Moving Ahead Blog

Free Marketing PR Blueprint Download Based Upon New Rules of Marketing & PR by David Meerman Scott

2010-08-03T12:27:00Z

Quick update here to briefly point out a new major tool of the trade that my teammates & I have been studying for business growth:

In a nutshell, the book presents an overview of old-school marketing and public relations (PR), plus new rules for today. Head to the Amazon link above for the Table of Contents, sample chapter, plenty of helpful reviews and more.

And feel free to download a customizable 1-page Microsoft Word doc, “Marketing / PR Blueprint,” from us, created to help sum up major areas of focus for today’s marketing / PR, based mainly upon what we’ve read and discussed here from the book.

For the free download, click: Marketing / PR Blueprint

Have you own helpful tips? Please post so we can all benefit.

Thanks!

Moving Ahead - Top 3 Ways Virtual Assistants Can Help Your Business

2010-07-02T15:25:00Z

Technology combined with people using it to their advantage has made it possible to do a wide variety of tasks online. For example, you can start and run a business by simply outsourcing a variety of tasks and content creation, saving time, money and resources. Outsource with virtual assistants (VA's).

In fact, there are several ways that VA's can help your business grow, whether you are already an established business, you are looking to expand, or you are looking to break into the world of internet business. The top three ways are explained below.

1. Convenience

Convenience is one of the number one reasons why people consider outsourcing or making use of online helpers for their support needs. There are numerous services that can be done through the Internet that can make it possible for businesses to offer customer assistance, for example, 24/7.Transcription, accounting tasks and administrative work can also easily be done through outsourcing. With the World Wide Web, it does not matter where you are in the world; as long as you have an internet connection you can connect to a database, access email, even hold video and phone conversations.

2. Savings

Using virtual technology is a great way to save money. Consider the every part of your overhead.How much of it goes to space? You have to have space for your employees. How about benefits, unemployment and taxes for your business?When you make use of virtual assistants, you do not have any of these expenses. You do not need to provide equipment or space for your workers because most work from home. You do not need to provide benefits,unemployment services, paid sick time or vacation, nor do you need to pay social security taxes, as most are independent contractors. All you have to do is negotiate the terms of your contract with the virtual assistants of your choice.

3. Versatility

Finally, making use of virtual assistants can increase your versatility. Finding one person with all the necessary skills to help with your business operations can be difficult, especially if you live in an area that does not have an extensive worker pool. However, making use of the internet and virtual assistants means that you can reach out across the world to find the perfect helpers for your business through the use of contract based services.

Virtual assistants can provide a wealth of benefits to you and your business. They are convenient, versatile and can save you money by reducing your overhead. Virtual assistants can help you with a wide variety of tasks thanks to the use of technology and the Internet.

Advance with Affordable Business Support Services & Products, Outsourcing with Personal Virtual Assistants today at: http://www.ohiohelpgroup.com - visit the links to sign up for their free newsletter packed with tips!

SEO Services - 6 Things to Know About Increasing Traffic With One Way Links

2010-06-02T15:35:00Z

The number of people doing business online continues to expand day by day at a stunning rate. As more and more people try their hand at starting and growing Internet-based enterprises, an increased number of websites are appearing. In essence what this means is that there is now greater competition for a slice of the action than at any other time in the history of the World Wide Web. In addition, all indications are that this trend is likely to continue, and that competition will become even more fierce.

But don't worry. There is hope and help - in fact, there is a lot of hope and help - for your success online.

SEO to the Rescue

You see, the difference between an online enterprise that succeeds as opposed to one that fails, (given that they both have a saleable product or service in demand), is the amount of targeted traffic that the sites attract. It's a very simple equation. The more targeted traffic that visits a website, the more opportunity that site has of generating sales. In short, it's simply a "numbers game."

So the name of the game is attracting the right traffic and lots of it. And the mechanism for doing this is something called Search Engine Optimization (SEO). SEO is the science by bettering your website's page rankings among the various search engines in order to attract more search engines and people who use them to your websites.

Helpful SEO Tools

SEO has various tools within its arsenal to help it in improving your site's page ranking, but by far the most influential tool is something called link building, and in particular, one way link building. Google, the biggest search engine by far, has a set of algorithms that it uses to rate or rank a website. Whilst not every part of this algorithm is known (combined with the fact that the algorithm's make-up is constantly reviewed by Google), it is known that Google set great store by how many one way links a website has.

The logic is that the more one way links, the more people value that site and therefore link to it. Google surmises that this is because the site has unique, interesting content, and this is exactly what they like to try and promote. Two way, or reciprocal links, don't have the same magic, because in Google's eyes, because two way links can be arranged for mutual benefit, whereas as a one way link indicates specific interest in your website.

