Gotta digital passport card? Well, at the last count, more than a million Americans have already been issued with the new security cards, called U.S. Passport Cards, introduced in July of last year.
And no sooner had they arrived, than stories started hitting the Internet warning that the microchips on the devices could be read by scanners from 20 or 30 feet away.
Click Here to read the full article.
©Copyright Audri and Jim Lanford. All rights reserved.
Reprinted with permission.
Subscribe free to Internet Scambusters at
http://www.scambusters.org
Saturday, November 28, 2009
Friday, November 20, 2009
How to Spot a Holiday Scam -- and Find Genuine Bargains
Bogus online stores and websites peddling cheap knock-offs of branded products masquerading as the real thing are at the top of the big holiday scams of 2009.
As we head into one of the busiest shopping and traveling periods of the year, it pays to wise up to the Thanksgiving and Christmas scam risks that the increasingly smart crooks have lined up.
Click Here to read the full article.
©Copyright Audri and Jim Lanford. All rights reserved.
Reprinted with permission.
Subscribe free to Internet Scambusters at
http://www.scambusters.org
As we head into one of the busiest shopping and traveling periods of the year, it pays to wise up to the Thanksgiving and Christmas scam risks that the increasingly smart crooks have lined up.
Click Here to read the full article.
©Copyright Audri and Jim Lanford. All rights reserved.
Reprinted with permission.
Subscribe free to Internet Scambusters at
http://www.scambusters.org
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Alexa Updates Their Algorithm: Rankings Change
Written By Michael Fleischner
If you’re a big fan of Alexa rankings, you may have noticed some significant changes during the last few weeks. In fact, every website’s Alexa ranking has changed based on a new and improved ranking methodology.
When Alexa began displaying rankings about ten years ago, it was with the goal of showing Alexa Toolbar users how popular any given site was within the Alexa community. They generated the rankings through an analysis of Internet usage by people who use the Alexa Toolbar. Since that time they’ve seen that the Alexa Rankings have become a yardstick by which website popularity is measured. In recent months Alexa users thirst for knowledge beyond Internet usage outside of the Alexa Toolbar was increasingly of interest. This is the fundamental reason for a revision in Alexa methodology.
Alexa’s new rankings system is much closer to what users want. They now aggregate data from multiple sources to give everyone a better indication of website popularity among the entire population of Internet users.
Below are a few common questions Alexa anticipates from the Alexa community, along with their answers.
My site’s ranking has changed. Was it wrong before?
Your ranking wasn’t wrong before, but it was different. Alexa toolbar users’ interests and surfing habits could differ from those of the general population in a number of ways, and we described some of those possible differences on our website. While the vast majority of sites’ rankings were unaffected by such differences, we’ve worked hard on our new ranking system to adjust for situations in which they could matter.
The new rankings should better reflect the interests and surfing habits of the broader population of Web users.
Will Alexa change the rankings again?
Alexa is constantly working to ensure that we provide the most useful data that they can. They will continue to fine tune their algorithms but don’t foresee any additional big changes.
I liked the old rankings better. Are they still available somewhere?
A lot of people liked the old rankings. However, Alexa has developed the new system in response to the huge number of requests they received from users. Having more than one ranking system at a time would be confusing, so Alexa has removed the old rankings.
The change to the Alexa algorithm is a good thing. It’s much more comprehensive and accurate, expanding beyond the traditional Alexa panel. If you’ve checked your Alexa rankings since the change, you’ll notice a change in ranking – let’s hope you’ve benefited!
About the Author
Michael Fleischner is an Internet marketing expert with more than 12 years of marketing experience. To see a marketing expert picture or discover how to improve search engine rankings on Google and other major search engines, visit http://improvesearchenginerankings.blogspot.com
If you’re a big fan of Alexa rankings, you may have noticed some significant changes during the last few weeks. In fact, every website’s Alexa ranking has changed based on a new and improved ranking methodology.
