, for example, is the cost of credit per month; the daily periodic rate is the cost of credit per day.

12.Pre-approved — A credit card offer with “pre-approved” only means that a potential customer has passed a preliminary credit-information screening. A credit card company can spurn the customers it invited with “pre-approved” junk mail if it doesn’t like the applicant’s credit rating.

13.Secured card — A credit card that a cardholder secures with a savings deposit to ensure payment of the outstanding balance if the cardholder defaults on payments. It is used by people new to credit, or people trying to rebuild their poor credit ratings.

14.Teaser rate — Often called the introductory rate, it is the below-market interest rate offered to entice customers to switch credit cards or lenders.

15.Variable interest rate — Percentage that a borrower pays for the use of money, and which moves up or down periodically based on changes in other interest rates.

I hope this terms will help you out a little when choosing your next credit card.

bio = -Thomas Lindstrom-
Engineer and interested in finance, marketing and dating sites.
Owner of the websites:

http://www.greatestcreditcardsite.com

http://www.online-realization.com

Popularity: 10% [?]

Recently, I stumbled across a concept that could change your financial life. You can call it a paradigm shift or a new perspective or just a different way to look at things.

This single concept can save you tens of thousands of dollars each year. Its soooo powerful and yet its completely underutilized. Learning this simple technique can dramatically impact your financial picture.

Tax Deductions the rich use to stay ahead

I was speaking about tax savings at a seminar and there was a spontaneous outburst of questions.

Can I deduct my health insurance? How about my new truck? I’m taking horseback riding lessons. Are they deductible? What about my vacation?

As we worked through people’s list of concerns, it dawned on me. You’ve been trained to ask the wrong question.
Let’s suppose you call up your C.P.A. and ask, “Hey Lenny, Can I deduct a Pizza? What do you suppose Lenny’s response would be?

He’d probably think you had gone mad – “Are you crazy, he’d say. You can’t deduct a Pizza!”.

Tax Strategies

But if you called me and asked the same question, you’d get a different response altogether. I’d probably pause for a moment and respond “Well, that depends.” You see, if you and I went to an Italian restaurant and ordered Pizza and a couple of beers, the meal would be deductible (at the rate of 50%) so long as we discussed business.

Same thing with your vacation if you conducted your annual meeting while you traveled. The equestrian lessons are deductible as education and the new truck is deductible to the degree that you use it for business.
Which brings up a key point: It’s not the item, it’s the circumstances.

Tax Deduction Secrets

Most business people and their advisors wrongly focus on the item (the truck, the lessons, and the trip). The trick is to make your circumstances open the door to the tax deductions.

So, instead of asking “Is this deductible” – you should start asking HOW is this deductible? Then, all you have to do is create the circumstances that allow for the deduction!

All the Best,
Drew Miles, The Tax Saving Attorney
bio = Drew has combined what he learned during formal education, informal education and twenty five years of business experience in the development of programs designed to teach people how to build and preserve lasting wealth. He is an author, teacher and international speaker in the areas of asset protection, and tax saving and wealth building strategies.

http://www.taxloopholesoftherich.com

http://www.pfbs.com

http://www.drewmiles.com

Popularity: 9% [?]

Depending on what you sell, it is not always easy to get your point across, so it is very important to paint a picture with your words to give your customer a visual of your product, or a visual of themselves using your product.

When you are meeting someone face to face, and you can show them your product up close, it is easy for them to get a visual because they are looking at it with their own eye’s, and they can hold it in their own hands.

But seeing and feeling the product is not enough. You want your customers to see themselves using your product. You want to give them the visual of being in action with the product.

For instance, the last time I was on the market for a car, I went to a local dealership looking to test drive some jeeps.

The salesman showed me the jeeps he had on sale, and he even let me test drive a few of them.

Not only did he go over all of the wonderful features the jeep had to offer, such as the CD player, the electric windows, and the heated seats. He also said to me; Can’t you picture yourself cruising through the mountains with the sun setting behind you, and a cool breeze flowing through the open cabin as you play all of your favorite Cd’s?

The visual of me cruising up into the mountains in my new jeep with mother nature in all of her glory was all I needed to picture in my mind, and I was sold.