Here is a summary of why one way links are so effective.

1. They are highly rated by search engines.

2. They lead more traffic to your website

3. Your website gains credibility with the search engines

4. You minimize any potential loss from reciprocal linking

5. The more links you have, the more chance of spreading the word.

6. More traffic means more potential sales

You can of course build your own network of one way links, but you will find that this can become very time consuming, and somewhat tedious. No fun!

Link Building Services

Many website owners prefer to outsource the creation of one way links to a link building service provider like Linkvana.com that they feel they can trust. By using the services of such a company, you are relying on a team of experts in link building, a team who knows all there is to know about the art of one way link building. But the added bonus is that it frees up your own personal time so that you can dedicate yourself to the real issue, the successful running of your company and business operations.

Get ahead of your competition by putting an effective one-way link building program in place. Find the right link building service provider, and set them loose to establish the best one-way links, and to literally explode your sales potential.

Advance with Affordable Business Support Services & Products, Outsourcing with Personal Virtual Assistants today at: http://www.esupport-club.com - visit the links to sign up for their free newsletter packed with tips!

How You Can Earn From Home With the Help of Virtual Assistants - 3 Steps to Success

2010-05-02T15:41:00Z

Hiring virtual assistants us a great way to outsource tasks, leaving you more free time to take care of important jobs that only you can handle. And as making money from home is a beneficial way to operate in today's economy, outside help has almost become a necessity.

Assistants can handle any number of tasks. In a nutshell, the firm offering the services goes over your needs with you, then finds help for your project tasks and content needs. Generally you do not have to pay start-up fees or set-up costs, and the service runs on a month-to month basis. This means you are not committed if things do not work out and your budget will not be affected over the long haul.

Three steps that will help you to achieve work at home success with virtual assistants include SEO services, Internet marketing, and general tasks. Learn more about each step below.

Step 1 - SEO Services

If Search Engine Optimization (SEO) is not your strong point or maybe you don't have time to tackle it, a virtual assistant can help. The assistant can help revise your website in order to improve your search engine ranking and drive more traffic to your site. Get help cleaning up tags, large files that slow loading time, and much more on the tech side. And get help on the linking side, too.

For example, writing press releases and then submitting them with anchor text links to online media sites can be tackled on your helper's time, freeing up more of your time. In addition, writing articles and publishing them with anchor text links in resource boxes, promoting your services or products in them, can also free up your time. If you wish to maintain a blog, your assistant can do this also and provide fresh content on a regular basis. Whatever your needs, hiring outside SEO services is always beneficial.

Step 2 - Internet Marketing

When internet marketing is something that has been overlooked, consider hiring virtual assistants to handle this task. Not only can your aide get your set up on social networking pages such as Squidoo, Twitter and HubPages, he or she can also develop an online press kit for people who inquire about your company. Product sales can also be handled by the assistant who can set up your shopping cart and link your site to related companies in order to bring in more traffic. Auction management is another task which may be handled by your assistant along with online classified ad postings.

Step 3 - General Tasks

A virtual assistant can do so much more. You can turn over administrative and secretarial tasks, accounting chores and presentations. If research is needed, your aide can do this for you. Transcription and word processing, database and client management and phone communications are all tasks virtual assistants are trained for. If your e-mail is overwhelming, or you spend more time on the phone making travel arrangements to promote your product, have your aide take care of this. Building client relationships needs to be your top priority, especially when you are just getting established.

Set your priorities and allow your virtual assistant to take over lesser ones. Your business will be better as a result.

Advance with Affordable Business Support Services & Products, Outsourcing with a Personal Virtual Assistant team today at: http://www.ohiohelpgroup.com - visit the links to sign up for their free newsletter packed with tips!

How Your Virtual Assistant Can Help You Make Money Working From Home - 6 Popular Ways

2010-04-02T15:44:00Z

Having an assistant is invaluable and can mean the difference between the success and failure of your small home-based business. However, many people cannot afford employees initially, so when their businesses take off, they often begin to be overrun with increasingly heavy workloads.

The solution is simple: outsource tasks to virtual assistants. Many business start up and growth tasks can easily be taken on by someone other than the business owner, by people who can reach out to help via the Internet and phone. As such, here are 6 ways that a virtual assistant can help you.

1. Email Sorting

When you are trying to run a business, it is extremely difficult to keep up with all of the email that arrives in your in-box, be the items legitimate or spam. Let experienced assistants deal with the unpleasant task of sorting and reviewing your inbox to keep it from getting backed up. They can also track responses from clients and ensure that problems receive follow-up. The last thing you want to do is lose a customer because their questions were buried in the wrong folders.

