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Recovery or No Recovery? That is the Question.
James Dicks examines the discrepancies of what economists are telling us about a possible technical economic recovery and what the American public is actually experiencing.

How to Handle the Price Objection

I am a firm believer that “Price is only an issue in the absence of value.” Never drop you price! Anyone who will leave their current supplier for a better price will also leave you for a better price. Create loyalty through value. If you feel that your prices are too high because you have bought into ‘The sky is falling” mentality of our current economy, then lower your prices across the board but stick to that price once you have presented it to the client.

Creating the Success Mindset
There is a reason that professional athletes visualize hitting a basket, sinking a putt, or hitting a homerun, they are aligning their thoughts and beliefs with their actions. The combination can be formidable. It is the secret to success in business and in life.

Obama Speaks On The Best Business Model For Internet Marketing

With the economy as bad as it is and over 16 million people out of work the internet maybe your only answer. If you're waiting for the Government to help you it maybe a long wait. So take my advise and find out what the best business model for internet marketing is. Take your computer with internet access, take the knowledge you gain from the best business model for internet marketing and get to work. That's all you need to start your online business, nothing else, no money just persistence and determination.

Obama Speaks On The Best Business Model For Internet Marketing

Why Is It That Some People Have Financial Success And Others Don’t?
What does it take to become financially independent in today's economy. Will you inherit your weath or will you make your own success?

Attitude is everything i a Jobs from Home Online Business

There are more people than ever thought imagined that have been abandoned by their jobs and left to make ends meet the best way they know how. This is the state of the world we have to live in. As a result more people are turning to the power of the Internet. Because of the state of our economy has left them with no other solution to this problem. People are in a situation where they have to make a radical change in their lives. When one way of life ceases to be then that is when a new one can start to take shape.

Evaluate Your Personal Finances
James Dicks examines the importance of balancing your personal financial portfolio and investment opportuinities on a regular basis.

On the Lighter Side

What a tough year. I am sure most of you are glad it is over. The recession has had an impact on every one of us. But, now is the time to look back and be grateful; grateful for who you are and who you want to become. December, unlike years of the past was very busy for me. This is only because in prior years I always took the month of December off. This year due to the tough economy that just didn't seem like a good option. So, I spent time in Cleveland, Dallas, Tampa and Montreal. I froze in Cleveland & Montreal, didn't take a coat to Dallas and should have and I went to Tampa during Florida's coldest temperatures in years. Over the holidays Tracy and I visited friends in South Carolina and got to see a calf born on a cattle ranch and took our dog to the ocean. (It was way to cold to even consider swimming.)

Dealing with the Current Downturn
The current economic times are challanging, but we cannot "throw up our hands" and just react. We need to take smart, measured actions.

Your Role in Today's Economy is NOT to Increase Sales

The emerging role of the sales professional today is not to increase sales. Let me repeat that--- your role today is not to increase sales. Your role as a sales professional today is to systematically and consistently increase the number of customers who choose you to be their #1 supplier. You must become----The Supplier of Choice----which means you always get-----The First Call----and The Last look! Don't make the rookie mistake of thinking that your customers don't give last looks. If your customer doesn't give you the last look, then that means somebody else is getting it. It's time to evaluate the relationship equity you have built with that account.

Proven home based business gives you what you truly desire.
With a proven home based business, you can achieve success like you have never experienced it before. You can spend time doing the things that you honestly desire. You have to set yourself apart from the pack, and become one of the top 3% to acquire wealth in a downward economy by partnering with a proven home based business.

Sick and Tired of the Sky Falling!
It's not what is happening -it's how you are responding. The work world is changing. Our Economy is changing. Find seeds of opportunity in the field of uncertainty!

New Year, New Plan
James Dicks examnes the importance of developing a strategy that can help your investments in 2010.

Emotional Economics spelled out by Credit Alliance Group
Credit Alliance Group has been helping consumers with their debts for over 5 years now and have heard the horror stories. How the un-regulated credit card industry is overwhelming the consumers with nothing but interest payments and keeps them drowning in debt. It's an emotional tear jerker listening to the heart wrenching stories from consumers in regards to their debts.

Hire a Vet
James Dicks examines the benefits of hiring U.S. Military Veterans in the American corporate culture.

Prior Business Experience Can Be Helpful When Starting a Small Business

We recently worked with a client who wanted to open a new restaurant. After several discussions, we learned that not only had she owned one restaurant but she had owned several restaurants in the past and had sold her last one in the late 90's. Would she still be considered a start up business? Maybe, because it had been quite some time since she last owned a restaurant but her prior Business Experience would help her significantly when applying for Small Business Financing, especially in today's tough economy.

Position Your Business Today For Success Tomorrow – 5 simple ways
All markets have upsides and downsides. But, regardless of the state of the market, there are always opportunities that business owners can take advantage of to grow their businesses. Through these growth opportunities, business owners can better position themselves for future success.

Prepare for the Worse but Hope for the Best
James Dicks examines the financial year ahead for small business and the American consumer.

Factors That Influence Variable and Fixed Canadian Mortgage Rates
The cost of government bonds and their yield is among the major factors that influence variable and fixed Canadian mortgage rates. Bonds are actually a safe way of investing than stocks. When there is an irregular economy, the investors will benefit from the government bonds. When the market bull is going up, investors normally make a great gain.

Secure the Best Interest Rate for Your Home with an Ontario Refinance Expert

Making mortgage payments is understandably never an enjoyable task. Many of the difficulties in paying the interest rates on a mortgage loan are due to the number of job losses and increased costs of health care. There might simply not be enough funding to go toward paying off every category of credit debt. Fortunately, you have the opportunity to apply for mortgage refinancing due to the greater number of foreclosures in Ontario and other areas of Canada. When you take the condition of Canada's economy into account with other countries on a global scale, you will find information pointing to the fact that Canada is actually faring quite well. As an Ontario resident, you are surely aware of this fact and grateful for your current living condition.

Open the Floodgates!
Are people in your organization just biding their time until they can jump ship? Do you believe it? Do you care? You should... These statistics are pretty alarming.

Win Franchise Sales and at Franchise Development in a Tough Economy
Winning franchise sales and at franchise development in a tough economy boils down to (3) three things that need to be looked at immediately and require strategic planning.

2009 Business Growth Strategy
This article shows you how to increase sales 26% in this economy. A must read for any business owner, sales manager, COO, CEO - anyone watching bottom line profits.

Save Money Next Time You Promote or Hire That New Exec

According to Michael S. Melbinger, Partner at Winston & Strawn, LLP and a leading authority on executive compensation world-wide, mentoring and coaching for newly-promoted managers and/or newly-hired executives is gaining in importance, even in this economy. Why? One of the reasons is companies can no longer afford the costs incurred from poor management/executive performance. It costs too much to get them, let alone get them productive quickly. In this economy, every dollar counts.

The Financial Rollercoaster of Americas Economy
The economic crisis in 2010 will still hit the heart of many because Americas economy has been on a up and down journey for the last decade.

Trading Toward the American Dream
James Dicks examines the differing aspects of achieving the American Dream in the 21st Century.

Minimum wage – good or bad for business?

The questions around the minimum wage are always going to create a heated discussion and in my opinion is just another way for governments and usually socialist style governments to control the economy and turn things in to a nanny state! What is a minimum wage? The minimum wage is the lowest hourly, daily or monthly wage that employers may legally pay to their employees. Minimum wage laws also prevent workers from selling their labour at an amount which is lower than the minimum wage level. Those that defend and advocate a minimum wage say that it increases the standard of living of workers and also reduces poverty.

Protect Your Children and Their Teeth
James Dicks examines dental practices and how they relate to your children.

Famous Hair Accessories-The Women Inventors Behind Them
The personal stories of the women inventors behind the TopsyTail, Hairdini, FanTail, and Whirl-a-Style. How did they get into such a unique business? What traits drive their success?

What Darwin Can Teach Us About the Economy

To help America evolve again, we should start by letting failing businesses fail, preserving the opportunity for new solutions to emerge. We should reduce the tax and regulatory burdens on entrepreneurs, freeing them to introduce new variations into the marketplace. We should cut business and personal taxes across the board, freeing the American people to make more choices and do more with their money.

The Only Way To Have Real Employment Security

Self-employment is the only option available to protect your personal and financial wellbeing regardless of the condition of the economy. Working for someone else strips you of the tremendous power you have over fate. You become a passive player in your own life; success suddenly becomes a question of whether you get lucky or not. Self-employment is your ultimate leverage with which you can take back what’s rightfully yours-the power to set your own destiny.

New Year's Resolution: Survive the Economic Fallout

Times are tough for some folks…Everyone is being affected by the now historic economic upheaval in a different way. While some acknowledge a definite impact on their business operations, others don't seem to be impacted that much at all. It's this diverse reaction to the downturn which will probably be good for all of us in the long run. Unfortunately, the messages of hope are not as interesting to report about in the news and everywhere we turn we hear negative reports about the economy, unemployment, foreclosures, and the list goes on. It's time to think postive and make some changes for ourselves and our business...

Marking Strategies: Why Do Some Entrepreneurs Do Well in Today’s Economy?
It's your mindset and not the economy that is holding you back. Learn how to remain positive and attract more business! This article gives you some great tips on how to switch your focus from gloom to prosperity.

A Positive Attitude and the Workplace
James Dicks examines the benefits to conducting business with a positive approach

Applying the Lessons Learned
James Dicks explains how he turns the mistakes he makes into future positive actions.

Buy and Hold No More
James Dicks looks at the Buy and Hold strategy when investing and why it may not be such a good idea anymore.

Changing Consumer Spending Habits
James Dicks examines the changing spending habits of the American consumer.

Communicate with the people you owe; it’s a win-win for everyone
James Dicks explains the benefits of being honest with your creditors, even when the answer is not what they want to hear.

Compartmentalize-How do you do it?
James Dicks explains how he handles all of his problems through compartmentalizing

Create a Personal Financial Survival Plan
James Dicks examines the need to prepare for financial hardships ahead of time.

Diversification is the Key
James Dicks explains the benefits of diversifying your personal financial investment portfolio.

Doing it Debt Free
James Dicks explains the importance of the US population paying off their personal debt as soon as possible.

Engaging your Employees
the importance of an involved employee base

Exceeding the Standards
James Dicks examines what it takes for business and individuals to make it in today's tough eocnomy

Facing Foreclosure? Listen Up!
James Dicks offers an eye opening account behind the reality of today's housing market as it pertains to foreclosures and banking.

Finances and the Year Ahead
James Dicks examines the methods of improving your personal financial situaiton in 2010.

Finding a Fresh Path for the New Year
James Dicks reexamines what is important in light of the holidays and this past year's recession.

Guarding Your Thoughts
James Dicks examines the importance of maintaining a positive attitude in today's tough economic times.

History Repeats Itself - Again and Again and Again
James Dicks examines recessions and depressions throughout American history. These are trending issues and will continue to happen over and over again. The point - things have a tendancy to worsen but they always seem to recover.

Holiday Shoppers and the Economy
James Dicks examines the outlook for retailers during the 2009 holiday shopping season.

I Made More Money with Bad Credit Paying 18 Percent and 5 Points
James Dicks shares his strategies and methods of making money in Real Estate.

I Need a Job - Not Stimulus
James Dicks presents his own method of solving the nation's economic problems

Is 5 Years Long Enough To Get Rich Quick?
James Dicks discusses of getting "rich" in the short term and the methods that have worked in his own life

Know Where You Stand
James Dicks discusses the process of recovery once a person loses a job

Leadership Traits of the USMC
James Dicks examines the importance of leadership development in today's business environment.

Let's Give It All We Got
James discusses volunteer service in the US

Looking For The Bottom
James Dicks examines the current global economic situaiton and speculates on when a bottom might be reached and improvement may begin.

Making Your Business Fiscally Fit in Tough Times
James Dicks examines the challenges businesses face in today's global recession

Markets go upmarkets go down How is it affecting you
James Dicks shares the importance of investment diversification in your personal portfolio

Next Year I Will Save
James Dicks looks at how the American family is changing their habits to save money in their personal budgets.

Pioneering the Current Economic Situation
James Dicks examins the need for business to be innovastive in order to exit the current recession successfully and profitably.

Remembering the Best in the Worst of Times
James Dicks examines the lives of American show business icons, Michael Jackson, Farrah Fawcett and Ed McMahon

Should you really care about market movement?
James Dicks looks at the movement of the stock market

Sign of the Times
James Dicks compares the Great Depression of the 1930s with the current state of the global eocnomic situation

Success and Failure Are Learning Experiences
James Dicks examines how failure, if treated correctly, can help lead to future success.

The Best Time to Start a Business
James Dicks examines the benefits of starting a business, even in periods of eocnomic downturn

The End is Near?
James Dicks discusses the importance of sifting through the news of the day to find what is important to your personal economic situaiton.

The FOREX and the Recession
James Dicks examines the benefits of investing in the FOREX market, even during times of economic weakness.

The Importance of Goal Setting in Trading
James Dicks examines the need to set solid goals before you invest your money in trading opportunities

The Need for Hopefulness
James Dicks examines the benefits that a positive attitude creates when creating personal goals and getting through tough times.

The next Real Estate Get Rich Quick Plan - Rentals
James Dicks discusses the next Real Estate trend - rental property

The Power of Entrepreneurship
James Dicks examines the joys and difficulties of becoming an entrepreneur.

The Value of Mentorship
James Dicks explores the value of mentorship.

Time for a “REAL" Change
James Dicks discusses the need to structure your personal financial life around cash and to begin saving money - even if it is just the change in your pocket at the end of the day.

Time Management Increases the Team Effort
James Dicks examines the importance of managing your time effectively for your sake and the sake of others

We All Need a Mentor
James Dicks examines the need and the importance of finding the right people to use as mentors in your personal and professional life

Your Most Valuable Business Asset
James Dicks explains the need to realize that a well-trained and loyal staff is a businesses largest and most important asset.

Driving on Empty
It seems like with the economy in the tank, we’re keeping what used to be our 'status symbol' cars, much longer. One is for economic reasons and secondly, our values of what’s important as been edited. We no longer want to drive on empty, we want a full tank of satisfaction; read on the see what key executives want for a full tank.

Passion, Plan and Profit by Christy Strauch
Having your own business is said to be a part of the "American Dream". Even in these tough economic times, many people are still working toward having their own business. Actually, I've read that a financial recession can be the perfect time to lose a fortune --- but also the perfect time to make a fortune. So, is this the time for you to get serious about starting your own business?

