Business Marketing on Mobile – The Latest on Mobile Marketing and Advertising

May 19, 2012 By admin Leave a Comment

Business Marketing on Mobile – The Latest on Mobile Marketing and Advertising

The world we live in gets easily bored and craves novelty. Smart marketers look for new ways to put a twist on old standby marketing and advertising techniques. Marketing through television and radio channels has been done to death and has more nuisance value than anything else as far as the audience is concerned.

For marketers seeking new ways and means to expand their reach anywhere their prospects are — the future is here. Smart marketers and advertisers create a personal touch in their ad campaigns. This is one of the reasons why mobile advertising is rapidly increasing in popularity as an effective marketing tool. And the astonishing use of mobile devices leveraged this trend.

There are over 1.5 billion mobile phone users worldwide according to the International Telecommunications Union with the highest growth percentage coming from emerging economies like China, Russia and India. The US has about 200 million mobile subscribers. Smart marketers are tapping into the potential to reach their prospects as they’re on the move. Mobile devices are practically a permanent attachment for people under age 34.

Mobile Advertising is delivered in a number of formats. Text messaging, mobile internet advertising and mobile radio advertising are some of the common advertising formats. Out of these, text messaging (SMS) is the most widely used format.

According to the joint Mobile Advertising Report (MAR) released by Limbo and GfK Technology, text message usage is about 74% in India, 48% in the UK and 22% in the US. Projections predict in the near future mobile internet advertising will surpass text message advertising (FierceWireless).

In June 2008, Nokia launched the Nokia Advertising Alliance that aims to make mobile advertising easier for advertisers. This particular program includes services like providing marketing strategies, geographic targeting and related technologies to enhance customer captivation. Now advertisers can work in conjunction with Nokia to expand the coverage of mobile advertising with emerging mobile technologies for more powerful ad promotions.

The best part about mobile marketing is mobile devices are more heavily used than traditional PCs. Mobile advertisements are delivered to the customer no matter where they are. Even with these advantages, mobile advertising is still in its “early adopter” stages with a long way to go. The main obstacles are in the form of data tariff structures, handset and mobile internet interactivity and quality of subject matter.

Like the early days of the Internet, there are more advertisers than quality content. Add to that an acute lack of tools to assess the performance of mobile ad campaigns. Even though most of these difficulties will be solved in the future, mobile advertising will still face competition from other advertising and marketing methods. Google, Microsoft and Nokia are the prominent players in mobile advertising. The future holds a huge potential in terms of revenues from mobile marketing spend..

According to a report released by Informa Telecoms & Media, it is estimated that marketing on mobile will generate USD 1.72 billion in 2008 and will rise to USD 12 billion in 2013. The report also advocates the use of banner ads as an effective tool in mobile advertising. The report highlights the significance of focusing on the long run and not the short term stumbling blocks.

Yahoo jumped on the bandwagon in June 2008 when it partnered with Publicis to integrate Publicis mobile advertising agency (PhoneValley) with Yahoo’s mobile developer platform language (Blueprint). The partnership is aimed at developing brands, reaching customers and maximizing sales through new techniques. It also aims to initiate cutting edge advertising strategies in the future.

Since the potential market for mobile advertising is huge, a few companies are exploring new horizons and expanding in new territory. For example, Millenial Media Inc., is venturing into Europe, Africa and the Middle East. Millenial develops ads for cell-phones and mobiles. Its CEO Paul Palmieri says “There is a tremendous growth opportunity for advertising on mobile on a global basis, as evidenced by a rich and active mobile direct marketing industry, as well as surging demand from top brand advertisers.”

The media industry and brand advertisers are slowly catching on and making use of mobile advertising to increase market penetration. Mobile advertising has added support from applications like ringtones and pictures. Bluetooth advertising is also growing in popularity. Here, a company can advertise its products or services over a fixed area.

The three major search engines: Yahoo, Google and Microsoft have already realized the potential and the possibilities of the mobile advertising market. MSN uses banner ads on MSN mobile pages. Earlier MSN’s mobile advertising was confined to countries like France, Japan, Spain and UK. Recently it expanded coverage to include the US. Google also launched mobile image ads. When the cell phone browser is opened these image ads are displayed on the screen. However, the ad size is much smaller as compared to those for web pages. These image ads are connected to a web page and they follow the price-per-click model Google AdWords uses.

Advertising on mobile is one of best forms of mass medium advertising. It’s personal, and has a wider reach than any other form of advertising. It’s still early to comment on exactly how big or how successful it will prove to be. However, by all indicators “the future’s so bright you gotta wear shades.”

The predictions about the future revenues generated through mobile advertising optimistic. A brand advertiser, a mobile advertising company and the consumer will have different perceptions of mobile marketing. However, advertising on mobile also comes with its fair share of drawbacks. Mobile ads are sometimes viewed as another form of spam and the advertisers as spammers. To resolve this issue, there are programs developed to give subscribers free talk-time for performing certain activities related to viewing ads. As far as the opinions of consumers are concerned, it’s a mixed bag. This is because people are simply not accustomed to being paid to view ads. Even if they are paid to view them, many still view the ads as a nuisance. It doesn’t make sense for the advertiser to pay a consumer to view ads if there are no conversions.