2. Article Writing and Marketing and Search Engine Optimization (SEO)

Let virtual assistant marketing experts and professional writers place meaningful content on your website, submit it to online directories and publish it online in other places so that it will draw plenty of targeted customers to you. Leave the creativity, research, and proofreading to them so that you can get on with your business operations and make a profit.

Search Engine Optimization (SEO)

Virtual professionals understand the importance of link building and search engine optimization. They also have the latest information on optimal keyword and optimizing solutions you need set up and grow within your website operations to receive top search engine rankings.

3. Blog Setup and Maintenance

Many business owners don't have the knowledge to set up and maintain their own blogs, but they know how profitable they can be by increasing website traffic. Assistants are able to set up original and creative blogs and keep them updated not only with content but the latest plug-ins and other evolutionary updates as needed.

4. Postal Mail & Follow Up

Helpers can also respond to customer orders and prepare your materials to ship. They can also design direct mail pieces, maintain your database and mailing lists, and regularly mail out promotional campaign pieces - all via the Internet. Afterward, hire workers to call your contacts for order taking, to seek referrals and to get updated email addresses so that you can have them email special offers.

5. Sales Letters For Your Website

Virtual helpers can also conduct research to find out what your target customers want to know about your products and services so that your team can best respond to their questions and needs better. For example, they can create an attention-grabbing headline on your main sales page, peak interest in your web visitors there with awesome sales copy containing a call-to-action, all the while optimizing the white space and main focus areas on your web page, leaving your clients wondering excitedly where to sign up.

6. Writing and Submitting Press Releases

Knowing which news sources to forward press releases to is half the battle in getting coverage for your products, services and business website. Let your assistants use their contacts in the industry to help you reach your targeted audience, online and off, to make your products and services household names.

While there are countless other ways virtual assistants can help with business start up and growth, the solution is a no-brainer: outsource. You can increase your productivity and your time with plenty of good helpers.

Advance with Affordable Business Support Services & Products, Outsourcing with a Personal Virtual Assistant team today at: http://www.ohiohelpgroup.com - visit the links to sign up for their free newsletter packed with tips!

3 Reasons Why You Should Hire a Ghostwriter For Your Press Releases

2010-03-02T15:52:00Z

When you need to get your business and product known, one of the best ways to do this is to write a press release. You might think this is a simple job, because when you look at releases, they don't look complicated, but they can be more difficult to write than you might imagine. The solution to your business need is to hire a ghostwriter who understands press releases, and knows how to write them.
Why? Three main reasons to hire a ghostwriter are:

1. Lack of Knowledge

You know your event, product and business extremely well, but do you know exactly how to write a press release? You see, many people think it is a simple task, but it's not. If you haven't written one before, then knowing the specific format and what is required can mean the difference between acceptance and rejection for your news announcement. Use a ghostwriter to format and write your release, and even ask about distribution.

Hint: many ghosts have excellent channels for distributing your announcement online and off, and some are free!

2. Lack of Experience

You might not have any experience in writing a news announcement, but you shouldn't despair. You'll need to work together with the ghostwriter to communicate why your event, business or product is newsworthy and how it should be presented.

When you start to look for a ghostwriter to hire, you'll need to find a company that has lots of experience writing press releases. This should be a company with a proven track record and can deliver exactly what you need. Since not all ghostwriters have experience in writing press releases, you may prefer to use someone with experience rather than allow them to "try out" their skills at your expense, unless you have someone to help edit or otherwise oversee the project.

3. Lack of Time

Time is money, and you will spend a lot of your time trying to decide how to write your press release. As your time is important, you may want to be using it to do something more productive. Hence the answer for you is to hire a ghostwriter who can not only write your announcement, but also save you time and money in the process.

Thus it's really a simple solution for you. Hire a ghostwriter and you can find that your news release is exactly what you need to sell your event, business, services, products or other focus. And you should also find there are fewer rejections of your press releases by newspapers and other media outlets as the format and presentation are in accordance with the media standards.

Advance with Affordable Business Support Services & Products and start saving when you outsource with Ghostwriters, AKA Virtual Assistants today!

Moving Ahead with 3 Easy Steps to Successful Internet Marketing With Your Own Virtual Assistant & SEO Services

2010-02-02T14:52:00Z

The power of the Internet is incredible, but if you don't learn how to use it the right way you could be wasting valuable time and marketing efforts and dollars. How do you make sure you are getting the most out of your marketing plans? Here are three steps to help you build a successful marketing plan using your own virtual assistant and search engine optimization AKA SEO services like Hubpages and Squidoo linking work.