Heart of Marketing by Judith Sherven and Jim Sniechowski
Customer service and really good customer service seems to be a thing of the past in many businesses. When I was growing up - my grandfather reinforced the importance of stellar customer service to me and that lesson has served me very well of the last two decades. This book explains how to put "heart" back into our businesses and our marketing.

11 KEYS to WIN in Business, while everyone else is hiding!

Even with all the negative conversation about the economy and business, there always seems to be some crazy business out there that is so bold as to not listen to the maddening crowd. They're quietly thriving in their businesses winning new customers, adding new sales and stealing marketshare at every opportunity. They're not recreating the wheel, they know what works because they've found out what others are doing and they're doing it too. The foundational elements of success in any market or economy. There are many, but in this article we discuss just a few of the more important ones!

Survive or Thrive: It’s Your Choice

The U.S. economy is experiencing a rough patch right now, and organizations in all sectors are faced with the challenges. While the media focus on stories about how people & organizations are suffering financially & otherwise, everything is not doom and gloom. There are businesses that are doing just fine, and opportunities abound for those who seek them. Whichever scenario fits your situation, my contention is that you have the ability to optimize your quality of life, and that of your organization, by choosing how you view your circumstances. Though there are things we are unable to control, we can control how we perceive our respective situations. How we view ourselves and the world around us leads us to take actions that shape the quality of our lives. That perception is a choice each of us is free to make at any time.

NOW IS THE TIME TAKE YOUR TEAM TO THE NEXT LEVEL
For those businesses clearly intending to survive the weak economy now is the time to prepare for the better times ahead. This article discusses how to build and improve your work teams so the company is ready for business expansion when the economy inevitably makes the turn upward.

Franchising In India : Franchise Your Business Glocally

Franchising Glocally: is the essence of integrating what would work in a diverse subcontinent like India.As a developing economy we are facing unprecedented growth and exposure to technology and modern facilities like never before.Hence its important we understand this inclusively and adopt and execute franchise strategies to grow our existing businesses, either the ones that have been handed over to us through generations, or the ones that we ourselves have founded and are presently running or is there a new product or idea which the new indian consumer can accept.Lets understand all of this is detailed and derive a conclusive franchise strategy, create franchise modules, franchise agreements and manuals that would help you get franchise success and then lets go about getting the right franchisees that match your goals.

How to Rent a Mobile Home Park in a Tough Economy
You can't be a mobile home park owner and not realize that the good old days are over in filling up vacant mobile home park lots. Those of us who owned parks in the late 1990s became spoiled with how easy it was to fill up a mobile home park. Back then, all you had to do was to meet with a few dealers, drop off some flyers, and you would start bringing in a home a week.

Get Real. Get Rich.
Lottery sales are booming. (And so are alcoholic beverage sales, but that’s a whole separate issue.) And why wouldn’t they be. The economy has tanked and the ship is still sinking. Unemployment is through the roof and is still rising. People are starting to panic.

8 STEPS TO GET LEANER IN A TOUGH ECONOMY!
Most savings/expense is created in the design of the product/process. How many times have you told an engineer we are not designing a space shuttle? How many times do you come under budget?

Business Turnaround - Do it with Lean
Is anything working? Are you in trouble yet? Is it you, or is it the economy? In a past blog post, I went over this issue and the fact of the matter is, IT'S YOU! Why? You are the one that has to survive, it is YOUR RESPONSIBILITY. Without change, things will stay the same, so how do you go about initiating change?

The Smart Alternative to Layoffs
The slowing economy has sent many of my clients back to the drawing board to take a sharp pencil to next year's budget. Small businesses run lean and mean most of the time, so there aren't many significant line items available for reduction… until you get to payroll.

Handling Your Most Important Asset
When the economy is slow, it's natural to think of all line items that cost your company money as liabilities. Unfortunately, that negates the value of one very large item in your budget which just may be your biggest asset: your employees. The question, therefore, is how best to manage that precious asset during uncertain and stressful times.

Credit May Be King, but Cash Trumps Kings Every Time!
The news reports these days are bullish on very few segments of our economy and that includes gambling, which lives and breathes on cash. Less cash circulating throughout the economy means fewer folks losing hand after hand in Las Vegas. And that means Donald Trump is breaking bread with his bankers way more often than he would like.

Three Ways to Take Control and Grow Your Small Business in Any Economy
People not buying what you’re selling? If you’d rather take control and make things happen than fall victim to the slowed economy, there is quite a lot you can do-in any economy-to make your business more successful.

The Benefits of Working with a Virtual Assistant over a Temp
An article of 495 words detailing the benefits of using a virtual assistant over a temp

Are You An Entrepreneur Who Takes Action? Take The 4 Trait Test
Entrepreneurs are independent people who set themselves apart from others by being innovative action takers. Entrepreneurs know how to solve problems and see opportunities that others miss. In today's uncertain economy entrepreneurs are needed more than ever because they are the ones who are willing to do the tasks and follow through despite obstacles.

Recession Proof Your Lifestyle

Millions of people around the world have been deeply affected by the current state of economy; many who never thought they would become victim to a recession. Sadly, many of these people have had to make serious life changes like selling their homes, moving away from their families to find work and giving up vacations. Luckily, there is a way to maintain your current lifestyle and even improve it without the fear that it's going to be ripped up from beneath you.

Secure Your Financial Future

Currently in this economy many businesses are struggling to stay afloat and increase their profits. Online business owners, on the other hand, are at an advantage during these times. There is reasoning behind the way online business entrepreneurs are able to strengthen and secure their finances for the future. Any entrepreneur should consider an online business modification that will assure a positive and profitable future for the business.

The Entrepreneurial Life Style

It may seem impossible to consider changing career paths in the midst of this economic decline however entrepreneurship is one career option that has withstood the trials of time and recession. Through the decades, those individuals who have taken on the daring task of creating new business strategies and starting their own business endeavors are the ones who have benefited the most in the face of a waning economy. Economic crisis may prevent a salary increase or retirement security, however it does not prevent innovation.

How to Solve the 3 Major Problems with

The network marketing industry is expanding at a greater rate than ever before. Financial situations, the economy, and job loss are just a few of the contributing factors leading to this steady increase in entrepreneurs looking to become involved in the network marketing industry. The fact is 95% of those starting in the network marketing industry will fail if they do not find a solution to the three major problems being faced by beginner marketers. Let's go through the three major problems and how we offer the only solution possible.

Its A Shame That You’re Not Making Good Money --- When Regular People Are Doing It So Easily

You’re probably asking yourself, “What is it that separates those that are successful and those that are not?” You’re not alone. Many people are asking themselves this very question every day, especially now with the drastic changes in our economy. Seeking out a “Plan B” is now the main priority of many individuals that are now jobless, on the verge of losing their job, in foreclosure, and just afraid of how this economy will impact them in some way. But still, there are those that are flourishing in their financial status. What is it that they are doing?

Is it Safe to Start Up a Business in Today's Current Economy?
In July of 2009, the Federal Reserve Board released information that loans were declining. So how safe is it to start up a business in today's economy? That is dependent on many factors.

SHANGHAI - GATEWAY TO BUSINESS IN CHINA

With the sixth largest economy in the world, continued annual growth of nearly 10% and a 1.3 billion people strong population, Big Dragon China has developed a reputation as the “great new market”. A majority of multi-nationals are already in China while small to mid-size firms around the globe are rallying to get on board. Succeeding in China, however, is not without challenge and many companies fail. To be successful, a company must act intelligently. Intelligence means seeking expert advice, ensuring the opportunity is real and entering China through a developed regional market or “gateway” if you will. For most products and services, our gateway of choice is Shanghai.

The Future of Sales

For centuries, the sales model has been focused on placing a solution. Given the complexity of business these days, having the right solution to manage a ‘need’ is not enough to help buyers choose your solution. Buyers live in a very complex world now. With global stakeholders, economic downturns, enlarged decision teams, and an almost limitless number of options – all available at the drop of a hat – competition is far more complex than being addressed by us having a good solution and giving great service. And as a result, we’re having greater difficulty closing sales. We’d like to think it’s ‘the economy, stupid.’ But in reality, the problem is more complex.

How To Retain Top Talent During An Economic Recovery

To prepare for the economic recovery that is coming our way, employers should focus now on boosting employee engagement in order to keep key employees when the economy recovers, the job market is expanded and more attractive employment opportunities arise elsewhere. Many skilled employees may be frustrated by the actions of their employers during the recession and are just waiting for the opportunity to run for the doors.

Small Business Coach - Increase Your Business Productivity - Find More Time!

"Not enough time" is one of the biggest challenges for small business owners and people setting up home-based businesses in addition to their day job! As the economy tightens, that nasty feeling of 'frantic, panic, manic' has intensified for many people. The 'should, must and ought to do' lists are getting longer and the resources available seem to be shrinking fast. How we are used to working doesn't work for us anymore! (And maybe it never did...)

Jobless Recovery --- An Oxymoron

Jobless Recovery ----- Every time I hear this term I want to vomit. Wikopedia states ---- A jobless recovery or jobless growth is a phrase used by economists to describe the recovery from a recession which does not produce strong growth in employment. How can we possibly recover if we aren't creating jobs? The September unemployment rate is in. We lost another 263,000 jobs and unemployment in this country is now at 9.8%. Tell one of those hundreds of thousands of people that are out of work that the economy is in recovery and they are liable to smack you in the mouth.

Let’s Face It --- The Economy Sucks

Let’s face it --- “The Economy Sucks.” But, being in a recession is not something most of us havn’t ever experienced before. Simply put, there are good times when things are going well and it’s easy to make money, and there are bad times, when it’s much more difficult to make money. When this recession started, officially at the end of 2007, we enjoyed an extended period of exceptionally good business conditions. Revenue and profits exceeded most of our expectations. During these times leadership and success often came much easier than it should have. Too much good can often dull the edge necessary to excel in tougher times.

Recession --- Its Time You Ended

We should have recognized the signs. We should have seen the red flags. Thousands of employees were being laid off. Now, we are told things are starting to get better. We are in recovery, albeit a "Jobless Recovery". Give me a break. Every time I hear that term I want to puke. Until the unemployment rate decreases in the majority of our states - we will all feel the results of the recession. Tell those people in the unemployment line that the recession is over and risk getting punched in the face.

Five Reasons Why You Should Become A Millionaire And How To Get There
Becoming a millionaire is more than just making the money. It requires change and developing the mindset of a millionaire. You should become a millionaire to secure your financial independence, boost the economy, teach others how to become a millionaire and because of the person you will become in getting there.

Planning to Grow When Everyone Else is Trying to Survive

The economy is in a mess. The politicians and Wall Street gurus can't seem to figure out a solution. Everywhere you look the news is gone from bad to worse. The Stock market is down, unemployment is up, and consumer confidence is down, what's next? After all of the pundits, reporters, prognosticators, so called "financial advisers" and economic experts are done talking I am left with just one question: where do we go from here? If I listen to all of the above, I get the feeling that the best I can do is tie myself to the ship and hope to weather the storm. But what if I choose not to listen to all of the above? Is there another alternative? You bet there is. I am planning for growth and opportunity in the midst of this economic turmoil. Yes, I believe this is possible. In fact, not only possible, but likely if you take the right steps.

Use Your Legitimate Internet Based Home Business to Sell Exclusivity
With the tough times that the economy is facing right now, many businesses are closing down as they simply do not have the necessary capital to carry them through until things improve again. Even though internet based home businesses need far less money to run, it does not mean that they will survive when times are tough.

Business Acumen Boot Camp is not for Sissies

Spring is in the air, buds are starting to bloom, the economy is starting to turn, and the sap is rising in the veins of entrepreneur’s everywhere (forgive the poetic license – it has been a hard winter). But although our entrepreneur’s sap is rising (when we say sap, think: motivation, frustration, ambition), their business acumen skills may not be up to the job? Here is where Business Acumen Boot Camp training can payoff.

This Wonderful Recession
Now is the time to express our true spirit and not let the state of our economy get us down. We have the potential inside to rise above any obstacle in our way.

Australian businesses look for efficiency gains by investing in automation technologies
Australian manufacturers are still investing heavily in 2010 despite the end of the Federal Government’s special investment allowance in 2009, with the focus now on automation to make themselves more efficient and profitable.

Dont Underestimate the Power of Customer Service
Without spending a penny, here is some advice that is sure to boost your sales and bring in more customers.

Home Based Business: the secret economy 1

Being as the Home Based Business industry is a new industry. There has not really been much collected to chronicle the history of this viberant industry. So I want to make some information that was collected by the US Census in 1996 and 1997. Data collected from the tax returns of 125,00 people who where involved in a Home Based Business opportunity.A breakdown of basic information such as rate of success. The median level of profits achieved etc.

Home Based Business: the secret economy

It is through Home Based Business:the secret economy where the emerging crop of entrepreneurs is going to come from.Here is some data collected by IDC a top national research firm. Using some 2002 information to give a report on the state of health of Home Based Business: the secret economy at that time it was estimated that 34.3 to 36.6 million people where involved in home based business households.

What Will Your Sales Organization Look Like in 24 Months?

Let's face it, with the speed of change revved up as high as it is, developing and executing a five-year plan is nearly impossible to do. While it may be true that changes in technology, the economy, the political administration, and the markets are considerably volatile today (and certainly more difficult to plan for and navigate) I believe that when designing and developing a plan for your sales organization, you clearly need to decide what it is that you want to be “when you grow up.”

Growing Your Business in a Difficult Economy

Admiral James Stockdale was the highest ranking American POW during the Vietnam War. He was held for more than 8 years and after his release wrote a book Love and War that described how he was able to not just survive the ordeal but actually thrive when many others didn’t. The story of his absolute confidence that he would survive coupled with his ability to confront the brutal facts of his current reality came to be known as the “Stockdale Paradox”. Many years later Jim Collins wrote his business masterpiece Good to Great and demonstrated how many companies used the “Stockdale Paradox” to survive and thrive in tough times while many of their competitors fell by the wayside or disappeared completely.

More Small Businesses Are Facing the Challenges of Delinquent Payroll Tax Problems
Small businesses and firms make up the backbone of our economy; yet so many of these businesses suffer from the IRS due to delinquent payroll tax problems. Find out how you can solve your IRS payroll tax problems before the IRS puts a payroll tax levy (or worse) on your small business. Follow these tips in this article to protect the future of your business and employees from the IRS.

Why is Getting a Good Night's Sleep so Important to Your Workday?

I used to have so much trouble sleeping. In 2008, when the economy starting going bad, it caused a lot of people to have sleepless nights. For our good health, we all need a certain amount of deep sleep every night to revive our bodies and minds. If you go long periods without sound sleep, it can seriously affect your health. I suffered the loss of my job. In the process of looking for work at home, I received a tremendous invitation and explanation of an Internet marketing business that also told those 50-60 K income stories but got past those "eye-catchers" and explained their business to me. No more sleepless nights for me except that I enjoy working at this business so much that I am not keeping regular 9-5 hours. I can work whenever and wherever I please.

