We’ve been answering questions for the past week or so and one in particular stood out because it reflects what a lot of you might be going through in developing your business and building your website.
The question was this:
How do I optimize my site for the search engines and rank for a certain keyword?
Recently, Stacey Cochran (who will be interviewing us on Time Warner’s Artist’s Craft this September 21) wrote in and said that he had just finished reading “Cyber Gold” and was ready to begin building his website, but he had a few questions first.
Now, Stacey’s site immediately became a unique case to us because he figured out his target audience and keywords BEFORE choosing a name for his site. He knew that he wanted a site about how to get a book published and would offer tips and guidance to new authors looking into the somewhat confusing world of publishing.
He pulled up the iwebtool and went to work. He found that “how to publish a book” would work best for his site and immediately bought the domain name http://www.howtopublishabook.org . He has since been following our step by step optimization process and implementing each keyword into the content of his site.
Truly, very clever.
For the most part, people buy domain names based on their business name. We did this with both of our businesses, http://www.shoplizards.com and http://www.wordpartnersink.com. It’s a common, accepted, and mostly expected way of being a presence on the internet.
[ more.. ]
How to Optimize Your Site For the Search Engines
August 25, 2007, 10:01 pmThe Stretch IRA: An Asset Transfer Strategy
August 24, 2007, 11:20 am
The Stretch IRA: An Asset Transfer Strategy
Provided by:
Tressa Rockwood
Financial Advisor
UBS Financial Services Inc.
Although you initially established an IRA as a nest egg for your retirement years, you may also want to consider using your IRA as a tax-efficient vehicle to pass wealth on to your heirs—particularly if you have other sources of retirement income and do not need to draw funds from your traditional IRA. You may choose to keep your traditional IRA intact until reaching age 701/2 , at which time you must begin taking required minimum distributions (RMDs).
The discussion that follows will focus on a strategy to withdraw the minimum amount required each year under IRS guidelines and to maximize the tax-deferred compounding on the assets remaining in the IRA for as long as possible. The strategy is commonly referred to as the “stretch IRA.”
In the example, the IRA owner, John Smith, has named his wife, Mary as the sole primary beneficiary of his IRA. John just turned 70½ and has now taken his first RMD. John dies at age 71.
Mary, who is now 66, decides to treat the IRA as her own and names her son, Jack, as her primary beneficiary. Since Mary has elected to treat John’s IRA as her own, she does not have to take RMDs from the IRA until she turns age 70½. (Note that this option is only available to a spouse who is named sole primary beneficiary.) Mary takes RMDs from age 70½ until she dies at age 77.
Jack, now age 53, maintains the account as a beneficiary IRA and names his son, Mark, as beneficiary. Jack is required to take distributions from the IRA based on his remaining single life expectancy. He takes distributions every year for another 23 years until his death at age 75. His son Mark, at age 41, now takes distributions each year until the assets in the account are fully depleted.
Spanning over three generations, the IRA, which had a beginning balance of $300,000, provided over $2.1 million in income over a 46-year period of time. See the chart for details and assumptions.
An Example of the Stretch IRA Strategy at Work
RMD Income to Each Family Member
First Generation
John John’s IRA is $300,000 & John names his wife, Mary, as his sole primary beneficiary John’s RMD amount over 2 years (Age 70-71) is $22,649*
Mary John dies at age 71.
Mary, now age 66, elects to treat John’s IRA as her own & names her son, Jack, as her beneficiary. Mary’s RMD Income over 4 years (Age 66-69 - No RMDs required) is $0. Mary’s RMD amount over 8 years (Age 70-77) is $156,123.*
Second Generation
Jack Mary dies at age 77
Jack, now age 53, maintains the account as a beneficiary IRA and names his son, Mark, as beneficiary Jack can take distributions over the longer of Mary’s life expectancy or his own life expectancy. Jack’s RMD amount over 23 years
(Age 53-75)
$933,576*
Third Generation
Mark Jack dies at age 75
Mark, now age 41, takes distributions every year until assets in the IRA are depleted Mark can take distributions using Jack’s remaining life expectancy factor, which results in 9 years worth of distributions until assets are depleted. Mark’s RMD amount over 9 years
(Age 41 – 49)
$1,026,841*
$2,139,189 Total Distributions for All Generations**
* Asset growth is based on a 7% rate of return and assumes all generations receive their respective Required Minimum Distributions as defined by the IRS on December 31st of each year distributions are required.
