International Luggage Rules

Though rules can vary by airline, most allow only one carry-on bag per person.

International travel requires a great deal of planning, even when considering your luggage. Many item restrictions are different for each airline, but there are some general rules you can follow. Taking smaller than normal bags and limiting your items down to necessities will help prevent any difficulties. Always make sure to verify your airline's specific guidelines before your trip to prevent any problems checking in.

Carry-On Baggage

A rule of thumb for carry-on baggage is to have a maximum size of 45-inches. This number represents the total of the dimension measurements, for example a standard carry-on suitcase measuring 22-inches by 14-inches by 9-inches. Most airlines only allow one of these per passenger, though this depends on the carrier. Policies regarding these items tend to be stricter when traveling internationally so taking luggage smaller than the normal domestic requirements will help you avoid any problems. Though it's not common for domestic flights to have weight restrictions on carry-on items, international carriers can occasionally have limits on this type of baggage.

Personal Items

Most airlines allow one personal carry-on item in addition to your carry-on suitcase such as a backpack, purse or laptop. Specific lists can be verified with your carrier. This personal item must also be small enough to fit underneath the seat and shouldn't exceed a total dimension of 36-inches. As with carry-on luggage, international policies tend to be stricter with such items.

Checked-In Baggage

Rules on the size, weight and number of checked bags differ by airline. Most U.S. flights allow two checked-in bags, with additional charges if they exceed the airline's specific weight limits. Internationally though, airlines tend to operate on a weight system, ignoring the actual number of items. This weight can vary from around 44 to 88 lbs. per person, usually depending on the class of your ticket.

Prohibited Items

There are a number of items that you are prohibited from bringing onto any commercial airliner. The Transportation Security Administration's list includes more obvious items like firearms, sharp objects, flammable materials and harmful chemicals. Also banned is defensive weaponry like the items used in martial arts. Other restricted items include some tools and sporting goods like hammers and baseball bats.

Changing Policies

Airline policies can change, particularly in an age of anti-terrorism and cautious air travel. It is important to know updated policies before traveling. You can check the Transportation Security Administration's current policies as well as your airline's specific rules and regulations to ensure a trouble-free trip.

Tags: airline specific, carry-on suitcase, Most airlines, number items, Security Administration, smaller than, smaller than normal

Win A Boxing Fight

Success in boxing combines offense, defense and strategy.

A well-known saying describes boxing as being "the science of hitting without getting hit." To win in a boxing fight, that is exactly what a boxer must do. Yet accomplishing that in the ring can be complicated. A winning boxer must combine aggressive offense with skillful defense, and apply those skills in a way that maximizes his strengths and exploits the opponents weaknesses. Finally, a boxing match is fought and judged under a set of rules, something a winning boxer tries to take into account as well.

Instructions

1. Study your opponent or potential opponents if possible, and learn how he fights. Professionals often know who they are matched against in advance, making this a straight-forward matter. Amateurs might be matched with one of several opponents at a tournament, so several possibilities must be accounted for. Talk to people who have fought that man before, ask your trainer to visit the opponent's gym or go yourself and watch whatever video is available.

2. Develop a basic plan for fighting the opponent and tailor your training in the gym accordingly. If the opponent is fast or a southpaw (left-hander), spar with southpaws or men who are even faster. Practice moves that exploit flaws in the other man's style. If you see he drops his right hand after throwing a straight right, work on counter left hooks in the gym to exploit that.

3. Build on your basic game plan for the fight by thinking through what to do if the opponent adjusts during the fight. If your best assets are quick hand speed, long reach and a sharp jab, you need a back-up if your opponent responds by staying right in front of you and smothering your speed and jab with dozens of punches at close range. In this particular instance, you can either work on side to side movement, offsetting the other man's bull rush, or develop a strong uppercut to smash him on the inside.

4. Stay calm as you enter the ring. You can use a lot of energy just from stomach butterflies or being too excited. Some fighters pray, others stare at the other guy and run through their game plan, and still others remind themselves that if the other guy isn't a little scared too, then he must be stupid.

5. Throw punches remembering that there are judges watching. If the judges cannot see that you are scoring clean, hard punches and you fail to score a knockout, you might as well not be punching at all. Long, straight punches thrown in the open are very easy to see. If you prefer to fight at close range, try to keep the fight in the center ring where at least two judges will have a view of what you are doing.

Tags: boxer must, close range, game plan, winning boxer, your opponent

Develop A Capability Statement

Capability Statement

A capability statement's primary purpose is to secure financing, work contracts and grant funding. The statements' secondary use is for marketing, as the information transfers well to brochures, websites and other promotional literature. The capability statement should create a sense of trust and show that your business is capable. It tells a person why he or she should do business with you. This is not an area to be shy. Let future customers know what you are capable of by listing awards, certifications and completed work.

Instructions

1. Write an overview of the company. Include contact information, such as the location of the company, the website, the main information phone number and email. Tell the history of the company and a little about its surrounding community. Add the company mission statement and business objectives. State what makes your product or service the best, and why someone should do business with you.

2. Give the specifics about the company. Create an organizational chart . Name accreditation or certifications the company has acquired, such as occupational health and safety or quality assurances. List the company's major accomplishments and past performances. Include the facilities the company uses to complete the work. Name your major customers and past successes.

3. Focus on personnel. Highlight key players for the funding or work you are trying to obtain. Add resumes and pictures. Include industry experience and any relevant training or certifications these key players have. Add information about human resources and subcontractors working with the company. This will assure a future customer your company can get the job done. At the end of the document add a direct point of contact for planning purposes.

Tags: business with, Capability Statement, capability statement, should business, should business with

Tips On Being A Telephone Sales Agent

Learn to make a living selling on the telephone.

Being a telephone sales agent can be a demanding job, according to MoneyInstructor.com website (see References for a link). In many cases, a telephone sales agent needs to learn close a sale on one call, be able to read buying signals without actually seeing the customer and remain motivated enough to continue calling prospects immediately after a rejection. To help out in the world of telemarketing sales, there are some tips to follow to be a successful a telephone sales agent.

Know the Product

In order to close a sale as a telephone sales agent, it is important to know the company's product and the company policies that can help or hinder a sale. For example, a telephone sales agent needs to know what credit cards the company accepts and what shipping methods are used in order to keep the conversation flowing to a sale. If the agent needs to continually put the client on hold to find out the answers to the client's questions, then the sale could be lost.

Take Notes

A telephone sales agent calls many prospects in the course of a day and hears a wide variety of answers to the various questions asked during the sales process. Keep notes on customers' responses so that you have a reference point if a situation arises in the future. For example, if you take notes on the various reasons you are getting for rejections, you then can refer to those notes and craft answers that you can use to close future sales.

Practice

Even if a telephone sales agent makes 100 phone calls a day, he may only get the chance to speak to a small number of prospects. In order to formulate new responses to rejections, or create a smooth explanation of the newest product, a telephone sales agent should practice their delivery continually. Team up with other agents in the company and help each other work on speak to clients, the different ways to counter a rejection and make the way you speak seem smoother and more fluid.

Control

According to Small Town Marketing website (see References for a link), it is important to understand maintain control of a phone conversation in order to become an effective telephone sales agent. A sales professional uses questions to help guide the client towards the close of the sale. If the client is asking questions, then the telephone sales professional does not have the client's attention and is losing control of the conversation. Work on effective ways to make sure that, as the telephone sales professional, you are the one in control of the conversation and the one asking the questions.

Tags: telephone sales, sales agent, telephone sales agent, agent needs, close sale

Marketing Ideas For College Professionals

How do you market a college graduate?

So much time and energy is spent trying to graduate from college that there is little time to think about what happens next. College seniors begin job hunting before they graduate, but at that time, what do you have to put in your resume besides your grade-point average? Employers look at multitudes of applications from college graduates. You must market yourself as a way to set yourself apart from everyone else.

Create a Resume

To acquire a professional position you will need a resume. A resume isn't just a way to list your achievements; it's also a brochure that represents what you can offer the company. Begin your resume with your name and contact information. Include an objective that plainly states what you intend to do for the company. Include your educational background, your computer skills and your past employment history. Next to every job you have had, list all the skills you acquired and demonstrated during that time. Include a separate sheet for references. Professors and Department Heads make excellent references, provided you get their permission first. They may even write you a letter of recommendation, which you can include with your resume. Finally, type up a cover letter that introduces yourself to the company you wish to apply to and demonstrates a knowledge of what they do and why you would best fit the job.