Well, I still have that jeep, and I enjoy it just as much today as I did the day I bought it. However, I have yet to experience anything as serenely as I had visualized the day I test drove it for the first time.

But the salesman’s technique worked. I bought the jeep.

If I were selling baseball bats, I would give my customers the visual of hitting a home run in the bottom of the ninth too win the game with the exact bat they were holding in their hand.

I could sit here all day coming up with scenarios to get my point across, but I think you get the picture.

So the next time you sell a product, paint a picture. Put a visual in your customer’s head of them using the product in a positive light. It will make a world of difference.

This article may be reproduced by anyone at any time, as long as the authors name and reference links are kept in tact and active.

bio = Jay Conners has more than fifteen years of experience in the banking and Mortgage Industry, He is the owner of http://www.jconners.com, a mortgage resource site, he is also the owner of http://www.callprospect.com, a mortgage lead company.

Popularity: 11% [?]

There are several things that need to be considered when your work from home. They are: Do I have enough space to perform the work? Where will I work at? What type of work do I want to do? What hours will I want to work? Some of the questions will be fairly easy to answer while others will take a little more time. Determining the kind of work you want to do is can be difficult. I would recommend that you make a list of home-based business ideas. The goal of working from home or having a home business is being able to call the shots in one’s own business. At times it even reaches the point of worry.

If running your own successful home business is a goal you would like to reach, I’ll share some tips in this article that helped me “work from home” with my own online business. Even if you’ve already self-employed, maybe some of the tips I share can help increase the profitability of your existing business, online or off.

1) Be a doer, don’t just talk about it or be a dreamer.
Good words of advice: “When all is said than done, more is said than done.” We all like to dream and are much easier to talk about our goals. You need to put the plan inaction and follow through. I too was one of those people, but I finally combined my dreams with action, and it worked.

2) Effective time management.
Time is money in the business world. If must have the ability to manage your time effectively both in business and personal life, this will become an asset that can repay you many times over. Most people will start their work from home online business while working a full-time job at the same time; this means getting maximum productivity from your time is even more crucial. If your business is growing and you find that you do not have enough time in the day to pursue other business increasing activities, you can consider cutting back on the hours at your regular job, or find a job that may work better for you

3) Have Knowledge in the Field of Choice.
Being an expert is not required when starting out, you will gain that valuable knowledge as your home business grows. You will need to make sure that you stay up to date on the developments in your field. If you do this for a period of time you’ll become an expert.

4) Always be persistent.
I sympathize with those that commute 5 or more days a week to a job they don’t like, but it can be a plus. It can be a strong motivator and your persistence will prove useful. Tip: It will be much easier to persist if you select a field of business that you like, as opposed to pursuing something just for the money. Then your work can be fun, not drudgery.

5) Focus
Believing that you can “succeeding by helping others succeed”, can you a long way. Focusing on clients and helping them solve their problems through your products and services contributes more toward long-term success than just selling them products and services.

6) Self-discipline.
Self-discipline is definitely needed in any business especially when you work from home. No matter what you choose to do, if you do not have the discipline you will not succeed. You have to be a self-starter and know when to work and when to take time to do other things. No home business can survive without this.

7) Marketing skills.
Marketing is a skill and like any other skill, it can be developed through knowledge and practice. You can never learn too much about marketing. Find ways to market your business both online and offline, and you will have more success.

You, Too, Can “Work From Home”!
As more and more employees of large corporations have discovered, there is no such thing as job security. Seniority no longer takes a part in how things are handled. For these reasons alone there is no time like the present to move on and start working from home.

There is far more to be learned about working from home, but this article should have given you ideas as to what to look at when you are ready to make that jump.
bio = For more information, visit http://www.workfromhomeinfocenter.com

Popularity: 9% [?]

With summer vacations over and schools back in session, marketing plan “season” is fast approaching. This is a time when you reflect on the effectiveness of your business marketing programs. You will be planning to improve performance of some marketing programs, discontinue some, and try others for the first time.

Each Marketing Plan is Unique

For those writing a marketing plan for the first time, it is important to know that there is no “magic formula” to an effective marketing plan. Formats and procedures vary widely, and your marketing plan will be one-of-a-kind.