**This number assumes that each generation elected to take only the required minimum over the longest period allowed by current law. Should any recipient elect to take distributions greater than the minimum or receive a lump sum at any point, this total would significantly change.
This illustration is hypothetical and not meant to represent the performance of any specific investment or security. Actual returns will vary and principal value will fluctuate. Individual results will vary. Distributions are subject income taxes. This illustration is based on current tax and regulations law (as of August 2006), which may change in the future.
Your beneficiary designations will have a significant impact on the available payout options from you IRA after your death. It is always a good idea to name both primary and contingent beneficiaries – even if you expect your beneficiary(ies) to be living. It’s just another way to help assure that you are the one controlling to whom your IRA assets are ultimately distributed. This will also pave the way for your beneficiaries to potentially take advantage of the stretch IRA strategy.
The stretch IRA might not be appropriate for everyone. Neither UBS Financial Services Inc. nor its employees provide tax or legal advice. You should consult with your legal and/or tax advisors when making decisions about retirement plans and retirement plan distributions. The information contained in this article is based on sources believed to be reliable, but its accuracy cannot be guaranteed.
##
Provided by:
Tressa Rockwood
Financial Advisor
UBS Financial Services Inc.
Although you initially established an IRA as a nest egg for your retirement years, you may also want to consider using your IRA as a tax-efficient vehicle to pass wealth on to your heirs—particularly if you have other sources of retirement income and do not need to draw funds from your traditional IRA. You may choose to keep your traditional IRA intact until reaching age 701/2 , at which time you must begin taking required minimum distributions (RMDs).
The discussion that follows will focus on a strategy to withdraw the minimum amount required each year under IRS guidelines and to maximize the tax-deferred compounding on the assets remaining in the IRA for as long as possible. The strategy is commonly referred to as the “stretch IRA.”
In the example, the IRA owner, John Smith, has named his wife, Mary as the sole primary beneficiary of his IRA. John just turned 70½ and has now taken his first RMD. John dies at age 71.
Mary, who is now 66, decides to treat the IRA as her own and names her son, Jack, as her primary beneficiary. Since Mary has elected to treat John’s IRA as her own, she does not have to take RMDs from the IRA until she turns age 70½. (Note that this option is only available to a spouse who is named sole primary beneficiary.) Mary takes RMDs from age 70½ until she dies at age 77.
Jack, now age 53, maintains the account as a beneficiary IRA and names his son, Mark, as beneficiary. Jack is required to take distributions from the IRA based on his remaining single life expectancy. He takes distributions every year for another 23 years until his death at age 75. His son Mark, at age 41, now takes distributions each year until the assets in the account are fully depleted.
Spanning over three generations, the IRA, which had a beginning balance of $300,000, provided over $2.1 million in income over a 46-year period of time. See the chart for details and assumptions.
An Example of the Stretch IRA Strategy at Work
RMD Income to Each Family Member
First Generation
John John’s IRA is $300,000 & John names his wife, Mary, as his sole primary beneficiary John’s RMD amount over 2 years (Age 70-71) is $22,649*
Mary John dies at age 71.
Mary, now age 66, elects to treat John’s IRA as her own & names her son, Jack, as her beneficiary. Mary’s RMD Income over 4 years (Age 66-69 - No RMDs required) is $0. Mary’s RMD amount over 8 years (Age 70-77) is $156,123.*
Second Generation
Jack Mary dies at age 77
Jack, now age 53, maintains the account as a beneficiary IRA and names his son, Mark, as beneficiary Jack can take distributions over the longer of Mary’s life expectancy or his own life expectancy. Jack’s RMD amount over 23 years
(Age 53-75)
$933,576*
Third Generation
Mark Jack dies at age 75
Mark, now age 41, takes distributions every year until assets in the IRA are depleted Mark can take distributions using Jack’s remaining life expectancy factor, which results in 9 years worth of distributions until assets are depleted. Mark’s RMD amount over 9 years
(Age 41 – 49)
$1,026,841*
$2,139,189 Total Distributions for All Generations**
* Asset growth is based on a 7% rate of return and assumes all generations receive their respective Required Minimum Distributions as defined by the IRS on December 31st of each year distributions are required.