Business Marketing on Mobile – The Latest on Mobile Marketing and Advertising

Business Marketing on Mobile - The Latest on Mobile Marketing and Advertising

The debate continues. In the end the mighty dollar will decide. Most everyone agrees mobile advertising is here to stay.

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Commercial Loan Financing – Funding Business Growth

May 18, 2012 By admin Leave a Comment

Commercial Loan Financing – Funding Business Growth

Actually, traditional financing may not be the only way of getting money or borrowing money that your need in order to move forward with your projects or business. You can look for commercial financing loan from a lender who specializes in funding your projects.

Commercial financing loan are designed only for business purposes and they understand the business that you do where in they regularly work with business like yours.

The commercial financing loan is available for wide variety of projects and can be approved far more quickly than traditional bank loans. So in finding a commercial financing loan, be sure that you are working with a great lender that is willing and able to work with you to smooth out the process of growing your business knowing that there are other business professionals which are not sure where to look for in order to find the right commercial financing loan that they need.

To be sure, try to ask from your friends or relatives if they know of a reputable commercial loan financing where you can be at ease and help you with your problem in financing loan for your business. Take note that commercial loan financing is also known as commercial mortgage financing.

Before anything else or looking for the commercial loan financing, you need to organize, plan and complete the detailed business plan to get commercial financing loan since the lenders want to know extremely the details of your proposed business ventures before they could help you. You need to show them your targets and describe to them in details how you will run or operate your business. Show the lender how many people you need to work with you on your business, monthly expenses, and estimated profit and how you intend your business to generate cash flow.

You need to have a complete economic and cash flow assessment in order to gain the commercial loan financing and show them how your business future will be good in the area where you wish your business to start. If the lender find your business effective through your cash flow assessment that means you know how to manage the money then for sure they can help you with your business.

Don’t go to one commercial loan financing but instead go out and shop for it and compare their interest rates, term and conditions so that you can get the best commercial loan financing that suit best to your needs. What is important in commercial loan financing is that they are trustworthy, reliable lender who knows you, your goals and your needs. You need to have a solid relationship with the lenders so that you feel as t ease and can ask a lower interest rate as possible.

Always be aware but most of the commercial loan financing always look for your credit score or records and you need to clear that first before applying for a commercial loan financing.

Commercial Loan Financing – Funding Business Growth

Commercial Loan Financing - Funding Business Growth

To learn more on the details of commercial loan financing and other types of business financing loans you have to do a little research online.

Click on the links above to get started right away.

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How To Raise Money to Start Business and Where to Get Money for Business

May 17, 2012 By admin Leave a Comment

How To Raise Money to Start Business and Where to Get Money for Business

The common questions for anyone who want to start business are: How to raise money to start business, and where to get money for my business?

To raise money to start business is not as difficult as most people seem to think. This is especially true when you have an idea that can make you and your backers rich. Actually, there’s more money available for new business ventures than there are good business ideas. We will help you for where you can get money for business.

A very important rule of the game to learn: Any time you want to raise money, your first move should be to put together a proper prospectus.

This prospectus should include a resume of your background, your education, training, experience and any other personal qualities that might be counted as an asset to your potential success. It’s also a good idea to list the various loans you’ve had in the past, what they were for, and your history in paying them off.

You’ll have to explain in detail how the money you want is going to be used. If it’s for an existing business, you’ll need a profit and loss record for at least the preceding six months, and a plan showing how this additional money will produce greater profits. If it’s a new business, you’ll have to show your proposed business plan, your marketing research and projected costs, as well as anticipated income figures, with a summary for each year, over at least a three year period.

It’ll be advantageous to you to base your cost estimates high, and your income projections on minimal returns. This will enable you to “ride through” those extreme “ups and downs” inherent in any beginning business. You should also describe what makes your business unique—how it differs form your competition and the opportunities for expansion or secondary products.

This prospectus will have to state precisely what you’re offering the investor in return for the use of his money. He’ll want to know the percentage of interest you’re willing to pay, and whether monthly, quarterly or on an annual basis. Are you offering a certain percentage of the profits? A percentage of the business? A seat on your board of directories?

An investor uses his money to make more money. He wants to make as much as he can, regardless whether it’s short term or long term deal. In order to attract him, interest him, and persuade him to “put up” the money you need, you’ll not only have to offer him an opportunity for big profits, but you’ll have to spell it out in detail, and further, back up your claims with proof from your marketing research.

Venture investors are usually quite familiar with “high risk” proposals, yet they all want to minimize that risk as much as possible. Therefore, your prospectus should include a listing of your business and personal assets with documentation—usually copies of your tax returns for the past three years or more. Your prospective investor may not know anything about you or your business, but if he wants to know, he can pick up his telephone and know everything there is to know within 24 hours. The point here is, don’t ever try to “con” a potential investor. Be honest with him. Lay all the facts on the table for him. In most cases, if you’ve got a good idea and you’ve done your homework properly, and “interested investor” will understand your position and offer more help than you dared to ask.