Is there Venture Capital and Angel Investment Capital in a Down Market?
The down turn in the economy is affecting every one in different ways. Is it harder for Entrepreneurs to raise capital, because the investors are conservative in their investments-- But not impossible. Many companies are raising capital and taking advantage in the reduced cost of most everything as they build their business.

Position Yourself for Success: 4 Tips to Recession-Proof Your Career
Are you looking for a way to recession-proof your career? There are steps everyone can take to survive – and even thrive – regardless of the current state of the economy. Find out what changes you can make to have a positive impact on your career.

You Got ‘em, Now Keep ‘em
How do you keep your star employees, especially in a monetarily flat economy? Does it require more than just "a raise"? Money is not always the key.

The Forbes Factor

This past week, I had several speaking engagements and a broadcast event on the East Coast. My travels ended up in New York City, and as I always do when I have extra time in The Big Apple, I called to see if my friend and colleague Steve Forbes had a few minutes to spare. Mr. Forbes' staff graciously adjusted his schedule so we could spend some time together. After discussions of our individual books and businesses, the talk, as it often does, turned to the economy. Steve Forbes is a great person to talk to if you want to rise above the minute-by-minute gloom and doom predictions from the media and get an overall perspective on the economy and the opportunities that lie before us.

Window of Opportunity

In a practical sense, what this means is that you view tough economic times as providing you a unique window of opportunity to cut the non-profitable elements of your sales and marketing system away, to pare down to a dedicated and competent core, to sharpen the focus of every element of your system, and then to expand your market share so that you can weather the hard times and be stronger when the economy inevitably turns.

Mortgage Rates And Subprime Crisis – An Overview

The global subprime crisis had such far-reaching implications that it is impossible to spell out in a few sentences the large-scale affect it caused on the economy of the world. As expected, Canada too did not escape the worldwide wrath. The fallout has been extensive. Today, money borrowers are bombarded with terms such as prime mortgage rate and subprime mortgage rate. What do these expressions mean? A rudimentary understanding of different types of credit is as much essential as getting to know of terms such as Canada prime mortgage rate. First here is some nitty gritty of what prime interest rate is.

Ontario Milton – Travel And Living

Ontario Milton is a family friendly destination, welcoming visitors as well as prospective residents. This city is located 37 miles from Toronto. It lies close to the U.S.-Canada border, which makes this city a great tourist attraction for the visitors from both sides of the border. This close-knit community offers a great environment to bring up kids because of its low crime rate, good schools, and many youth-oriented programs. Milton offers superb business and educational facilities as well. Transportation on the 430 kilometers of road networks is easy and facilitates speedy travel. The administration is careful about protection of the environment. Part of their efforts includes maintaining reservoirs and protection of the city's plentiful green spaces, which are the lungs of the city.

The Business Blitz: Your Winning Strategy for a Sluggish Economy
What business lessons have you learned from football season? Haven't really thought about it, you say? Well, here are some pigskin principles especially for financial services professionals.

Be a Successful Internet marketer without Losing Your Shirt
There is much misconception when it comes to what people believe that it takes to be a successful Internet Marketer. Like any business it does take some money to start your own Internet Marketing business. With the way that the economy has gone, you have to be careful not to spend thousands of dollars on different things

How to Make Your Customers Feel Welcome

In this excellent article the author shows you and your employees how to create the kind of atmoshphere that makes your clients and customers prefer to do business with you over the rest of your competition. Too often small business owners blame the economy and the government for their slumping business. If they would only look a little further they would identify a major cause of their business decline-their own attitude towards their clients and customers.

Treat Little Customers Like Big Customers
Learn how to create lifetime customers by using some simple but critcal strategies.

The 4 Things Your Customers Want
Here are four things your customers really want. If you can provide them consistently you will make theme them life-time customers. So easy to do, yet so often not done.

Lesson #2: Build A Powerful Brand
In 2005, Branson said his goal was to turn Virgin into “the most respected brand in the world.” Branson is not far off from achieving his goal. Virgin was recently found to be one of the UK’s top three favourite and most respected brand names and both the brand and the man behind it are known throughout the world.

Tearing Down Walls: How Walton Rose To The Top

Sam Walton passed away in 1992 but his legacy lives on. It is estimated that if the Wal-Mart chain was its own economy, it would rank 30th in the world, behind Saudi Arabia. The company’s revenues continue to grow at roughly 10% a year, likely surpassing half a trillion dollars in sales within the next decade. The international division of Wal-Mart is also its fastest-growing division, which indicates that the company is continuing to increase its presence around the world. If Sam Walton were alive today, he would be the richest person in the world, with twice the fortune of Bill Gates. How did a farm boy from Oklahoma accomplish all of this?

Lesson #5: There is No Greater Good Than Your Gut
Huizenga was able to achieve the success that he did because he loved what he was doing. He loved being able to take an idea and try to sell others on it to make it happen. But what was behind Huizenga’s confidence in those ideas? What made him believe so strongly that they would work when others might have already tried the same thing and failed? The answer is quite simply, gut instinct.

Seven Steps for Creating Successful Marketing

1. Find the inherent drama within your offering. After all, you plan to make money by selling a product or a service or both. The reasons people will want to buy from you should give you a clue as to the inherent drama in your product or service. Something about your offering must be inherently interesting or you wouldn't be putting it up for sale. In Mother Nature breakfast cereal, it is the high concentration of vitamins and minerals.

Your Future

Many years ago as a young, aspiring speaker, I heard an older speaker who was quite philosophical say that you are where you are because that's exactly where you want to be. I thought about his statement, decided it was the "wisdom of the ages" and verbalized it in my own presentations. Over a period of time, a series of events took place that convinced me that his statement was not true in my case. I was broke, in debt and down in the dumps. I wanted to be prosperous and excited about my future. It came through loud and clear that I was where I was and what I was because of the decisions and choices I had made in my life.

The Hidden World of Bartering
I remember vividly my first experience scuba diving. As soon as I went beneath the surface of the sea, I realized that an entire world existed every day within my own world-and I wasn't at all aware of it. Whether or not I knew of it, that world was still alive and happening.

China's Boomtowns
The current National Geographic has a fascinating feature on capitalism in China's boomtowns, cities like Lishui that are growing so fast that city planners have razed 108 hilltops to accomodate the runaway growth.

Subprime is Survivable, But ...
While I'm carrying all the negative news, I might as well point to this fairly dire piece in the FT today. The subject is the state of the U.S. economy, and the author makes some compelling arguments that subprime is survivable, but it's what comes after that spells trouble for the U.S. economy:

Higher Gas Prices = Lower Worker Productivity
As gas prices climb higher and higher, the costs hurt people in more places than just their wallets.

Is Your Job Recession-Proof?
Even with the bad economy and weak job growth, there are still several fields that will survive - and possibly even thrive - during hard times.

If You're Fired...
Have you ever been fired? No one likes to think about it but, unfortunately, with today’s economy and faltering job market, it certainly can be a strong possibility for anyone in any field.

More People Moonlighting
Whether or not you believe we’re in a recession, a lot of people are taking a hit to their wallets and bank accounts and have to deal with it in some relatively old-fashioned ways.

Random Ghana Company Factoids du Jour
I’ve been following for a few years the surprising resurgence – and I use that word advisedly -- in the Ghana economy. After being in effective collapse for some time, inflation has been declining, banks becoming more healthy, and GDP growing nicely in this resource-rich, entrepreneurial and (relatively) stable African country.

The Bank Blame Game Again
We're back doing the bank blame game, and I really wish it would stop. Can't we go back to beating up on credit rating agencies? That was more pleasurable, and much cheaper. We didn't have to spend billions to feel bad -- we could just cold-cock them on principle.

Moment of Good Financial News Zen: Shark Attacks Down
Here is your moment of good financial news zen, or maybe we should call it optimism porn:

How far away is your emergency?
It's amazing that people have so much time to fret about today's emergency but almost no time at all to avoid tomorrow's.

If You Were Laid Off
Of course no one likes to think about it, but if you were laid-off from your job tomorrow how would you fare financially? With today’s volatile economy and job market, unfortunately it’s something you have to consider.

6 Ways To Recession-Proof Your Business
All businesses are having to adjust quickly to some stark new realities. In this current environment of seesawing markets - surging and then sagging commodities, volatile currencies - huge gains... then huge drops in stock prices - it's getting harder than ever to predict what's going to happen.

A Million Dollar Investment
The following question was submitted to "Ask Donald Trump" by a Trump University member. Question: On what would you spend a million dollars with today’s economy?

How To Widen The Gap Between Your Compensation Versus Your Value

Are entrepreneurs the only ones that own their own business? Everyone is really in business for him / herself, like an independent contractor. How you perceive the connection between the employee mind-set and that of an independent contractor is imperative. The independent contractor like the successful entreprneur, has a responsibility to maximize and deliver value. What can you do to deliver your assigned responsibilities with a new approach and be proactive with your talents in a way that creates maximum value? This article offer 2 key areas of focus for employees to increase your value, widening the gap between your worth and your compensation. Those are the folks who never get laid off, no matter what the economy is doing.

How does the 2009 Recovery Act Affect My Small Business?

We all know that the economy has been suffering over the past couple of years. We also know that the government has thrown billions of dollars at the problem. I remember hearing that small businesses were supposed to be a key part of the nation’s economic recovery, but I have not seen any of that money. So I did a little research to see what the Recovery Act could do for my small business. The main, small business provisions of the bill include tax benefits, easier access to capital, and a temporary stop on loan fees for SBA 7(a) and 504 loans.

The Mortgage Problem. Where Did It Go?
James Dicks examines the lack of recent news on the mortgage crisis in the U.S.

Building Your Business with Confidence
Have you noticed there are peaks and valleys in your business? At times you are at capacity and so excited about people coming to you, wanting to work with you. It just seems so easy. Then you notice a shift occurring. All of a sudden what looked like a growing business begins to backslide. Now you are scrambling to pay the bills.

The Magic of Entrepreneurship
James Dicks examines the benefits of creating your own small business.

Start the Day Fresh
James Dicks examines the power of positive thinking

What Makes an Entrepreneur?
Entrepreneurs - the fastest growing area of our economy. What makes these strange people, risk takers and wealth generators tick? Why do entrepreneurs take risks, endure pain, fatigue, and embarrassment? What makes them run? Is it money, fame, rock and roll or sex?

Why Should I Care About the SBA? - Mash Bonigala

Most business owners know that SBA stands for Small Business Administration, but I wonder how many of us know more than that. The SBA mission statement is to “to maintain and strengthen the nation's economy by enabling the establishment and viability of small businesses and by assisting in the economic recovery of communities after disasters." Well, that sounds all fine and good but how do they accomplish that goal and how can they help me overcome my business challenges? The SBA is organized into many different offices and each of those offices has the directive to complete the mission of the SBA as a whole. Here is a list of the different SBA offices:

A Tale of Two Guys
The economy is looking better and better every day. Which means it's the right time to revisit your portfolio and restructure it to outperform inflation and provide a stream of income. When was the last time you looked at your portfolio?

What We Want to Know is: "How is the Job Market?'
Here's the question: Are things really getting better with the economy or have we just settled into a malaise instead?

Are you Re-trenching or Re-imagining

Rumor has it that the economy is slowly slowly slowly recovering in a few disparate markets. Employment specifically NOT being one of them in any noticeable way. The good news is that no matter the situation we find ourselves, we are getting smarter about how we utilize our resources, especially relationships, education, time, and money. Call it re-imagining. Like many of us, you are likely alternating between the genuine good feeling of wising up about your resources and being paralyzed with fear and indecisiveness, unable to decide what to do, thus doing nothing. This might be defined as re-trenching. Hmm, feel that tightening in your chest? Don't forget to breath.

Decisions, Decisions, Decisions
James Dicks examines the need to make some critical decisions that will affect your future financial life.

What are the Financial Benefits of Starting an Online Business?
In today's tough economy people are looking for more financial benefits by starting an online business. Many people start looking for two reasons; they lost their job and are looking for a way to make a living or they are working on a Plan B.

The Positive Leader, Put Your Mind To It
James Dicks examines the importance of positive leadership

Gain an Edge while Starting a Home Based Business
Being in your niche right from the beginning or the ability to identify a change in the economy can be advantageous for starting a home based business.

Strategic Foreclosure
James Dicks examines the current state of the U.S. housing market.

Is Customer Service A Thing Of The Past?
The economy is bad and companies are losing money left and right. Wouldn’t you think one of their top priorities would be amazing customer service? Customer service is a means for a company to stand out and encourage people to buy from them instead of their competitors.

How to Survive in Volatile Times
Learn the art of companies that can survive in any economy and why they are built to last.

Training and Development in Economic Recessions
During economic downturns, companies typically choose to cut training budgets as they are often viewed as a luxury when times are prosperous. However, investments in training with a clear, concise plan as support during economic downturns actually work to maintain overall performance and lower costs, keeping the company competitive.

Business Opportunity, Advertising, the Economy and You!

Business Opportunity seems bigger and brighter when you advertise the benefits. We have been conditioned by years of radio and television advertisements to believe that "new and improved, bigger and better, faster and sleeker" products will improve our life in ways we never thought of. Market share is determined by how well the benefits are portrayed to the ultimate consumer. The same is true in any business opportunity. Companies spend millions of dollars on advertising every year to bring their products into your home. The better the advertisement, the more likely you will buy from them. Even a one time purchase by people who just want to give it a try can increase the company profits. The goal of course is to create loyal customers who will continue to purchase products from your business opportunity.

Recovery or Double Dip Recession

Recovery or double dip recession; That issue is sharply dividing many economists, because no one is sure what impact the current nonsense we keep hearing over the airwaves will have on the overall market and the broad economy. What impact will the November elections have on our economy? What about the Bush Tax cuts, Cap and Trade and the impact of "Health Care Change"? These four questions alone represent a lot of uncertainty. Terms like "Jobless Recovery" -- "The Summer of Recovery" and "Jobs Saved" almost make me want to puke.

Beat The Economy By Building Relationships
Want to survive and thrive during any economic conditions, then invest your time and your energy in building relationships. The highest rate of return on investment is the people you know and the reputation you have!

What Are You Waiting For?

It's hard to tell someone to go. I wish it did not matter, but it is. If you have a decent performance evaluation system, it can be less difficult. If you do not have one, you do some extra work for yourself and employees may justify their decision. But the work must be done. Our economy will continue to be weak for the near term. You want to strengthen your team and always as efficient as possible to be. The team should be on making the right decisions about the best that way.