Step 1: Picking your virtual assistant

The biggest benefit to a good virtual assistant is that they are well versed in all things technical. This means that they know how to communicate using all types of technology from social networking sites to public blogs and other forums. Getting a good virtual assistant in place will free up more of your time so you can focus on other important areas and tasks pertaining to your business.

Step 2: Web promotion

Now that you have your virtual assistant dedicated to your business, it's time to work on promoting your business and web site. Have your assistant do a full analysis of your website. From that analysis, you will be able to determine what is working for your site and what should be taken off.Next, your assistant should manage what is going on the site and even be able to call on some powerful SEO services like Hubpages and Squidoo publishing to get even more traffic to your site. If you are not familiar with Hubpages or Squidoo, they are networks of web pages that allow users to create their own free pages about specific topics. The information is submitted by users in the form of articles that can have links, images, videos and other content within, attracting search engines and human visitors to your linked sites.

Hint: check out the Eric Shannon (Stompernet) package at: Hubpages & Squidoo

Step 3: Start blogging

This seems like a very simple thing, but what most people do not realize isthat blogs are all about strategy. Most people look at blogs as something to read and entertain themselves with, but what is really happening is very careful placement of SEO services. Your virtual assistant will be publishing entries that are using researched key words that will bring even more traffic to your site.

One thing to remember is that successful business doesn't just happen over night. It takes time and a lot of hard work, but hopefully these three steps wil lbe helpful in building a successful marketing plan for your business.

3 Reasons Why You Need a Ghostwriter

2010-01-02T16:00:00Z

You don't a lot of reasons to use a Ghostwriter. One will do! Check out the following popular reasons why you need a ghostwriter (AKA ghost writer):

1. Lack of polished English skills

It is fair to say that the standards of the English language have dropped. In more and more schools and colleges, students are allowed to communicate in poor English. Take for example the decision taken by academics who say it is acceptable for students to use in their essays the same abbreviations which they use when they are sending text messages to their friends. This "progress" means the English they produce is not understandable by many people. Spelling and grammar become big issues when someone is writing articles, reports or ebooks for sale. Automated spellcheckers cannot pick up all the mistakes, for example when you use the word "smelling" instead of "spelling" the spellchecker will not pick it up, and the grammar checker will rarely note all important issues like this as well.

2. Lack of Time

Nearly everyone who is running or managing their own business wrestles with the problem of time management. And to set aside hours of dedicated time to concentrate on writing without distractions, can be difficult, if not impossible. The advantages of outsourcing those tasks that are time-consuming or do not fit with your skills can be many. For example, sometimes the matter of the cost of the outsourced task can outweigh the advantages of having someone else do the task, but the entrepreneur or manager must always factor in extended production times when producing a piece of writing personally.

3. Lack of Focus

A SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats) analysis can quickly reveal what your abilities are and why you function well in your business. Make no mistake, you need to excel in what you do, and find ways to turn your weaknesses into strengths. Note that when you undertake a SWOT analysis it is time-consuming and can be difficult to assimilate the results.

The bottom line is that when you concentrate on better language skills, better use of time and better focus, performing the tasks that you excel at, you can benefit with a ghostwriter's help, making the best use of your resources in building your business.

Advance with Affordable Business Support Services & Products, Outsourcing with Ghostwriters AKA Personal Virtual Assistants http://www.ohiohelpgroup.com - visit the links to sign up for their free newsletter packed with tips!
today at:

60 Second Time Out - Top 10 Errors Made by Virtual Assistants and Outsourcing Teams

2009-12-02T16:20:00Z

Hiring virtual assistants or outsourcing help makes good business sense. However, there are certain errors that are frequently made across the board. Being aware of these errors can help you avoid them within your own business operations, and thus improve your own working relationships and outcome.

1. Some virtual assistants or outsourcing teams rely on training that was taken several years ago. This may be outdated and just not make sense for today's tasks and content needs. Workers who do not keep their skills updated may not be good investments for some projects.

2. Some helpers tend to be perfectionists, which may not be helpful as far as the project is concerned. This tendency stalls work and can prevent the assistant or entire team from continuing the business relationship and project work.

3. Some virtual assistants do not realize the importance of developing online skills, which can be vital today, as a lot of skills needed in the real world do not apply to the online world. Online skills are a different set of skills, which an assistant or team needs to work on, like using short, targeted communications with keywords.

4. Some assistants / teams spend time, money and effort on software that is not updated.

5. Marketing skills are often missing among many assistants / teams. These need to be developed to ensure good business interactions, networking and focus for future funding of their own companies as well as for their buyers, so that the consumers' interests are always kept in mind and as priority with project work.