When you have your prospectus prepared, know how much money you want, exactly how it will be used, and how you intend to repay it, you’re ready to start looking for investors.

As simple as it seems, one of the easiest ways of raising money is by advertising in a newspaper or a national publication featuring such ads. Your ad should state the amount of money you want–always ask for more money than you have room for negotiating. Your ad should also state the type of business involved ( to separate the curious from the truly interested), and the kind of return you’re promising on the investment.

Take a page from the party plan merchandisers. Set up a party and invite your friends over. Explain your business plan, the profit potential, and how much you need. Give them each a copy of your prospectus and ask that they pledge a thousand dollars as a non-participating partner in your business. Check with the current tax regulations. You may be allowed up to 25 partners in Sub Chapter S enterprises, opening the door for anyone to gather a group of friends around himself with something to offer them in return for their assistance in capitalizing his business.

You can also issue and sell up to $300,000 worth of stock in your company without going through the Federal Trade Commission. You’ll need the help of an attorney to do this, however, and of course a good tax accountant as well wouldn’t hurt.

It’s always a good idea to have an attorney and an accountant help you make up your business prospectus. As you explain your plan to them, and ask for their advice, casually ask them if they’d mind letting you know of, or steer your way any potential investors they might happen to meet. Do the same with your banker. Give him a copy of your prospectus and ask him if he’d look it over and offer any suggestions for improving it, and of course, let you know of any potential investors. In either case, it’s always a good idea to let them know you’re willing to pay a “finder’s fee” if you can be directed to the right investor.

Professional people such as doctors and dentists are known to have a tendency to join occupational investment groups. The next time you talk with your doctor or dentist, give him a prospectus and explain your plan. He may want to invest on his own or perhaps set up an appointment for you to talk with the manager of his investment group. Either way, you win because when you’re looking for money, it’s essential that you get the word out as many potential investors as possible.

Don’t overlook the possibilities of the Small Business Investment Companies in your area. Look them up in your telephone book under “Investment Services.” These companies exist for the sole purpose of lending money to businesses which they feel have a good chance of making money. In many instances, they trade their help for a small interest in your company.

Many states have Business Development Commissions whose goal is to assist in the establishment and growth of new businesses. Not only do they offer favorable taxes and business expertise, most also offer money or facilities to help a new business get started. Your Chamber of Commerce is the place to check for further information of this idea.

Industrial banks are usually much more amenable to making business loans than regular banks, so be sure to check out these institutions in your area. insurance companies are prime sources of long term business capital, but each company varies its policies regarding the type of business it will consider. Check your local agent for the name and address of the person to contact. It’s also quite possible to get the directories of another company to invest in your business. Look for a company that can benefit from your product or service. Also, be sure to check at your public library for available foundation grants. These can be the final answer to all your money needs if your business is perceived to be related to the objectives and activities of the foundation.

Finally, there’s the Money broker or Finder. These are the people who take your prospectus and circulate it with various known lenders or investors. They always require an up-front or retainer fee, and there’s no way they can guarantee to get you the loan or the money you want.

There are many very good money brokers, and there are some that are not so good. They all take a percentage of the gross amount that’s finally procured for your needs. The important thing is to check them out fully; find out about the successful loans or investment plans they’re arranged, and what kind of investor contacts they have—all of this before you put up any front money or pay any retainer fees.

There are many ways to raise money—from staging garage sales to selling stocks. Don’t make the mistake of thinking that the only place you can find the money you need is through the bank or finance company.

Start thinking about the idea of inviting investors to share in your business as silent partners. Think about the idea of obtaining financing for a primary business by arranging financing for another business that will support the start-up, establishment and developing of the primary business. Consider the feasibility of merging with a company that’s already organized, and with facilities that are compatible or related to your needs. Give some thought to the possibilities of getting the people supplying your production equipment to co-sign the loan you need for start-up capital.

Remember, there are thousands upon thousands of ways to obtain business start-up capital. This is truly the age of creative financing.

Disregard the stories you hear of “tight money,” and start making phone calls, talking to people, and making appointments to discuss your plans with the people who have money invest. There’s more money now than there’s ever been for a new business investment. The problem is that most beginning “business builders” don’t know what to believe or which way to turn for help. They tend to believe the stories of “tight money,” and they set aside their plans for a business of their own until a time when start-up money might be easier to find.

The truth is this: Now is the time to make your move. Now is the time to act. the person with a truly viable business plan, and determination to succeed, will make use of every possible idea that can be imagined. And the ideas I’ve suggested here should serve as just a few of the unlimited sources of monetary help available and waiting for you!

Now you should get idea for how to raise money to start business, how to get money for business, and where to get money for my business.

How To Raise Money to Start Business and Where to Get Money for Business

———————————————————
Julia Tang publishes Smart Online Business Tips, a fresh
and informative newsletter dedicated to supporting people
like you! To find out the best online business opportunities,
and to discover hundreds more proven and practical internet
marketing secrets, plus FREE internet marketing products
worth over $200, visit: http://www.best-internet-businesses.com
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How To Build A Home Internet Business And Keep Your Finances Under Control

May 17, 2012 By admin Leave a Comment

How To Build A Home Internet Business And Keep Your Finances Under Control

If home responsibilities such as watching your children and managing the daily household activities leave you despairing that you will never be able to hold a full-time job, think again. It may be time for you to look at how to build a home internet business. Most families can not afford to live off of only one income – especially after having children. Bills continue to escalate, and so a solution is needed.