When Alexa began displaying rankings about ten years ago, it was with the goal of showing Alexa Toolbar users how popular any given site was within the Alexa community. They generated the rankings through an analysis of Internet usage by people who use the Alexa Toolbar. Since that time they’ve seen that the Alexa Rankings have become a yardstick by which website popularity is measured. In recent months Alexa users thirst for knowledge beyond Internet usage outside of the Alexa Toolbar was increasingly of interest. This is the fundamental reason for a revision in Alexa methodology.
Alexa’s new rankings system is much closer to what users want. They now aggregate data from multiple sources to give everyone a better indication of website popularity among the entire population of Internet users.
Below are a few common questions Alexa anticipates from the Alexa community, along with their answers.
My site’s ranking has changed. Was it wrong before?
Your ranking wasn’t wrong before, but it was different. Alexa toolbar users’ interests and surfing habits could differ from those of the general population in a number of ways, and we described some of those possible differences on our website. While the vast majority of sites’ rankings were unaffected by such differences, we’ve worked hard on our new ranking system to adjust for situations in which they could matter.
The new rankings should better reflect the interests and surfing habits of the broader population of Web users.
Will Alexa change the rankings again?
Alexa is constantly working to ensure that we provide the most useful data that they can. They will continue to fine tune their algorithms but don’t foresee any additional big changes.
I liked the old rankings better. Are they still available somewhere?
A lot of people liked the old rankings. However, Alexa has developed the new system in response to the huge number of requests they received from users. Having more than one ranking system at a time would be confusing, so Alexa has removed the old rankings.
The change to the Alexa algorithm is a good thing. It’s much more comprehensive and accurate, expanding beyond the traditional Alexa panel. If you’ve checked your Alexa rankings since the change, you’ll notice a change in ranking – let’s hope you’ve benefited!
About the Author
Michael Fleischner is an Internet marketing expert with more than 12 years of marketing experience. To see a marketing expert picture or discover how to improve search engine rankings on Google and other major search engines, visit http://improvesearchenginerankings.blogspot.com
Is This A Bad Time To Market? by C.J. Hayden, MCC Nov. 12, 2008
Economic indicators are predicting a recession. Consumer and business spending are down; unemployment is up. The holiday season is almost upon us, traditionally a slow time for independent professionals. It’s natural to wonder whether perhaps this is a bad time to be marketing your business.
Since I’ve been self-employed for almost two decades now, I’ve seen several economic cycles – and many holiday seasons – come and go. What I notice about these “down” periods is that people who frequently struggle to get clients typically think these are bad times to market. On the other hand, people who have been consistently successful at landing clients seem to believe that there is never a bad time to market. Personally, I’d vote to follow the lead of those who are succeeding.
Professionals who have built successful long-term businesses have learned that continuing to market pays off in both the best of times and the worst of times. But you may not be able to produce new results by marketing in the same old way. Here are six suggestions for how to keep your marketing up when the overall business climate is down.
1. Turn up the volume. When people are distracted by bad news, economic concerns, or holiday plans, you may need to communicate more often or more visibly. Where an email might have done the job before, now you may need to pick up the phone or send a postcard. Instead of just one follow-up call, you may need to make two or three. If your business is slowing down, make use of the extra time you have available to ramp up all your marketing efforts.
2. Become a necessity. When clients are cutting back on discretionary spending, they need to perceive your services as essential. Look for ways to “dollarize” the value of your services. How can you help your clients save money, cut expenses, or work more efficiently? Will your services help them gain more customers, increase their income, or experience less stress in tough times? Tell your prospects exactly why they need you, and why they shouldn’t wait to get started.
3. Make use of your existing network. It’s always easier to get your foot in the door when someone is holding it open. In a slow market, referrals and introductions can be the key to getting new business. Seek out opportunities to propose repeat business with former clients, too. Uncertain times encourage more reliance on trusted sources and known quantities, so warm approaches and existing contacts will pay off better than cold calls or mass mailings.
4. Explore partnerships. Working with a partner can create more opportunities for both of you. By sharing contacts, you each increase the size of your network. Together, you can multiply your marketing efforts and share expenses. A partner with a complementary business can allow you to offer a more complete solution than your competitors can. A photographer could team up with a graphic designer, for example. And you can help keep each other’s spirits up, too.