Your company, customers, competitors, and suppliers interact to create a unique and ever-changing business environment. Because of this, your marketing plan should also be unique and frequently changing. What worked wonderfully for one company may be a dismal failure for you. What worked yesterday for you may not be the thing for you to do today. By thinking of your plan as a unique and perpetual work in progress, you can be better prepared to change direction when the business environment changes.

A Plan Makes a Profitable Difference

Ultimately, your marketing plan is a compass by which you navigate your day-to-day business. As opportunities arise or your business environment changes, the objective and strategies in your marketing plan will point you toward the best action. Without a marketing plan, you are guessing what might be best for your business. And don’t forget to address your Web site in the marketing plan. Without a marketing plan your Web site may be a drain on your finances rather than a business builder.

Also, understand you do not need a marketing degree and a lot of experience to update or create a marketing plan for your business. Once you have a structure to follow, the rest is a matter of rolling up your sleeves and getting it done. There is no single approach to developing a marketing plan. There is a wide selection of books, toolkits, and software to help you through the planning process. Some approaches require a great deal of time and others are “quick and dirty.” All can be applied to your business as a whole, an individual product, or your Web site.

So, in all the hustle and bustle of everyday business activities, don’t forget to take the time to update an existing marketing plan or write a new one. Your future profits depend on it!
bio = Bobette Kyle has been proprietor at http://www.WebSiteMarketingPlan.com since 2002. For tips on how to make the marketing plan process go smoothly, visit http://www.MarketingPlanArticles.com and read “Tips to Help Calm `Marketing Plan Panic.’”

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When selling a product or giving a sales presentation, you always want to convey a positive, upbeat attitude at all times. This will send a crystal clear message to your audience that you believe in the product you sell, and that they should also.

It is rare that you come across a person in sales that is down on his luck, moping around with his head down, and feeling sorry for himself. This person is definitely in the wrong business.

Attitude is everything in sales, from the gleam in your eye, right down to the polished shoes on your feet.

Have you ever heard the expression “smile, it’s contagious?” well it’s true, your smile is contagious, so smile when you greet your customer, they most definitely will return the gesture.

Imagine someone trying to sell you something without ever looking you in the eye, or shaking your hand upon meting you. This would be an indication to most people that the person selling the product does not believe in, or care about their product. Imagine asking them questions and being left with blank stares and empty answers. You will most likely not be doing business with this person.

The above example would be a description of someone “not” selling with an attitude.

When I say “sell with an attitude,” I don’t mean that you have to go out and buy a T-shirt that says “I have an attitude.”

An attitude can be many things, but in sales you want it to be positive. It can be nice, or laid back. You don’t have to be loud and boisterous. It is not necessary to give two handed political hand shakes, or go around back slapping to sell your products.

The ingredients to selling with an attitude are at your fingertips. In fact you were born with them.

All you need is a smile, confidence in yourself and your product, the ability to look people in the eye, and product knowledge.

Also, appearance can speak volumes about your attitude as well. So make sure you look the part. If people think that you don’t have the ability to take care of yourself, they will also think that you don’t have the ability to take care of them.

So sell with an attitude. Smile, be happy, put a spring in your step. Let the world now that you are here to sell, and that you love what you do. Remember, the better your attitude, the better your sales results will be.

This article may be reproduced by anyone at any time, as long as the authors name and reference links are kept in tact and active.

bio = Jay Conners has more than fifteen years of experience in the banking and Mortgage Industry, He is the owner of http://www.jconners.com, a mortgage resource site, he is also the owner of http://www.callprospect.com, a mortgage lead company.

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What are these wonder micronutrients that your body cannot produce all by itself but needs them badly in trace quantities? They are called vitamins. Vitamins are not synthesized or produced by the body so they need to be obtained by humans through the food they eat. Humans need 13 vitamins to maintain good health.

It is important to know that there are two kinds of vitamins for safety purposes for one of them might cause toxicity when taken in large dosages. Here are the two types of vitamins, the vitamins included on each type, their function and sources.

Fat-soluble vitamins are dietary supplements that may be absorbed by the body’s fat. This absorption means that these vitamins can stay in the body, particularly in the liver, as long as they want. Because they are stored, they don’t need to be replaced daily. These fat-soluble vitamins include vitamin A, D, E and K.

