I have mentioned in my earlier post that a calling card is one of the most important tools to help propel the growth of your business or your profession. Its purpose is not only to quickly convey your personal information. It creates the first impression on what you are going to offer to your prospective client. But the most basic and perhaps a very simple question is: What is the proper way of giving and receiving calling cards. There are a lot of variations to give and receive a calling card. Some people have been confused on how to give and receive calling cards or business cards. Well, I have done the research for you. So read on.
Christopher J. Brunner, author of the article "Exchanging Business Cards: Do's and Dont's of Business Introductions", published in Great FX Business Cards website has this to say: Exchanging business cards can be a smooth transaction, or it could be an awkward situation. Use this guide to plan ahead so that you are ready when someone asks for your business card. With the following guides as suggested by Brunner, I am sure you can exchange your calling cards as smoothly as possible.
Do be prepared Always. Have a handful with you to present to potential clients or other business associates, even on the weekends. You'll find that many important contacts and business card exchanges can take place in the most unlikely places.
Don't hand out torn or worn business cards. Make sure they are clean and crisp with no frayed edges or pen marks. The best method of keeping your cards in neat form is a business card case. With designs ranging from techie to artsy to formal, you are bound to find one that fits your style and personality.
Do make it a point to hand out business cards. It doesn't take a large convention to bring customers and business owners together. Informal meetings are one of the best times to network and exchange business cards. If the person you are speaking with seems interested in your product or service you represent, offer that person a business card.
Do receive a business card properly. When accepting a business card, have a good look at it for a few seconds. In your conversation, offer a compliment about the logo, design, etc.
Don't hand out more than one card to a new contact. Only give one business card to your new contact. Leaving two or three may give the signal that you want them to make contacts for you which is tacky and unprofessional. Unless a prior agreement is made to exchange more than one card, keep the focus on person-to-person contact.
Do exchange business cards smoothly. When you first meet someone, it's ok to request a business card from them. However, If the person is of a higher position than yourself, you should wait for them to offer their card to you first. Remember if they want you to have a card, they will give you one!
Don't place it in a bag, pocket or wallet. Place the card you receive in a planner, notebook or business card case. Never place the card in a wallet that will be put in your back pocket. Doing so shows disrespect and an all around lack of organization on your part.
So I hope the above suggestions can greaty help you and your business to go an extra mile.
Saturday, October 20, 2007
Friday, October 19, 2007
Time To Have Your Own Calling Card
Calling card or business card has become a very important partner to not only the businessperson but equally important for everyone. A calling card bears the most important information of a company or an individual. It contains the name, address, contact numbers, email address, and website if any.
During a business meeting or even just during simple gatherings, calling cards are usually given to formally introduce oneself and or to memory aid. I usually prepare my calling cards for my clients and prospective customers in order for them to remember our discussions and to contact me later on when they need my service. I can start talking about my business after giving my calling card. Calling cards has really helped my business.
Since calling cards are important, it needs to be professionaly designed and the materials should be of high quality. A simple design and the use of cool colors will definitely stand out and will definitely deliver your expectations. If you don't know how to make, design your card, you may contact a local print shop to design your calling card that will fit you needs. The most common size of calling cards is 3.5 inches by 2 inches. So you can start from here. Remember, only the most important informations are placed on the calling card. The more information, the more the calling card becomes crowded.
Therefore, make you calling card as simple as possible yet elegant.
During a business meeting or even just during simple gatherings, calling cards are usually given to formally introduce oneself and or to memory aid. I usually prepare my calling cards for my clients and prospective customers in order for them to remember our discussions and to contact me later on when they need my service. I can start talking about my business after giving my calling card. Calling cards has really helped my business.
Since calling cards are important, it needs to be professionaly designed and the materials should be of high quality. A simple design and the use of cool colors will definitely stand out and will definitely deliver your expectations. If you don't know how to make, design your card, you may contact a local print shop to design your calling card that will fit you needs. The most common size of calling cards is 3.5 inches by 2 inches. So you can start from here. Remember, only the most important informations are placed on the calling card. The more information, the more the calling card becomes crowded.
Therefore, make you calling card as simple as possible yet elegant.
Friday, October 12, 2007
Got my new continuous ink system printer
Continuous ink system(CIS) is gaining momentum in taking a considerable market share in the printing industry. I decided to get one because small printers like me could no longer afford to repurchase the inks and besides your clients are shifting to other stores which are offering very low printing cost. I have no other choice but to really get one.