Employee Engagement From The Start = Production
Don¡¦t Assume It¡¦s About Money; keeping employees engaged is important in this economy, but I believe employee engagement matters, regardless of the economy. Most companies are not changing the way they hire or engage current employees, although they should by implementing these 3 components to effective employee engagement.

Outdoor Billboard Business - How Anticipating and Spotting Trends Can Make You Money

One of the secrets to making money in the outdoor billboard business is the ability to anticipate trends. When I refer to trend spotting, I'm not talking about predicting the future of the economy or the next big thing for consumers. I'm actually referring to the ability to identify future development in your area and its potential impact on the placement of an existing or future outdoor billboard.

Economic growth has slowed since earlier in the year

Brian A. Bethune, IHS’ chief U.S. economist called the Fed's assessment “surprisingly frank description of current economic conditions.” “While this characterization of the economy is not a surprise, given the recent downward inflection of indicators on consumer and business spending…and the employment markets, the very frank description of the situation and the avoidance of the use of the typical Fed euphemisms suggests a great deal of concern about the direction of the economy”.

What Does It Take For Us To Become An Entrepreneur?
Now is the time for entrepreneurs to lead the way out of our stressful economy. Unemployment is on the rise and the state is under financial burden, so the call to all entrepreneurs is loud and clear. Are you an entrepreneur?

WHEN ECONOMY GETS TOUGH, PR GETS GOING
Getting a message out through PR is a lot more cost effective brand building than advertising, but sometimes it takes a recession to prove it. Today PR firms are out maneuvering, out-gunning ad agencies by doing more for less.

Four Keys to Building An Effective and Powerful Culture!
If you want to grow you business, make more money, sleep better at night, and enjoy the crazy economy, then you need to build a culture where people thrive, work hard, and are as passionate as you are about growing your company.

Profitable Non-Profits
Randy Seitz is taking the traditional approaches of 'non-profits' and turning them on their ear - challenging status quo in every aspect of his operations. I'm inspired by Randy's innovative thoughts on turning a non-profit into a self-sustaining entity. This is a fabulous example of defying Gravity for all of us.

Make Money With Outdoor Billboards By Spotting Trends
One of the ways to make money with outdoor billboards is the ability to spot trends. When I mention trend spotting, I'm not talking about anticipating the future of the economy or the next big consumer product. I'm actually referring to the ability to identify future development in your area and its potential impact on the placement of an existing or future outdoor billboard.

Message Always Trumps Resume
Memo to Entrepreneurs: Whether applying for a job, running for political office or closing a deal, message always trumps resume.

Gravity Freeze
The media is contributing heavily to the belief that there's little hope for any forward progress in terms of our economy. Thanks to the continued negative press and coverage - a lot of people are Frozen in Gravity, hopeless as to a recovery of any kind.

Build a Financial Plan “as you see it”
My goal is to help you achieve that kind of discipline, so that you can move from where you are to where you want to be. That means slightly different things for different people-there's no "one size fits all"-but that is the fun and beauty of financial independence.

Using your dreams and goals to create wealth Part 1
I thought, you can go where you want to go and do what you want to do, when you want to do it. What I had to discover-and in fact didn't discover for many years-was that having the money wasn't as important as knowing what to do with the money once I got it. In reality, as it turned out, money was only a tool.

First Step-Using your dreams and goals to create wealth Part 2

To take your first step and set your mind on the course to financial success, you must begin to dream. You must begin to envision the kind of life you desire. For some of you, this will be easy, because you have dreamed all your life. For others, it will be more difficult. Why? Some people simply don't know how to dream-they've never tapped into their imagination deeply enough to let their thoughts run free.

Own Your Success
When you don’t fill a program or get a new client signed on how do you deal with it? Are you blaming the economy or too much competition? Or do you look at what you could do differently to convey the value of working with you?

When should companies begin hiring again – what are the business triggers they should look out for?

There is no predefined time at which a business should begin hiring. Every business has its own requirements, which can be impacted by seasonal patterns, as well as the ups and downs of the economy. However certain triggers you may notice in day to day business dealings such as missed opportunities, a lack of resources, new ideas, and a increase in sales and market share could indicate that is now time to start hiring.

A millionaires dreams

Financial freedom is your dream. As long as you can dream, you can continue to succeed. Show me a person who has no dream, and I will show you someone who is poor. A millionaire dreams, and then sets out to make those dreams real. Once you stop dreaming, you stop the magic. That’s because you have created the world you wanted. You stop moving forward, because your dreams have ended. Either you are content to live with what you have or you are constantly frustrated because you don’t have enough-or you learn to dream again.

Principles of Wealth Creation

To accomplish your goal of becoming financially free, you will need to master specific principles of wealth creation. No, these aren’t some magical set of principles we found scratched in papyrus scrolls in the ruins of an ancient temple. They’re contemporary, commonsense principles. At the same time, though, they are magical, because they create the basis for a sound foundation of wealth creation.

Dreaming is fun, isn’t it? Part 3

Someone once said that what the mind can see, the body can achieve. I believe it. I go a step further. I believe that the mind must see it before the body is able to work for it. Look at another realm of human endeavor: sports. When Roger Bannister broke the four-minute mile, he saw it long before he did it. Over and over in his mind, he later recalled, he visualized doing what had been deemed to be impossible. Interestingly enough, once Bannister did what no one else had ever done before, others quickly succeeded in doing it.

Time For A New Pump
Our economy has moved on, offering new and exciting opportunities for success to those who are willing to ditch their gravity, think differently and move on to new ways of creating sustainable profits.

Focus Your Dreams to Make Them Come Alive
What will you be interested in after you buy all of those lavish things you always thought you wanted? What’s beyond the bigger car, the faster boat, and the fancier house? Whatever they are, those are the really important things.

Redistribution of Wealth: The Good and the Bad
Three words that carry a lot of weight. Redistribution of wealth. While it's an important component of our country's view on taxation, it should not be used like a political club to create social justice.

Work at Home: Successful Secrets of the Wealthy
A few years ago if you had said that the economy was in decline I would have panicked like everyone else but because I work at home I'm not crying in a corner wondering what I'm going to do.

Work at Home in a Recession and STILL Create Wealth?
Let's take our heads out of the sands and admit that times are tough. Though many people are feeling their wallets shrink, there are a number of people who are less affected by a weak economy. Among them are people who work at home.

How To Create Money
Start with excessive debt. Create fancy looking pieces of paper. Have a powerful partner. Make huge profits off the interest created from loaning the paper that has nothing of any tangible value behind it. Control the supply. Control the economy. Control the population!

Rebuilding Your Finances After an Economic Crisis
Did the recent economic crisis shake you out of your comfort zone and leave you nearly bankrupt? If so, you are one of the many individuals who experienced difficulty during the crisis. You should not feel ashamed of this though because there are also a number of other people who share this same sentiment with you.

HR Trends for 2010 and Beyond
Economists predict that recovery is unlikely until 2011. As the economy continues struggle, what should HR professionals expect to see through 2011?

THAT SLOW-ECONOMY-PROOF BUSINESS YOU’RE LOOKING FOR
While economy is in the doldrums,PR may be the perfect business to be in.

How to Develop Your Service Business

Most of us don’t go through a single week without buying some type of service product. The increased prevalence of service industries over the last two decades has made this the fastest expanding sector of the economy. The service sector, as defined here, includes the major industry groupings of trade, finance, insurance, communications, public utilities, transportation, and government, as well as business and personal services. And it accounts for almost three-fourths of the Nation's employment.

Don't Waste a Challenging Economy
A challenging economy is no time to stop marketing. History shows that those companies and professionals that stay in front of their clients are the ones that prosper when good times return

4 Must Know Strategies To Thrive In Any Economy

Why is it that some people are having record years, while others are just barely making it? Why are some consistently meeting sales objectives and surpassing goals; while others are seriously struggling just to make a sale? Since this economy started to change, I have been obsessed with answering this question. I observed as we moved out of an economic culture where everyone was succeeding, into one in which only a small select of individuals are really experiencing success. I had to know why, so I have done lots of research, spent lots of time observing and done countless interviews to answer this question. Following are the four key strategies, the four must know actions that I have seen successful professionals doing in this economy that are making thriving in this economy look fun, simple and far more effective.

Proper Preparation Prevents Poor Performance: Tips & Tools to Increase Productivity
Prior proper planning prevents poor performance. It may be a tongue twister, but it’s important to remember that our productivity is greatly increased when we make the time to prepare. Preparation is a discipline and successful professionals make the time. Here are five ways to do your homework and prepare.

Incorporating Social Media into Traditional Marketing

It has been suggested by social media enthusiasts that by using it, businesses no longer need what is known as traditional marketing tools, i.e. business cards, web sites, etc. I believe incorporating social media into traditional marketing will enhance the ‘brick and mortar’ of traditional marketing. People still need business cards for face-to-face meetings, web sites provide essential company information and services provided. People want/expect more than a sales pitch in a tweet to encourage them to use your services.

Rehiring After Layoff
Employers who have laid off employees during the past couple of years may now find themselves in a situation where they want to rehire some of those employees as the economy turns around. Before rehiring, employers will need to review a number of benefits issues to ensure compliance with separation agreements, employee handbooks and Internal Revenue Codes, just to name a few.

Successful Business during Great Depression
While many people loosing their jobs in the corporate world, there are other opportunities that are knocking on your door. Owning your own business is the best way of gaining financial freedom and experiencing your dream lifestyle.

Your Business Can Survive this Economy
10 Business Survival Tips

Evalulate your Sales Team
You should always be evaluating your sales team

Do you need an Attitude Transplant?
7 Steps towards and attitude transplant.

Marketing Strategies: 7 Tips to Thrive in Today's Economy
Do you let depression about the economy get in your way? Learn how be successful no matter what the circumstances! This article gives you some great tips on how to thrive.

MLM rags to riches in a downward economy
Sadly, so many people will continue to be blindsided by the economy while other more informed people will take part in the biggest wealth transfer seen since the depression. Will that be you?

Holiday Rush?
Even in a recovering economy, the Holiday season is the most stressful of the year. Having a good retail POS system in place can make or break your season, as well as determine how many gray hairs you get!

Hire People with Organizational Grit!
“Reasonable people adapt themselves to the world. Unreasonable people attempt to adapt the world to themselves. All progress, therefore, depends on unreasonable people” - so said the famous Irish playwright George Bernard Shaw. For organizations seeking progress and change there seem to be too many reasonable people about!

Take A Chance With A Home Based Business
The time to start your own business could not be better, with jobs hard to find. There has been a jump in the home based business corner because people simply can't find anything on the job market. People with little or no experience are getting results they never thought possible.

Top 7 Reasons Sales Managers Fail
Have you been scratching your head wondering why your sales team is not hitting revenue goals and aren't going to succumb to blaming the economy? Do you feel like you're doing everything you can and giving your all as a manager but are not getting consistent results? Read on to determine if you are a product of these 7 reasons sales managers fail.

Lessons to be Learned When Politicians Attack the Media
Politicians who gripe about the media should be taken with a grain of salt. Because they weren't complaining about agendas and getting the story wrong when the media wrote positive stories about them. This article provides some lessons, regardless of your political views, based on the recent skirmish between President Obama and Fox News.

What to look for when considering an internet franchise business, and other business model options.
Entrepreneurs considering buying a internet business should compare a franchise with a new business model that is extremely lucrative for a fraction of the investment cost.

Don't Wait To Be Bailed Out!

While the economy is in this downward financial spiral people need to get educated and focus on their future. We all need to decide what we are going to do next, and not wait on the next bailout from the government. Working for the man doesn't seem to be working since people are getting let go from there jobs, so start working for yourself and controling your financial future, and the benefits are fantastic.

Are You Ready for a TRIP?

Everyone says the economy will be turning around by the end of the 4th quarter 2010, with the employment outlook ticking upwards the first part of 2011. As a business owner, we can only imagine what the journey over the next couple of months will be. Because of the economic upheaval of the past few months, the face of business as we know it has changed. We need to understand and acknowledge the changes. We can do this by putting together our own TRIP ticket.

How the millionaires are getting richer in this economy.
Everyone has been hit hard by the economy. Some predicted this would happen, and they are in better positions than most people. Wouldn't you like to be one of those people who were in the know?

LEARN THE LAW OF ATTRACTION MARKETING AND MAKE MONEY ONLINE

I have a short but very powerful message for you today to show you how your success can start by turning your thoughts into a burning desire. Now I know most of us are struggling with the economy, trying to pay our bills and our debts off, being in a job we don’t like, with no security and no future and also trying to find enough quality time to spend with our families. I can help you solve these problems and I can also help you to put the fund back in your life. Because I’m having an absolute blast doing my marketing online and I’m making lots of money

Fire Your Boss Fast With a Online Home Business Opportunity

Do you go to work frustrated everyday? Do you barely have money to pay your bills? Are you tired of getting up so early that you can't have breakfast with your family? Well I'm here to tell you it doesn't have to be that way. And in this economy it's only going to get worse. With the current economic state of our country right now having a job is the worst possible thing! Many people are turning to online home business opportunities...

Pricing in a Down Economy
When the economy turns sour the natural tendency is to cut prices. If you do, you're sending a message to the market. The question is "Is this the message you want to send?

What Can Online Marketing Do For You?
Online Marketing is one of the most effective ways to market your business in today's economy while accessing the number one source of traffic in the world.

10 Ways to Keep and Attract Clients
New and not so new methods of retaining and/or gaining new clients for your business. These 10 ways will give you some ideas about how to enhance your marketing efforts and profit from the results. No matter how the economy looks like, you can always perfect your approach towards your existing client base and attracting new ones.

Is there really a Labour Squeeze in Alberta?
How to recruit the very best people for your staff

Is your Small Business at Risk?
Six key tips on how to weather the fluctuating Canadian dollar

The Great Recession?
Why now is the time to beef up your company

The Silver Lining of a “Recession"
Proof that businesses can live and thrive even in the worst of times

Why do you need Key Performance Indicators?
If you want the right results, make sure you’re using the right measuring sticks

Marketing Strategies: Are You Proactive Enough?
Are you reacting to your circumstances or creating them? Learn how to switch that focus! This article gives you some great tips on how to be proactive.

Real Work At Home Jobs You Can Do To Make Money From Home
Today if you want to work at home, there are all kinds of opportunities out there. Working at home comes along with many benefits, including flexible hours, more time with the family, and the ability to be your own boss.