Vitamin A works for healthy eyes, maintenance of a good complexion and prevents aging. Sources of this vitamin are vegetables, kidney, liver and milk. When the body lacks this vitamin, nigh blindness, xerophthalmia or no tear secretion, phrynoderma or toad skin, retarded growth and low resistance against infection may occur on the person.

Vitamin D helps in the burning of calcium and phosphorus, and proper development of bones and teeth. It is commonly found in liver, dairy food and eggs. Deficiency of this vitamin will cause rickets or brittle bones, osteomalacia or softening of the bones, and poor development of teeth.

Vitamin E aids in the proper functioning of the reproductive organs, acts as an antioxidant and also helps in the maintenance of a good skin. Sources of vitamin E are green leafy vegetables, milk, butter and meat. Deficiency of this vitamin may result to abnormal development of the fetus and infertility.

Vitamin K is for the proper functioning of liver and normal clotting of blood. Vitamin K could be taken from green leafy vegetables and soybeans. A person lacking this vitamin may be afflicted with hemorrhages.

Water-soluble vitamins are micronutrients that are not stored in the body and must be replaced in a regular basis. They are dissolved in water and eliminated in urine. These vitamins are easily washed out or removed during food preparation. Vitamins considered as water-soluble are the B-complex vitamins and vitamin C.

The B-complex vitamins include thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, pantothenic acid, folate, B6 and biotin. They support the body in maintaining a good eyesight, healthy skin, normal appetite, a healthy nervous and circulatory system. Sources of these vitamins include enriched grain products like white rice, breakfast cereals, pasta, breads and white flour. Deficiency of these vitamins may result to pernicious anemia, pellagra, beri-beri and other B-complex related deficiency diseases. Vitamin C or ascorbic acid is another water-soluble vitamin that helps in the wound healing process, production of brain hormones and maintenance of blood vessels, teeth and bones. Ascorbic acid is from citrus fruits and other vegetables. If one lacks this vitamin, he may succumb to hemorrhages, rough, dry skin, scurvy, sore joints and bones and increased risk to infections.

These dietary supplements must always be taken with precaution and must follow a certain recommended daily allowance to ensure safety and effectiveness.
bio = Morag Bevan is well known for her
“secret” Health reports.
Her website can be found at http://www.rhhealth.com

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You’ll never hear the end of it if you decide to press charges. And besides you’re not even sure you really want to do that. They might pay you back the money. Not. The burden is on you to sort this mess out and the worst part is once a relative or friend steals your identity, it’s almost impossible to trust them again.

We hear about the high profile cases of hackers breaking into the databases of Lexis Nexus or DSW Shoe warehouse, yet most instances of identity theft never make the news. Usually it’s something basic like a neighbor stealing a credit card application from your mailbox or a relative going thru your personal belongings

In the Better Business Bureau’s 2005 Fraud Survey report they found relatives, close friends and neighbors make up 50 percent of all identity thieves. They also cost you more time and money trying to fix the problem. Javelin Research calculates that the average cost to identity theft victims is $15,607 when the perpetrator is known.

But even that figure is misleading. Many children are falling victim to identity theft (a half million last year according to the Federal Trade Commission) which means the full impact of the damage may not be known until years later when as adults they apply for credit.

For some parents, stealing their child’s identity is a stop gap solution. Their own credit is destroyed, so “borrowing” their child’s social security number becomes a necessity. All the while, they assure themselves the money will be paid back. Yet the same pattern that destroyed the parent’s credit, now puts a negative on the child.

It doesn’t matter if the thief is a parent, sibling or best friend, the process of recovering your identity is a tough one and it gets more complicated. Should you report the crime?

“Frequently when we would break up a ring and get a list of victims and find family members were involved in the crime, relatives are very reluctant to co-operate” says Ken Hunter, former Chief Postal Inspector and current president of the Council of Better Business Bureaus.

According to a study done by Gartner, Inc., the chances of an identity thief getting prosecuted are 1 in 700. However, when a relative is the culprit those odds go through the roof. The attitude understandably becomes, “Yes, they did me wrong but I can’t send them to jail.”

Ken Hunter: “If it’s a matter of pilferage at a very low level, nothing much is really going to happen to that person.”