Design a Personal Website

A website can be an excellent tool for marketing your skills to an employer. Not only is the Internet widely accessible, a website gives you the opportunity to display your creativity and add your own personality into the mix, but it also offers a way to display your work through uploaded files, videos, music or photos. Design your homepage with a professional feel. Make it dynamic and straightforward. List your contact information as well as a brief description of who you are and what you can do. Create a link for your resume as well as any other work you can display. While you are on the Internet, do a quick search of your own name to make sure that employers don't see anything you wouldn't want them to if they did the same search. Remove controversial material under your name from any social networking sites or other homepages you may have.

Assemble a Portfolio

A portfolio is a marketing resource that has stood the test of time. Artists and photographers always keep a hard-copy portfolio of their work to show potential clients. This method is a good idea for any job seeker. Purchase a leather-bound binder. Fill it with your resume and reference page and add any work that may be relevant to employment. This includes written essays, creative writing pieces and projects you have completed. Add your letters of recommendation and even copies of your report cards or evaluations. Put together a portfolio that illustrates who you are and what you have to offer.

Tags: your resume, with your, your name, contact information, display your, from college

1960s Martini Theme Parties

Go back to the swinging '60s with a martini party.

Cocktail parties are great fun, and 1960s martini-themed parties are great to take the idea further and try to evoke the atmosphere of those carefree gatherings. Careful planning and preparation for your party will ensure that you and your guests have a great time. Make sure your party venue is large enough to accommodate your guests, with comfortable seating areas and a space for the all-important cocktail bar. Does this Spark an idea?

Planning

Make sure you have plenty of olives for your martini cocktail party.

Send out your invitations well in advance to ensure a good turnout. Make them formal in style, with details of the desired arrival time and an RSVP address. Give your guests a taste of what they can look forward to---for example, "martini cocktails and swinging '60s dancing." Specify the dress code for your 1960s martini themed party, such as A-line, Mary Quant--inspired dresses for the women and velvet suits for the men. An important stage of the planning is to buy all the ingredients you will need for your cocktails. Decide how many cocktail choices you want to offer, and print menus listing them by name so that your guests can choose what they want. You may want to stick to classic martini cocktails, such as cosmopolitans or dirty martinis, or create your own and give them names inspired by 1960s culture. Basic supplies will include vodka, gin, vermouth and gourmet olives.

Decoration

Make an attractive display of your martini glasses to impress your guests.

Elegance is key for a cocktail party. Make a well-stocked bar the focal point of the room; arranging your martini glasses on shelves or hanging them above the bar will add an interesting feature. A large ice bucket with tongs can be another focal point. A couple of retro pieces in the room will make a big impact, such as a bar mirror or a velvet chaise longue. Instead of bright overhead lights, use low-wattage bulbs in strategically placed lights around the room for a romantic, sophisticated atmosphere.

Entertainment

Encourage party guests to make their own cocktails.

Apart from plenty of 1960s music on your record player or jukebox, a couple of fun ideas to keep your guests entertained are easy to arrange. Consider hiring a bartender for the evening who can perform tricks while mixing cocktails and give demonstrations to allow your guests to try mixing a martini cocktail themselves. Organize your guests into small groups to take part in a 1960s-themed quiz, with prizes for the winning team.

Tags: your guests, your martini, cocktail party, focal point, Make sure, martini cocktail, martini cocktails

Become A Distributor Without An Investment

Become a Distributor Without an Investment

One of the best ways to become a distributor without an investment is through a direct sales company. Direct sales companies recruit sales representatives to sell products or services through party plans, at flea markets or directly to businesses. Examples of direct selling opportunities include perfume, makeup, vitamin and advertising distributorships. Most direct sales companies will charge an initial fee for a sales kit. The company will usually deduct the initial investment when you place your first order; therefore, your distributorship is completely free.

Instructions

1. Look for various direct selling companies that offer the products you want to promote, and decide which products you want to sell. Read through business opportunity magazines such as "Entrepreneur" or "Small Business Opportunities." Contact the Direct Selling Association (DSA) through its website at dsa.org.

2. Call several direct sales companies to find out the available products or services. Ask the representative if the company offers drop-shipping, meaning the company will ship products for you. Select a company that will, so you can avoid carrying a large inventory, and one that will allow you to get started for free, except for the initial sales kit.

3. Apply for a vendor's license for your distributorship business through your county or city administration office. If you use a fictitious name, obtain a doing business as (DBA) name, according to Business.gov.

4. Establish a marketing plan, whether direct selling, party plan, mail order or Internet --- whichever best suits your personality. Sell your wares via the Internet, for example, if you are relatively shy or have experience with online marketing.

5. Use catalogs and product samples, if you are selling directly to businesses. Present owners with samples of promotional products, for example, if you are selling key chains, T-shirts and calendars in quantity.

6. Order your products according to the guidelines of your direct sales company. Use the Internet to order products, for example, if that is your supplier's primary ordering method.

7. Provide a contact number for customers to call you with any questions. Leave business cards, so customers can call for any reason.

Tags: direct selling, sales companies, sales company, Become Distributor, company will, customers call, direct sales

Job Description Of A United Way Campaign Chairman

The United Way works within communities to support programs that benefit the local population. In 2008, United Way embarked on a decade-long campaign to cut the number of high school dropouts, help families find financial independence and help people live healthier lives. To help accomplish these goals, United Way seeks funds through contributions in the workplace.

Description

Campaign chairmen are ideally college graduates with a marketing or mass communications background. The chairman is responsible for organizing volunteers to solicit donations for the United Way. The chairman usually reports to the company's president or CEO.

General Duties

The primary duty of the chairman is to solicit funds and supplies from the community. The chairman also creates a network of volunteers. He delegates duties in support of the campaign. The chairman acts as the face of United Way in the community and speaks for the organization through media outlets. The chairman attends local events for community outreach and donor solicitation.

Recruiting Help

New campaign managers should consult with previous managers to find what worked and didn't in prior years. The campaign manager then implements a plan with the approval of the company CEO or manager. With the CEO's assistance, the chairman recruits a team that represents all the company's departments.

Promotion and Solicitation

The chairman uses United Way's resources to provide brochures, posters and other promotional materials. He publicizes the campaign through emails and company newsletters, and creates competitions with prizes based on donations. The chairman and members of his team can make individual and group appeals for donations.

Educate

One way to solicit donations is to educate people about what the United Way does in the community. Team members can show videos produced by United Way, and speak at events and meetings. Volunteers also can give tours of local agencies to provide a firsthand look at what the United Way does in the community.

Tags: does community, solicit donations, United does, United does community, what United

Promote & Sell My Products Online

Websites are the gateway to selling products online successfully

Promoting and selling products online can be difficult, with thousands of websites competing for business. It can be an even greater challenge to market a product or service without a site carefully designed to engage potential clients. Anyone can place products for sale online, but not all sites generate significant profits. It will take time, strategic marketing and implementing tools to earn positive results with consistent traffic.

Instructions

1. Build an easy-to-navigate website. Purchase a domain name and select a hosting company. The name should be related to the name of the business and products sold. List the products prominently in one section on the page. Include a site map that shows all the links associated with the site. The website must link back to the homepage on every page. For example, the "About Us" link must have a link that allows the client to click back home. It also may be smart to list payment options on each page as well.

2. Make the products listed on the page stand out. Consider adding hyperlinks to blog reviews near the product pictures on the website. The pictures should catch the potential client's eye, and the content should secure the sale. Establish a review section linking to your company's blog or other authoritative blogs that review similar products or services.

3. Open a merchant account to accept online sales. This link should be strategically placed below a product picture. For example, a picture of an electronic appliance may include an add-to-shopping-cart function. PayPal and other merchant companies provide these services for little or no cost. Paying for the product must be easy for the client.

4. Implement a marketing plan that includes social media and posting classified ads online. Merchant Circle is a low-cost option to promote via classified ad, blog, forum participation and more. Finding all the best places to promote and sell products online can be a time-consuming task. For instance, a Facebook fan page could be very useful in gaining product exposure. However, the effort to post updates and participate in forums can take significant time. Creating a poll on Facebook about where people look for your products could be the easiest tool to help generate smart marketing. Also, adding a merchant account feature to sell directly on Facebook is an option. Facebook fan pages are free and a good option to get started selling and promoting online.

Tags: merchant account, products online, selling products, selling products online

Repair An Aquarium Glass Chip

Repair your fish tank glass after chips occur.

After spending days, sometimes weeks or months to create the perfect fish tank, a chip in the glass can be devastating. The fear is that if the chip spreads into a crack or eventually weakens the glass enough, the walls of the tank will break, spilling the water and all your fish with it. When you find a chip in the glass of your aquarium, treating the chip immediately helps prevent further damage. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Remove all fish from the fish tank using a fish net. Place them into a separate aquarium or a bowl with water from the original tank. Use a siphon to remove all water from the tank.