Competitive Advantage - Not What You Sell - How You Sell It!
Looking for a new way to differentiate yourself from the competition? Can't quite figure out how to get ahead in this economy? Stop focusing on your products and services and start focusing on your customers. In this economy it is not what you sell, it is how you sell it that is your competitive advantage.

A good business opportunity for difficult economic times
When the economy is bad, what can you do? Fast food, Wally World or standing in line for the better paying jobs along with the 1000s of others? Or - maybe rethinking having your own business?

Retailers Get Smart, Get Close To Customers
Resourceful retailers are finding creative ways to reinvent themselves and transform their business into something that entices and keeps customers. The more creative a retailer is, the more that business is going to last. Even in an economic down-turn, 50% of consumers will often pay more for a better customer experience.

Staying Current and Adjusting in the Retail Business

In the not too long ago past there were three main sources of live news; TV, newspaper and the radio. This older format allowed people to either look at or not look at what was being presented by the media. Nowadays, there are countless sources of live news, thanks to the Internet. So, with so many sources of news, I select only the subject matter I am interested in and sources that I find to be accurate; hence "selectively". It is obvious that we are in an economic crisis, which is old news. But it wasn't old news back in September or October of 2008. I knew that the economy was being steered into a storm, like nothing I had ever seen before.

Cooperation vs. Competition in Today's Business
If you are in business today – do you still feel the need to compete? Or are you thinking cooperation? These are two very different business models, which lead to different marketing strategies and outcomes. Because they offer great business opportunities in difficult economic times; I invite you to think cooperation in the form of Joint Ventures.

Diminished Value and Gap Insurance “Know your Rights”
Did you know that if you are in an accident that you can get a second check from the insurance company for diminished value on your automobile? There are numerous financial strategies that can and will assist you and your family achieves financial success.

2009 Hottest Christmas Gift Idea
Give something of value this Christmas instead of the usual mundane Christmas gift. You can gift gas and grocery certificates for just pennies on the dollar, but have full value to the recipient.

Money and Marketing: 5 Simple Ways to Increase Your Cash Flow Right Now
It’s surprisingly simple to take control of your cash flow right now. The trick is to take an active role in how you create the income you want, as opposed to sitting back and passively waiting for your luck to change.

The Art of the Sales Process: The Compassionate Sales Conversation

In this economy the approach to selling needs to shift. People have been burned too many times, and some are feeling such a lack of resources, that the old "hard" selling methods are not seeing results like before. When business growth comes from connection with higher source and authentic purpose and contribution you can't go wrong. This is what I call, "The New Wealth." This may seem like a strange article on the surface, but I know once you dive in you'll have a whole new look on your approach to sales. I have found the only way to really unleash massive success is to turn to your natural path of least resistance which is often revealed through alchemy of nature - wealth alchemy as I love to call it.

How Are You Dealing With the Recession in Your Business?
As a business owner, we have an entirely different set of worries when something like the recession hits. Not only do we still have to maintain momentum and attempt to still drum up sales, we also have to worry about our families and ensure that no matter what happens, we'll still be able to provide for them.

SIX STEPS TO WINNING IN 2010
“Wait and See” is not a plan. Successful people know that the real treasures lie where few are willing to go. A well developed plan takes advantage of what you do know, minimizes the risk from what you don’t, and leads you successfully into the future. As the fourth quarter begins, savvy managers accelerate the planning process. Here are six steps you should follow for a profitable plan.

Home Based Business Opportunity- How to Guard against the Economic Downturn

The current economic recession which started in mid-2008 has made it difficult for many people to sustain their businesses. This is especially true of small businesses that have fewer resources when compared to larger organizations. If your home based business opportunity is one of those which is affected, this article should act as a good starting point for you to explore the options in order to guard it against a financial downfall.

FREE isnt what it used to be
Email, is indeed free but free isn't what it used to be! No Sir, in the past, getting something for free was exciting, like winning, even though you didn't have to compete for it. "You can have this for free", usually meant, I like you and want you to feel special.

Proven Marketing Strategies for 6-Figure Business Success: Designing Creative Payment Plan Options

Designing creative payment plan options can make the difference between a prospective client saying, “Yes!” or, “Let me think about it.” For example, many potential customers will say yes to a full pay option if it means they can save big or qualify for a special high-value incentive. The easier you make it for customers to say “Yes,” the more you’ll be able make a positive difference for them while making more money.

7 Best Practices for Developing E-Learning Content
Despite the current tough economy, forward looking organizations continue to invest in developing their human capital. In the past, employees were trained in the skills needed for a specific job, however in this rapidly changing business environment, cross-training can help employees to be more versatile.

Don’t Let a Grade Determine If You Can Be a Home Stager
Expert home stager, Staging Diva, discusses why home stagers who have failed to obtain the required grade from another training program should not be discouraged.

Green Rush
The the economy is dead - long live the eco-nomy.

Online Business? Why Do We Need One?

A few years ago, the economy was roaring. Stock prices were going up, interest rates were staying low, the online business industry was booming and unemployment was down. A year later and those indicators were all going in opposite direction. It is difficult to know if the turmoil is over but we have to have faith. We have to be optimistic that the current situation is a short-term one and we have to believe that long-term prospects of growth and good times are just around the corner. But that doesn't mean that there won't be downturns, along the way. We have to ask ourselves: 'are we ready to take advantage of the good as well as the bad times - are we ready to start an online business?'

Losing Clients: Two Types of Women Entrepreneurs, Two Types of Responses

As today’s economy continues to take its toll on small businesses everywhere, losing clients can be more damaging than ever. A new study reveals that different types of women entrepreneurs have different approaches to running a business and dealing with everyday business challenges. This article details how two different types of women entrepreneurs are likely to respond to the loss of a client – along with insights for building business resilience and moving ahead.

In Boston, A Smile Will Get You Some Really Cool Artwork: The Smile Project
What do you get when you mix silly, heartwarming characters on canvas with a request to smile? Bren Bataclan and the Smile Project.

Managing Up in a Down Economy
Secure your future by proving yourself indispensable on the job

Sales Prospecting on Steroids

With all of the articles written about sales and cold calls being dead (I usually write the counter arguments to that. How would you find new business if the only thing you could rely on was a lead?) it was a breath of fresh air when Michael Strickland, my guest on this week's edition of Meet the Sales Experts, spoke about prospecting on steroids. His five tips for sales success in today's economy are:

Workers still concerned about job security
Despite emerging signs that the economy is beginning to stabilize, a significant number of employees remain concerned about the security of their job.

Report: 40% of companies to hire contract or temp employees
There are signs that the current recession could end soon in the U.S., which means employers may be considering their hiring strategy for when the economy turns around.

A Pro Business Approach will Put People to Work
Business despise uncertainty, and have been faced with nothing but uncertainty for the last two years. Recent changes in Washington will be viewed by the business community favorably, and will help to get us rolling in the right direction.

Ten 2011 Workforce Predictions
We can all take a collective sigh of relief as 2010 comes to an end. We finally finish a difficult year and frankly a trying decade. As we enter the New Year, there is reason for optimism. The economy is rebounding and businesses and employees can expect good things to follow. My workforce predictions for 2011:

The Value of Small Businesses
This article discusses how small businesses are the backbone of our economy.

The Death of Certainty...I Think!
"I think" are the two weakest words in the American lexicon. As you create your expert positioning, these words damage your credibility; yet "I think" has become the favorite filler of pundits everywhere. Let's lose these words...

A Race Is On and You Are In It
The U.S. has fallen behind in preparing our young people to compete in the global economy. U.S. companies competing on a global basis sell more product internationally and hire more people in other countries that they do in America. It is not their fault. It is our fault and responsibility to do something about it.

Do You See Opportunity or Crisis?
What if adopting a positive viewpoint changes our crisis into opportunity?

Women and Minorities Fuel Economic Growth and Franchise Expansion

From the leadership positions they hold, to the purchasing power they wield, women and minorities play an important role in the overall U.S. economy. Women and minorities have a presence in every industry and their contributions fuel economic growth. Hispanics alone account for 15% of the U.S. population, and by 2050 that number is expected to nearly double to 29%. The sheer number of minorities in the U.S. and the tremendous influence they have on the economy has led everyone from marketers to political candidates to develop campaigns that reach them. Franchisors also recognize that the pool of franchisee candidates is largely comprised of women and minorities who will be integral to growth and expansion of their franchise networks.

Marketing strategies: How to Stay Positive No Matter What
Is your mindset getting in the way of your success? This article gives you some great tips on how to find and keep positive energy in your life.

Sales Management Training Tips: Sales are down. What can you do?

I faced a similar situation in Q1 2003. As VP of Sales of a Canadian pharmaceutical organization we faced the SARS crisis. Access to our customers became limited. Hospitals and physicians were also limiting sales rep visits. Marketing started calling the sales numbers down for the year, blaming the SARS crisis. As head of sales I had few options. What I did know was that I had to utilize my resources where they were going to generate the greatest revenue. What would you do?

Why Customer Service Destroys Salespeople
Customer service alone is not going to help a company achieve its growth targets. It is essential for salespeople to be focused on selling as their first priority...

Building Resilience
How to bounce back from the letdowns and life happens situations, 6 steps that work.

Three Strategies to Keep Your Clients Even in a Bad Economy

One of the CEO Rule for small business owners is: “The Transaction is the Result of the Relationship.” Every business owner wants to build great customer relationships but what happens when the customer calls with a money problem? If the relationship is first in your mind, your options are endless. Find a way to keep the customer today and you are well on your way to keeping that customer for life.

Attack!
Why Going on Defense Is NOT an Option.

10 Signs You are the Bottleneck to Your Growth
Are you the bottleneck to your growth? From control issues to lack of decision making systems, entrepreneurs unwittingly get in their own way and it stifles their revenue growth, their sanity and their ability to get massive results.

Harnessing Human Resources for Sustainable Competitive Advantage
Paying careful attention to the one thing companies can control - the quality of their people, especially in the leadership pool leads to generating excellent results year after year.

The Enemy in Sales
Most salespeople do not properly identify the real enemy they face each day. They mistakenly believe that they are fighting their competition, themselves, their prospects, the economy, their pricing, and a myriad of other issues. In reality, there is only a single enemy, which often masquerades as one of those other issues I just named. The enemy is....

Chinese Salespeople May be the Next Group to Outsell Your Salespeople
What are you going to do when, not only are you out priced, out sourced, out willed, out shipped, and out produced, but also out sold - by the Chinese? That is the question posed by my Kurlan & Associates colleague, Frank Belzer, who is blogging from Shanghai, where he is spending the week training Asian companies in the art of sales management.

Connecting Communities
Organizations encourage consumers to buy local whenever possible to keep money circulating and bring jobs to the local economy.

The Mechanics of Money
Money. It’s something all of us want, but so few of us have. Even when the economy is good the money struggle is our ever-constant companion. But when you learn the rules of the money game that no one ever taught us, winning becomes easy.

The Instruction Manual for the Entrepreneur’s Mind
What are the secrets of the world's most successful entrepreneurs? Open the instruction manual for the entrepreneur's mind to find out what are the mental strategies enable to do what others only dream of.

C-Level Sales Management - Who’s Ready for More Sales
To get sales up, you’ve got to get help. Why, because you need it. If you didn’t and you knew what to do, you would have done it already, and more sales wouldn't be an issue. This article will tell you what to do.

Are You Choosing The Right Leaders?

I love a competitive economy. When the competition is stiff, and consumers are demanding, we have to perform at our best in order to be successful. What we offer is not nearly as important as how we offer it, and how we offer "it" is directly connected to the quality and attitudes of our people. I believe, choosing quality leaders right now is the most important strategic decision we can make. The leaders you have in your organization determine how your employees are treated, developed and encouraged and held accountable. The stronger your leaders, the stronger your bottom line.

The Benefit of Hope
Can you find a way to sell the benefit of hope? If so, the practice might very well provide you with a significant advantage when interacting with customers or colleagues, especially in today's tougher economy...

Happiness at work, depends on you by Talyn McArthur
Happiness: From Defining to Solving the Problem

Conversations with The Barefoot Millionaires presents #73: Employee = Sucker
The most terrifying and dangerous thing about being someone’s employee is that your future is entirely in their hands. Are you crazy?! I’m honestly asking! Why would you ever give someone that kind of power over you?

Own Your Own Franchise and never get Fired Again
If you have ever been fired or know that right now, people's jobs are unstable in an unstable economy, you want to do anything you can to make sure you won't get fired. Well, if you own your own franchise, you will never get fired again. Read my article about how it is beneficial to work for yourself and build your business around you.

Home Business Produces Wealth
Network marketing will explode in the coming decade. The best opportunities are not to go work for some big company but to go into business for yourself an an entrepreneur.

Maximizing Sales and Profits in Economic Recovery
As the recovery takes hold your organization will start to do better simply because customers will start buying again. While this provides a much needed break from the angst of recession, it will hardly provide the motivation to excel. Instead challenge your organization to achieve its true potential and watch sales and profits soar.

One Thing You Could Do Today to Instantly Increase Your Sales
If you listen to some business owners, even some sales trainers you would think one day sales will just happen. Individual sales do just happen, on occasion. Consistent sales never just happen.

Business Development or Business Survival
When the economy is strong businesses focus on business development. When the economy is weak those same businesses worry about survival. Why is that? In this article Iâ€™d like to share some ideas about what you can do to make sure your business is always growth focused rather than survival focused.

Got an opinion on Stocks? Then you have one on GBP/USD too!
I find that many people coming from the stock market into the FX market don't think they know much about forex. However, if you have an opinion about where stocks might go, then you have an opinion about where this currency pair may be going.

The I's Have It
Staying on the radar screens of clients and prospects is more important than ever for salespeople. With demand for products and services only now beginning to pick up as the worst recession in decades slowly dissipates, it has become absolutely necessary for anyone involved in sales to be persistent, proactive, and patient. How can this best be achieved without also looking desperate?

Sales Management Training and Focus
In a strong economy just showing up to play is enough to achieve your sales objectives. In today’s economic environment sales leaders are facing sales force downsizing and poor sales rep morale. Sales reps are frustrated by longer sales cycles, dropping demand, unrealistic quotas, concerns about declining income and losing their jobs.

Potentially the Safest Forex Play in the Entire FX World!
SNB Governing Board Member Thomas Jordan, was quoted as saying that the SNB will continue to intervene and halt any gains by the Swiss currency. And so far, they’ve been highly successful.

The Creative Executive
The ability to be creative is one of the most powerful tools a leader can have. How does one develop more creativity on a daily basis. Here are some tips.

How to secure a pay rise in a recession
Of all the job-related minefields you can enter into, asking for a pay rise must be one of the most dangerous. To ask during a recession surely it is out of the question? Surely it will give good reason for your boss to think you are totally out of touch with reality, or maybe you are just insensitive?

