small business, Self improvement, working at home, mental health, cooking, hobbies, gardening, wellness, health, fitness, motherhood and raising families

ADVERTISING ON THE INTERNET CAN BE DONE FOR FREE, BUT IT DOES TAKE SOME EFFORT.

That is OK, because most business people can find up to an hour a day when they can do some internet marketing.  It may mean that you need to learn some new skills, but if you are finding that you have a little time on your hands at the moment, then there has never been a better time to put your time into learning about internet marketing.

Small business owners must learn how to marketing on the internet.  Gone are the days when a business can survive purely and simply by offline marketing, and WHY?  Because it has got so damned expensive.  Most small businesses cannot afford to advertise in the media of any form.  It costs an arm and a leg and small businesses just do not have the funds.

Blogging is so easy, it really is.  Your customers will love hearing from you, it will give them something to do, checking in and seeing how things are going.  If you want to set up a blog you can do so for no money at all on Wordpress.com.  You will need to play around a bit to get it looking OK.  Have a look for more ideas on small business free marketing.

Have a look at http://isellrealestate.wordpress.com.  That was an easy site I set up for a client.  If you would like a site similar to that set up for you email me and kaye@ebooksnowonline.com and I can do that for you.

As well as blogging you can submit articles to article directories and this is a very good way of being able to advise your customers, or your customers to be, about what your products and services will do for them.

Contact me for a list of article directories that are helpful and that I use.  An article distribution service I use has an advanced section where you can create many different versions of the same article.

BUY YOUR OWN TICKETS ONLINE AND SAVE 

There are any number of online travel packages and here is how to find them.

  1. Travel e-newsletters – sign up and get the latest news  

You can keep yourself updated with the latest offers of the online travel agents and airlines. Just log on to their site, sign up for their e-newsletters and you will get the latest information through email.

2. Visit a number of sites and compare

Always compare the different offers on the net before you pick any. You might come across an agent with a better package. See if the offer is actually as lucrative as it seems.  You just might find that it doesn’t include the airfare that you expected.

 3. Consider the discounts offered but also any restrictions

Do not hesitate to check out all the possible areas where you might have a discount. You can encash your Air Miles or frequent flyer miles if you have any. AAA/CAA membership or affiliations can also give you concessions. You can also save money if they allow children or senior discounts, or family rates.

4. Leave your requests on the travel sites and let them get back to you

You can make your work a lot easier if you leave it on the travel websites. You can specify your criteria, and will be informed by email when the prices come near to the one that you stated.

DID YOU EVEN KNOW THERE ARE DIFFERENT TYPES OF ADVERTISING?

Most small businesses have tight marketing budget and need to get a quick and immediate response to their advertising.

For this reason small business marketing has to be well thought out and planned so that you  do not waste your advertising dollars. 

You need to:

• tell the customer who you are
• where you are
• what you sell (your USP)
• the product that you have on sale, the benefit of owning the product, how long for (limit the sale time) and the price – in that order

For example:

"Bonny Togs will help your baby grow without the restriction of tight clothing, will expand as they learn to crawl around, and protect their sensitive skin from carpet rash.  Our new range has hit the stores right now and for the week 20 – 27 March we are specialling them at: Buy One, get the second one at 1/2 price!  That's right!  Just one week only, so don't miss out!  Visit us at 15 Baby Street, Bloomingtown before the 27th March."

 Keep your advertising short, customer orientated, and make sure you have a call to action.

 Most advertising these days where a product is being specialled has a limited time factor.  Otherwise people just get used to the discount and don't rush to purchase.

Look for cheap travel deals when you Vacation in Costa Rica

When you are planning your next vacation to Costa Rica, be sure to include time to visit the pristine area of the Osa Peninsula, located in the south pacific region of the country. As it was recently referred to by National Geographic as one of the most biologically intense areas of the world, this part of Costa Rica has become one of the most popular eco tourism destinations within the world. Weather on the island is typically warm as it is located in the tropical region of the world, with temperatures hovering in the 70’s and 80’s year round.This area of the country is not for every traveller. While some of the Osa Peninsula is developed for tourists, the country seeks to keep the pristine landscape and wildlife as much in its natural habitat as possible. Travelers will not find rows and rows of mega hotels along the beaches but rather lodging that fits into the habitats with as little interruption to the landscape or wildlife as possible. So, more than anything, the Osa Peninsula is considered to be a prime eco tourism destination for travelers looking to see habitats in their most natural states.

This area of Costa Rica is one of the only locations that has been virtually untouched by man. In addition to the national parks found in the area, the rest of the peninsula is relatively virgin in terms of disruption from residents or tourists.  