2. Remove any shards of glass from the chip using tweezers. Set the shards aside; you will need them again. Clean the glass where the chip is located. Use soap and water to remove any dirt or residue. Rinse the glass completely with clean water and allow the area to dry.

3. Prepare epoxy glue according to the manufacturer's instructions. Apply the epoxy to the chip using a putty knife. Spread the epoxy thin so that it is level with the surface of the glass but fully fills the chip. If you have any pieces of the chipped glass, insert them into glue. Level out the surface again if necessary.

4. Apply steady pressure to the surface of the epoxy for one minute using the blade of the putty knife.

5. Leave the epoxy to dry completely. Depending on the epoxy you use, this is generally 24 hours.

6. Set your tank back up as you normally would.

Tags: fish tank, chip glass, chip using, putty knife, them into

Build A Yugioh Tournament Deck

In the Yu-Gi-Oh card game, you create your deck of 40 cards and fill it with monsters, spells, and trap cards. These cards are then used to duel against another opponent with his own deck. If you want to compete in a Yu-Gi-Oh tournament, however, you will need to construct a tournament deck. Yu-Gi-Oh tournament decks must follow a set of rules to be considered tournament legal. This ensures that players don't exploit powerful cards for an unfair advantage.

Instructions

1. Determine the type of tournament you will be competing in. Contact the tournament holder for this information. If you are entered into a Sealed Pack tournament, an unopened Yu-Gi-Oh deck will be supplied to you. A Constructed Deck tournament requires the creation of your own deck.

2. Check if the Constructed Deck tournament is following the Traditional or Advanced format. Traditional tournaments do not ban cards but limit the amounts of certain cards in your deck. Advanced tournaments forbid certain cards entirely and limit others.

3. Remove any cards from your deck that are marked. Marked cards are illegal in a tournament deck, as players can tell that these cards are different from the others in the deck--which leads to an unfair advantage.

4. If you are participating in the Advanced format tournament, take out all forbidden cards from your available cards. As of June 2010, there are 43 forbidden cards, which include Victory Dragon, Magician of Faith, Confiscation, Ring of Destruction and Last Turn.

5. Remove all but one copy of the limited cards from your card pile. There are 72 cards on the Advanced limited list and 114 cards on the Traditional limited list. Cards on both lists include Exodia the Forbidden One, Mezuki, Rescue Cat and Monster Gate.

6. Remove all but two copies of semi-limited cards from your pile. There are 19 semi-limited cards on both the Advanced and Traditional list. These include Honest, Dandylion, Chain Strike and Bottomless Trap Hole.

7. Select at least 40, but no more than 60, cards from your remaining pile for your primary deck. The deck should include around 25 monster cards and 15 cards each of trap and spell cards. Only three copies of any one card outside of the limited lists can be in your deck.

8. Choose 15 cards to create your Side deck. This deck contains additional cards that can be switched into your Tournament deck between duels. Select trap, monster and spell cards of different elements to keep your deck well rounded.

9. Pick up to 15 Fusion and Synchro monster cards to create your Extra deck. Use Fusion and Synchro monsters that can be created with the monsters included in your primary deck. This deck is optional.

Tags: your deck, cards from, cards from your, from your, create your

Get An Iban Number

IBANs simplify money transfers between European Union bank accounts

The International Bank Account Number (IBAN) has been a requirement for payments between European Union countries and Norway, Switzerland, Liechtenstein and Iceland since January 1, 2007. Made up of a combination of letters and numbers that define a country, bank and account number, each IBAN is unique to each bank account. Attempting money transfers between these countries without using an IBAN can result in the payment being delayed and possibly rejected.

Instructions

1. Look at your bank statement. If you have an account with a bank within the European Union or Norway, Switzerland, Liechtenstein or Iceland, your account's IBAN will be located near your account number. As of 2010, no U.S. bank uses the IBAN system.

2. Log onto your account through your bank's online website. Register at the site if you have not used the site before. Your IBAN will appear in your information on the website.

3. Visit a local branch of your bank if you are unable to locate your IBAN either on your statement or online. Ask for assistance in identifying your IBAN. If you do not have one, ask for one to be assigned to you.

Tags: European Union, your account, your bank, account number, bank account, between European

Job Description For A Research Executive

International markets look for different things when it comes to products.

A research executive is usually one of the leaders of the market research department of a company or organization. Market research plays a large role in the success or failure of a company by helping develop a thorough sense of what customers need. Companies that do not perform marketing research might end up in a situation where they have created a product or opened a store that is not needed by the customers.

Research

Market research analysts work for research executives collecting data using a variety of means such as surveys, opinion polls, demographics and any other statistics that can give the company a sense of what the needs are of customers in a given area, according to FAS. They also often interview customers, collect information from various locations on the Internet such as forums and review websites, and record information through the process of negotiation. This information is then presented to the market research executive.

Analysis

The market research executive is responsible for determining what research techniques will be used, how broadly the research will be conducted, and estimates how much the research will cost. Data collected through the market research team must be analyzed by the research executive. Through this analysis, the market research executive can determine the buying trends of given demographic, the success and failure of competitors and the effectiveness of advertising methods. The data must be organized and presented to upper management so that they can make decisions based on the data, according to FAS. The research executive also often makes decisions based on the research data.

Qualifications

An educational background in a research-oriented field will be beneficial to the market research executive, though the best education for this position is in marketing and sales, according to Millward Brown, a marketing research agency. Organizational skills are needed both to organize the research data into a clear and useful format and also to keep research projects running smoothly. Since this executive is heading up a team of researchers, he must be self-motivated, according to FAS. Oral and written communication skills are essential, since this executive must not only clearly articulate research results to upper management but must also be able to delegate tasks to members of the research team.

Outlook

Between 2008 and 2018, the need for market researchers is expected to grow by 28 percent, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This growth is driven by growing markets overseas that often have different demographics and product expectations.

Earnings

In 2008, the median earnings for market researchers were $61,070, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The highest 10 percent earned more than $112,410, while the lowest 10 percent earned less than $33,770.

Tags: research executive, market research, market research executive, according Bureau, according Bureau Labor, also often

Start A Grassfed Goat Meat Business

A grass-fed goat business can be a challenging yet satisfying venture if you're interested in creating a product that provides a healthy meat alternative for consumers. Grass-fed meat businesses tend to be on the smaller scale and give more attention to the pasturing and feeding of their animals than industrial producers. New goat meat producers who can clear hurdles, such as start-up costs and state and federal regulations, can create a sustainable business.

Instructions

1. Apply for business licenses with your state and local agencies. Register your business and business name with the Secretary of State. Contact the IRS to set-up an Employer Identification Number (EIN) if you plan on hiring employees or operating as a corporation or partnership.

2. Contact your state's Department of Agriculture regarding requirements and fees for certification as a grass-fed organic goat meat supplier. If you plan to sell goat meat across state lines, contact the U.S. Department of Agriculture regarding the certification process.

3. Maintain a record keeping system for certification purposes. Your records should document every aspect of your grass-fed goat meat business, including where you purchase your goats and verification that they have been provided with organic feed from at least their third trimester of gestation.

4. Purchase organic feed from a reputable supplier. Keep records of all support materials and invoices demonstrating that the grass feed was organically grown.

5. Maintain detailed records of medical care attesting to the fact that none of your goats are treated with antibiotics.

6. Find a slaughterhouse and butcher in your area that can organically process your goat meat without bringing it into contact with non-grass-fed meats. Contact mobile organic butchers, if possible. These operations are designed to meet small business needs and to lower the stress animals experience during transportation.

7. Develop markets for your grass-fed goat meat products. Determine whether you will sell to a community supported agriculture (CSA) program, directly to customers, independent butchers, restaurants or meat distributors. Make your decision by weighing the time spent making sales directly against the lower prices gained by using middlemen.

8. Brand your grass-fed goat meat products. Communicate with your customers or on your labels about what makes your grass-fed goat meat unique, such as some special features about your farm or the individual care you give your goats.

Tags: goat meat, grass-fed goat, grass-fed goat meat, your grass-fed, your grass-fed goat, goat meat

Advertising Ideas For A Hair Salon

Hair Cut

A successful hair salon has a steady stream of customers to keep stylists, colorists and aestheticians busy. In addition to acquiring repeat clientele, you should advertise your hair salon to help fill in schedule gaps with new customers and keep profits high. For the best results, use a mixed marketing strategy that with multiple advertising methods to reach a wider audience for your hair salon's services.

Yellow Pages

Do not overlook advertising in the Yellow Pages for your hair salon. Many individuals still pick the Yellow Pages to find a hair salon that is close to where they live, especially when they first move to a new area. Make sure your Yellow Page ad includes a map and highlights your specialties.