Running a home business offers the advantage of running the household, while earning an income. However, as with any business venture, to build a home internet business is not an easy task. How exactly does one go about setting up said business?

A simple internet search will reveal a myriad of programs and tools that are available to help you build a home internet business. However, it is often unnecessary to spend thousands of dollars getting yourself up to speed leaning the latest and greatest about home business ventures. Today’s technology allows one to readily access many resources for free.

One big pitfall when one begins to build a home internet business is the temptation to buy all the “must have” products and devices that are “guaranteed” to make your business venture a success. What ends up happening is that those initial profits all must go to payoff the incurred debts.

Avoiding huge credit debts from the start is easy, if a plan is implemented and followed. Before you spend one nickel on your business, try to find ways to build a home internet business without spending any money.

The following tips are meant to help keep your start up costs low or nonexistent. That great, right?!

1. Purchase equipment only when you must have it to continue business.

It is easy to get over zealous and buy everything that you “think” that you’ll need. Chances are you won’t need many equipment items until later. This will keep initial costs down.

2. Use the space that you have!

Many beginning entrepreneurs tend to purchase items that will add more convenience in their work space. Now, there is nothing wrong with this, but when you are trying to cut costs or not incur any completely, there is no need to purchase that new desk or chair.

Use the walls, use the floors, use every inch of space available if need be! Purchasing just one cabinet will set you back a pretty penny and keep you farther from your ultimate goal – seeing actual profit.

To build a home internet business is no easy “quick-fix” solution to your work at home dream. However, it is feasible and doable without spending thousands, hundreds and sometimes any money.

How To Build A Home Internet Business And Keep Your Finances Under Control

CW Teo can help you Build a Home Internet Business. Click here for details! To get more information at his blog Click here now!

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Dig Deep for Small Business Ideas

May 16, 2012 By admin Leave a Comment

Dig Deep for Small Business Ideas

If you’re serious about wanting to start a business, the first thing you want to do is take the time to understand what really makes you tick. Where do you get your drive? What gets you in a “zone?”

However, there’s a lot more to figuring out the BEST business idea that will make you more money and give you more freedom to enjoy more success in your life.

And success to you may be different than success to someone else. It may not be all about money at all. It may not be about finding something you are completely passionate about. It may not be about having a “cool” business — the latest fad or a unique niche.

Success is how you define it.

Finding the right idea to bring you that success takes a willingness to be patient, good timing, and a lot of research.

And there’s nothing wrong with taking your time, being careful trying to figure out which small business ideas are best.

If you rush this process, you’re bound to come up with a business that doesn’t excite you at all.

You’ll be bored.

You won’t reach goals and it will become more like a job … maybe even harder!

You’ll feel like you would working for someone else. (You don’t want that again, do you?)

First, Figure Out What You Really Want

Starting off, you really have to force yourself to relax. I know what it’s like being very, very unhappy at a job. And I can tell you from first-hand experience that walking away from a well-paying job and jumping into your own business is stressful.

But if you carefully plan your “escape,” it will make it that much better!

Set Your Short-Term Goals

Maybe you want to make a ton of money and drive around in a BMW.

Or maybe you just want the freedom to enjoy your family or friends. Or perhaps it’s just a matter of being in control of your life — being able to do whatever you want, whenever you want.

Whatever your long-term goals are, first you have to concentrate on the shorter term goals before you can begin to see that “big picture.”

It’s up to you.

But understand that the type of business you start will play a roll in whether or not you meet your goals — both short and long-term.

If you’re trying to startup a part-time venture while working full-time for someone else, you’re going to have to set daily goals to try and squeeze in a few hours of work every day, often before and after work! (I used to get up at 4:30 in the morning, go to my full-time job at 8:30, come home at 5 or 6 and get right back to work on my new business … and I loved it!)

But if it’s a small business idea you came up with on the ride home and it doesn’t really “drive” you, it’ll make reaching your short term goals — often the hard part — a heck of a lot more difficult.

What are Your Long-Term Plans?

That big picture includes, more than anything, something you can see yourself doing every day. Something that — even on weekends — you love to do.

And even though it is something you love to do, make sure it will feed your long-term plan. And you won’t know that until you know what your long term plan actually is!

For instance, if your plan is indeed to make a lot of money and retire at a young age, you’ll obviously have to look at small business ideas that are highly profitable.

This would include mostly business-to-business models. There is typically more profit selling to businesses (a product or service) unless you make it big in the consumer market.

Why would the business-to-business market be more profitable? Because a business would be more willing to invest in a product or service (that may even be a write-off) versus the consumer market which is more “luxury” driven. Meaning, consumers base a lot of their buying decisions on want instead of needs.

It’s also a financial issue.