6. A lack of clearly defined policies and rules can lead to assistants / teams making mistakes, sometimes without even realizing it.

7. Not being sufficiently qualified for a particular type of job can be a mistake with major consequences.

8. Due to language or cultural barriers, miscommunication occurs. This can result in assistants / teams not fully understanding what is required of them.

9. Taking up deadlines that are too ambitious is also a common mistake.

10. Many assistants/teams fail to promote themselves. This can result in slow business growth.

Advance with Affordable Business Support Services & Products, Outsourcing with Personal Virtual Assistants today at: http://www.ohiohelpgroup.com - visit the links to sign up for their free newsletter packed with tips!

Moving Ahead with 10 Social Networking Tips

2009-11-02T16:14:00Z

Of late, many of us have been registering ourselves on various social networking websites like Twitter, Orkut, Facebook, LinkedIn and many others. But do we know how to go about it?

Mentioned below are a few social networking tips to help with your interaction.

1. Network: You need to choose the correct network that serves your purpose joining one. For example, musicians can promote their songs and videos on MySpace while professionals prefer Facebook and LinkedIn.

2. Effectiveness: Do not try to join all the possible networks, as you will not have the time to maintain all of them. Likewise, do not join all the groups that you come across within the networks, either. Choose only a few groups that suit your interests.

3. Consistency: It is necessary to be consistent through the different networks by adding the same information and profile picture when using similar IDs.

4. Profile: Your profile should be able to reflect the kind of person you are. Hence, go ahead and fill in as many details as possible to complete the profile. Your friends would want to know how you look, so upload a professional picture.

5. Interests: Add more friends who share the same interests as they will be more interested in sharing information and likes.

6. Activeness: Try to be regular to all your accounts. Comment on status messages, pictures,
videos and so on to be on feeds of your friends' profiles.

7. Spamming: Overdoing anything could be a disturbance. Send only relevant posts to prevent yourself from being a spammer.

8. Quality: Make sure you go through all your content to check and see if it is of good quality, before posting it on your profile and in your networking interactions.

9. Contacts: Keep in touch regularly with all your contacts, so that you can become more familiar with each other's likes, dislikes and current news.

10. Stress: Social networking is supposed to be fun, so do not stress yourself by going through your profiles and networking constantly. If you get stressed out, take a time out from the activities.

Advance with Affordable Business Support Services & Products, Social Networking & Outsourcing with Personal Virtual Assistants http://www.ohiohelpgroup.com - visit the links to sign up for their free newsletter packed with tips! today at:

60 Second Tip - Top 10 Outsourcing Goals You Should Have

2009-10-02T16:10:00Z

Outsourcing must be done in an organized and systematic manner. Also, explicit goals must be determined to get the most out of your ventures with virtual assistants.

1. The company's mission and intentions must be kept in mind before deciding upon outsourcing tasks, systems and deadlines.

2. The purpose of outsourcing must fit in with the plan and vision of the company. The emphasis must be on long-term goals as well as short-term ones.

3. Selecting the right vendor, keeping in mind the requirements and budget of you company is essential.

4. Maintaining and managing good relations with the vendor is important for long-term benefits.

5. Work agreements and contracts must be well-structured and address every important issue, like payments, ownership of work, etc.

6. Communication can become difficult while outsourcing, due to language and cultural differences. Thus regular interaction is a must to build and strength relationships and to help with avoiding potential miscommunications.

7. It helps to have your outsourcing ventures be fully supported by all senior executives of the company. Involvement of seniors in outsourcing can lead to smoother running of the projects.

8. Any personal issues that may arise out of the decision of the company to outsource must be
carefully and thoughtfully resolved. This way, conflict and differences can be resolved diplomatically.

9. Finances must be carefully discussed before and during outsourcing. In a new venture especially, many expenses rents, salaries, training, etc. may all require financing solutions. Discussing long-term financial goals as well as short-term expenses before taking on the project and throughout operations is a good idea.

10. Before finally settling on undertaking a venture, it is always wise to seek the advice of experts in the field. Don't overlook the benefits of hiring the services of a good coach or mentor.

Advance with Affordable Business Support Services & Products, Outsourcing with Personal Virtual Assistants today at: http://www.ohiohelpgroup.com - visit the links to sign up for their free newsletter packed with tips!

60 Second Tip - Top 10 Ways to Grow Your Business on a Shoestring Budget

2009-09-02T16:05:00Z

A general belief among many is that starting and growing a business can be an extremely costly affair. However, with some creative solutions, this start-up and growth period can be attained on a shoestring budget.

1. Choosing a business carefully is the first step. There are some businesses which inevitably require large capital and large budgets. Choose wisely.