Warren Buffett and his Effect on the Stock Market!
When Warren Buffett speaks, people listen. However, when he is misinterpreted or taken out of context his words carry so much weight that they can have a large negative effect.

How to Earn Income from Home with a Recession-Proof Business Opportunity

You may have chosen the path of Work at Home Mom or Entrepreneur in order to earn income from home and live the lifestyle you have always dreamed of.But if you're like many of the people I talk to everyday, things might not have turned out like you expected. The one question I hear most often from people in your situation is: How can I earn income from home while sustaining long term health, wellness and financial freedom, regardless of what is happening with the economy? Here are five ways you can identify a business opportunity that will help you earn income from home no matter what the economy is doing.

Create Wealth From Home And Say So Long Boss!

You've decided to take you finances into your own hands and create wealth from home. Congratulations. Now you can forget working 9-5 until retirement. And with the economy like it is, many people will be having to work from 9-5 past retirement age or maybe even have to get a 2nd or 3rd job just to keep up with the bills. Because you have made this important decision to earnmoney with your own wealth generating system, now you can forget about being strapped to that job for the rest of your life. You can focus on your dreams. Set your sight on those dreams you've been dreaming. You can be your own boss and work for yourself. You can start to earn the money that your are truly worth. And you can start right now if you choose to. That is the wonderful power of using an internet marketing system to create wealth at home right away.

The Three Percent Solution - Part 2
In our last article, we looked at strategic actions around your efforts. Today we will look at intelligent and strategic ways to work your business to reduce competitor advantage. This article highlights three strategies that will increase your competitive advantage in your marketplace: developing strong core structure, targeting your advertising, and strategically networking.

Better Business Prospecting-Looking for Mr. Goodlead

Aren’t we all getting a little tired of hearing the dismal economic news? The endless stream of droning discussions about foreclosures, bailouts, bankruptcies, and, recession is enough to make even the most upbeat, positive salespeople want to bury their heads in the sand. Sure, it’s natural to feel overwhelmed and discouraged when times are tough, but this is NOT the time to slow down. Instead, it’s a clear signal for you to stay in the game and ramp up your efforts.

Being an Effective Salesperson Means That You PREPARE FOR OBJECTIONS
It’s not difficult to figure out the top five, most commonly used objections customers will give. Novice salespeople usually hear them in the first weeks on the job. To be successful, particularly in a challenging economy, you have to be able to anticipate resistance and have the tactics in place to overcome it.

Top 10 Tips For Sales Success
We’re all crossing our fingers these days and hoping for a better economic environment. It’s been more than a little scary for many of us. However, even during these tough times, effective salespeople are acquiring new customers and making sales. How? Here are the top ten tips for effective sales that will bring you success regardless of the state of the economy.

Managing Debt…Eliminating Debt…Two Problems, One Solution
You need to look at debt from a new perspective in order to manage it. Debt should not be looked upon as an income stream, but as a tool only. Keep in mind that this tool is very dangerous and can turn on you at any time. Here is my solution to recovering from a debt lifestyle.

Top 5 Strategies to Improve Your Sales Approach
So you want to win more sales? The local economy is down. Contacts and leads are drying up. More and more competitors are entering an already tight market. What can you do?

How Focus Helps Sales Management Effectiveness
In a strong economy just showing up to play is enough to achieve your sales objectives. In today’s economic environment sales leaders are facing sales force downsizing and poor sales rep morale. Sales reps are frustrated by longer sales cycles, dropping demand, unrealistic quotas, concerns about declining income and losing their jobs.

Make Sales the Culture of Your Company
Jim shared many entertaining, insightful personal stories of success and failure, including the lessons he took away and how he continues to apply them today. One of my favorite stories was about the day he decided to raise his prices and was convinced that his potential customer would never pay $350,000, for a project he would have sold at $199,000 just one week earlier.

Your Service Pricing: Get Ready For the Recovery
Wondering how to price services as the econmy recovers? Have you been pricing your services below value just to get and keep clients? 8 essential elements to raising your service prices as the economy recovers.

Sales – Are You Up for the Challenge?
Selling is not easy. The last thing sales professionals should do is to make it any harder. The question is "Are you up for the challenge."

Marketing in a recession can really help your small business
The most important thing a business can do in these challenging times is marketing. It is ironic than that this is often the first budget that companies cut when times get tough. Small businesses can really take advantage of this and learn to survive and thrive in these challenging times.

HALF-TIME STRATEGY SESSION for Business Success

It's July and we've already reached the half-way point of 2009. If you are serious about your business, you need to perform regular "check ups" on how it is (and you are) performing. Now is a great time to do it. Take another look at what you wanted to accomplish this year... assess your progress, and carve a more strategic path forward. This article is second-best to personally being coached by leading international business and marketing coach, Michelle Pippin. WARNING: This article isn't meant to be READ, but implemented!

4 Reasons Why the British Pound is set to Soar Again!
Even though the pound (GBP) has been stuck in a range bound pattern for a month and a half now, things are about to change.

Profitable Online Business Ideas and the Recession Part 3
Why do some people work harder for someone else then they ever will for themselves? Why do some people just see the negative in their lives and never give thought to how they truly would like their life to be? I believe these two thoughts right here hold the key to success and financial freedom!

Profitable Online Business Ideas and the Recession!
Many people today want to have their own business, but they are always waiting for the perfect time. The time has never been more perfect!

Increase Sales by Remembering Your Footprints in the Sands of Business
Many individuals know the poem “Footprints in the Sands.” In business and especially in sales, we leave our own footprints. With the economy expanding from local to global, our footprints in the sands of business can quickly disappear.

Smart Retailing: Get Close to Customers
Resourceful retailers are finding creative ways to reinvent themselves and transform their business into something that entices and keeps customers. The more creative a retailer is, the more that business is going to last.

Why a Profitable Online Business, and How do You Want to Live?
How do you want to live your life? Have you ever asked yourself that? Ask your self, what kind of lifestyle do you want, what kind of house, car, vacations. Then ask yourself, will my job provide those things? If not, then you truly need to change something!

What to do when the recession finally ends!
Since the whole world is talking about what to do to make it through the recession, truly forward thinkers will be preparing for the end by now. Now is the time to be positioning your business to take advantage of the economy's gradual return to prosperity

Succeeding in a Challenging Economy
How do you succeed in a challenging economy? It's all in your perspective...

Close More Sales: 3 Ways to Get In, Get Started and Make More Money Now--No Matter the Economy
Build lifetime customer relationships with clients who want to buy from you over and over again even in a lagging economy...

Sales are Probably Down if You Are Doing These Three Things...
"When your market isn't growing, it is not business as usual and holding your breath and hoping is not the right strategy." This according to Casey Coffman, my guest on...

Stock Market Outlook: Holding pattern until the Fall!
This stock market has really been historical over the last 12 months. 2009 in and of itself has been quite a ride, but where does this leave us? The market has been stabilizing and trading in a range for two months. There may be a big move to the upside this Fall out in front of the heavy inflation to follow.

Job Interview Tips: How to Ace the Job Interview and Get Hired - Even in a Recession
Get hired faster even in a recession! Once You Get the Job Interview, Here Are Your Next Steps...

Market tells Bernanke: Take a Hike!
Much has been made of the inflation vs. deflation debate as of late, but at the end of the day neither will be seem important if investors have no confidence in our economy. If you want the markets to be stronger, then you have to project strength and not weakness.

The Swiss Flex their Muscles by Intervening in their Currency Again!
Oh the Swiss Central Bank (Swiss National Bank - SNB) is at it again! They are intervening in the currency market by selling their currency (furiously, I might add)!

New Career Path? Look Over Your Shoulder
When embarking on a new career it is helpful to examine the path that brought you to this point.

How to Find More Sales Opportuntities without Cold Calling

The two biggest problems for most companies right now, in this economy, are delayed closings and not enough new opportunities. I've tackled delayed closings, so today, with a little help from my friends, I'll tackle not enough new opportunities. I mentioned in my last post that (most of) you need three times more opportunities than ever before to make up for the late stage opportunities that aren't closing right now.

Fed Decision: Deflation vs. Inflation
With the Fed in meetings the next two days, and fears of heavier inflation much greater than ever before, Bernanke and company find themselves in a very difficult spot and will have to tip toe around inflation fears and focus on their bigger fears of deflation.

Help Your Business Thrive In A Bad Economy
Don't be defeated by the current economic crisis. Help your business not only survive but thrive during tough economic times. Use some of these strategies to show customers that they receive far more in value than the price they pay for your goods or service.

Successful Appointment Setting in Today's Economy

Many marketers have gradually come to realize that the key to getting your prospective clients to listen to you and hear you out isn't just getting an appointment. If you are in a business that requires you to set appointments first you may hear questions/comments like this: 'Give me the Readers Digest version right now or I'm not making an appointment.' OR 'I need to hear a little more detail BEFORE I meet with you' OR 'If this is going to cost me anything, I'm not interested' OR Gone are the days when the prospective customer just waited for your call or visit so YOU could inform him or her how things worked. How can you get your foot in the door to gain trust and image credibility?

Surviving A Tough Economy Requires Focused Workers

The unemployment rate now exceeds 9% and workers are scared. If a member of their family has not lost their job, they know someone who has. If they're lucky to still have their job, they may have had their pay cut, hours reduced, or seen their retirement fund evaporate. It's ugly and though we may be seeing faint signs of recovery, job losses are expected to hit 10% before we escape this economic calamity. Surviving in a tough economy requires a two-prong approach-addressing the immediate crisis, while positioning your organization for the long-term. Too many managers sacrifice their future by simply focusing on today.

2009 Cold Calling Checklist

If we listen to the media, 2009 is shaping up to be a tough year. People are losing jobs and homes and businesses are struggling. A tough economy, however, does not mean that no one will ever buy anything or that no business at all will be done in 2009. What it does mean is that business owners and sales professionals will need to adjust tactics to survive: They will need to become more proactive and more efficient at finding new opportunities.

Rules of Sales Engagement for the Recession

We also discussed the economy - of course - and right now, there are some new rules of engagement. You simply have to work three times harder, three times smarter, find three times more opportunities and be three times more effective just to sell what you used to sell. That's it? No. In order to be three times more effective you must refine your strategies and expand upon your tactics. You must be more creative, quicker on your feet, more resourceful and more persuasive. You must ask better questions and more of them. You must be more powerful than ever before. Do that and you will survive. Do that consistently and you will thrive when the economy turns around and money loosens up. In the mean time, no short cuts!

How to Hold The Sales Team Accountable Under the New Rules of Sales Engagement
If you read yesterday's post, there was a comment from Teicko who asked how you can hold the sales team accountable under these new rules of sales engagement where you must work three times harder, three times longer, be three times more effective and have three times more opportunities in the pipeline to get the same results as you used to.

Pep Talk for Entrepreneurs and Innovation Leaders
Experiment, Learn, Grow, and Create We are living in the midst of a seismic shift that calls for us to redefine the way we live and work. This is the time to mitigate fear, face facts, nurture relationships, collaborate and find new opportunities for growth.

Get Out of the Way and 8 Tips for Sales Success
This was a very interesting, fast-moving show where Chris shared his 8 tips for sales success, talked about sales management's role in growing sales, the biggest obstacle he had to overcome in order to succeed, how to succeed in this economy, and much, much more. One of his 8 tips? Get out of the way!

Put on Your Helmet - 3 Tips for Selling in this Economy
What a great interview I had with Bill Murray, Founder and CEO of Winning Incorporated, Friday on my Meet the Sales Experts Radio Show! He was awesome. Here are some of the highlights from my conversation with Bill:

4 Strategies To Turn Your Brand Into Your Competitive Edge

In today's economy everything speaks. Everything you do, what way you look, the words you choose, your tone of voice; all of this tells the world who you are, what you are about and and what value you add. The image your portray on line, in person and on the phone can either give you a competitive advantage or hurt your chances for success. Follow these 4 must know strategies to ensure you turn your brand into your competitive advantage.

Connecting with a purpose Part II
This article shares an act of kindness from a group who seeks no praise. It is encouraging to know that deeds like this are performed every day. It would be nice to hear these as often as we hear what's shared from the evening news.

Everything You Need to Know About the $8000.00 Housing Credit!
That’s right, $8000.00 bucks for buying a home! Why? Because, the Government loves to give out grants and stimulus when the economy is doing poorly, and this will be a real shot in arm for a lot of people and the economy. A strong Real Estate market would help the economy a lot right now and the Government wants people to buy homes.

What's That Prospect Thinking?
Even the young gun sales star is in danger of becoming a dinosaur if they fail to reexamine their sales approach. The presentation that earned you a trip to Madrid two years ago may land you on Monster.com next year. Can you morph your presentation and sales strategy?

Why Consultative Selling is the only way to Sell
When there's less money around; buyers are even more careful with their money. They do not want to be Sold but prefer the option of buying. But how do you achieve this? By using the Consultative Selling Model.

Telecommuting Saves Big Companies Money
Telecommuting, or allowing others to work from remote locations, is a great way for your company to save money. It's a fact that telecommuting is a great way to have employees do work, especially considering the fact everyone is more comfortable at home. Needless to say, you won't need that large building with all of those offices since your employees don't need to travel.

5 Juicy Tips to Quickly Create Headlines that Draw Your Readers in & Move them Towards the Sale (hint: this means more money for you).
These are simply basic suggestions and serve as a guide for juicer headlines.

Interest Rate Hike Shocker!
The article discusses the current economic condition and how it came to be. It outlines what steps need to be taken to right the wrongs of previous administrations and their policies, and it discusses how a higher interest rate would benefit the U.S. by bringing capital flows back towards the Dollar.

A rise in Customer Service?
One great thing that I noticed in this Economy is the level of customer service has increased. My wife Mary actually noticed.

A Disease Called More

Years of success and prosperity in our economy have created a consumer-based society. We are no longer worried about our physical or financial survival; therefore, we have undertaken a new challenge. As a people, we have embraced the illusive challenge of accumulating more. Please understand that there is absolutely nothing wrong with enjoying material possessions. It is important, however, to draw a distinction between the possessions we have and those possessions that have us.

Defiticts and Debts, Oh My!
The CBO projects that our budget deficit will reach almost $1.5 trillion this year. How did we get here? A look at three groups that have controlled Congress.

It's Time for a Balanced Budget Amendment
Much like consumers over using credit cards, the federal government spends more than it takes in, creating yearly budget deficits. It's time for a balanced budget amendment.