Parks and Wildlife

One of the most widely visited areas of the Osa Peninsula is the Corcovado National Park, covering the largest portion of land in the area. This tropical rainforest is home to some of the most diverse wildlife and plant life in the world and houses some of the tallest rain forest trees in the world. Some of the most well known wildlife that can be seen in the Corcovado National Park includes the jaguar, barids tapir, white lipped peccaries, the harpy Eagle and scarlet macaws. But, there are over 150 specifies of butterflies, 400 different kinds of birds, 124 mammal varieties and over 5000 plants that can be seen within this small area of land.

Drake Bay

This city names after Sir Francis Drake is well known for the ongoing belief that there is a buried treasure still located somewhere in the area. Drake Bay is thought to have some of the most beautiful beaches in the entire country of Costa Rica, capturing some of the most picturesque scenes in the world. Those visitors, who are interested in scuba diving often frequent Cano Island, located just off the shore line. In addition to scuba diving, visitors often enjoy sport fishing.

A short walk away can take visitors to the Guyami Indian Reservation where shopping for handcrafted items is a popular past time. While you can find this area on your own, it is recommended to walk with a guide.

Osa Peninsula’s East Coast

While the Drake Bay is frequently spoken about, one of the most widely visited portions of the peninsula is located on the east side of the island. This area is most well know for the wildlife, including humpback whales, whale sharks, dolphins and schools of tuna that are frequently seen by visitors. In addition to the stunning and diverse wildlife that can be seen, tourists love to relax on the area’s pristine beaches.

Sierpe

This river town is actually the entry for the wetlands of the Delta of Terraba and the lower Diquis Valley. If you are interested in seeing mangrove trees, this is one of the largest reserve areas in all of Central America. Some of the wildlife that can be seen in the area includes crocodiles, monkeys, a variety of bird species, and caimans. This is also the most popular area for avid fisherman to visit due to the wide variety of fish available and year round fishing availability.

Other Activities Available when Visiting the Costa Rica

Have fun and find fun filled activities when in Costa Rica. 

In addition to some of the most popular areas to visit on the Osa Peninsula, there are also a variety of other activities to participate in, sure to appeal to virtually every type of traveler.

Some of these activities include:

Fishing- Sport fishing is available within any one of the available rivers nearby and for deep sea fisherman.

Snorkelling/Scuba Diving-Some of the most beautiful marine wildlife in the world can be seen when diving or snorkelling on tours or on self guided excursions. Equipment is available to rent across the area of you can visit with your own.

Beaches- For travelers who are looking to soak up some of the South American sun, there are plenty of beautiful beaches to relax on. In addition to relaxing, many beach goers find themselves talking long walks in which they typically will find hidden waterfalls, a variety of birds to watch and several private, deserted beaches.

Night Tours- Due to the variety of bug life found in the area, several tour guides have arranged night tours where many of these species can be seen more clearly. This experience is a must do for tourists. Although, if you are squeamish at the sight of bugs, this tour is probably not the best choice for you.

Canopy Tours- Imagine being able to view the beauty of the area from high atop the trees. This type of tour begins with a hike up to the top of platforms where you can walk along constructed walk ways.

To find out how to have a great budget holiday get all the facts first.

FINANCING A NEW SMALL BUSINESS CAN BE A BIT OF A TASK

There is no doubt that borrowing money has been easier in the past.  Banks have got much more severe with their lending policies and more than ever before you need to be totally prepared to go and ask a bank for some money for a small business.

Having a business plan prepared, backed up with a marketing plan is a must if you are expecting a bank to take you  seriously when asking for money for a small business.

Not only that, it will be great for you too because by going through the process of setting up a business plan you will understand your business a whole lot better and this will help you as you set up your business and run it in the first few months.  In saying that, a business plan should always be kept up to date and every six months or so it is a good idea to work on it and bring it up to date.  Information changes all the time and you don't want to be caught out working with outdated information.

Bank managers need to be assured that you know what you are doing and that you understand the whole concept of any business that you are contemplating starting. 

Whether it is a home based business or a business in leased premises, you need to have all your data listed.

YOU WONT BE SORRY IF YOU TRY THIS RECIPE – I JUST COULD NOT BELIEVE IT COULD TASTE SO GOOD!

BREAD PUDDING - the best you have ever tasted

Fruit bread slices buttered (use quality bread and enough for 2 – 3 layers depending on the depth of your baking dish)

3 tbls plum jam

2 ripe bananas

2 tbls brown sugar

Sultanas

5 eggs (more if you have a big dish)

2 tbls castor sugar

1 tsp vanilla essence

½ tsp coconut essence

¾ cup milk 

Spray your baking dish.  Butter enough bread to fill dish.  With the first layer, lay it buttered side down. Spread a good layer of plum jam over bread.  Roughly mash bananas and spread over bread.  Put in another layer of bread, buttered side up.  (If you are using 3 layers, repeat the jam layer again).Sprinkle top with brown sugar and sultanas.Mix remaining ingredients (eggs, castor sugar, vanilla, coconut essence and milk).  Pour over bread.

Bake in oven at 180° for 15 mins and reduce temperature to 150° and cook until firm (about 35 mins).