A larger business can pay a $300 invoice without thinking about it whereas a consumer getting a $300 bill may sweat a little more.

This is just an example of understanding your long-term goals so you can look closer at a finite number of business ideas to get you closer to where you want to be.

And if you go ahead and hang your “open for business” sign and then realize, “Oh, I can’t make that much money doing this!”, you’ll only be taking one step forward and two steps back.

Grab a Pad … Ideas Will Come and Go

Because — like all entrepreneurs — you’re a thinker, you’ve always got ideas popping into your head. Probably more than you can handle (the brain only has so much room, right?).

That’s why you should always keep a notebook by your side.

Sure, some of the best ideas get written on a cocktail napkin. But you’re better off trying to give these ideas more permanence. And having a notebook dedicated to your small business ideas will give you a growing and buildable “diary” to use when you’re good and ready to go for it!

And once you start putting your ideas in writing, you’ll find yourself getting into the habit of using your notebook more and more. It’s like anything else that takes practice.

The more you do it, the better you get at finding the best small business ideas. And each idea will help you grow more specific or “niche” ideas.

Become a Private Investigator!

What you want to do is really learn how to research. You’ve got to dig — and dig deep — to determine what business really could work best for your success.

Not only do you have to know who you are and what’s going to drive your personality the most, but you also need to think about what sells.

What type of business can be profitable?

Too many people make the mistake of looking at only one aspect of starting a small business. If you love parakeets and you’re passionate about them, it doesn’t mean you’ll be able to open up a store in your town without knowing if anyone else likes them!

As a side note, starting an internet business allows you a greater opportunity to build a business around something you’re passionate about. If it’s parakeets you love, you’ll find more people on the internet with your same passion than you would in your own backyard. For some great information about finding your passion on the internet, click here

You research should include looking at what other businesses are doing (successfully and not so successfully) in your city or town.

Look at small businesses and even what the “big guys” are doing.

Maybe you could create a smaller business with a personal touch that the “big guys” are typically missing out on (no matter how hard they try.)

Figure out more about what makes you tick …

What kind of hobbies do you have, if any?

What kind of magazines do you enjoy?

What do you like to do most in your “free” time?

What was the best job you ever held? Even if it’s one you had when you were a kid, you may find a business in something you know and love — but don’t even realize it yet!

Business Ideas Are Everywhere

Start to think about needs in your town or city. Is there something missing? Is there a need or a product or some type of service people would use that they “want?”

What is the majority age population in your city or town? Is it mostly seniors? (a huge market because they are more active and living longer than ever.) Or is your community made up of younger families?

Check out the local sections in your paper. Read the Lifestyle and Arts section. (I always find articles about local business people who have started businesses.)

Look at local and state businesses. Look at consumer trends and what people “want.”

Is there something other businesses in your area need? Don’t be afraid to go around and ask!

Think about concerns we all have in the world today.

There are so many opportunities out there, waiting for like you to step up and get started with a new business!

Don’t be afraid to ask!

This is where your friends, family and neighbors come in. Ask them to give you their number-one need. A product or service that’s “hard-to-find.” A complaint about what’s missing from their lives.

How many times have you looked for something — a product or service — and had to travel a long distance to get it?

Answering questions will give you plenty to think about and some good material for your notebook.

And if you’re interested in the business-to-business market, you could always put together a survey and mail it out to local businesses. Give them an incentive (a low-cost, high value gift) and find out what they really need to help them improve their business.

You may find that all of the local businesses in your area need someone to take care of local deliveries. Or someone to help them type or use their computer more effectively..

Just remember, starting a small business is a process and it takes time. The more planning and research you do up front, the better chance you’ll have to success and have a little bit of fun, too.

Dig Deep for Small Business Ideas

Greg Payette is the publisher of HowtoStartup.com and helps people find and start small business with his ideas, tools and resources. Sign up for a FREE e-course, “7 Mistakes That Will Prevent You From Starting Your Business” by visiting =>http://www.howtostartup.com

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Electronic Repair – Is It A Dying Trade Business?

May 15, 2012 By admin Leave a Comment

Electronic Repair – Is It A Dying Trade Business?

Many times I received the same questions from my students and friends asking whether electronic repair service line is a dying trade. My answer to them was it depends on how you treat your electronic repair business. In other words, how do they run their electronic repair business. I do know that at current situation many consumers prefer to buy a new set rather than repair because electronic equipment is getting cheaper and cheaper. This is only true for certain types of equipment but not all equipment!

Let me ask you some questions, would you buy a new LCD TV set if your LCD TV have a sound problem? Would you buy a new Monitor if there is a color problem? Would you buy a new LaserJet printer just because of paper jam? Or would you buy a new dot-matrix printer just because of alignment out? If you talks about the cheaper range of equipment such as a VCD or even a DVD (none branded), yes the users might just throw it off to the rubbish bin and get a new unit with a one year warranty-free of troubles and hassle sending the machine to a repair shop. If the equipment cost several hundreds or thousands of dollars, definitely the users have to send it for repair unless the users are very rich. Base on the current economic situation, many users are willing to send their machine or equipment to repair compare to buying a new unit unless the equipment is beyond repair such as no spare parts, lightning strike and etc.