What is a CIS and how does it work? Wikipedia defines a Continuous Ink System (CIS) or Continuous Flow System (CFS), also known as bulk feed, is a cost-effective replacement for ink-jet printer cartridges. In contrast to conventional cartridges, a CIS/CFS uses very large (about 100ml/color) ink tanks, which are connected with tubes to the printhead nozzles. The tanks can be conveniently refilled from an ink bottle - there is no need for syringes.
Two days ago, Kratz, a dealer of continuous ink system in the city approached and somehow convinced me to change my 4 months old epson c59 printer. At first, I was hesitant to give in because I heard from some friends who have purchased that the warranty of the printer becomes void once it is converted to CIS. I thought for a while that the CIS is only ideal for printers of which the warranty has already lapsed. But then Kratz offered a very incredible deal. He is going to swap my 4 months old epson c59 printer, replace it with a brand new brother dcp130C already converted to CIS. So, from an origina price of PhP8,000, I will only pay 4,ooo pesos. Plus, payable after one month! Is'nt it a very good deal!
Right now, I am charging 2.50 pesos per page for black and white and for some colored texts and small colored graphics which before I am charging 5 pesos (50% savings). For a full page picture and graphics (for short and long bondpaper only), I am charging 5.00pesos, from an original cost of 25pesos per page. Big savings for me and my clients.
What is a CIS and how does it work? Wikipedia defines a Continuous Ink System (CIS) or Continuous Flow System (CFS), also known as bulk feed, is a cost-effective replacement for ink-jet printer cartridges. In contrast to conventional cartridges, a CIS/CFS uses very large (about 100ml/color) ink tanks, which are connected with tubes to the printhead nozzles. The tanks can be conveniently refilled from an ink bottle - there is no need for syringes.
Two days ago, Kratz, a dealer of continuous ink system in the city approached and somehow convinced me to change my 4 months old epson c59 printer. At first, I was hesitant to give in because I heard from some friends who have purchased that the warranty of the printer becomes void once it is converted to CIS. I thought for a while that the CIS is only ideal for printers of which the warranty has already lapsed. But then Kratz offered a very incredible deal. He is going to swap my 4 months old epson c59 printer, replace it with a brand new brother dcp130C already converted to CIS. So, from an origina price of PhP8,000, I will only pay 4,ooo pesos. Plus, payable after one month! Is'nt it a very good deal!
Right now, I am charging 2.50 pesos per page for black and white and for some colored texts and small colored graphics which before I am charging 5 pesos (50% savings). For a full page picture and graphics (for short and long bondpaper only), I am charging 5.00pesos, from an original cost of 25pesos per page. Big savings for me and my clients.
Saturday, October 6, 2007
Manny "Pacman" Pacquiao Rules
The Filipino champ, Manny "Pacman" Pacquiao once again proved to the Filipino people and to the world that he's indeed the people champ of the Philippines. Pacman fought a controlled but aggresive fight against Marco Antonio Barrera of Mexico and won handedly by unanimous decision. The judges scored in favor of Manny on average 117-114.
On round 11, Pacman almost brought Barrera to floor. But the Mexican boxer managed to stand. While referee Tony Meeks was breaking the clinch, Barrera struck a strong punch hitting Pacquiao in the head making Manny for a moment to shudder. Barrera was deducted by a point.
At the 12th and final round, Barrera tried to counter the quick attacks of Pacman but still he could not offset Pacman's combinations and speed. This loss of Barerra was considered by him as his last fight when he announced that he is retiring from boxing.
Manny, the filipinos are indeed very proud of you. You have once again joined every filipino in the world! Kudos to you, the People Champ!
On round 11, Pacman almost brought Barrera to floor. But the Mexican boxer managed to stand. While referee Tony Meeks was breaking the clinch, Barrera struck a strong punch hitting Pacquiao in the head making Manny for a moment to shudder. Barrera was deducted by a point.
At the 12th and final round, Barrera tried to counter the quick attacks of Pacman but still he could not offset Pacman's combinations and speed. This loss of Barerra was considered by him as his last fight when he announced that he is retiring from boxing.
Manny, the filipinos are indeed very proud of you. You have once again joined every filipino in the world! Kudos to you, the People Champ!
Thursday, October 4, 2007
Damn Desperate Housewives!
The damage has been done. The whole world has seen it. What else can be done?
Recent reports tell that the ABC television network has already deleted a segment maligning Filipino health professionals. This is the scene, Susan Mayer (Teri Hatcher), tells her doctor: “OK, before we go any further, can I check those diplomas? Because I would just like to make sure they are not from some med school in the Philippines.” What does she know about med school in the Philippines? What's the basis of their script?
This is not an issue about some med schools in the country. This is not issue only affecting the medical professionals. This is an issue that insulted every filipino. And more, an issue that degrades our educational system.