5. Meet people where they are. In a down economy and at holiday time, prospects are even more price sensitive than usual. Instead of slashing your rates to get their business, propose a get-acquainted offer. A professional organizer or image consultant could offer a reduced price half-day package for new clients. A management consultant or executive coach could propose a staff seminar instead of consulting/coaching work. Once clients see you in action, they’ll be more willing to spend.
6. Find the silver linings. When companies cut back on staff, opportunities are created. With fewer people on the payroll to handle essential tasks, downsized organizations present possibilities for project work, interim assignments, and outsourced functions. Economic changes beget other needs. People who are out of work need resume writers and career coaches. Folks concerned about their finances need investment advisors and financial planners.
Landing clients during a down period requires not just more marketing, but more strategic marketing. So instead of getting depressed by the news, get inspired by it. When you hear about coming layoffs, consider how your services could benefit those companies. When you read about negative consumer attitudes, use those words to better target your marketing copy. When prospects say, “not this year,” craft a proposal that ensures your place in their 2009 budget.
For the successful independent professional, there’s no such thing as a bad time to market.
Copyright © 2004, C.J. Hayden
Read more free articles by C.J. Hayden or subscribe to the GET CLIENTS NOW! E-Letter.
Since I’ve been self-employed for almost two decades now, I’ve seen several economic cycles – and many holiday seasons – come and go. What I notice about these “down” periods is that people who frequently struggle to get clients typically think these are bad times to market. On the other hand, people who have been consistently successful at landing clients seem to believe that there is never a bad time to market. Personally, I’d vote to follow the lead of those who are succeeding.
Professionals who have built successful long-term businesses have learned that continuing to market pays off in both the best of times and the worst of times. But you may not be able to produce new results by marketing in the same old way. Here are six suggestions for how to keep your marketing up when the overall business climate is down.
1. Turn up the volume. When people are distracted by bad news, economic concerns, or holiday plans, you may need to communicate more often or more visibly. Where an email might have done the job before, now you may need to pick up the phone or send a postcard. Instead of just one follow-up call, you may need to make two or three. If your business is slowing down, make use of the extra time you have available to ramp up all your marketing efforts.
2. Become a necessity. When clients are cutting back on discretionary spending, they need to perceive your services as essential. Look for ways to “dollarize” the value of your services. How can you help your clients save money, cut expenses, or work more efficiently? Will your services help them gain more customers, increase their income, or experience less stress in tough times? Tell your prospects exactly why they need you, and why they shouldn’t wait to get started.
3. Make use of your existing network. It’s always easier to get your foot in the door when someone is holding it open. In a slow market, referrals and introductions can be the key to getting new business. Seek out opportunities to propose repeat business with former clients, too. Uncertain times encourage more reliance on trusted sources and known quantities, so warm approaches and existing contacts will pay off better than cold calls or mass mailings.
4. Explore partnerships. Working with a partner can create more opportunities for both of you. By sharing contacts, you each increase the size of your network. Together, you can multiply your marketing efforts and share expenses. A partner with a complementary business can allow you to offer a more complete solution than your competitors can. A photographer could team up with a graphic designer, for example. And you can help keep each other’s spirits up, too.
5. Meet people where they are. In a down economy and at holiday time, prospects are even more price sensitive than usual. Instead of slashing your rates to get their business, propose a get-acquainted offer. A professional organizer or image consultant could offer a reduced price half-day package for new clients. A management consultant or executive coach could propose a staff seminar instead of consulting/coaching work. Once clients see you in action, they’ll be more willing to spend.
6. Find the silver linings. When companies cut back on staff, opportunities are created. With fewer people on the payroll to handle essential tasks, downsized organizations present possibilities for project work, interim assignments, and outsourced functions. Economic changes beget other needs. People who are out of work need resume writers and career coaches. Folks concerned about their finances need investment advisors and financial planners.
Landing clients during a down period requires not just more marketing, but more strategic marketing. So instead of getting depressed by the news, get inspired by it. When you hear about coming layoffs, consider how your services could benefit those companies. When you read about negative consumer attitudes, use those words to better target your marketing copy. When prospects say, “not this year,” craft a proposal that ensures your place in their 2009 budget.