I would like to share a true story with you. Few years back, my sister bought a cheap none branded 21″TV which was half of the branded TV price. After two weeks, the TV front panel press button broken, not only that, the remote control not working as well. Due to these problems, she can’t adjust or change the TV setting. I tried to repair it but inside everything was so fragile. The quality of the picture produced was so dull and lack of contrast. Since from that experienced, I’ve learned my lesson and would not buy any none branded equipment in the future.

The new 32″ LCD TV set that I bought few months back was a LG brand. Although there are some cheaper none branded LCD TV (cheaper by RM1000.00), I don’t buy it because I know the quality is far less superior than the branded one. The reason I told you this story is time will tell when the behavior of buyers change. That’s mean, consumers is getting smarter and may reject something that would not last long and low in quality. Would you buy a new TV and expect it to run for a year and then replace it with another one? I don’t think so because the amount of money you spent on buying a TV is to expect it to last as long as it could and give you the satisfaction in term of quality wise, am I right?

If majority of the consumers are turning back to the branded equipment and don’t mind spending a little bit more, in the long run, it would benefit us as an electronic repairer. Why? Because we would be getting more things to repair (consumers never scrap off their equipment) and the profit margin is higher.

Now, assuming the customers send the faulty equipment for you to repair, how fast can you repair it and how good is your communication (people skills) with your customers (either end users or dealers) would really affect your business. Even if you are the best electronic repairer in the world and don’t know how to communicate or talk to your customer, your repair business may end up losing to your competitors. In today’s competitive business environment, you need to build a strong relationship with your customers more than ever before. I understand that most of us as an electronic repairer that like technical stuff have some difficulty in facing with customers (communication). The way we convince our customers is not as good as those born with natural gift (like a good salesman) that they can easily treat any customers like their friends. I’m not here to ask you to compare with them but we have the choice of improving ourselves. Many of us like to dwell in our comfortable place (technical department) and concentrating doing our repair job and at the same time ignoring what happen to the surrounding (including of entertaining your customers) am I right? My friends, if there are no sales and no customers; there would be nothing for us to repair. Without sales, there would be no activity in your company!

I’ve met up some of my repair friends who had given up their electronic repair service business and find other jobs due to the strong competition in this repair field. When I asked them why do you want to quit your repair business? The answer that I got from them was less things for them to repair nowadays and the income can’t sustain their daily spending. I asked them again, did you go to search for new customers such as faxing, visiting electronic or computer shops, distributing flyers and etc. The answer that I got really surprised me and you. It is no! You see, as mentioned above, if there are no sales coming in, your repair company will surely have to close down. Not only that, most of them do not have the people’s skill to convince their customers. Sales won’t come in into your doorstep on its own unless it is recommended by your friends or customers. Why those big corporate engage lots of salesman? Because no sales means no business!

I admit that I once have lack of people skills too but this would not stop me from improving myself. The best book that had changed my way of thinking and approaching customers and teaches you on how to start a conversation was “How to Win Friends and Influence People” by Dale Carnegie. The information inside I had absorbed and now I have the courage and confident when meeting new clients and customers. Besides this book I read other books as well like “The Millionaire Mindset” by Gerry Robert, “Rich Dad Poor Dad” by Robert T Kiyosaki, “Who Moved My Cheese” by Dr Spencer Johnson and many more. Those books really changed my mindset and thinking and you can use their ideas and apply it into your repair business. Please don’t just read technical books only, open up your mind and start reading books that can improve your life, business, sales and etc.

I have a friend who is a millionaire and currently making thousands of dollars everyday told me that whenever he goes to work everyday he must learn new things or otherwise he’s actually not working! Wow! That was a powerful quote by him and his word really sparked and motivates me to improve myself everyday. One cannot be stagnant for the rest of their life otherwise even if after 10 to 20 years your life would be the same. One should always learn and improve themselves to excel in their life. Don’t wait for things to happen, you make things to happen! This friend of mine actually went broke 15 years ago and now if he choose not to work the money still keep pouring into his bank account. He never show any sign of giving up during that time of difficulty. Winner never quit!

Charge your customers with reasonable price, build a good relationship with your clients or customers, do not cheat, work hard and smart, improving yourself and learn how to get sales and with the perseverance in you , I don’t see why a person can fail in his electronic repair business. At this moment, my company still has lots of customers sending faulty Monitors and Printers for us to repair and lately LCD Monitor repair is a blessing to us because we can charge a higher price.

Lastly, if you serve your customers satisfactorily, you will soon have a large base of loyal customers who will promote your organization or company, making you feel satisfied, happy and most importantly making profit which is your ultimate aim in setting up an electronic repair service business. It is now your choice whether you wish to change and improve yourself or to remain where you are because ‘Success is a Choice’.

Electronic Repair – Is It A Dying Trade Business?

Electronic Repair - Is It A Dying Trade Business?