Website

Increase your clientele by creating a website for your hair salon. Beyond putting your salon on a professional level, your website can help you keep in touch with existing customers. Put articles about new hair trends and styles to keep interest high in services for your existing customers. These articles will also bring in new customers who want to obtain the new styles you discuss on your website.

Repeat Business

Focus on repeat customers. At check out, give your customer a coupon for future services. This coupon encourages them to return to your hair salon the next time they need hair services. A steady customer is a valuable commodity for your hair salon, so keep them happy to keep them coming back.

Upsells

Do not overlook the advertising power of your professional staff. As they work with clients, have them encourage customers to purchase additional products and services. Having your customers use products that you sell also encourages the client to return when they need to restock their supplies.

Electronic Newsletters

On your website and at your store, have a sign-up process for an email newsletter that you send out on a regular basis. Avoid spamming your customers with just coupons and offers by providing helpful tips and advice on hair fashion and trends. But add coupons and specials as part of your newsletter. Customers will be more responsive when you send them more than just promotional emails.

Charity

Sponsor a charity event at your salon for Locks of Love or other charities. In addition to helping others, your business can obtain free advertising through press coverage of your event. Charity events also raise the prestige and visibility of your hair salon.

Partnerships

Partner with other local businesses that have complimentary services like a tanning salon. Exchange coupons and also consider packaging services. For example, you could offer a "Make Over" package that includes a new hairstyle and a tan.

New to the Area

Groups such as the local chamber of commerce provide information packets to people when they move to the area. Make sure your hair salon is featured in the information packet either through an advertisement or a listing. You can also work with home closing agents to include coupons for new homeowners.

Tags: hair salon, your hair, your hair salon, when they, Yellow Pages, your website, area Make

Advertise My Online Business On Google

Google will prominently display advertising for your website on its search engine. The websites that chose to advertise with Google are displayed in the search engine results under "Sponsored Links" at the top and to the far-right side of the results page. To advertise with Google, you will need to sign up for a Google AdWords account. AdWords is a targeted search marketing program that will display ads or Sponsored Links for users based on the user's search query.

Instructions

Create a Google AdWords Account

1. Go to the Google.com. Select "Advertising Programs" at the bottom of the page. Then select "Sign Up Now" under Google AdWords.

2. Create a Google account. Enter in your current Google account information, or create one by entering in your current email address and selecting a password. You will then be asked to select the time zone that your ads will be displayed in.

3. Verify your Google account. Log into the email that you used to setup your new account, and click on the link in the verification email.

Create Your First Ad on Google

4. Login to your account at: https://adwords.google.com. Click the "Create your first campaign" button. You will be taken to the Settings tab to select the settings for your campaign.

5. Enter in your settings. Type in a name for your campaign. Select the language of your audience such as English. Select the location of your audience. You can pick a local location, the entire United States, the entire United States and Canada, the entire world, etc. Then enter in your bidding and budget options. You can enter in a maximum dollar amount that you are willing to spend per day. Click "Save" and "Continue."

6. Create your first ad. Select "Text ad." Then enter a Headline for your ad. Then enter in text in the two Description lines provided. Type in your Display URL and enter in your Destination URL (Your destination URL is not seen by users. Your Destination URL may be slightly different from the display. For example, your Display URL is: www.mycakewebsite.com and your Destination URL is: www.mycakewebsite.com/specialtybirthdaycakes)

Example text ad:

Specialty Birthday Cakes on sale

Tasty cakes designed to order.

Get 20% off of shipping by ordering today.

www.mycakewebsite.com

7. Select keywords. Your keywords should be directly related to your website. If you are selling baked goods, you may want to bid on keywords like "chocolate cupcakes," "cherry turnover," or "birthday cakes." The more specific your keywords are to your product or service, the more likely a user that clicks on your ad will be interested in what you have to offer. For example, if you offer credit card processing machines but you bid on the keyword "credit card," you will end up paying for a lot of clicks from users who are actually looking to apply for credit cards or find information on credit cards rather than merchants looking for credit card processors.

8. Enter in your maximum bid amount for the keyword(s). You can determine the maximum bid amount by looking at the average cost per click for each keyword you have chosen. If the average cost per click is $0.65 to $1.56 on a keyword, and the keyword averages 16 to 21 clicks per day, you may spend $38 to $40 per day by bidding $0.65. If you only want to spend $25 per day. You may want to consider offering a lower bid of, for example, $0.35. Your ad may not be displayed first or second in the Sponsored listings if you bid lower, but it is not necessarily a disadvantage since many users will visit a few different sites before they settle on buying a particular product. You must test out each ad placement to discover which keyword bid is most cost effective. You can then complete your setup and hit "Save and Continue to Billing" to enter your credit card information.

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Become A Street Vendor

One of the most commonly asked questions that municipalities answer is about becoming a street vendor. Street fairs are a great way to spend a weekend. Street vendors are not only food vendors; events include antiques, clothes, face painting, vintage collectibles and anything else you can imagine. The key to being a successful vendor is to get people to buy what they don't need.

Instructions

1. Decide if you want to do it alone or join a street vendor organization. These organizations can help you with licenses and renewals, ID Badges, taxes, locations, tickets and criminal actions.

2. Get licensed before you start to sell or buy equipment. Everyone needs to apply at their town's municipal office. If you sell at flea markets, holiday markets and street fairs, you only need a temporary license.

3. Escape the need for a vendor license if you can be classified as an artist. Artists sell their artwork on certain streets. Enforcement of this law is difficult for authorities. The sale of jewelry, crafts, prints and photos are not considered artwork.

4. Write down a schedule of the events you would like to attend as a street vendor. It is important to find out the rain policy of the street fair, flea market or holiday market.

5. Determine the cost for reserving a vendor spot at the eventi??remember location is everything.

6. Calculate if a lottery system for vendor position at an event is worth the weekly stress. Many times events have an early morning lottery to make the transition from seasonal vendors to weekly vendors.

7. Read the street vendor guidelines for your event. The guidelines will tell you about waste receptacles, health regulations, signage, dog policies and insurance.

8. Prepare yourself to work hard. A career as a street vendor is a difficult task. The plus of your job is that you will be able to work outdoors. Self-employment is also a bonus.

Tags: street vendor

What Kind Of Salary Does A Fashion Buyer Earn

Fashion buyers choose the merchandise for sale in clothing retailers.

Fashion buyers select and purchase clothing items for resale in retail stores. The buyer must be able to predict trends in fashions and choose the items that will sell well in the store. Job seekers can qualify for high paying fashion buyer positions by obtaining a degree in business management.

Location

Location plays a part in the salary a fashion buyer may earn. In New York City, buyers earn salaries between $49,132 and $83,157 as of November 2010, according to Payscale.com. The salary for a buyer in Indianapolis, Indiana, is between $44,494 and $67,000. Location affects salary when the city or state has an increased demand for professionals in the field.

Industry

Fashion buyers choose products, which are sold to the public in retail outlets. Buyers in a large organization or chain store may earn a higher salary than a fashion buyer working in a small boutique. Fashion buyers can also work as independent consultants and provide clients with expertise in the fashion industry.

Education

The education a buyer has can influence the salary she is able to earn. Buyers with a bachelor's degree in business administration earn higher salaries. The salary for a candidate with a degree in another field or with a Bachelor of Arts degree earns lower salaries, according to Payscale.com.

Experience

Fashion buyers with experience in the industry earn the top salaries. For example, buyers with 20 years of experience or more earn average salaries between $44,556 and $74,297, while those with less than one year of experience earn average salaries between $34,843 and $46,576.

Benefits

Companies offer benefits to employees in addition to the yearly salary. Fashion buyers have an opportunity to purchase items from the employer at a significant discount. In addition to a discount on fashion purchases, buyers earn benefits such as 401(k), health insurance, paid time off and a flexible schedule. Some fashion buyers travel all over the world to meet with wholesalers and clothing manufacturers.

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The Average Salary Of A Sports Announcer

Announcers use their voices to communicate information to large numbers of people.

Radio, television and public address announcers convey information to spectators and listeners. These workers are commonly found announcing at sporting events or public gatherings and other venues where large groups of people attend. The Bureau of Labor Statistics differentiates announcers into two groups: radio and television announcers and public address announces, and salaries range widely.

Public Address Annoucers -- National Averages

Public address announcers make announcements at public sports events, marriages and gatherings. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that there were about 7,280 public address announcers in 2009, earning an average wage of about $17.37 an hour or about $36,130 per year. Announcers in the lowest 10th percentile of workers made about $7.73 per hour or about $16,080 per year, while those in the top 10th percentile made about $31.19 an hour or about $64,870 per year.