For more delicious desserts you cannot go past some of our ebooks.  Anything from cheesecakes, chocolate and so many more mouthwatering recipes.

HAVE YOU EVER DONE A BUSINESS PLAN BEFORE?  IT REALLY ISN’T THAT DIFFICULT TO FIND THE INFORMATION, BUT I DO AGREE IT IS TIME CONSUMING.

But wouldn’t you rather put in the time before setting up and knowing your total situation.  It will help you be focused, stay focused, know your not so good points, allow you to address points that need improving before you set up and so much more.

WHAT IS YOUR PROPOSED BUSINESS ALL ABOUT?

Now is the time for you to really think about why you are starting your business. 

Is it because you have always had a mad desire to run your own business, because you have a burning need to prove to everyone else how good you are at selling, fed up with being bossed around by a so called manager who knows less than you, or do you really want to seriously give your whole being to have a successful business?

That is what you need to address here.

HOW WELL DO YOU UNDERSTAND YOUR PROPOSED BUSINESS?

For example, if you want to have a cafe, do you understand all the health and food regulations that will apply to what you are setting up? 

Do you realise that there will be strict council regulations to abide by?  What is your view of the menu you want to have – is it just what you like eating or are there thousands of customers out there who will want to eat the same thing. 

If you like really strong coffee, do you think that all your customers should have the same coffee served to them? 

So many of these types of questions need looking into if you are going to start any small business.

HAVE YOU HAD A SERIOUS CHAT WITH YOUR ACCOUNTANT?

Before you set too many wheels in motion you need to have a chat to your accountant and see if you will have the funds for starting a new business. 

You need to get a ’set up budget’ organised and you also need a ‘running budget’  for when the business is operating.  Both of these should be included in a business plan.

The ownership of the business needs to be carefully thought out as well.  There are many structures under which you can operate and the more common structures are: sole trader, partnership, company and trust.  

Your own personal circumstances will determine what you should set your business up under.   

For more information about setting up a small business you can get our FREE EBOOK HERE

Most people who go into small business borrow money.  Whether it is because you do not have the cash to go into business or whether it is because you are doing so to get the tax benefits.   It does not really matter what the reason is, the fact of the matter is that to get a loan you should have a business plan to take to your lender.

You see, a very high percentage of small businesses fail in the first 5 years and mostly it is because of finance either at the beginning or the finance to grow the business as required during that time.   If it is not the finance it is more often than not the fact that the owner has no marketing strategy and eventually the business fades into oblivion. To convince a lender to give you money you need to be able to prove to them that you know what you are doing and what you plan to do in the next 5 years.  Gone are the days when you can walk into a bank, like I did 30 years ago and ask for a loan and have the bank manager say with a big smile on his face: “I like the look of you, I will definitely lend you the money.” 

THE PURPOSE OF A BUSINESS PLAN 

The idea of a business plan is to let your lender understand:

 ·        what your proposed business is all about

 ·        how well you understand your proposed business

·        that you have analysed the business ownership structure

·        that you have talked to your accountant

·        that you have a very good budget for setting up the business and also for the ongoing running of the business

·        how much research you have done in relation to the product or products that you are going to be selling

·        that you understand what your competition is doing

·        that you know the legal obligations of the business

·        that you have a marketing plan and the funds to pay for it

·        your plans for the next 5 years

·        most importantly how you plan to pay the money back

I am sure you can see from this list that there is a lot to consider when making up a business plan and you can also see why a lender would want you to have one if you are planning on starting a small business on their money. As mentioned earlier, a marketing plan is also very important to have made up and you should take a copy of the marketing plan with you when you approach your lender.   

In total, before opening the doors of your small business you should have a business plan and a marketing plan already made up and in printed form.

FOR MY FREE EBOOK ON HOW TO HAVE A SUCCESSFUL HOME BUSINESS (suitable for all small businesses) go to

IF YOU ARE A PERSON OF MANY TALENTS YOU MAY HAVE TO TRY SEVERAL SMALL BUSINESSES BEFORE YOU DECIDE ON THE RIGHT ONE 

When I started working at home years ago, I tried several things.  I made money at each, but I could see that my skills were not really in those businesses I was doing. 

It wasn't til I bought an internet business and started writing as a career that I really found something I loved.  My failing there was not analysing how good I was at what I was attempting to do, and sometimes even consciously ignoring the actual thing that eventually made me give up the business.

One of the most memorable was a party plan giftware business.  I had to carry some heavy boxes, and I knew from the outset that my back was not that good, and in the end I had to stop because of it.    I saw this as a failure in that I ignored the fact of a bad back, but it took me one step closer to finding something that I did like, because party plan had always been something I had wanted to try.  The business itself was running along nicely, but knowing how sore I was going to be at the end of each day changed my attitude and I did not like it as much in the end.

The process of elimination may be the way you will have to find out what you really like doing.