Although the network has already issued an apology. It's not ENOUGH! The following is the ABC's statement: "The producers of ‘Desperate Housewives’ and ABC Studios offer our sincere apologies for any offense caused by the brief reference in the season premiere. There was no intent to disparage the integrity of any aspect of the medical community in the Philippines. As leaders in broadcast diversity, we are committed to presenting sensitive and respectful images of all communities featured in our programs." Was that done with utmost sensitivity? Was that done with high respect of the communities they have featured in their programs? I don't think so!
I always believe our nurses and doctors are highly topnotch. This is very evident by the high demand of filipino medical professionals around the world. So the statement is baseless, unfair, irresponsible, and insensitive! Damn Desperate Housewives!
Recent reports tell that the ABC television network has already deleted a segment maligning Filipino health professionals. This is the scene, Susan Mayer (Teri Hatcher), tells her doctor: “OK, before we go any further, can I check those diplomas? Because I would just like to make sure they are not from some med school in the Philippines.” What does she know about med school in the Philippines? What's the basis of their script?
This is not an issue about some med schools in the country. This is not issue only affecting the medical professionals. This is an issue that insulted every filipino. And more, an issue that degrades our educational system.
Although the network has already issued an apology. It's not ENOUGH! The following is the ABC's statement: "The producers of ‘Desperate Housewives’ and ABC Studios offer our sincere apologies for any offense caused by the brief reference in the season premiere. There was no intent to disparage the integrity of any aspect of the medical community in the Philippines. As leaders in broadcast diversity, we are committed to presenting sensitive and respectful images of all communities featured in our programs." Was that done with utmost sensitivity? Was that done with high respect of the communities they have featured in their programs? I don't think so!
I always believe our nurses and doctors are highly topnotch. This is very evident by the high demand of filipino medical professionals around the world. So the statement is baseless, unfair, irresponsible, and insensitive! Damn Desperate Housewives!
Wednesday, October 3, 2007
Its nice to hear comments from you!
Lately, comments have been posted in this blog. Its really nice to hear comments from you. This is an indication that there are some who are really reading blogs. I want to share it some comments. Here it goes:
On black out day in Dumaguete. A certain Rodelyn said, Yes! you're certainly right...people who are engaged in business will definitely have a low income for days like that. Most especially those dealing with electricity in their businesses will have a hard time gaining such amount of revenues they got when there is electricity. As in my part as a student, its really hard for me when brown out occur, i really can't study my lesson for the next day especially when there is exam...and it causes many inconvenience and many people are affected...
Jezreel on the other hand shared how the frequent loss of power affected her as a student. She said, I am also affected when there is a brownout, especially if it would take a whole day for the brownout to occur. I cannot concentrate on my studies because w/o the electric fan it is so hot in our bhaus. It is so sad to know that the source of electricity is located near dumaguete. Yet, were experiencing brownouts. Surely businesses who rely on the electricity would be very affected. Hopefully that these brownouts would not worsen because many people would be affected.
Franz shared the same sintement. He said, not only the business people are suffering from these blackouts, alsothe workaholic (ehem) studes like me...there are large and overwhelming assignmentssss and projectssssuch as this to work for,, & without having this electric current at hand especially in times of examinations we willprobably, exactly rather fail the exam we are facing.I have a friend who has complained about it (blackout which came along prior to her exam), she said she has to cram the next day because she was not fully equipped to take the exam because of the blackout...The pipzz who are held responsible to these occurrences should take necessary actions for the benefit of the Dumagueteńos =)
On business plan... I truely believe that the business plan is the blueprint of the business. It is your basis on planning your goals, where will you get your capital and other plans on how you can gain profit or how you can expand your business. Organizing is also important in the business through proper management. Proper leading of the employees is also necessary. And lastly is the proper control of the business. Is it easy for you sir to manage your own business.?
How about you? It's your time to share your thoughts!
On black out day in Dumaguete. A certain Rodelyn said, Yes! you're certainly right...people who are engaged in business will definitely have a low income for days like that. Most especially those dealing with electricity in their businesses will have a hard time gaining such amount of revenues they got when there is electricity. As in my part as a student, its really hard for me when brown out occur, i really can't study my lesson for the next day especially when there is exam...and it causes many inconvenience and many people are affected...
Jezreel on the other hand shared how the frequent loss of power affected her as a student. She said, I am also affected when there is a brownout, especially if it would take a whole day for the brownout to occur. I cannot concentrate on my studies because w/o the electric fan it is so hot in our bhaus. It is so sad to know that the source of electricity is located near dumaguete. Yet, were experiencing brownouts. Surely businesses who rely on the electricity would be very affected. Hopefully that these brownouts would not worsen because many people would be affected.