Radio and Television Announcers -- National Averages

Radio and television announcers talk on radio or television programs. They interview people, read the news and perform other announcing tasks. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that there were about 35,130 radio and television announcers in 2009. These workers earned an average wage of about $19.99 per hour or about $41,590 per year. The top 10th percentile of radio and television announcers earned about $36.70 per hour or $76,340 per year, while the lowest 10th percentile made an average of $7.73 per hour or $16,070 per year.

Public Address Annoucers -- Most Common Sectors

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the drinking places (alcoholic beverages) sector of the industry employed the highest number of public address announcers in 2009. The estimated 2,350 announcers in this sector made about $15.69 an hour or about $32,640 per year. The estimated 390 announcers working in the spectator sports sector earned about $17.75 an hour or about $36,920 per year.

Radio and Televicion Announcers -- Most Common Sectors

The radio and television broadcasting sector of the industry employed the highest number of public address announcers in 2009, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The estimated 32,140 of these workers made an average of about $19.25 an hour or about $40,050 per year. The second-most common sector, cable and other subscription programming, employed about 770 announcers who earned an average of about $26.57 per hour or about $55,270 per year.

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Effects Of Tivo On Advertisers

For decades, the only option to avoiding television commercials was to get up from your chair and get a snack. With the onslaught of Tivo and other Digital Video Recorder (DVR) options, viewers can now quickly skip through ads on programs they have recorded or paused for any length of time. In recent years, many questions have arisen about the effect of Tivo on advertisers.

Decreased Product Sales

A recent three-year study of the so-called Tivo Effect by Information Resources Inc. (IRI) showed that purchase of new packaged-goods products in homes with Tivo or other DVRs was almost five percent less than in homes without DVRs. This is based on tracking of several bestselling brands called "Pacesetters" by IRI. In this study almost 20 percent of all brands lost sales in DVR homes.

Shifting Television Budgets

As a result of the Tivo Effect, many advertisers have found that they can improve their television results by shifting their advertising to different day parts. Advertisers with less than 25 percent of their rating points in daytime television or more than 45 percent in cable television had better results in DVR households.

Diversified Media Budgets

As a result of decreased sales from television advertising, many advertisers are diversifying their advertising budgets. This includes spreading those television dollars to other media like magazines, outdoor and online resources. Based on the IRI study, companies that responded to the Tivo Effect by spending at least 20 percent more of their media budget outside television saw no less sales in DVR homes than those without DVRs.

New Technologies

Tivo has begun to offer advertisers TV-flashing ads that pop up whenever a user presses pause on their television. This allows advertisers to get around the avoidance factor inherent in DVR usage. Tivo plans to introduce other new technologies to provide more interactive advertising solutions aimed at DVR users.

Increased Product Placement

Advertisers have begun to establish relationships with the networks and producers of the programs during which their advertisements air. Product placement is the process by which advertisers pay to have their products mentioned, seen or used in the course of a television program. For example, Coca-Cola, one of the largest users of product placement, paid for 3,355 product placements in 2006.

Increased Stealth Advertising

One study from the University of Oregon says that small-market news programs have more commercially influenced material in the course of their programs. This information may or may not be connected with paid advertising but may be used to entice advertisers considering their stations.

Tags: Tivo Effect, advertisers have, Budgets result, less than, many advertisers, sales homes, than percent

About Tattoo Kits

A tattoo kit is a set of used by people who want to do tattoos. It is often used by professional tattoo artists although beginners may also purchase one to get started on tattoos. These kits come in a variety of sets which can include only the bare essentials to everything that is needed to equip an entire studio. As such, the price of a tattoo kit also varies and is dependent on what it contains. Tattoo kits are readily available at tattoo supply shops. They are also available online. Does this Spark an idea?

Contents

All tattoo kits come with the basic things for tattooing. A tattoo machine, needles, disposable tips, inks, power supply foot cord, and aluminum grips are all contained in the tattoo kit. Those who are looking for more should be able to find a kit containing the particular items they want. Other items such as additional ink cups and other tattoo fittings may also be included in more extensive set-ups. Additionally, the number of colors of inks found in the tattoo kit is dependent on the kind purchased.

Quality

One of the most important signs of the standards offered by the tattoo kit is the ink included. The inks found in tattoo kits vary. Thus, it is important to look for products who offer high quality inks in various colors. The quality of the ink is based on the vibrancy of the color as well as its consistency. Look for an ink that can be applied easily without the risk of running or fading. An ink cap should also accompany the kit so that it can hold the ink while the design is being applied. Not all tattoo kits allow for the ink to be refilled after they run out. Another sign of a quality tattoo kit is the kit itself. The container holding the supplies is usually made of a metal material that is resistant to rust and waterproof.

Safety

Using a tattoo kit requires several safety precautions because they involve piercing the skin. Without the proper sanitation, there is a risk of disease and infection. Ideally, tattoo needles contained in the kit are discarded after they are used. Disposal of the needles should not be done along with regular trash because it can cause injury to others. A separate bin in needed. Some tattoo kits include needles that can be reused. This is possible as long as there is access to a sterilizer. A sterilizer is a special kid of equipment which is used to disinfect reusable needles. It can use dry heat to get rid of the contaminants. Often, sterilizers are included in the tattoo kit. If it is not, disposable needles should be used.

Replenishment

Tattoo kits need regular replenishment in order to serve their purpose continually. Needles, particularly the disposable kind, and ink run out after several uses so there is a need to replace them. The manufacturer of the tattoo kit often offers replacements to the components of the kit. Most of the parts of the kit can be bought separately from its makers. Thus, it is easy to replace pieces which are broken or have run out.

Maintenance

The tattoo machine is one piece of the set that requires special attention. A tattoo machine is what is used to apply the ink on the skin using an electronically powered needle that can pulsate at a rate of 50 to 3,000 times in a minute. The parts of the machine can experience a lot of wear and tear during tattooing. The most common damage in tattoo machines is found in the front spring and the contact screws. This is because of the constant up and down movement when it is used. Older models of tattoo machines may be prone to rusting because they are made out of non-stainless steel components. Regular maintenance and cleaning of the tattoo machine should be done for safety purposes as well as to ensure the production of quality tattoos.

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Marketing & Strategic Communication

Marketing and strategic communication are a crucial part of building a customer base and increasing brand awareness. By aligning your communication and marketing efforts with your strategic business goals, you can ensure that your time and money are spent in the most effective ways. A targeted marketing and communication plan can increase profits and grow your business.

Goals

A marketing and communication plan is designed to support the goals of your organization as set out in the strategic plan. Each marketing effort is designed to support a specific business goal. If your company is planning to go after a new market sector, for example, the marketing and communication efforts might focus on building awareness or creating interest among potential customers. A marketing plan promotes the company to the people who are most likely to become customers.

Targeted Planning

Strategic communication and marketing are done with careful attention to the target audience. Based on market research into the ideal customer, marketing and communication efforts are designed to reach customers at the right stage in the purchasing process, when they are receptive to marketing messages. Depending on the customer behavior, this might be as specific as sending out an email at the right time of day or as general as placing posters on bulletin boards in places the customer is likely to shop.

Brand Management

An important part of a marketing and communication plan is brand management, which happens at all levels. Your plan should inform communication across the board, from the way employees describe the company to the colors of the website. A marketing and strategic communication plan should either establish a new brand identity or work to refine and support the existing identity.

Methods

A marketing and communication plan lays out the top-level promotional strategies and the methods that will be used to achieve each strategy. For example, if one marketing strategy is to increase audience awareness about a new product, individual efforts might include a social media campaign, a brochure and a cold-calling program. The methods of a marketing plan should be designed to fit within the time line of short- and long-term goals.

Tags: marketing communication, communication plan, marketing communication plan, plan should, communication efforts, communication marketing, designed support

Criticisms Of Marketing Mixes

The marketing mix includes the various elements that make a marketing plan come together. Some companies experience challenges when creating and implementing their plans. Analyze common or potential criticisms of the marketing mix chosen for a company by looking at each element of the marketing mix --- product, place (distribution method), price and promotion --- individually.

The Product

One common criticism business owners may hear that involves the marketing mix is the way a product is packaged. Packaging the product in unattractive or inefficient wrapping can cause the business to lose sales. For instance, a package that is too hard to open can frustrate customers. Wording on the package that is misleading or confusing could also negatively affect sales. Another criticism is a low-quality product that doesn't match advertising claims.

Distribution

When a business owner chooses the wrong distribution location, it can negatively affect his entire marketing plan and product launch. The choice of distribution affects the perceptions that consumers have of the company and its products. For instance, if a company known for selling high-end bake-ware decides to sell even just a few of its products in a dollar store, that could break down the entire marketing plan.