For the successful independent professional, there’s no such thing as a bad time to market.
Copyright © 2004, C.J. Hayden
Read more free articles by C.J. Hayden or subscribe to the GET CLIENTS NOW! E-Letter.
Monday, November 9, 2009
Saying Thanks Is Good Marketing by C.J. Hayden, MCC
Never underestimate the power of a thank you. Recently, I thanked someone for helping me solve a technical problem. She replied to my note of thanks by inviting me as a guest speaker for a group she chairs. I didn't even know she chaired this group and had never considered speaking there. This speaking opportunity would never have occurred if I hadn't taken a moment to say thanks. It started me thinking about how often saying thank you turns into paying business.
Here in the U.S., it's Thanksgiving month, when we often pause to reflect on our gratitude. So it's an excellent time to consider seven ways of saying thank you that can bring you more clients.
1. Thank those who refer clients. When you thank people for sending referrals your way, several positive results ensue. Being thanked encourages them to send more referrals, as they know you appreciate them. Expressing thanks gives you a reason to get in touch with them, find out what they are up to, and let them know what you're doing these days, which is always good for business. It also shows them that you are a professional who follows up and follows through.
2. Thank those who refer prospects who never become clients. Referrals that don't result in business may seem as if they don't warrant thanks. But it's essential that you thank people every time they refer. When a referral doesn't turn into a client because he or she chooses someone else, the two of you aren't a good fit, or you're too busy, the prospect frequently tells the referrer that "it didn't work out." As a result, that referrer is unlikely to send you any more business.
Instead, say thanks for every prospect, no matter what happens. It you end up not working with that person, tell the referrer why. If the referral wasn't on target for your business, say more about who would be a good client for you. If you're too busy, explain that it's only temporary and future referrals would be welcome. And if the prospect chose someone else, express thanks for the great opportunity and that you'd appreciate more just like it.
3. Thank your clients. Even when you are interacting with clients daily, taking a moment to thank them for their continued trust will increase their respect for you, boost their loyalty, and encourage them to refer others. Thanking past clients for the work you did together is often a much more powerful and gracious way to stimulate repeat business or new referrals than asking for those outcomes directly.
4. Thank the leaders of groups you belong to. Association officers, program and membership chairs, and special interest group leaders deserve your thanks for the hard work they do. And, these high-profile individuals are often asked to refer someone with a particular specialty for an interview, speaking engagement, or business opportunity. Expressing your thanks gives you a chance to get better acquainted with them so they'll think of you first.
5. Thank people who mention you in articles, blogs, and social networks. It has happened to me more times than I can count that I have thanked people for mentioning me or my work in an article or Facebook, Twitter, or blog post, and they have replied by asking me to speak for their group, be interviewed for an article, or contribute to their blog. Saying thank you increases the affinity between you and those you thank. It makes them want to find other ways to engage with you.
6. Thank those who provide good service. A lovely way to thank people who serve you and your business is to offer a testimonial they can use in their own marketing. Making your thanks public can result in higher name recognition for you and your business, inbound links to your website or social networking profile, and sometimes even gains you priority service because the recipient of your testimonial wants to keep your goodwill.
7. Thank prominent people who inspire you. Those who generously give of their time to help and inspire others are seldom thanked enough for their efforts. When you go out of your way to give thanks, you'll stand out and be remembered, adding influential people like these to your personal network.
So many ways to give thanks may suggest that you could spend your whole day thanking people, and that's not a bad thought. Saying thank you isn't just a nice thing to do, it's a practical approach to strengthening relationships, encouraging referrals, staying in touch with your network, and reminding people what your business is about. With thank yous leading to business in so many ways, perhaps they should become a significant part of your marketing strategy.
And by the way, thank you for reading this article, buying my book, and sending referrals my way! I appreciate your trust and look forward to serving you for another year.
Copyright © 2004, C.J. Hayden
Read more free articles by C.J. Hayden or subscribe to the GET CLIENTS NOW! E-Letter.