**This number assumes that each generation elected to take only the required minimum over the longest period allowed by current law. Should any recipient elect to take distributions greater than the minimum or receive a lump sum at any point, this total would significantly change.
This illustration is hypothetical and not meant to represent the performance of any specific investment or security. Actual returns will vary and principal value will fluctuate. Individual results will vary. Distributions are subject income taxes. This illustration is based on current tax and regulations law (as of August 2006), which may change in the future.
Your beneficiary designations will have a significant impact on the available payout options from you IRA after your death. It is always a good idea to name both primary and contingent beneficiaries – even if you expect your beneficiary(ies) to be living. It’s just another way to help assure that you are the one controlling to whom your IRA assets are ultimately distributed. This will also pave the way for your beneficiaries to potentially take advantage of the stretch IRA strategy.
The stretch IRA might not be appropriate for everyone. Neither UBS Financial Services Inc. nor its employees provide tax or legal advice. You should consult with your legal and/or tax advisors when making decisions about retirement plans and retirement plan distributions. The information contained in this article is based on sources believed to be reliable, but its accuracy cannot be guaranteed.
##
ISU Continuing Education Class: How to Start an Internet Business
August 12, 2007, 11:43 am
So, Tobin and I just found out that we will be teaching a class at Idaho State University’s Continuing Education this fall. It has been in the works since we published the book, but it’s official! We will be instructors.
This is the listing from the Continuing Education brochure:
CYBER GOLD: HOW TO START YOUR OWN HOME BASED INTERNET BUSINESS * ISU Credit Available!
( EXTL498P – 111050 or EXTL498P – 111068 )
Start up your own business for less than $500! This practical, hands-on class will provide you with a step-by-step guide for building your own online business. You’ll gain expert advice and learn valuable secrets that will save you thousands in start-up costs. From taking care of your business license to creation of your business identity, you’ll leave the class with a fully deployable online business ready to roll. Textbook included with workshop fee.
Tuesdays & Thursdays: October 2 – November 20 (no class 11/22) * Session I: 4-6pm Session II: 6-8pm * CE Workshop Fee: $145 * Cost: $50/Credit Additional Start-Up Costs Required * ISU Continuing Education Room 238 * Instructors: Pam Mosbrucker & Tobin Alder
If you’d like to take this class, you can find more information on ISU’s Continuing Education website, http://classes.isu.edu/fall/x98P.shtml
The textbook will be “Cyber Gold: A Guidebook on How to Start Your Own Home Based Internet Business, Build an E-Commerce Website, and Strategies for Making Money Online,” ISBN: 1430329513, and can be purchased locally where books are sold or on Amazon, which offers free shipping.
It should be a great class and Tobin and I are so excited to be able to share our book with those of you who participate. We promise that you won’t be disappointed!
-Pam Mosbrucker
[ more.. ]
This is the listing from the Continuing Education brochure:
CYBER GOLD: HOW TO START YOUR OWN HOME BASED INTERNET BUSINESS * ISU Credit Available!
( EXTL498P – 111050 or EXTL498P – 111068 )
Start up your own business for less than $500! This practical, hands-on class will provide you with a step-by-step guide for building your own online business. You’ll gain expert advice and learn valuable secrets that will save you thousands in start-up costs. From taking care of your business license to creation of your business identity, you’ll leave the class with a fully deployable online business ready to roll. Textbook included with workshop fee.
Tuesdays & Thursdays: October 2 – November 20 (no class 11/22) * Session I: 4-6pm Session II: 6-8pm * CE Workshop Fee: $145 * Cost: $50/Credit Additional Start-Up Costs Required * ISU Continuing Education Room 238 * Instructors: Pam Mosbrucker & Tobin Alder
If you’d like to take this class, you can find more information on ISU’s Continuing Education website, http://classes.isu.edu/fall/x98P.shtml
The textbook will be “Cyber Gold: A Guidebook on How to Start Your Own Home Based Internet Business, Build an E-Commerce Website, and Strategies for Making Money Online,” ISBN: 1430329513, and can be purchased locally where books are sold or on Amazon, which offers free shipping.
It should be a great class and Tobin and I are so excited to be able to share our book with those of you who participate. We promise that you won’t be disappointed!