2. Choose a business that has enough demand. This is especially important on a shoestring budget.

3. Set realistic goals relating to growth and profits. Although it is possible to grow your business on a shoestring budget, ambitions that are too high may not get realized very soon.

4. A lean budget means that you cannot spend on fancy office space. Home offices are a great alternative, since you can then focus more effort, time and other resources on your business needs.

5. Save on items and services like stationary, phone, electricity and other expenses that can easily be curtailed. Make your own office marketing and communications products (letter head, flyers, postcards, etc.). And use energy efficient products plus cut back on usage of them; turn them off when not in use, for starters.

6. Looking like a professional business is the key to attracting and keeping clients. Make efforts to look professional.

7. Be creative to extend your resources as much as you can.

8. Inexpensive marketing strategies like referral incentives, newsletters, flyers and coupons can help ensure good business and low expenses.

9. Providing great personal customer service can lead to your existing clients bringing in new prospective clients and repeat sales. Word of mouth can take your business to new heights plus it is free.

10. Have a rule of putting a certain percentage of your profits into a savings account. This can help ensure you always have extra money saved for any kind of emergency.

Advance with Affordable Business Support Services & Products, Outsourcing with Personal Virtual Assistants today at: http://www.ohiohelpgroup.com - visit the links to sign up for their free newsletter packed with tips!

Writing Tips with Free Download and Audio (Podcast) - Ghostwriting Do's and Don'ts

2009-08-28T10:23:00Z

Recorded live by IdeaMarketers.com

Ghostwriting Do's and Don'ts
Get a short 2-page PDF document from which you'll learn about 14 common errors that show up in many ghostwritten documents. Also included are three short steps to success for your ghostwriting endeavors. Download by clicking: Ghostwriting Errors

Podcast

Diana Barnum discusses ghostwriting and overcoming the common errors that ghostwriters make in the podcast below. Download the short PDF above that accompanies this, a helpful guide to follow while she share tips.

About Diana Barnum

Diana Barnum is the founder and president of Moving Ahead Communications, working in partnership with the Ohio Help Group, offering outsourcing services via personal virtual assistants to help individuals and companies start and grow their businesses with customized (often ghostwritten –shh!) products and services. For help getting more time, energy, leads, sales and income, readers are invited to sign up for the free company newsletter, "Moving Ahead Weekly Ezine: Helping You Advance with Business Support Service Info," at Moving Ahead Communications and share the link with others who could benefit. Also visit her at Moving Ahead with The Ohio Help Group.

More Free Downloads

Bookmark this page, share it with others and download as many of the files as you'd like! New online tools and other resources are added regularly to help with your projects. Click: http://free-stuff-news.com

Value and Benefits of Hubpages & Squidoo

2009-08-20T11:38:00Z

Due to some possible misconceptions about having a sole focus on Hubpages with scoring issues of a minimum of 75 and other mathematical and related issues to get a dofollow link, note there is a lot more to Hubpages than this. First of all, note that you do not have to focus on the Hubpages score; that's only one minor aspect of their program and not even a necessary item to focus on for success with their site pages. Most people who do well on Hubpages do not even focus on this; many have no concept of it and could care less.

Second, check out the multiple benefit package of Hubpages alone, and don't take our word for it - do your own research, starting here:

http://www.ehow.com/how_4701631_money-hubpages.html

http://creativeadworks.com/blog/the-benefits-of-hubpages

http://hubpages.com/hub/benefits-of-hubpages

In a nutshell, you’ll find that many, many people earn money from monetizing their Hubs, interacting as their own experts and actually marketing the pages themselves including the links in other promotions like article resource boxes, emails, etc. I.E. they don’t sit back and rely on search engines to find them and follow links, or any one-time set up with no interaction afterwards, etc.

If you are intent to focus on score alone (always optional), note the following

- you do not reach high scores instantly. It's a process and not a guaranteed one, so note the actual rules and bookmark the links, as these evolve and are under the control of Hubpages:

http://hubpages.com/hub/Hubscore

http://hubpages.com/hub/DoFollow

Mainly note:

"We reserve the right to change the factors used to assess a Hub’s HubScore as we continue to determine those that measure a great Hub." - Hubpages

I.E. no one can promise scores, not even Hubpages, especially over the long haul, because their program can change at any time, and it always involves many factors in their math calculations, factors that can and do change as their system evolves. Plus reaching high scores is not an overnight process.

So plan an effective program with Hubpages, not just a single-focused effort on "score" but a well-rounded use of the Hubpages using them in your other marketing efforts, sending visitors there, not just counting them as links. Your Hubpages can be very valuable. They are like anything else; they are what you make of them within their limitations and guidelines. They are not a quick fix for riches, internet marketing, etc. They are a channel of online marketing.