On the other hand, if your identity is used to commit crimes on a higher scale, by all means report it to the authorities. You may feel guilty and make a lot of people angry in the process. Families get torn apart because relatives feel the matter should stay private.

It’s a tough decision, but remember, this is your good name the identity thief destroyed, not your relatives and it’s you who may be wanted for a crime, not them.
bio = Daryl Campbell is a writer and home business owner. Family, Friends and Neighbors account for 50% of all Identity Thieves. It’s easy for identity thieves to have you mail rerouted to an address they choose and apply for loans or new lines of credit in your name. You may not find out until years later. Protect yourself now http://digbig.com/4dwsx

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Pregnancy and Mercury, a dangerous combination?

The controversy with dental amalgam fillings involves the possibility that the mercury contained in the fillings will give off harmful vapors over time. Recently, England’s Department of Health recommended that dentists “avoid unnecessary placement or removal of dental amalgam …during pregnancy”. It is true that toxic levels of mercury have been linked to diseases of the immune and neurological systems, and can cause kidney disease.

With this in mind, the safety of dental amalgam has been extensively studied for many years. Research by the American Dental Association (ADA) in the United States and Dental Associations abroad have clearly demonstrated that no signs of mercury toxicity have been linked to dental amalgam. Dental amalgam has been used for more than 150 years, and is considered safe and effective during pregnancy, or any other time.

There are also alternatives to amalgam fillings, namely the “white” resin fillings. These fillings placed by your seattle dentist offer the benefits of usually requiring less drilling to prepare the cavity, a strengthening effect on the tooth, and a much better cosmetic result. The disadvantage is that they generally cost 50-100% more than amalgam, and are often more time consuming to perform.

bio = Dr. Shawn M Keller of Seattle has posted many articles related to dental health which are located at http://www.smilesbydesigndds.com/welcome_articles.htm

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As the balance of power in our society, on our planet, and within ourselves shifts from the male energy domination to a balance with the feminine, there is also a fundamental shift taking place within our bodies. This shift is one from a mind-centered existence to one that is more heart-centered.

Until recently, we have been living in a Third Dimension reality, defined by what we know as width, length, and height. What we could see is what we would believe. In this dimension we are bound by time and our ego feels separated from the whole. We were, in fact, believing an illusion as limited by the logical perceptions of our mind.

This is often referred to as our state of being asleep in consciousness, having forgotten who we truly are as we came to this planet of life. We are now in a time of awakening, a time of remembering, as the old belief systems that we are limited beings is expanding with the consciousness of truth.

In the Third Dimension our minds are detached from our hearts. Our logical thinking has dominated our living out of balance with our feeling natures, out of touch with the heart center where we experience the feeling of love. We are focused on material concerns. Many people experience this as living as human doings instead of human beings. The “being” part, of course, is a greater sense of our place in the world, a sense of purpose, a sense of connection, a sense of freedom.

The heart is the center of our being, the core connection between our physical body and our higher communication centers. As we are being urged to be more heart-centered, our ego self is being transformed to a greater understanding that we are all part of the whole. Many people have experienced a sense of separation, even when they are in crowds, a feeling of letting go of the familiar, and uncertainty and fear as the new paradigm for living is in the process of development. Every one of us is participating in the evolution of life on this planet now. There is a growing sense of deep longing for connection, often described as a longing for “home”.

Many describe a feeling that their passion is gone, a sense that they are destined for something greater, a general feeling of a lack of fulfillment or a knowing that something is missing from their lives. Many have a sense of disorientation, frustration or fear in this place of “not knowing” what is going on and what is going to happen. Our logical minds have always felt comforted in knowing and yet now we are in a time of change.

With the new energies that have been presented on the planet and the collective consciousness advancing, we opened our hearts to a new sense of longing to be connected and to live a life of some greater destiny. Most of us have been playing small, and it is now time for us to claim our power. The internet, which provides almost everyone with a global connection, is symbolic of our intention to be connected as a global community. This was a powerful demonstration of our desire to experience the “whole”.

This is the time for the balance of our masculine and feminine natures. This is the time to reclaim the balance of our lives between work, play, self, and others. This is the time to recognize that as we evolve with the balance of our selves, we are activating a powerful awakening that will create the balance of our homes, communities, and global connections.