Jestine Yong is a electronic repairer and a writer and if you want to become a professional in testing electronic components please visit his website at http://www.TestingElectronicComponents.com

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Filed Under: Repairs Tagged With: Business, Dying, Electronic, Repair, Trade

Keep Your Business, Home and Family Safe During the Holidays

May 14, 2012 By admin Leave a Comment

Keep Your Business, Home and Family Safe During the Holidays

The holidays are here, it is time to keep your Business, Home and Family Safe! Most people think that by simply having an alarm system active they are secure. There are many other things you can do to keep yourself, your family and your business safe!

Having an active alarm system in your home or business is a great idea, however its is only a start. Criminals are opportunist. This means that they look for an opportunity and take it when available. The key is to make sure that through your daily life at home or in business you do not give anyone the opportunity to commit that crime against you by being Aware and Prepared.

There are personal safety and security products on the market today which can help to keep you safe no matter where you are. Pepper Sprays and Personal Alarms make a great level of simple protection. Tasers and Stun Guns are a higher level of protection for your person. Always keep a flashlight (fully charged) in your vehicle. You never know when you may need it.

An active alarm system is great for your business however it is great to go one step further and place cameras in your office, store or place of business. The cameras alone will deter most of the criminal activity which may occur or may be occurring. The cameras also work great to help the Police catch any criminals because they will now have the best physical description possible. The video also works great as evidence in court to make sure the criminal is prosecuted.

Camera systems can range in price and become very costly, there are other ones on the market which do the same thing without spending a fortune. You can also purchase “mock” / “dummy” cameras. These cameras are very inexpensive. They look just like the real professional cameras however it is just the case. The dummy cameras have no working parts, which keeps the cost minimal. This is a great way to simple deter crime in your business or around your home at a very minimal cost.

Before make any decisions, purchasing any products, or using any safety/security equipment, make sure you check the laws in your area to make sure you are in your legal rights.

I wish you a safe and happy holiday season!

Keep Your Business, Home and Family Safe During the Holidays

Thank you,
Kevin Ripaldi
P1 Security Solutions
http://www.store.P1SecuritySolutions.com

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Filed Under: Home and Family Tagged With: Business, During, Family, Holidays

Business Travel Jobs Demystified

May 13, 2012 By admin Leave a Comment

Business Travel Jobs Demystified

All jobs that involve helping people make successful travel plans require a high degree of professionalism, but this is particularly the case with business travel jobs.

Anyone travelling will expect their agent to be excellent at their job: nobody likes to think that they may suffer problems that could have been avoided had their agent been a little more proficient!

But this not only applies in the context of problems. A private or professional traveller is extremely unlikely to be amused if they find that their plans were sub-optimal (e.g. overly expensive) simply because the travel agent didn’t really know their trade. So, ‘getting it right’ and providing an exemplary service is important if you work in a travel agency. Yet in the case of corporate planning, it becomes potentially even more complicated and your customers may well be considerably more demanding.

What makes corporate travel different to recreational travel?

• Business travellers need to depart at their convenience and in line with the demands of their business, meaning that they may be very reluctant to fit in with any plans that do not conform to their needs. Compromise may sometimes be impossible for them to contemplate.

• Clients may have multiple requirements that involve them travelling around the globe, stopping and changing flights regularly – that can be a major logistical and coordination effort for the travel agent.

• Clients may need to depart at short notice and they will expect a fast, efficient and above all, knowledgeable, service.

• Sometimes vast sums of money may depend on the business traveller being somewhere at a specific date and time – if things go wrong, they may be very pointed in demanding an explanation and an alternative from their agent.

How does this affect business travel jobs?

There are some agents that specialise in providing dedicated services to corporate clients. Some other agents may offer general travel agency services but also have a dedicated department/office/team to cope with the specific challenges presented by business travellers.

Typically, agents tend to put more experienced and knowledgeable employees into their business operations, although that may not always be the case and some may offer training opportunities for beginners. There are City and Guild (plus other) qualifications in many aspects of travel and leisure, and some of these may offer specific modules or courses on business travel.

If you are interested in business travel jobs specifically but lack any previous travel agent experience, it may be advisable to consider finding a position in an agency to learn the basics of the trade, then seek further qualifications and the opportunity to move into the business field. If you would like to search for business travel jobs directly as a trainee, and without previous travel agent experience, you may find this difficult unless you can show a relevant higher academic qualification.

The route to take towards business travel jobs will depend on a number of things, such as your experience, qualifications and perhaps your overall financial position in terms of whether you can support yourself through academic studies on either a full or part-time basis.

Business Travel Jobs Demystified

Barbara Kolosinska (MREC CertRP) is a Sales Director for C&M, a leading travel recruitment agency who specialise in finding their clients the perfect business travel jobs across all sectors of the travel industry. C&M have access to the largest choice of business travel jobs from the UK’s top travel employers.

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Getting Started with Business Incubators

May 12, 2012 By admin Leave a Comment

Getting Started with Business Incubators

You have a head spinning with business ideas but you encounter difficulties in financing? Or you have recently started your great potential business but are not yet turning profit? A fundamental aspect for your business, financing is usually the most frequent obstacle in starting a business. You have the option of resorting to a business incubator on condition that your business idea seems viable and promising. Now if you wonder how they are going to find out whether your idea is worth investing, the answer is a very sensible (and predictable) one: by analyzing your business plan.