Green Business Travel: Increase Sales and Save the Whales!
Sales Managers – Corporate Social Responsibility department ready to rat you out for your huge carbon footprint? Laying awake at night trying to figure out how you’ll make numbers with a reduced travel budget? Take heart! You can travel green and reduce travel costs, all while increasing sales (….and saving whales).

FRANCHISING IN INDIA: OUTLOOK FOR 2009
Downsized by the financial meltdown, Rohit Vaidya suddenly was forced to find a new job. Rohit, formerly vice president at a private equity firm for five years, lost his job in November 2008 after the financial slowdown led to liquidation of the company. Rohit whose family comprised of his spouse and three boys and his parents, needed a steady source of income to stay afloat.

Is Your B2B Site a Good Salesperson?
It's long been said that your Web site is like a virtual salesperson, telling potential clients about your company.

There's a new breed out there
Is it just me, or does there seem to be a new breed of people out there – I’m noticing them when I’m driving around. Several times over the last few months, I’ve had people crossing the road when my car is coming quickly towards them.

Your Prosperity Bill of Rights
Increase your prosperity by adopting these powerful money beliefs for BIG effortless success.

Article #4 Attention: Legitimate, Affordable, High-Income Home Based Business Seekers!

“Attention Home Based Business Seekers! Are you seeking a business that is legitimate, affordable with high income potential? Then this report could be the most important you ever read!” In 1989 the World Wide Web was born, and we entered the information age. Young entreprenuers were becoming millionaires but the baby boomers were getting laid off because they were technically ignorant. They didn’t know how to work the computers and companies didn’t want to shell out the money to train them. In todays economy it is getting worse. Baby Boomers are

Small Business Growth: Recession Rescue Strategies

This week alone, I have heard from two business owners going "under"... literally closing their doors and, of course, blaming the economy. I must say that both of these companies started out with overwhelming debt, and neither had shown a month of profit since opening their doors. They were both open BEFORE the "recession" hit. Both invested heavily in traditional marketing. Both inquired about hiring a business coach, but never felt it worth the investment. THIS is the Darwinian-like "thinning of the herd" that we will continue to observe in "tough times". But you don't have to be one of those eliminated... So, what can you do NOW to rescue your own business today?

Article #6 Exhausted After Work With No Time For Family or Yourself?
Is it the governments’ fault that you have to work so hard? Is it because the economy failed you, that you have no money for the basic necessities of life? Or is it the financial education we never got in school, that puts the country in so much debt and we the people have to pay?

What is your "Phrase that Pays?"
First, my definition of "Phase that Pays" is something someone says (or does) that makes me think of you and your business.

What Should You be Telling your Salespeople in this Economy?
From time to time I have written about what you must do with your salespeople in this economy. Would you like to hear what that actually sounds like?

Dell Resorts to Questionable Sales Tactics to Drive Revenue
Today, I received an email from Dell showcasing their latest ill conceived scheme to generate revenue. I really have to question their thinking because when you see it you'll start thinking about all of those Yellow Page advertisers that send confirmations for ads you didn't place...

The Dance of Mind: The Key to Superior Performance

If you've ever tried to kick a habit or change self-defeating behaviours, you know that there is nothing more challenging that changing human behaviour. But behaviours are the effect of some cause. If we change the cause, what is behind the scenes leading to certain behaviours, the behaviours change naturally. The key to superior performance is behind the scenes in the mind. Learn about how your mind works as a system and how you can change that system to achieve happiness and success.

Article #12 Afraid Of Spending Money On Schemes & Ideas That Don't Work?

Then it is time to educate yourself about your money. The economy is already plunging into more debt than we can handle as Americans. And there is more junk on the news and Internet with people pushing their product or service down our throats. It is very easy to get confused about the schemes on the Internet. So don’t spend your money on the lofty ideas of others that may or may not work. Do your due diligence and research those companies before you spend your money.

Bank Stress Tests?? What Stress?
So by now you’ve heard the unofficial results of the bank stress tests. Only ONE, that’s right, ONE bank out of the nineteen tested is in need of additional capital. SHOCKER!! I mean really, did anyone actually believe that the government would do more damage to the already-fragile banking system?

Sales Force Alignment with Market Strategies
Most companies differentiate between inside and outside sales; domestic and international sales; products and services; equipment and consumables, etc. But if you are into breaking down processes, approaches, market strategies and positioning, there is more to it than these obvious differentiators...

Real Estate Marketing Strategies: The Biggest Mistake Real Estate Agents Make And How You Can Avoid It
Are you letting outward circumstances control your business? Take control! Here are some tips to empower you and help you avoid the big mistake.

Practice Preparedness: Service Recovery
This article shares a tale on how one leader prepared for service recovery. Additionally, a group exercise is provided to challenge a department to discuss and provide service recovery for your customers.

Article #23 Looking For A Career Change?
Now you are probably saying, “What? Are you crazy? The economy is falling and you want me to change jobs?” No, I’m saying change your career, your lifestyle and never work for a boss again. You can actually train your mind to be a success! Did you know that the more you repeat something you tend to get it?

Five Easy Tips To Repel Money

Everybody talks about the Law of Attraction. Attract Money. Manifest wealth. Blah blah blah blah blah. You can chant and vibrate all you like, but good luck becoming a money magnet when money finds you repulsive. Got too much cash? Here are five easy things you can do TODAY to repel money faster than you can say Fannie Mae and AIG: 1) LET PEOPLE OWE YOU MONEY Remember that $5,000 you lent to your cousin/sister/nephew/friend? Forget about it. You don’t want to make waves, right? Wrong. One of the most foolish, money-repelling actions you can take is to loan money to people who have been irresponsible with their own. If they didn’t respect their own money, they aren’t going to respect yours… and when you allow people to disrespect your money, YOU’RE disrespecting your money. When money isn’t respected, it leaves.

The 5 Steps to Creating a Killer Strategic Marketing Plan for Your Business
In order for a business to succeed, there are a few key things that you're going to need. You're going to need a product or service that people are looking for. You're going to need to know whom you will be marketing your product or service to and you're going to need a great marketing plan in place.

iMac to be retired this year? I don’t think so
Ian Lamont, writing for The Industry Standard says he thinks that Apple will announce no later than Sept. 30, 2009, that the iMac is being discontinued. I think he’s waaay off base, but you have to admire his penchant for details.

Marketing Your Home Based Business To The World At Large

As the economy continues to stumble and unemployment continues to show higher numbers in the nation, it is important to understand that there are ways to create work for yourself. You can achieve this by starting your own home business. One of the most important considerations that must be made when starting your own home business is the marketing that will alert customers to what you have to offer.

Mine Proposals for Hidden Gems of Opportunity
With the economy causing prospects and clients alike to clamp their wallets shut, we’re looking everywhere to fill our pipelines. One place you may not have examined recently is in your past proposals, yet they could be the quickest place to find new opportunities.

Don't Let Social Media Give You a Bad Hangover, Says Leading Recruiter
Star headhunter and author of Work It! How to Get Ahead, Save Your Ass and Land a Job in Any Economy! Allison Hemming recently walked Relationship Masters Academy members through the steps to make their brand scream "hire me!" Chief among her advice was to pay attention to what you communicate through social media. Here's her top six rules to avoid a bad social media hangover.

Raising Service Prices in a Recession
You may think it impossible, but some businesses are raising their prices during this recession. How about you? Are there specific areas you can target? How about specific products? One thing for sure, if you give up without trying, your prices will not get raised this year.

Top 10 Reasons You Don't Have Any Clients (And How to Change That)
Having a hard time filling your practice? Or maybe it's more than hard; how about next to impossible!?!? Take a peek at my Top 10 Reasons Why You Don't Have Any Clients (And How to Change That) if you want some real help understanding what's holding you back, and what you can do to get your business moving forward.

More New Clients
Getting more new clients is an ongoing challenge. These marketing tips will help you get prospects interested what you offer and do.

Coping With Job Loss
We’ll all be retiring eventually, but what if you lose your job before then? What if your company is down-sizing because of the economy and your specific job causes you to be laid off? Here are some helpful tips to guide you through the frustration and helplessness you may be feeling.

The Benefits of Getting a Toll Free Number for Your Business
Much of the success of your business depends on your image and the professionalism you project. Toll free numbers attract customers to your business because they give it an air of professionalism. They also increase the customer’s confidence in the security of financial transactions with your company.

Home Stagers Help Sellers Preserve Their Homes’ Equity
The Staging Diva, discusses why, especially in a poor economy, home sellers turn to home stagers to help preserve their homes’ equity.

How to make your business thrive in a floundering economy

It's no secret that today's economy is struggling. People are losing money, and businesses are scrambling to keep costs low and sales high, while the consumer is spending less than normal. Your business could possibly have taken a hit as well these days, and you are scaling back operations in order to keep afloat. But if you implement "smart marketing", you CAN make your business thrive in a floundering economy. Here's how...

Rat-like Cunning - Intelligent Persistence, Singular Focus
Rat-like cunning? It was years before I truly understand how that could help my to succeed in business.

Startups: Top 10 Funding Sources
Even in today’s stressed economy, there are multiple ways to keep your startup alive and moving forward. I find that many startup founders fixate on one or two, often at the expense of their business. Following is a prioritized larger list of sources, with some “rules of thumb” which may save you a lot of time and energy:

Speaking Beyond Your Fears
People are putting things off because of the economy, because of lack of resources or not enough time. thing is, you can't buy back time. You can ask yourself (and answer) the question "When is the right time?" But while you do that, look at the ramifications of putting it off for the 'right' time as well.

Team Building - 5 Tips to Get Everyone On The Bus!

Face it the economy has changed and success now is a moving target. The only thing certain in this economy is uncertainty. Change has become a consistent part of running a business. Today's leaders need to be able to help their teams navigate change with as little stress, anxiety and disruption as possible. While everyone reacts to change differently, there are certain steps that leaders can take that will make accepting change easier for everyone.

Smart Women Are “Lucky”
This article is about taking ownership and responsibility for your future. We all have needs and wants that we desire, but are we truly taking the steps necessary to accomplish our Big Ideas, Dreams, and Goals or are we waiting for someone or something to make all our dreams come true?

The Sales Force with Over Achievers Who Don't
I think that many CEO's are in denial. Despite the struggles of their sales force, they continue to look at the pipeline and say to themselves, we'll be okay as soon as these deals close. But the deals aren't closing and with each passing day companies are less okay then they were the day before.

Smart Women Think and Speak in Abundance
This article is about being positive in life. We must look for the gratitude and abundance that we have rather than focusing on the negative part of life. If you have your health and great friends and family, then this is something to be thankful for even if these times are unstable.

What the heck is a recession?
In simple, easy to understand terms.

Why Only Some People Successful With Affiliate Marketing ?
The vast majority of the people who are making money on the Internet, to include the so called gurus, are just regular people. They are not some kind of super geniuses, and many of them have struggled and been frustrated at some point with their own Internet home business. These ordinary people have succeeded with no special training and if they can so can you.

How about a 32GB iPhone (with better camera) when iPhone OS 3.0 arrives?
The upcoming iPhone OS 3.0 should finally break down my barriers and convince me to buy an iPhone. IF the AT&T service in my neck of the woods has really improved by then, as I’ve been promised. When—or if—I take the plunge, I hope to be getting a 32GB iPhone.

7 Secrets to Online Business Success
I've done more here than just cover 7 principles of online success. Yes, I do lay out these important secrets, but I also illustrate them with examples so you can see how they have proven themselves to work in real life situations.

Small Businesses – the AIG Antidote
No small business would exist or function under the AIG type of framework. Small businesses must function properly and turn a profit in order to survive, much less thrive. That’s why I’m more convinced than ever that small businesses are what can, and hopefully will, turn the economy around and set the country back on course.

Home Staging Offers Job Security
The Staging Diva®, explains why operating a home staging business offers more job security than being employed by someone else.

Falling Off the Economic Cliff

Economy, economy, economy... Stimulus, stimulus, stimulus... Reminds me of 'location, location, location', and I am pretty sick of hearing that too. If you're tired of hearing about the economy and stimulus, do something about it. This article talks about the permanent change facing businesses today and what you must do if you want to survive. Remember, no good crises should be left unexploited - opportunities abound.

What If There Was a Recession And No One Came? 3 Tips to Increase Your Biz Right Now
It's easy to get caught up in a cycle of negativity right now but if you want to succeed you absolutely MUST rise above it. People are still going to buy no matter what the economy is doing. It's YOUR job to position your products and services as the ones they buy.

Who Protects Your Greatest Vulnerability?
Build a foundation to stand upon ... so you have the liberty and security necessary to take risks and chase your dreams.

Every day I am learning something new about human nature.
Advantages, to small business owners, of todays economy

Six Golden Questions, winning sales people always ask

Have you ever met a sales person who has all the excuses? The reasons that the sale just didn’t happen; it’s never their fault is it! Many business owners make the same mistakes. This article will help, if you do the selling yourself or have to manage sales people. Any winning sales person, who is in control of a sale, will know the answers to the six questions revealed here – if they don’t – then don’t start spending your profits, just yet!

How To Grow Your Business By Ignoring Bad News
People need to eat. Those people are both your customers and your employees. You, as the business owner, marketing professional, or generally responsible businessperson, have a role to play to ensure that you and those around you continue to eat. The question, though, is how can you continue your business when everywhere you look you see bad economic news. Ignore it.

Media is to Fuel as Recession is to Fire
The media - they didn't cause the banking crisis but they have surely capitalized on it, dramatized it, chronically reported every devastating development and turned a serious but contained fire into a wildfire.

10 Steps To Getting Up and Running Selling On Ebay

Ebay has taken a lot of bashing lately for changing its policies. When the latest round of changes were announced, the powers that be at Ebay were accused of being everything from architects of evil to lousy businesspeople--at least from the point of view of many long-term Ebay sellers. But in many ways the new and "some say" improved Ebay does provide a better experience for the buyer, which means that in the long-run, quality sellers offering quality products--and the wonderful mish-mash of eclectic junk that made Ebay a mecca for collectors in the first place--will find their businesses more profitable. If you ever wanted to try your luck starting a Home business on Ebay, or just putting your company's products on sale there as an added outlet...now is the time to begin.

Earning a Living in Real Estate

Buying and selling real estate is an intricate business. You have to make sure you are always being proactive and on top of your game. Having a background in real estate will go along way in this business. When it comes to earning a living in real estate for a company or as an independent realtor, there are a few key things that you need to know in order to be successful. This information will ensure that you sell homes faster and for more money. Learning more about real estate practices will guarantee you a thriving and profitable experience that will benefit you in all ways possible.