Bookmark & Share
Here in the U.S., it's Thanksgiving month, when we often pause to reflect on our gratitude. So it's an excellent time to consider seven ways of saying thank you that can bring you more clients.
1. Thank those who refer clients. When you thank people for sending referrals your way, several positive results ensue. Being thanked encourages them to send more referrals, as they know you appreciate them. Expressing thanks gives you a reason to get in touch with them, find out what they are up to, and let them know what you're doing these days, which is always good for business. It also shows them that you are a professional who follows up and follows through.
2. Thank those who refer prospects who never become clients. Referrals that don't result in business may seem as if they don't warrant thanks. But it's essential that you thank people every time they refer. When a referral doesn't turn into a client because he or she chooses someone else, the two of you aren't a good fit, or you're too busy, the prospect frequently tells the referrer that "it didn't work out." As a result, that referrer is unlikely to send you any more business.
Instead, say thanks for every prospect, no matter what happens. It you end up not working with that person, tell the referrer why. If the referral wasn't on target for your business, say more about who would be a good client for you. If you're too busy, explain that it's only temporary and future referrals would be welcome. And if the prospect chose someone else, express thanks for the great opportunity and that you'd appreciate more just like it.
3. Thank your clients. Even when you are interacting with clients daily, taking a moment to thank them for their continued trust will increase their respect for you, boost their loyalty, and encourage them to refer others. Thanking past clients for the work you did together is often a much more powerful and gracious way to stimulate repeat business or new referrals than asking for those outcomes directly.
4. Thank the leaders of groups you belong to. Association officers, program and membership chairs, and special interest group leaders deserve your thanks for the hard work they do. And, these high-profile individuals are often asked to refer someone with a particular specialty for an interview, speaking engagement, or business opportunity. Expressing your thanks gives you a chance to get better acquainted with them so they'll think of you first.
5. Thank people who mention you in articles, blogs, and social networks. It has happened to me more times than I can count that I have thanked people for mentioning me or my work in an article or Facebook, Twitter, or blog post, and they have replied by asking me to speak for their group, be interviewed for an article, or contribute to their blog. Saying thank you increases the affinity between you and those you thank. It makes them want to find other ways to engage with you.
6. Thank those who provide good service. A lovely way to thank people who serve you and your business is to offer a testimonial they can use in their own marketing. Making your thanks public can result in higher name recognition for you and your business, inbound links to your website or social networking profile, and sometimes even gains you priority service because the recipient of your testimonial wants to keep your goodwill.
7. Thank prominent people who inspire you. Those who generously give of their time to help and inspire others are seldom thanked enough for their efforts. When you go out of your way to give thanks, you'll stand out and be remembered, adding influential people like these to your personal network.
So many ways to give thanks may suggest that you could spend your whole day thanking people, and that's not a bad thought. Saying thank you isn't just a nice thing to do, it's a practical approach to strengthening relationships, encouraging referrals, staying in touch with your network, and reminding people what your business is about. With thank yous leading to business in so many ways, perhaps they should become a significant part of your marketing strategy.
And by the way, thank you for reading this article, buying my book, and sending referrals my way! I appreciate your trust and look forward to serving you for another year.
Copyright © 2004, C.J. Hayden
Read more free articles by C.J. Hayden or subscribe to the GET CLIENTS NOW! E-Letter.
Bookmark & Share
Sports Scam Artists Play for High Stakes
Since probably more than half the population has an interest in sports, it's no surprise that various types of sports scams are equally widespread.
In fact, the growth of the Internet has contributed significantly to the increasing incidence of one of the most common variations -- the sports betting scam.
Click here to read the full article.
©Copyright Audri and Jim Lanford. All rights reserved.
Reprinted with permission.
Subscribe free to Internet Scambusters at
http://www.scambusters.org
Bookmark & Share
In fact, the growth of the Internet has contributed significantly to the increasing incidence of one of the most common variations -- the sports betting scam.
Click here to read the full article.
©Copyright Audri and Jim Lanford. All rights reserved.
Reprinted with permission.
Subscribe free to Internet Scambusters at
http://www.scambusters.org
Bookmark & Share
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