We are here to be a part of the grand Earth experiment for the evolution of this planet and as we participate more fully, more consciously, we are speeding up the process to move more completely into the Fifth Dimension and beyond.

Each and every one of us are here to be a powerful part of this dynamic time of evolution on our planet. Embrace your own power and celebrate the magic of these very dynamic times!

bio = Debbie Friedman, M.S., C.Ht., is the Manifesting Maven who helps people consciously create the life they love to live. She is the creator of the popular Cleaning Out the Closet of Your Mind for Wealth series.

www.CleaningOutTheCloset.com.

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HOW TO GET RID OF STANDING WATER IN YOUR YARD
Do you have one or more areas in your yard that hold water after a rainfall? This is a common problem, and sometimes difficult to solve. Over the years I’ve talked with dozens of people trying to battle this problem, and on several occasions I have been hired to solve the problem. So what can be done?

Too often people come to me asking what kind of a tree, or what kind of shrubs can be planted in a wet area to dry it up. This is the wrong approach. Most plants, and I mean almost all plants are not going to survive in an area where the soil is soggy for extended periods of time. The roots need to breath, and planting a tree or shrub in a water area will kill it.

Another common approach is to try and fill the area with topsoil. Depending on a variety of variables, this can work, but many times adding additional soil to a wet area will only shift the water to another area just a few feet away.

If you are lucky enough to have some natural fall to your property, or a drainage ditch nearby, this problem is easy enough to solve. If you happen to live in an area that was developed over the past few years, there might even be a system to remove storm water nearby. In many new home developments I’ve seen stormwater catch basins already installed in backyards. Trust me, this is a good thing. There is nothing worse than having a soggy yard all the time.

If you are fortunate to have some fall to your yard, or a stormwater system that you can drain water into, this problem is easy to solve. Make sure you check with your local officials before you do anything at all with a storm drain.

All you have to do is go to your local building supply center and buy some 4″ perforated plastic drain pipe. The best kind for this purpose is the flexible kind that comes in 100′ rolls. This type of drain pipe has small slits all around the pipe. These slits allow water to enter the pipe so it can be carried away.

Just dig a trench from the center of the low area you are trying to drain, to the point that you intend to drain it to. Using a simple line level you can set up a string over top of the trench to make sure that your pipe runs downhill all the way. A line level is a very small level that is designed to attach to a string. Any hardware stores sells them for just a couple of dollars. Set the string up so it is level, then measure from the string to the bottom of your trench to make sure you have constant fall. You should have 6″ fall for every 100′ of pipe.

The highest point is going to be the area that you are trying to drain, so you only want your pipe deep enough at this point so it can be covered with soil. Once the trench is dug just lay the pipe in. At the highest end of the pipe you’ll need to insert a strainer into the end of the pipe to keep soil from entering the pipe. Cover the pipe with some washed stone, and then backfill the trench with soil. The washed stone creates a void around the pipe so that the water can find its way into the pipe.

Washed stone is usually inexpensive stone that has been washed so it is clean and free of mud. The only part of the pipe that needs to be exposed is the low end, where the water exits the pipe. Do not put a strainer in that end.

If you do not have anywhere that you can drain the water to, you still might be able to do something. But first consider what is happening, and why the water is standing where it is. Even if you have well drained soil, water cannot soak in fast enough during periods of heavy rain, and it runs across the top of the ground and eventually finds the lowest point, and either leaves the property, or gets trapped.

If you have well drained soil, the trapped water usually soaks in. If you have heavy clay soil, the water lays there, and the soil underneath becomes very compacted, and the problem compounds itself. The more water that stands, the worse the drainage gets.

What I have done in areas like this, where there is standing water, but nowhere to drain it to, is to install a French drain system that actually carries the water away from the low area, and allows it to seep into the ground over a larger distance, where the soil is not quite so compacted. To install this French drain system you do everything exactly as explained above, except instead of draining the water to a lower area, you can send it in any direction you like. Even in the direction from which it came, which is uphill.