What are business incubators? How many types are there?

A business incubator is a system offering support for start-up businesses or recently founded ones. The facilities it offers go from financing, inexpensive office space, various business services (such as secretarial assistance) to management advice and support. Their role is to produce viable, standalone companies at the end of the program they are included in. Also, the selection they perform works like a measurement unit for the viability of the applicant business and gives entrepreneurs a chance to re-think their business strategy. The success rate of businesses created by incubators is of around 85%.

There are two categories of incubator sponsors: profit and non-profit.

* Non-profit entities are supported by the state or a local government directly, through a college or university, or in conjunction with a chamber of commerce. Such incubators have been used to achieve social and economical objectives as decreasing the unemployment rate, increasing the enterprise formation rate, social assistance for disadvantaged groups – youth, minorities, enhancing regional economy etc.

* Private companies are generally looking to make a profit. Applying for a program of such incubators should be highly questionable and a matter for thorough analysis, as it may involve long-term hindering agreements, or sharing a percentage of 20 to 80 of the company ownership and it just may not be worth it.

Who may apply and what are the conditions?

Any entrepreneur may apply for entering an incubator program on condition that his business project is viable or his business has great potential. An necessary condition is that the applicant must have a business plan containing relevant information.

There are also specific conditions and requirements for admission into such programs that vary from case to case, usually referring to the business industry, business location, the for-profit/non-profit strategy of businesses or financing means.

Programs usually last up to three years.

Advantages and disadvantages of resorting to a business incubator

On one hand, business incubators provide:

* financing, without requiring

* customized professional assistance

* entrepreneurial training

* economical access to facilities

* inexpensive business services

* opportunities for entrepreneurs to connect with people who can promote business growth and profits

* a forum for exchange of ideas among entrepreneurs

On the other hand, there may be some inconveniences too with business incubators. For instance, with incubators that have the goal of gaining a profit, the necessary agreement to be reached upon can be most of the times a very cumbersome one for most firms.

Also, with non-profit incubators sponsored by governments there is the tendency to favor high tech startups that plan for rapid growth (as thus they will create more jobs) rather than more traditional businesses.

However, business incubators may be a very helpful opportunity to start your business; they can constitute a real boost for a beginner business.

Getting Started with Business Incubators

Laura Ciocan writes for http://www.businessplanning.ws where you can find more information about business planning

Please feel free to use this article in your Newsletter or on your website. If you use this article, please include the resource box and send a brief message to let me know where it appeared.
Contact: lauracio@gmail.com

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Filed Under: Business Tagged With: Business, Getting, Incubators, Started

Improve Your Mobile Electronics Business by Connecting With Other Likeminded Companies

May 12, 2012 By admin Leave a Comment

Improve Your Mobile Electronics Business by Connecting With Other Likeminded Companies

Mobile electronics is a high-end, specialized industry, and so it can sometimes be difficult to find the same networking and business opportunities that are available in other sectors. However, organizations exist that bring together mobile electronics companies to provide resources and information that can improve both business practices and performance.

Membership organizations for car audio video and vehicle security manufacturers, vendors, and installers provide crucial services to these mobile electronics businesses. Unlike other industries that have long-established industry structures, businesses specializing in mobile electronics have been in a somewhat isolated position because the industry is fairly new and serves a niche market. With the advent of unifying groups, though, these specialist companies are able to engage in the same networking and business opportunities as their counterparts in other fields. If your company is part of the aftermarket car audio, video, or security customization scene, it is well worth your while to research what membership organizations are out there and to take advantage of the many services offered through joining them.

First and foremost, a membership organization for mobile electronics specialists is an indispensable networking tool. From giving you a way to simply know who else is out there in your industry, to providing opportunities to share knowledge, experiences, and stories, these organizations facilitate the networking process in a way that’s simply impossible without their help. Networking is a specific term for building relationships, and that’s exactly what these groups encourage. Through in-person events, online forums, and regular conference calls, they allow manufacturers, vendors, retailers, and installers to all connect to each other, often for the first time. At minimum, these practices generate excitement about the industry and create a sense of solidarity among the different members. And, in the best cases, new business opportunities can grow out of such connections, which strengthen the individual companies and also the industry as a whole.

In addition to the networking angle, membership groups in the mobile audio, visual, and security field offer specific business tools and opportunities to participating members. These include professional development programs, such as the training of new members in sales and marketing tactics, and business analysis of past and current company performance. Because these membership organizations have a vision of the field as a whole, they’re able to synthesize the best business practices, choices, and models, out there and share the resulting knowledge and information with their members. Individual companies have neither the resources nor the perspective to do this, so it is up to the membership organization to make these training and informational services available to the respective mobile electronics companies in the group.

Businesses that are in the same industry need to know each other and to have a place to pool their common knowledge. Mobile electronics membership organizations provide the framework in which to do both of these things, and thus serve to strengthen and advance this sector as a whole. If your business is involved in car audio, video, or security systems, joining a membership organization can help make your business more visible, more informed, and more connected.