Home staging marketing tactics that will put you out of business – Pt. 2
The Staging Diva®, shares why offering a guaranteed sale is one of the worst marketing tactics she has seen carried out by home stagers.

Is Your Business Tough Enough to Survive Recession?
The economy is playing havoc with a lot of businesses, but many small businesses are thriving despite the recession. Ask yourself these ten questions and make your business tough enough to survive recession.

Revising the Forbes Message of the Day for the Sales Force
The Forbes Success Calendar for 2/25/09 said, "Action and reaction, ebb and flow, trial and error, change - this is the rhythm of our living. Out of our overconfidence, fear; out of our fear, clearer vision, fresh hope. And out of hope, progress." - Bruce Barton I think this quote requires a serious revision - for the sales force and for the company. First, let's make it shorter.

Top 7 Ways to Increase Sales Regardless of the Economy
Has the economy put your sales into a tailspin? Here are 7 ways to reverse those dismal sales and put more dollars into your bank account.

Should you Start a Business in 2009?
Should you Start a Business in 2009?

Upbeat thinking in a Downturn Economy
History tells us great companies are made during recessions. But where do you start? How do you lead your battered troops on a new ambitious campaign?

Simple Steps To Finding Small Business Grants
Generally speaking, the hardest part of starting a small business is finding the money. Getting a loan can be tough if you don't have good credit or collateral and finding a group of investors can severely diminish your profits, but there is another option: a small business grant. Here's some tips to help you find out if you qualify for a grant and steps to walk you through applying.

Techniques to increase the effectiveness of your promotional marketing during a period of economic downturn

The prospect of a downturn in the economy can have a major impact on business. With Australia having such close ties to the U.S. market many businesses have gone into panic mode due to the financial crisis currently affecting the U.S. economy. Whenever there are changes in the U.S. markets, people assume that it will have an impact on the Australian market as well and more often than not, it does. Many companies try to prepare the company for a slow-down in sales and the number one direction taken is to cut-costs. Unfortunately the general trend seems to be that the Marketing department are the first to have budgets slashed. While there may be some merit in this strategy of cost-cutting what if we look at the other end of the spectrum which involves being proactive to counteract the negative effects of the market drop.

Different times call for different action
Strategic partnerships based on marketing and sales collaboration.

How to Keep Sales Up In A Down Economy
If you are a small business owner the best way to sustain and increase your revenues during these difficult times is to avoid marketing pitfalls and think proactively. This article outlines steps to help you create an environment where your customers will promote your business for you. – Read the article.

Selling to China Is An Uphill Battle But You Can Succeed
Consultant Dr. James Chan offers seven secrets to selling American-made products and services to China.

Getting it From Here to There

"Build a better mouse trap and the world will beat a path to your door" is false! Building a great roduct is NOT enough. Executives need to think through how they will get their great product from their place of business to the ultimate end user. What needs to happen in the process? What are the implications for pricing and marketing the product? This article is intended to spur your own thinking.

How to Go From Good Selling that Worked to Good that No Longer Works Back to Good That Works
Good selling is simply doing what works. However, sometimes what worked in sales or selling yesterday is barely working to or even worse not even working today. This change of events happens in all industries be them service, distribution or manufacturing. Your goal as a sales professional is to get back to good that worked if you really want to increase sales.

Win More Sales by Sharing Instead of Selling
Sales professionals need to sell their products and services in order to earn a living. However, in today’s global driven marketplace, selling is a challenge because of the Internet to the current economy to all those negative belief about pushy sales folks. So what is a poor sales professional supposed to do?

Taking Current Customers For Granted Is Something Your Business Cannot Afford
With the down turn in the economy, many businesses are actively seeking new customers by offering special pricing, extended terms, anything that may get new customers off the dime. However, these actions may be ticking off current and potentially loyal customers.

Overcoming the riskavoidance

Today the incredible woes of our economy have shown how we have become addicted to “stuff”. As we accumulate more and more stuff, we are continually inundated with marketing from businesses teaching us what we have is never enough. In order to be happy we need to go out and buy more. So we do. Eventually came to the point of cheaper credit allowing us to borrow more money with the notion of paying it back later. And then we lost control. while credit is tightening all around us and sales slumping in almost ever sector in our economy. “… the underlying reality endures: after two decades in...extraordinary surges of borrowed money...a new era of risk-avoidance appears at hand.”Peter S. Goodman, 6.5% Out of Work, The New York Times, Saturday, November 8th, 2008, p. A20. How to become successful in this “post-stuff” world,

Building Bares All - Property Insurance
Originally published Jan 27, 2009 on my website, i discuss the importance of building construction when choosing a location for your business

Tough economic times will ding Apple, but not as bad as some companies
New research from the ChangeWave Research group shows that Apple won’t be immune from taking hits due to the tough economy. But my favorite tech company seems to be in as good of shape as any to make it through some tight months.

Why Home Stagers Don’t Need to Provide Furniture Rentals – Part 2
The Staging Diva® explains the alternative options available to home stagers who don’t wish to carry their own inventory of furniture to rent to homeowners.

How to Make Your Entrepreneurial Dream a Reality

How to make your entrepreneurial dream a reality - Many people desire to become entrepreneurs. Some are bold enough to make the leap on their own. Others are "forced" to do so because of circumstances (such as job layoffs). But starting and running a business isn't easy, primarily because we may possess some of the skills necessary to create a productive and profitable enterprise but we probably lack all of the skills necessary. And, we probably lack the time, too. In this article, you'll read about one way you can improve your entrepreneurial efforts – whether you're just starting out or you're looking to grow.

Top 7 Things You Have to Know to Market and Grow Your Small Business Effectively
My experience working with hundreds of small business owners has shown that while you might get by for awhile solely on referrals and word of mouth, typically that’s not going to be enough over the long haul.

Internet Marketing Businesses Can Be Strong Even In Tough Times
The internet does offer some unique advantages when it comes to promoting an internet marketing business that an offline business has a tougher time doing. In this article let's take a look at 5 ways to market an internet business even when times are a little tough.

Too much work and not enough workers Here are seven alternatives to hiring
If you're at the point in your small business where you have too much work, but you just aren't sure you have the business to merit it just yet, here are seven ways to get the ob done without making a giant commitment.

Finding a Way to Succeed

Strategies and Tactics are important - very important, especially in this economy. But even today, they take a back seat to your ability to find a way to get the job done. Whether that job is making appointments, uncovering compelling reasons to buy, getting opportunities qualified, making compelling presentations, dealing with objections or closing, you must find a way to master that part of the sales process.

More Common Missed Deductions
VETERAN FINANCIAL PLANNER GIVES YOU MORE COMMON MISSED TAX DEDUCTIONS.

Higher profitability based on intelligent management of superior information.
In a slow economy there are still plenty of companies that are making money. How? Business Intellegnce

Taking Control of the Fear
“Successful salespeople know what to do. And they do what losers refuse to do.” Why is it that in any sales organization, a small number of sales people out sell the rest by a substantial majority? The average sales person does not do what the peak performer is willing to do. It’s all about action!

Decisions based on emotion = BAD for business

In recent years, there has been a rise in discussion and research around what makes a good leader good. From those discussions, a new field of study and measurement has arisen,. It is called Emotional intelligence, or EQ. (Don't ask me why it isn't EI, but it's not.) In simple terms, EQ is the ability to know and control your emotions, and the ability to recognize and empathize with the emotions of others. For the expertrs in this field, please, don't get your feathers ruffled. Defining EQ is not the point. The point is, emotion does NOT belong in business, and often leads to really bad decisions. Emotion seems to play the biggest role in family owned business where family members are either co-owners or employees. This article talks about how to handle these situations, whether you are on the verge of wading into one, or already there.

Know yourself before you decide to buy someone else

According to a survey conducted by the Hay group and published in 2007, 91% of all M&A efforts fail to meet their pre-transaction goals. How many activities can a business undertake that fail 91% of the time, yet keep doing them over and over again? That is what happens with mergers and acquisitions. The sad truth is making these growth strategies work is not hard - it is complicated, but not hard. If you do your due diligence, and pay close attention to all the myriad of details, you will succeed. This article talks about what you need to know about your business before you try to buy someone else’s!

how To Create A Reputation for Honesty as a Leader-Part 3
Modeling a few simple behaviors can help you create and keep a deserved reputation for honesty-the most important reputation a leader can have.

The Bank of Japan will buy 1 Trillion Yen of Shares Held by Banks, But will it be enough?
The Bank of Japan is buying 1 trillion yen's worth of stocks from their banks to shore up their balance sheets and to encourage them to lend. But will it be enough? Read on...

Does Anyone Know Anything?

“Reports that say that something hasn't happened are always interesting to me, because as we know, there are known knowns; there are things we know we know. We also know there are known unknowns; that is to say we know there are some things we do not know. But there are also unknown unknowns -- the ones we don't know we don't know. And if one looks throughout the history of our country and other free countries, it is the latter category that tend to be the difficult ones.”

Make the Most of 2009
New Year’s Resolutions are easy to make and easy to break! Here are my twelve suggestions to make more time and enjoy life in 2009!

Buying a franchise during recession
In this article Nick Strong looks at the dinamic of franchise purcvhasing and recruitment during times of economic growth and during the downturn. Nick explores how, even in times of economic challenge, business format franching can offer benefits to both franchior and people buying a franchise.

The Man Who Sold Hot Dogs
One of my favorite tales and rather timely, enjoy.

Gold Will Shine Once Again in 2009! (Part 2)
Learn more reasons why gold is going to rise in 2009.

Pick Yourself Up and Dust Yourself Off
In my mind, there isn't a group of professionals more suited and more deserving of hearing those very words than salespeople. I have listened to more complaining, excuse making, whining, sob stories and negativity in the last 90 days than at any other time in the 24 years I have been in the sales development business.

Tips For Starting Your Work At Home Career
One of the most popular buzz phrases lately is "work from home." This certainly sounds great in theory - no bosses hanging around, no commute to an office, flexible work schedule - but many people are hesitant about starting a work at home venture because they're unsure of how much income potential there is and they don't know where to find useful information to get started.

Recession-Proof Your Business
10 Tips to Implement During Tough Economic Times

Stress and the Sales Cycle

On one hand we are being told that the economy is improving, turning around, doing better. On the other hand we hear our colleagues say that sales are down, services are still being cut back. Jobs are being cut and the jobless rate continues to inch higher. There is the flavor and smell of fear in almost every workplace. If sales are down then what is up? Stress and office conflict are on the increase and the natural tendency to blame and judge is on the rise. Recently a very angry client called me with the following question. Actually, it was more than a question; it was a ten minute rant and rave about injustice and unfairness. It went something like this "He stole my idea. He used my exact words and took all the credit.

A Brief Overview of Today's Outsourcing Buzz Words
Offshoring, Homeshoring… in this global outsourcing economy, you can add -shoring to anything and make it a freelance buzz word. But what do all of these outsourcing terms mean? Here’s a brief overview of some remote freelance work vocabulary...

Start Off The New Year With A Low Cost Small Business Franchise
2009 is here, and one thing that nearly every economist can agree on is that it takes a different approach to business to survive in the current market. Here's a look at some low cost ways to start a business that can generate serious profit, even in a tough economy.

Entrepreneurs – Health Check Your Business To Prepare For The Recession
You know that the economy is in recession and that you are going to find it hard going in the recession. So how do you prepare your business to deal with the problems and trails ahead? Here’s a health check for you.

Complex of Federal and State Laws Regulates Franchise Operations As Their Popularity Grows
Franchising is a huge and growing part of the nation’s economy. More than 300,000 franchised small businesses operating in the United States account for an estimated $1 trillion worth of income each year and provide jobs for some eight million Americans. 1

The legal and business aspects of franchising
Franchising is a huge and growing part of the nation's economy. More than 300,000 franchised small businesses operating in the United States account for an estimated $1 trillion worth of income each year and provide jobs for some eight million Americans.

Which Industries hold most promise in 2009

The January issue of Entrepreneur Magazine is out on the news stands and for those who have never read the magazine, January issue is dedicated to the Franchise industry. In this issue, there is an article (see link on my web site under News and Articles) that talks about the Magazine's predictions for Franchise Industries that hold the most promise for growth and stability in 2009. Interestingly enough, I wrote a blog about the very same topic in October of 08 (See blog titled: "Businesses that are still making money in this economy"). Almost every industry that is mention in my blog is mentioned in the Magazine's article. Now I am not saying that I am the smartest man alive, but it is comforting to know that the experts agree with my views and that I am on the right track. There have also been plenty of talk about how Franchise ow

Entrepreneurship is Like Parenting: Nurture Your Business in Good Times and Bad
Intrepid entrepreneur, Staging Diva, compares entrepreneurship to parenting in this article and asks business owners why they would give up on their enterprise when times get tough.

Take Charge to Create a Healthy Financial Future
An article of 1670 words detailing the beliefs systems that operate currently in our society that are leading us down the wrong path and will need to change if we are to build a healthy future economy

Top 3 2009 Sales Resolutions
It’s a new year, with a fresh sales quota and a new set of sales resolutions. I’m always looking for ways to improve and January consistently finds me evaluating my performance from the previous year then setting goals for the coming one.

What Are You Waiting For?
There is no time like today to get started with a plan. Taking action is the only way to get you to your goal.

Franchising - Current Economy Offers Great Incentives
As we approach the new year, many prospective franchisors wonder whether developing a franchise operation is a wise decision with the U.S. mired in a recession. Conversely, prospective franchisees wonder whether purchasing a franchise makes senses given the current economic climate. The quick answer to both...

I Blame…..

Here I am, sitting at home with the sun streaming through the windows and it is gone 7pm, what would I be doing now if I was in the UK???? Probably grappling with the traffic on the M25, or hunched over reports that had taken over my dining room table as well as my office room, the breeze is warm heralding the coming months of summer, the only blot on the idyllic picture is my green pool!!!! But hey life is not perfect is it??? Or should we be expecting life to give us happiness, and then we can also blame the Government, the neighbours, the children, the economy, our partner for all the things that are wrong in our lives too!! Great cop out,

Four Marketing Ideas for Client Retention

Your success as a business owner or executive will be largely determined by how many high quality clients you can attract and retain. It is getting more and more difficult to do this because clients have so many service providers to choose from and there are less dollars to go around in a down market. Following are four sales and marketing techniques that will help you retain your clients, even in a difficult economy like the one we're experiencing right now.

Replace ‘wait and see’ with ‘go and do’
Increase sales and gain market share during a downturn slower economy

Home Business Expert: Multiple Streams of Income
To achieve most things in life we need multiple streams of income.

Home Business Expert: Direct Sales Is An Economic & Recession Proof Business
Recession - what recession? Our business is booming! Find out why...