Price

Sellers who set their prices too high or too low may also experience criticism from both customers and distributors. Having a useful, effective and perfectly packaged product doesn't mean much if the price is set too high. Setting the price too high or low happens when a company doesn't correct match the target consumer with the product. For instance, if you are selling to wealthy, quality-driven consumers, a low price could cause them to question the integrity of the product.

Promotion

A company's promotional plan is key to its success. If a company makes the mistake of submitting an offensive advertisement as a way to draw attention to the product or service, the company is likely going to be the subject of criticism. A company who submits ill-advised promotional advertisements without taking the sensitivities of consumers (particularly target customers) in mind can damage its reputation and lose sales.

Tags: marketing plan, entire marketing, entire marketing plan, lose sales, marketing product

Day Care Supervisor Responsibilities & Job Description

Supervisors oversee children's centers.

A day care supervisor has many important responsibilities. In addition to ensuring the safety of children in her care, a supervisor must be adept at performing all administrative and managerial duties needed by the facility.

Function

The job description for a day care supervisor usually includes hiring, training, scheduling, planning and budgeting for the center. Supervisors often don't work directly with children, but oversee their well-being.

Skills

If you are considering a job as a supervisor, you should have computer, phone and communications skills. You will need to be organized, good at keeping accurate reports and able to manage a staff.

Requirements

The educational requirements for a day care supervisor vary, depending on the position. Most employers will require experience in the field.

Career Outlook

According to SalaryExpert.com, day care supervisors in 2010 in 10 major cities made an annual salary between $25,000 and $31,000. The Bureau of Labor Statistics notes that the number of day care jobs is expected to increase by 18 percent through 2016.

Considerations

Despite all the responsibilities and the importance of caring for children, day care workers are not paid well. Supervisors can expect to earn a higher salary, depending on the position, experience and employer.

Tags: care supervisor, children care, depending position

Job Description Of An Event Director

Become an event director if you love excitement and multi-tasking.

Talk about responsibility: Check out job descriptions for event directors and you'll quickly discover why companies will do just about anything to retain a great one. The list of responsibilities is enormous, regardless of the industry in which an event director works. If you function more efficiently with too many items on your to-do list rather than too few, are a master at multi-tasking and a self-admitted excitement junkie, see where you fit when you read event director job descriptions. Keep this in mind: Salaries in this field aren't huge--another reason you must love this field.

Preparation

Revisit your resume to determine how your history coincides with event director job descriptions. You’ll need solid customer service skills; basic business skills, including planning and project management; command of written and spoken English; sales and marketing experience; and an understanding of computer programs used to communicate and design. And if you’ve spent time dealing with the media, you’ll made a great candidate.

Education

Train to meet criteria listed on job descriptions for event planners by taking the right classes. Qualify for event director jobs by matching these classes with your career goals: organizational psychology, event planning, crisis management, food and beverage law, supervisory skills and creative event design. Educators recommend communication, budgeting, marketing, license and permit acquisition, public relations and staff management courses as well. A bachelor’s degree gets you an interview. A master’s may be overkill in tough economic climates.

Physical Requirements

Job descriptions for event directors rarely mention the physical demands of an event director's job, but you'll definitely be called upon to tackle physical work--even when setting up a union-run hall where electrical, construction and other tasks are handled by laborers. Typical physical tasks required of the event director are transporting boxes of materials to sites; overseeing room and booth setups; provisioning workshops, seminars and training rooms; and generally being the person with the clipboard making the rounds of the event site late into the night.

Considerations

Anticipate handling contract negotiations, reception and party caterers and interior decorators. You'll also interact with news reporters and guest speakers if there’s no PR staffer assigned to the event. You'll find some aspect of these responsibilities in the job description: legal oversight, budget tracking, expense report compilation, event wrap-up and post-event analyses.

Future

Keep an eye out for job descriptions under the headings of: event planners, managers, coordinators and directors. Budget cuts, downsizing and streamlined staff numbers, often the result of a poor economy, regularly mean the elimination of management hired to stage special events, so keep this in mind when you read those job descriptions. Of course, if you're adroit at pulling rabbits from hats on next to no money, you'll keep your job no matter how badly economics play out.

Tags: event director, descriptions event, descriptions event directors, director descriptions, event director descriptions

Advertising Agency Fee Structures

Today's advertising agencies are compensated differently, and with more variability, than in the past.

Just as advertising methods and outlets have changed in recent years, so have the ways advertising agencies get paid. While the fees charged by lawyers, accountants and other types of business consultants are generally tied to a fixed hourly rate, agencies may be compensated on the basis of commissions, markups, fees or pay-for-results plans. Clients can also negotiate some combination of these payment structures.

Commissions

For many years, the standard agency compensation was 15 percent of the total amount spent by the client on mass media such as television, radio, magazines and newspapers. For example, if Best Cookie Brands bought $1 million worth of airtime on TV, its agency would remit $850,000 to the network and keep $150,000 as payment for creating and placing the ads.

More recently, the commission system has evolved to reflect the changing media landscape. Many new media -- and increasingly popular promotion alternatives, such as database marketing -- do not pay a 15 percent agency commission. Some pay no commission at all. So Best Cookie Brands probably negotiates the percentage it pays in commissions, and relies in part on other compensation options.

Markups

In the course of preparing advertisements, agencies routinely contract with outside vendors such as photographers, printers, researchers and film directors. To reflect the work involved in recruiting and managing these specialists, the agency typically adds a markup to their charges. Generally, this markup ranges from 17.65 percent to 20 percent, depending on the nature of the outside services.

Fee System

Currently, there are two common types of fee systems. One is based on an hourly rate, which may be the same for all agency services or different across specialties and departments. The second type is a fixed, project-based fee negotiated by the client and agency to cover specific services and expenses during a set period of time.

Pay-for-Results Plans

These newest payment structures base an agency's compensation on the effectiveness of its work. Specific measurement criteria must be agreed upon in advance. Agencies often resist pay-for-results plans tied primarily to sales, because they cannot control key sales-related factors like product quality or distribution strategy. But a growing number of agencies are agreeing to be compensated based on brand awareness or other communications goals.

Looking Ahead

Advertising agencies are in transition, increasingly offering services traditionally defined as sales promotion or public relations. At the same time, they are learning use -- and get paid for -- the vast new array of digital communications options. This period of change is likely to benefit their clients, who will have more flexibility than ever in negotiating fee levels and structures.

Tags: agencies compensated, agency compensation, Best Cookie, Best Cookie Brands, Cookie Brands, hourly rate

What Is The Starting Salary For Someone With An Advertising Major

Advertising majors can earn a six-figure income at some large corporations.

Advertising and marketing jobs are highly competitive, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Salaries vary widely depending on the type of advertising job and the geographic area. Advertising or marketing majors are prepared to take jobs such as advertising managers, public relations managers, marketing managers and sales managers.

Advertising Managers

In 2008, about 47,000 advertising managers were employed in the United States. The Bureau of Labor Statistics indicates that advertising managers typically work for wholesale trade corporations, technical service businesses, scientific corporations and professional service corporations. The median annual salary for advertising managers was $80,220 in 2008.

Public Relations Managers

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, approximately 57,000 public relations managers were employed in the United States in 2008. Public relations managers often work for health care facilities, social service agencies and educational agencies. In 2008, the median annual salary was $89,430.

Marketing Managers

Marketing managers typically work for insurance companies, finance companies, technical service corporations, scientific corporations and other professional service corporations. In 2008, nearly 176,000 marketing managers worked in the United States. Marketing managers earned a median annual salary of $108,580 in 2008. Marketing managers who worked in computer industries earned a median annual salary of $127,870 while those who worked for insurance companies earned only $103,210.

Sales Managers

Sales managers often work for insurance companies, finance companies, manufacturing corporations, retail corporations and whole trade businesses, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. In 2008, nearly 347,000 sales managers were employed in the United States. The median annual salary for sales managers was $97,260 in 2008. Sales managers who worked for commercial equipment and wholesale companies earned $125,130, whereas those who worked in retail businesses only earned $54,560.

Tags: annual salary, median annual, median annual salary, Bureau Labor, Bureau Labor Statistics, Labor Statistics

Make A Fashion Portfolio If You Are A Kid

Starting young can increase confidence in your portfolio as an adult.

There is no reason to wait to work on your future dreams. Fashion designer Cecilia Cassini is only 10 years old with her own label and website! Fashion applies to people of all ages and as Cecilia has shown, children can take on a serious interest in the fashion industry at a young age. Children who spend their days designing clothing lines for paper dolls or sketching the clothes they wish they could wear or put into outfits, may be on their way to a fashion career. Children interested in fashion design can get a head start by starting their fashion portfolio early. Fashion portfolios improve with time from experience and by increased content designers choose to include.