When installing this type of system, it’s a good idea to dig a number of shorter trenches, all heading away from the area where the water stands. Using the line level, make sure your trenches fall away from their point of origin so once the water enters the pipes it will flow away from the wet spot. What is going to happen is that during times of heavy rain the low area is still going to trap water, but much of that water is going to seep into the drain pipes and eventually leach into the soil under each trench.

Because this soil has not been compacted by the standing water and the baking sun, it will accept the water. It won’t happen nearly as fast as if you could just drain the water to a ditch, but at least you will have a mechanism in place that will eventually disperse the water back into the soil. It’s a lot easier to leach 200 gallons of water into a series of trenches that total 100 lineal feet, than it is to expect that water to leach into a 10′ by 10′ area that is hard and compact.

bio = Michael J. McGroarty is the author of this article. Visit his most interesting website, http://www.freeplants.com and sign up for his excellent gardening newsletter.ÿ

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What are NSAIDs?

NSAID stands for Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. These drugs are popular prescriptions that are taken to relieve the inflammation associated with arthritis, bursitis, tendonitis, etc. NSAIDs decrease inflammation by hindering the production of prostaglandins; a natural chemical associated with body inflammation.

What are the potential negative side effects of NSAIDs?

Approximately 10-50% of patients suffer with gastrointestinal issues such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, bloating, heartburn, and upset stomach. Furthermore, 15% develop ulcers after long-term use.

What is a Cox-1 enzyme?

Cyclooxygenase-1 (Cox-1) is an enzyme that is present at sites of inflammation as well as in the stomach. The Cox-1 enzyme of the stomach produces prostaglandins, chemical messenger. These prostaglandins protect the lining of the stomach from the acids that it contains. When Cox-1 enzymes are inhibited, inflammation is reduced; however, the integrity of the stomach lining is compromised. This reduction to the stomach leads to ulcers and other gastrointestinal issues.

What is a Cox-2 enzyme?

Cyclooxygenase-2 (Cox-2) produces prostaglandins also but solely at the sites of inflammation. Therefore, hindering these enzymes reduces inflammation.

What is a Cox-2 Inhibitor?

Cox-2 inhibitors are a new class of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Because they selectively block the Cox-2 enzyme and not the Cox-1 enzyme, these drugs are uniquely different from traditional NSAIDs.

Why were Cox-2 Inhibitors created?

Cox-2 Inhibitors were created to reduce inflammation without compromising the stomach lining. Therefore, inflammation sufferers will achieve relief without being at risk for ulcers.

What is the danger surrounding Cox-2 Inhibitors? (i.e., Celebrex, Vioxx, and Bextra)

Although in theory Cox-2 Inhibitors are a great solution, they have some definite health considerations you need to know before you take them. Cox-2 inhibitors have been manufactured in one set dosage. The only available dosage is at such a high level there is an extremely high risk for strokes and heart attacks. Without the option for healthcare professionals to individualize prescriptions for their patients, all patients are receiving the same amount regardless of height, weight, sex, medical history etc. The negative risk have been so great, the FDA formed an Advisory Committee consisting of 32 experts who agree that these Cox-2 Inhibitors cause too high a risk for strokes and heart attacks. They recommend that healthcare providers to be very cautious as to which patients they prescribe Cox-2 despite the pharmaceutical companies flashy advertising.

Are there natural alternatives to Cox-2 Inhibitors?

There are many viable natural options available for individuals suffering from inflammatory diseases such as arthritis and overuse type conditions such as tendonitis and bursitis. Specifically, there is an ingredient called Nexrutine offered by Next Pharmaceuticals that works on the Cox 2 enzyme without platelet aggregation or risk of cardiovascular health. Nexrutine taken by itself is a very good natural pain reliever. Optimal Therapeutics produces a Nexrutine ingredient based product called Phosoplex. The product promotes healthy joint function and also helps to alleviate pain and swelling. This cumulative effect allows for the repair of damaged joints. What makes the product so effective? In addition to Nexrutine, Phosoplex contains a synergistic blend of powerful ingredients such as Hyaluronic Acid, MSM, Glucosamine, BioCell Collagen II. Overall Phosoplex is as effective as any other natural joint pain reliever on the market today.