Squidoo Lenses

In a similar manner, Squidoo lenses carry multiple features and benefits. Again, their program is what you make of it, keeping up with the evolution of their site and program. Do you homework with their monetizing and internet marketing options to develop your lenses and grow your promotions in with your other marketing mix, online and off, sending visitors to your lenses in resource box links, email and forum signatures and invites, etc.

Where to Turn for Help

If you‘d like help marketing your Hubpages, Squidoo lenses and other links and / or content, just let us know. We have many programs to help and even customized services. For example, you can take your content and submit it to EzineArticles and / or Articlemarketer (you need a paid membership here) instead of leaving it on the Hubpages or Squidoo sites as your own marketing needs evolve; we can submit the content to those places for you.

Or you may seek help with sending people to your pages and lenses, and we can help with that, too, via article marketing with anchor links in the resource boxes of your articles, inviting readers to visit your URL and via press releases and a lot more. For 100+ ways to market your products and services, including your Hubages and Squidoo lenses, check our some of these ideas: http://movingaheadblog.com/2008/04/27/100-marketing-ideas-to-get-more-traffic-leads--sales.aspx to help with your promotions! Just give us a shout to see how we can help

Video Clip: 4 Key Issues to Watch During Outsourcing Trial Periods

2009-06-09T09:56:00Z

Presented by: Moving Ahead Communications and the Ohio Help Group

4 Key Issues to Watch During Outsourcing Trial Periods

Outsourcing is great most of the time. But you can run into trouble if you are not careful, getting poor quality work, late assignments completed -- if at all, and other headaches to deal with and juggle into your already hectic schedule.

What to look for during a trial period with outsourcing varies with the project. Four key issues to watch for are:

Deadlines

Is your work completed on time? Early is great. Late, especially for a trial period, doesn’t reflect well. Excuses of any kind just don’t seem to make the cut. Best option is generally to try with that person at a later time and see if things improve with this first round.

Quality

Was your work completed? Was it up to par? No one is perfect, so if minor revision work is needed and part of the deal, that should be fine. However, if major portions of the work come across with poor quality and simply don’t meet expectations at all, tally up a good payment for work completed, and close out your trial period, unless you have more time to invest for training and another trial period.

Communications

Does the math add up with your communications versus project time? Leave emotions out, like Mr. Spoke on “Star Trek.” I.E. let’s say you hired out an hour task. Did it take 2 hours to explain? That math doesn’t add up, so it would be best to either do it yourself, or find someone who’s experienced and needs much less explanation time.

Another option is to make teaching tutorials in any variety of formats for your workers: PowerPoint slide shows, Word docs, videos, etc. An investment one time could then cover multiple teaching for this task, if it’s something that’s needed many times. If the task is a one-time thing, though, don’t waste your time unless the math is there, or there is a reason you need to take a loss at this time.

Availability

Once you find good matches with people and companies for outsourcing, find the availability and get organized. Find out things like:

a) their turn-around times for project tasks
b) their cap on ordering (for example how many articles can they write in a week? How long will it take for a mini-site)
c) their preferred payment schedule and type
d) their complete contact info, especially if you are working through a freelance site like Elance. Get email address, phone, Skype, etc.
e) any other pertinent info

…and keep copies of this info in a special folder for the service provider for handy reference. And backup this folder.

This ends the short series on, “Tips For Hiring A Personal Assistant / Virtual Assistant With A Team.” For more help in this area, bookmark this blog and stop back for more articles. There are some others here with even more tips, and more are coming up.

If there are certain issues or topics you'd like addressed, just give a shout! Send me a PM, email or other type of message, and I'll do my best to cover it.