Instructions

1. Purchase a book with sleeved pages where you can enter and display your work. Sleeved pages will help you keep your work organized, provide an easy way to display your work and can easily be updated as you grow as a fashion designer.

2. Review your fashion sketches and choose the ones you think are your best work. Ask peers or adults for feedback on your sketches and see if others agree with your selection. Consider your main fashion interests. If you are interested in designing children's clothing or a certain genre of women's fashion, select sketches that show your talent in this area.

3. Photograph outfits you put together or make. Try to make them look as professional as you can. Select the best photographs and get them printed large enough to fill a sleeve.

4. Collect fashion photos from magazines, online or other sources that inspire you. While these are not your own work, they can fill in blank pages of your portfolio while you build your own work. Do not claim them as your work if someone asks about them, instead explain what you like about the photos and why you chose them from all the other fashion photos available. Consider labeling items in the photo that you like and writing why you like them. They will show other people your taste and eye for fashion.

5. Organize your portfolio. Come up with a theme and combine your selected items, putting them into the sleeves of your portfolio. Consider beginning with your most recent work and going back to your oldest work, to show your progression. Or choose a theme such as springtime in Los Angeles and try to tell a story with your work.

6. Frequently re-evaluate your portfolio and improve it's quality. If submitting your portfolio professionally, remove any work that is not directly yours. Also arrange your portfolio for each professional showing, to make sure it includes work that the viewer is most interested in seeing.

7. Scan your portfolio pages to make a digital portfolio. Some organizations or businesses want digital copies of portfolios.

Tags: your portfolio, your work, with your, display your, display your work, fashion photos

The Elements Of Product Mix

Standardized products typically make for efficient and low-cost manufacturing or development.

The product mix is the variety of products a company produces or sells to the marketplace. A product line often evolves, as manufacturers want to take advantage of a brand's value and the success of other products in the mix. Retailers carry a mixture of products to satisfy various customers. The product mix includes four common elements: Length, breadth, depth and consistency.

Length

The length element of the product mix refers to the number of products in a given product line. You could also describe it as the number of stock keeping units or SKU's a company carries in a product line. For instance, the length of a grocery retailer's soft drink product line is the number of distinct brands it carries. A longer product line means consumers have more options and access to greater assortment.

Breadth

Breadth of the product mix refers to the number of product lines that a company offer or the variety a company offers. Offering a wider array of product lines is common for discount and department that sell products in a number of different product categories. Manufacturers develop breadth to diversify risks of a given product becoming obsolete. Retailers with wide variety often attempt to market themselves in a virtual one-stop shop.

Depth

Depth is closely related to length in the product mix in the sense that it offers the consumer options when selecting a given product. Depth refers to the different ways that you can buy a particular product in a product line. For instance, you can buy soft drink in a 2-Liter bottle, a six or 12-pack of cans, a 20-ounce bottle or other sizes. You can buy dish soap in liquid, powder or gel form. These options further enhance your flexibility as a buyer.

Consistency

The consistency element of the product mix refers to the connection between products within the product line and the way they reach the consumer. For manufacturers, consistency refers to how closely related production processes are for various products. The more consistent production is, the more efficient and cost-effective. For retailers, consistency in a product mix makes it easier to perform suggestive selling and recommend close products. Distinct products in the mix typically translate to a unique selling process for that product.

Tags: product line, given product, product refers, closely related, element product, element product refers

Newspaper Advertising Ideas

Newspaper Ad

To survive, most businesses must advertise. One of the oldest and most powerful methods of advertising is newspaper, which has a dedicated following of readers. However, to gain their attention you must employ make your ad pleasing to the eye.

Strategies

Your ad should be spectacular enough to immediately grab your readers' attention. Choose the largest size ad that matches your budget, but ensure that your ad is not just a big beautiful picture. The content and picture should be complementary, with both vividly conveying your message. Newspaper readers are a diverse group, so to attract your target audience keep your picture and message balanced toward your market. If your ad is about an electronic item purchased mainly by a younger crowd, use a picture and content that symbolize this sector.

Make your ad unique. If it resembles one of your competitor's, the reader will bypass it. To him, it is just another ad. Determine the type of responses you need from the ad and how you will achieve it. Conservative advertising (used by hospitals and banks) is very expensive and understated in its design. It will not get you much attention. If attention is what your business needs, choose a design that speaks volume about your products or services. Dare to be different, but inoffensive.

Color

Once you know your target audience, you will be more confident in choosing the right colors for your newspaper ad. Choosing the right color is important because colors affect the eyes and the heart. Colors can make your ad intriguing, but if used in the wrong way they will create dispassion. Understanding the general associations of color will help you to make the right choice:

Yellow-warmth; blue-trust and security; black-elegance and strength; purple-dignity and refinement; pink-feminity; green-freshness and nature; and white-purity.

Direct Response

The key to getting an immediate response from the reader is to create a direct response ad. This type of advertising should be written in a manner that triggers your reader to pick up the phone or drive to your establishment right away. Example:

Need a car? Try our 2004 Toyota Camry, starting today at $129/month.

Direct response does not guarantee a response, but choosing the right words helps to fuel the reader into immediate action.

Consistency

Be prepared to run your ad consistently if you want positive results. Running an ad for only two or three days might get you a phone call or two. However, a steady flow of responses takes time, patience, and money to keep running your ad. Carefully choose when you want your ad to run. Keep in mind that most people read the newspaper on weekends, especially Sundays. In running an eye-catching and informative ad frequently, readers will develop a sense of familiarity toward your company. If they ever need the type of services you offer, they will contact you because they are now familiar and more trusting of you.

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Authors Of The 1950s & 60s

The major events that happened during the 1950s and 1960s greatly shaped the literature of the period. The 1950s was the first decade after World War II, while the 60s sowed the seeds of counter-culture in America. Authors during these decades became popular because of their unique and intellectual approach to literature, most of them still revered today because of their contributions.

The Beat Generation

During the 1950s, a group of authors dubbed as the "Beat Generation" popularized unconventional literary works that tackled concepts about drugs, eastern philosophy, sexuality and alternative forms of living, such as non-materialism and self-expression.

Several major writers rose above the group: Jack Kerouac, William S. Burroughs and Allen Ginsberg. Kerouac's "On the Road" became the Beat Generation's bible, while Ginsberg's poem "Howl" greatly depicted the group's view on how society "kills" the essence of being human. Burroughs's "Naked Lunch," published in 1959, depicts the adventures of a drug addict travelling in different places.

Science Fiction Authors

Science fiction authors also flourished during the 50s and the 60s. As the United States and the Russian government raced on who could send the first man in outer space, science fiction authors released novels and short stories in several science fiction magazines popular in the United States. Authors, such as Isaac Asimov, Ray Bradbury, Robert Heinlein and Arthur Clarke flourished during this period. Asimov's "I, Robot," a collection of short stories, came out in 1950.

Established Authors

Established writers, such as Ernest Hemingway and John Steinbeck of the "Lost Generation" also released major works of fiction during the 50s and 60s. Hemingway's "Old Man and the Sea" and Steinbeck's "East of Eden" came out in 1952. J.D. Salinger's "Catcher in the Rye," a very provocative book about a disturbed teenager, released in 1951.

Socio-Political Authors

Fiction and non-fiction authors both flourished during the 50s and 60s. In the United States, the 60s was filled with major political and social movements, and authors such as Harper Lee, Maya Angelou, Margaret Walker Alexander, and Ken Kesey questioned the current social status quo and the plight of women in society.

Lee's "To Kill a Mockingbird," which won the Pulitzer Prize in 1960, delved into issues, such as racial inequality and violence to women. Maya Angelou, an African-American author and activist during the Civil Rights Movement, published "I know Why the Caged Bird Sings" in 1969 -- an autobiographical book detailing the first 17 years of her life.

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What Is An Imprint Machine

An automated imprint Machine.

Imprint machines come in many types, and are used for application of printed words, pictures or images to objects. Some imprint machines are small and manually operated, while others are large, automated machines for commercial production use.

Screen Printing Machines

Screen printing machines, also called "silk screen" machines, are used to imprint clothing, fabric, pens, mugs and other logo-ed or decorated items. Signs, decals, machine and electronic parts are also commonly imprinted by a screen printing machine.

Hot Stamp Machines

Hot stamp machines, also called "foil printing" machines, are used to imprint book covers, business stationery and promotional items. Products such as recycle bins, wood crates, pencils and golf balls are also commonly hot stamped.

Pad Printing Machines

Pad printing machines are used to imprint watch faces, golf balls, pens, key chains, electronic parts, cell phones, and is the only imprinting method capable of imprinting textured three-dimensional objects.