Based on current research and recent problems with pharmaceutical pain relieving drugs, natural alternative ingredients like Nexrutine and natural formulas like Phosoplex are the future for safe and effective pain management.

bio = Janet Hanh is a published author in the field of pain management. Many of her insightful health related articles can be found online at http://www.consumerhealthdigest.com

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Test Your Direct Response Marketing Using two Steps
By Abe Cherian
Copyright c 2005

Of all the mistakes a small business owner can make,
possibly none will cost more than failing to test one
aspect against another. In order words, testing one price
against another. One headline against another. One ad
against another.

There is an “A-B” test. That’s the common terminology for
testing your offer, headlines, pricing, ads, or services.
We create two different ads, an A and a B, two different
headlines, and two different mailings to determine which
obtains the greater response or sales or referrals.

The key to an A-B test is to set it up so you can quantify
and measure it properly and track those results with the
goal to zero in on the one or two choices that are
Preferable over the others.

Then you roll out a new untested product or marketing
strategy in this manner, and by mailing to a small test
area, say 500-1,000, you can save yourself in the event of
a failure untold thousands of dollars.

Most of the time you can conduct multiple A-B tests
simultaneously on the same product, ad, headline, price,
etc. before selecting the final strategy. I recommend if
your product or service is conducive to this type of
approach, in other words, creating a modest direct mail
campaign for conducting the A-B test to do it.

Direct mail is the method of choice because it can be put
together relatively quickly and inexpensively.

The prospects to whom you direct your mailing to in a
one-step approach will either respond or not respond with a
purchase or inquiry. No intermediate steps, calls or
visits. That way it involves a fairly standard set of steps
or procedures to take.

Your two other major goals should be in using A-B tests to
verify what people will actually buy and determine whether
you are able to reach these individuals with the marketing
campaign that you intend to launch so that they will buy
from you.

You must be able to think of the purpose of an A -B test as
a way to uncover the best and most profitable mix of
products, services, price incentives and guarantees that
will encourage your prospects to buy.

A word of caution: many organizations try to determine this
information by sending out surveys. Sometimes this works
and sometimes it doesn’t. There are statistics that show
that people rate the Bible as the highest read book and the
National Inquirer as the least read. When you look at
purchase statistics, they show that more people read the
Inquirer in one week than all other books or pamphlets.

You don’t necessarily want to determine. who will buy
things just by a survey. You want them to vote with their
dollars.

bio = Abe Cherian is the founder of Multiple Stream Media,
a company that helps online businesses find new
leads and more customers without spending a fortune.

http://www.multiplestreammktg.com

Popularity: 9% [?]

Most businesses may think they will never need a disaster recovery plan or they have everything under control, but they are wrong. It is vital that all businesses take the opportunity to protect itself before they regret it. A serious event can occur at any moment.

The officers or board of directors often take this task to labor. It is a good practice for the business to demonstrate a clear commitment to establishing and maintaining an effective disaster recovery plan. All employees should be informed that it is required and should contribute to its design.

The first step is to create a list of all necessary documents and information. Examples of documents are organizational chart, suppliers and contact information, emergency services and contact information, operations and administrative procedures, inventories of intellectual properties and floor plans. These are just a few of the many documents needed.

The disaster recovery plan should include a descriptive list of the organization’s major business areas. This list should rank the areas in order of importance to the overall organization. Each item should include a brief description of the business processes and main dependencies on systems, communications, personnel, and information / data.

You should perform a regular review of your plan in order to adapt to changes that the business will surely go through. This is very seldom done by businesses and cost more in the long run when ignored.
The risk your business faces as the result of a disaster or emergency must be assessed. It is impossible to plan for `what if’ in the face of disaster if you do not assess what could happen first. You have to consider all possibilities and what it would take to put the business back in business.

There are various threats that can affect your business. Examples include tornado, hurricane, flood, earthquake, fire, terrorism, theft, and equipment failure. There are many more and they all have to be taken in account.

Every business has non-personnel assets that must be considered when creating the disaster recovery plan. The solution is redundant systems when possible. The secondary market is a great source for these systems to keep the cost down.

Every employee should be aware of their part in this plan. It is vital to keep the plan up to date and the employees well informed. Be sure to test your plan to identify any gaps.

bio = Most businesses think they will never need a disaster recovery plan. They are definitely wrong. With today’s current events, we should prepare now more than ever.

Popularity: 9% [?]