Franz shared the same sintement. He said, not only the business people are suffering from these blackouts, alsothe workaholic (ehem) studes like me...there are large and overwhelming assignmentssss and projectssssuch as this to work for,, & without having this electric current at hand especially in times of examinations we willprobably, exactly rather fail the exam we are facing.I have a friend who has complained about it (blackout which came along prior to her exam), she said she has to cram the next day because she was not fully equipped to take the exam because of the blackout...The pipzz who are held responsible to these occurrences should take necessary actions for the benefit of the Dumagueteńos =)
On business plan... I truely believe that the business plan is the blueprint of the business. It is your basis on planning your goals, where will you get your capital and other plans on how you can gain profit or how you can expand your business. Organizing is also important in the business through proper management. Proper leading of the employees is also necessary. And lastly is the proper control of the business. Is it easy for you sir to manage your own business.?
How about you? It's your time to share your thoughts!
Monday, October 1, 2007
Is Adwords for you?
Adwords is Google's way of earning source of revenue. AdWords offers pay-per-click (PPC) advertising, and site-targeted advertising for both text and banner ads. It includes 5 lines consisting of the following: headline, 2 lines for the description of the headline, the url, and destination url.
Pay-Per-Click advertisements (PPC)
Advertisers specify the words that should trigger their ads and the maximum amount they are willing to pay per click. When a user searches Google's search engine on www.google.com, ads for relevant words are shown as "sponsored links" on the right side of the screen, and sometimes above the main search results.
The ordering of the paid listings depends on other advertisers' bids (pay for placement P4P) and the "quality score" of all ads shown for a given search. The quality score is calculated by historical click-through rates and the relevance of an advertiser's ad text, keyword, and landing page to the search, as determined by Google. The quality score is also used by Google to set the minimum bids for an advertiser's keywords.
The auction mechanism that determines the order of the ads has been called a "generalized second price" auction. It is a variation of the Vickrey auction.
Site targeted advertisements
In 2003 Google introduced site-targeted advertising. Using the AdWords control panel, advertisers can enter keywords of interest, and Google offers to place ads on what they claim are relevant sites within their content network. Advertisers then bid on a cost per mille (CPM) basis for placement. Advertisers can also enter domains directly. Google will provide a list of related sites that you can select along with your entered site.
Site targeting campaigns are mainly designed for branding purposes, as the ROI will almost always be considerably lower than a traditional content-targeted campaign. Your ad will take up the entire ad block (as opposed to being 1 of 4 ads in a traditional AdSense ad unit), which will make it more prominent but cost quite a bit more.
The minimum CPM you can set on a Site-Targeted campaign is 25 cents.
The Google adwords has tools for you to manage your campaign. You also have the freehand to control your budget per bid and per day. So, if you want to bring more traffic to your site and eventually convert this traffic to more sales, try google adwords and make sure to consider your advertising budget.
Source: Wikipedia
Pay-Per-Click advertisements (PPC)
Advertisers specify the words that should trigger their ads and the maximum amount they are willing to pay per click. When a user searches Google's search engine on www.google.com, ads for relevant words are shown as "sponsored links" on the right side of the screen, and sometimes above the main search results.
The ordering of the paid listings depends on other advertisers' bids (pay for placement P4P) and the "quality score" of all ads shown for a given search. The quality score is calculated by historical click-through rates and the relevance of an advertiser's ad text, keyword, and landing page to the search, as determined by Google. The quality score is also used by Google to set the minimum bids for an advertiser's keywords.
The auction mechanism that determines the order of the ads has been called a "generalized second price" auction. It is a variation of the Vickrey auction.
Site targeted advertisements
In 2003 Google introduced site-targeted advertising. Using the AdWords control panel, advertisers can enter keywords of interest, and Google offers to place ads on what they claim are relevant sites within their content network. Advertisers then bid on a cost per mille (CPM) basis for placement. Advertisers can also enter domains directly. Google will provide a list of related sites that you can select along with your entered site.
Site targeting campaigns are mainly designed for branding purposes, as the ROI will almost always be considerably lower than a traditional content-targeted campaign. Your ad will take up the entire ad block (as opposed to being 1 of 4 ads in a traditional AdSense ad unit), which will make it more prominent but cost quite a bit more.
The minimum CPM you can set on a Site-Targeted campaign is 25 cents.
The Google adwords has tools for you to manage your campaign. You also have the freehand to control your budget per bid and per day. So, if you want to bring more traffic to your site and eventually convert this traffic to more sales, try google adwords and make sure to consider your advertising budget.
Source: Wikipedia
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