Thanks for visiting and checking out our blog! Have a great day

~~~~~~~~~~~~~
~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Advance with Affordable Business Support Services & Products
Moving Ahead with the Ohio Help Group

Video Clip: 7 Tips for Outsourcing with Personal Virtual Assistants

2009-06-06T05:13:00Z

Overview

With the advent of modern information technology and communication tools, national boundaries have become irrelevant. Services from almost any part of the globe can be attained quickly. The concepts of outsourcing and virtual assistants have emerged as a boon for modern entrepreneurs. Now even small businesses can access a much broader pool of talent, even at competitive pricing.

Tips to Get Help

The notion of outsourcing may sound alluring to many; however, it helps to note that the process requires careful planning to help avoid various hassles. To help with your planning and growth through outsourcing, here are some useful tips for working with outsourcing companies and virtual assistants (VAs):

1. Selecting the Company – The foremost step in the process of outsourcing services is the selection of the company. Be specific and inquisitive about the company, you are going to delegate your work. Carefully go through the company profile and check out its history. If possible, always go for the companies referred to you by your friends or colleagues.

2. Snatch the Best Deal, Not Necessarily the Cheapest – With the booming outsourcing phenomenon, make sure that you are not overpaying for your work. Thoroughly search for the cost effective and quality service providers across the net. However, be careful of companies who offer to work at throwaway prices as their reliability at times may be doubtful.

3. Setting Your Priorities – Make a priority list of the tasks needed to be performed by the outsourcing company or VA. This will minimize any sort of ambiguity during later stages of work. Prioritization also ensures smooth functioning of the process and thereby helps in successful completion of the project.

4. Defining the Task– After setting priorities for your tasks, be specific while defining the task to the outsourcing company or VA. Discuss your perception of the project and always be open to any form of queries from the other side.

5. Convey the Quality and Deadlines of the Task – Clearly communicate the quality you are looking for in your task with examples when possible, and express any timelines for your project to your VA or outsourcing company. This will also help the outsourcing company to deploy optimal workforce planning for your project.

6. Stay Connected – Keep in touch with your company or VA as your tasks get accomplished. Check progress reports of your project work. Confirm and share positive and helpful feedback along the way, as this will also help the outsourcing company in clearing any possible doubts at any stage of the project.

7. Stay tuned for more outsourcing tips. These can help you in maximizing your gains from outsourcing and keeping a VA and team of helpers for a diverse range of tasks all year long – and longer!

Presented by:

Moving Ahead Communications and the Ohio Help Group

Video Clip: Reach FT Status: 7 Steps to Reaching FT Status Working from Home with Internet Marketing Help

2009-06-02T10:42:00Z

Video Clip: Reach FT Status: 7 Steps to Reaching FT Status Working from Home with Internet Marketing Help

Presented by:

Moving Ahead Communications and the Ohio Help Group

7 Steps to Reaching FT 'Work from Home' Status

Interested in being self-employed FT, maybe with some Internet Marketing help? Do this:

1) Set up a profile at freelance job boards like Elance.com and lots of other boards out there and start bidding, using templates you make to be more efficient with bids. Some, like Elance at the time of this writing, allow a few free bids (three, I believe) and offer inexpensive tiered payment plans to grow your business along the way.

2) Update your resume, hiring professional help to do this, if you need to, and post it online with a nice Freelance website to showcase your work samples, resume, client testimonials, etc. Update this resume frequently with news, like a new Board position you may have in groups you are active in, new certifications, awards, etc. you may have, new workshops you’ve attended. Here’s mine as an example, doesn’t have to be fancy: Diana Barnum Resume

3) Submit your resume through ResumeRabbit; they are excellent. Seek part time and contract work. The submission they put out on the web will send folks your way for years.

4) Head to the USA government's Small Business Administration (SBA.gov) site. You’re in business now. They have free help linked all over their website, even free consulting via email: http://sba.gov (seek retired marketers for help, they have TONS of ideas and experienced success stories to help with your projects). Sign up for their free ezine & you’ll get timely tips, too, like ones I posted here form their latest issue:

http://www.warriorforum.com/blogs/db...referrals.html

5) Keep networking here and other online forums in your niches & offline, locally, through groups and volunteer work, business meetings announced in your newspaper, etc. to keep current with news, find workshops, competitions, etc. in your area and niches.

6) Seek part time and contract work from employment agencies in your area, and popular online classified ad sites that are cheap or free like Craigslist.com.

7) Market yourself and your services and add products into the mix, even if only affiliate products:

100+ Marketing Ideas (from the SBA)

Here's to your success!

Sincerely,

Warrior (& team) For Hire!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~
~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Advance with Affordable Business Support Services & Products
Moving Ahead with the Ohio Help Group

Video Clip: How to Make Money with a Ghostwriter & Private Label Rights

2009-05-29T12:44:00Z

Learn how to make money online or off with a ghostwriter & private label rights reports, articles, ebooks, videos and more!

Presented by:

Moving Ahead Communications and the Ohio Help Group

Video Clip: Adding Background Image to Twitter

2009-05-24T12:35:00Z

Get creative with your Twitter background using these helpful tips and suggestions. Presented by OhioHelpGroup.com

Presented by:

Moving Ahead Communications and the Ohio Help Group

For the entire series, visit & bookmark this page:

http://movingaheadblog.com/categories/Twitter.aspx

Start and Grow Your Business by Outsourcing with Personal Virtual Assistants

2009-05-18T13:35:00Z

Start and Grow Your Business by Outsourcing with Personal Virtual Assistants .

Presented by:

Moving Ahead Communications and the Ohio Help Group