Offset Printing Machines

Offset printing machines are used to imprint paper goods such as books, stationary, newspapers and magazines. Modified offset presses are used to imprint sheet material to be formed into items such as cups, boxes and product packaging.

Ink Jet Machines

Ink-jet printers are commonly used for personal computer printing, but large commercial ink-jet machines are used to imprint sheet materials for billboards, vehicle "wraps," posters and other advertising products.

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Marketing Ideas For Independent Sales People

A marketing plan will help you close more sales.

Successful marketing starts with a plan, according to Entrepreneur magazine. The first step in creating that plan happens when you begin to come up with marketing ideas. As an independent sales professional, there are some basic ideas you can implement to get your products in front of as many targeted people as possible.

Network with Local Business Owners

Network with local business owners to determine how you can work together. Networking isn't about building one-sided relationships. It's about determining how you can help one another. Attend business association meetings, introduce yourself while patronizing local establishments and attend community events to come in contact with the people you need to meet. Think of ways you can help one another. For example, a business owner may need your products, and you can offer them a deal and personalized service in exchange for buying from you. Perhaps their customers could use your product and you could offer them a referral fee or other benefit for letting you introduce your product to their client base.

Have a Professional Website

It's important to have a website and your own domain. According to the IncTechnology website, your domain should be a dot-com that's easy to spell. You don't have to run an ecommerce website, just something that can serve as your online brochure. The website should explain who you are, what you sell and how you can help your customers, as well as providing your contact information. If you have a way to offer online ordering, that is an added benefit, but it's not required. Make sure to put your URL, or Web address, on your business cards, email signature and any other marketing materials.

Attend Events

Expos, fairs and bazaars are a great way to get your products in front of your target audience. Exhibiting at large expos can be expensive, but in many cases, the return on investment is worth it. If you are on a limited budget, look for fairs and expos at your local high school or church. The attendance may not be as high, but you can make some valuable contacts and meet potential customers.

Track Your Efforts

Track all marketing efforts to see what is effective, and have tangible results in mind. According to Inc. magazine, measuring your results helps you understand if you are spending your money well. Keep a list of how many valuable connections you have made from networking. Put a Web analytics program on your website to see how many people are visiting your site. When people call, ask how they found you. Make a note of how many sales you make at expos and fairs. If you aren't making sales, track how many potential customers' contact information you've been able to obtain. Be patient, though. Results will not happen overnight.

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Inexpensive Client Gifts

A small client gift keeps customers coming back.

Running a business can be stressful work, but however busy you may be, it is important to take time out and let your clients know that their business is important to you. You can hand out small client presents like gift bags or items with your company logo on them, which lets the clients know you appreciate them and keeps you company name fresh in their minds.

Gift Bag

Create gift bags with a theme relating to your business. If you run a salon, hand out bags with with beauty products like face masks or nail polish. If you run a catering business, fill bags with jars of homemade sauces, specialty coffees or tea bags. You can have these bags prepared in advance and then give them to clients as the need arises, like if you have kept a client waiting or misplaced an order.

T-shirts

T-shirts with your company logo on them serve a dual purpose as a client gift and an advertising tool. Have some basic tees printed up with your business name at a local printing shop, and always make sure to have extras in the trunk of your car or in a spare closet. Have your company's phone number, address and website printed on the shirts as well, so clients will always remember get in touch and so others can see the information.

Calendars

A calendar is a handy item most people can use, and you can have some specially made at a printing or photo shop, incorporating your company logo and information onto the calendar pages. Have the cover of the calendar made with a group image of your business team and have your phone number printed on each month inside the calendar. You can even have small magnetic calendars printed, which clients can display on their refrigerator, ensuring high visibility.

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Benefits Of A Promotional Pricing Strategy

There are many benefits of offering promotional pricing on products.

Promotional pricing is very popular with retailers, and can be a very successful strategy when the aim is attracting new customers, according to research conducted for "Marketing Science" magazine. There are many appropriate times and reasons for promotional pricing, such as new product launches, competitive factors and protecting current market share. Promotional pricing can be divided into several types of programs, and each one has its own benefits.

Current Purchase Discount

The current purchase discount typically offers customers money off the purchase price. This is a commonly-used technique that is easy to implement, because prospective customers understand and respond to it. Some of the benefits of this strategy include immediate and measurable results. It is also easily modifiable to match marketing segment needs and can be adjusted to meet customer demands.

Future Purchase Discount

The future purchase discount is a promotional-pricing technique similar to the current purchase discount, but offers the discount at the customer's next purchase. The benefits of this type of strategy also include easy-to-measure results and familiarity to customers. Other advantages are that it encourages long-term customer loyalty and repeat business.

Cashback Promotion

Cashback promotional pricing requires the customer to pay full price at the time of purchase, but gives them cash or check rebates. The benefits to this pricing strategy are numerous. The retailer has several rebate options, including the choice of offering cash or products. Customers respond to this type of pricing and may purchase items out of their original price range because of the rebate.

Volume Promotion

Volume promotions usually offer more products at the same price. An example of this promotion is "buy two 12-packs of soda for $10, or pay $7 for one." They encourage customers to buy more than they originally intended, and offer them more value for their money. These types of promotions also may encourage brand switching. Another benefit of this type of strategy is that competitors typically cannot imitate them quickly.

Multiple Products Promotion

The multiple products promotion is one of the most recognized strategies on the retail market. It is the "buy one, get one free" strategy. This promotional pricing technique offers the same benefits as the volume promotion, but without the expensive packaging requirements. Customers usually respond well to this type of pricing, and it can differentiate the retailer from its competitors.

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Advertise A Book On Kindle

For self-published authors, the new Kindle with special offers may be a blessing. The program allows vendors to advertise their wares, including books, alongside the Kindle book text on the eReader's screen. Readers of Kindles all over the world get to see the advertisement for your book. They can decide to purchase or ignore the ad. However, of the millions of Kindle users out there, chances are good that you will get some sales from the ad. Your ad must meet Amazon's specs before the company allows it on their site.

Instructions

1. Sign up for an account and give Amazon your shipping and payment information in Amazon Services. Check the home page for any specials that the company is running on Kindle ads at the moment.

2. Create your ad using the specifications described by Amazon Services. The company has an advertising style guide that describes the rules for branding, file size and more. Following the guidelines helps you to create an ad that Kindle users will see as professional.

3. Choose a size and placement for your ad. Kindle offers six types of ads, screensavers, banners on the home page and customer emails. The prices of each ad will vary by size and location. For example the screensaver ad, which is largest, will be more expensive than a link on the view offers page.

4. Submit your ad, the application and fee to Amazon Services. Amazon has to approve of and place your book ad. You can track the progress in your Amazon Advertising account.

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Press Conference Checklist

Whether you need to publicize an event, deliver an important message or warn the public about an emergency, press conferences are an easy way to ensure you get attention. To be an effective promotional aid, it is important for press conferences to be timed right and arranged in a systematic manner. Besides arrangements for reporters who attend, you should also have a system in place to pass on information those who could not make it to the conference.

Determine Specifics

Select a suitable location that has all the facilities you require. When deciding on the place, consider the size of the audience and availability of sufficient seating arrangements besides a backdrop and a podium. Pay attention to technical features you need, such as audio-video presentation paraphernalia, microphones, sufficient number of electrical outlets, phones for audio links and lighting arrangements for cameras. Set the day and time of the press conference only after careful consideration of factors, such as competition from other newsworthy events and reporters' deadlines.

Invite the Media

One week before the event, send out invites to local media offices and other guests you wish to invite to the press conference. This gives the press enough time to decide their strategy for coverage of the event. Prepare a media advisory that provides information about the reason for the conference. However, make sure you don't give away too much material, as that will make it superfluous to attend the conference. After mailing or faxing this advisory, follow up with a phone call to confirm it has been received.

Prepare the Speakers

Restrict the number of speakers to as few as possible. This avoids people rushing to speak, and also the problem of giving out contradictory or confusing remarks. Make sure the speakers are experienced in the subject, as well as in handling public speaking assignments. Have them prepare their scripts and rehearse them with all props they plan to use, such as charts, graphs or presentations. Stage a mock press conference, where members of your team pose questions that are likely to come from the press. This helps the speakers prepare to tackle tricky questions or avoid going off-track when someone throws an irrelevant query.

Conduct the Event

Be present at the venue well in advance to receive the press reporters; many television reporters arrive early to set up their equipment in time. Take down addresses and contact details of those who attend the press conference for future reference. Hand over any relevant background documents and a copy of your press statement. Instruct the moderator to begin and end on time. Begin with an introduction of the speakers, followed by their statements, and end by taking questions from the press. Allot time for one-on-one interviews, if necessary, at the end of the press conference.

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