-Pam Mosbrucker
[ more.. ]
How to Accept Money Online: PayPal Explained
August 7, 2007, 8:05 pm
When we first decided that we wanted to start a home based internet business we were, of course, completely new to everything. Shocker, huh?
We didn’t know where to start, what to do, which questions to ask, you name it. One fairly major issue that had us freaked was how on earth we were going to accept payments online.
We actually went to a conference several years ago about starting a business and the guy rambled on endlessly about the process for getting a merchant account at a bank. Big money down, hefty transaction fees, credit check, references, etc.
Then we came across PayPal.
Now, many of you have probably known about PayPal (http://www.paypal.com) for a long time. Most of you probably even use it to shop online. But recently, we’ve been getting quite a few questions about some of PayPal’s intricacies and I thought you might like to hear (well, read actually…) my general thoughts on this particular merchant.
I love PayPal. Never had a problem with them (knock on wood) and never had a reason to complain. I think they are the best merchant account, hands down, that a small business can use, and I think that they are the best way to spend your money safely online.
With that said—they are sometimes perplexing.
When you first arrive on PayPal’s secure site, they’ll give you the option to select either a Personal account or a Premier Business account. Now, here’s the kicker.
[ more.. ]
We didn’t know where to start, what to do, which questions to ask, you name it. One fairly major issue that had us freaked was how on earth we were going to accept payments online.
We actually went to a conference several years ago about starting a business and the guy rambled on endlessly about the process for getting a merchant account at a bank. Big money down, hefty transaction fees, credit check, references, etc.
Then we came across PayPal.
Now, many of you have probably known about PayPal (http://www.paypal.com) for a long time. Most of you probably even use it to shop online. But recently, we’ve been getting quite a few questions about some of PayPal’s intricacies and I thought you might like to hear (well, read actually…) my general thoughts on this particular merchant.
I love PayPal. Never had a problem with them (knock on wood) and never had a reason to complain. I think they are the best merchant account, hands down, that a small business can use, and I think that they are the best way to spend your money safely online.
With that said—they are sometimes perplexing.
When you first arrive on PayPal’s secure site, they’ll give you the option to select either a Personal account or a Premier Business account. Now, here’s the kicker.
[ more.. ]
Search Engine Ranking: Easier Than You Think
July 30, 2007, 11:33 am
Of all the questions I get about “Cyber Gold,” how to rank well in the search engines has to be one of the top five. Search engine ranking is not hard.
Let me repeat.
Ranking well in the search engines is not hard. It only takes a little work, and a little practice.
Because this topic is so filled with lies, black hat tricks, and extreme measures that never pan out, I wanted to take this moment to get a few things straight. Ranking well in the search engines hinges on how well you accomplish two things: keyword usage and content (dealing with your keywords) that updates.
Period. End of story.
Ranking well has nothing to do with anything else.
As I’ve probably said a million times before, keywords are the ONLY thing that will help you in the search engines. There is no secret program, there is no secret code. And, if you strapped any other SEO professional down, they would, perhaps painstakingly, tell you the same thing.
What does this mean for you?
Essentially—you already have all of the answers you need to build a profitable website that does well in the search engines.
[ more.. ]
Let me repeat.
Ranking well in the search engines is not hard. It only takes a little work, and a little practice.
Because this topic is so filled with lies, black hat tricks, and extreme measures that never pan out, I wanted to take this moment to get a few things straight. Ranking well in the search engines hinges on how well you accomplish two things: keyword usage and content (dealing with your keywords) that updates.
Period. End of story.
Ranking well has nothing to do with anything else.
As I’ve probably said a million times before, keywords are the ONLY thing that will help you in the search engines. There is no secret program, there is no secret code. And, if you strapped any other SEO professional down, they would, perhaps painstakingly, tell you the same thing.
What does this mean for you?
Essentially—you already have all of the answers you need to build a profitable website that does well in the search engines.
[ more.. ]
Search Engine Marketing: How to do Pay Per Click Right
July 24, 2007, 1:18 pm
Wow. What a storm. Anyone else have fun with that power outage? Anyhoo—let’s get down to business.
Today I wanted to talk a bit about search engine marketing. There is really only one form that you need to concern yourself with: Pay Per Click (PPC). Any other form (like banner ads, popup ads, etc) only serve to annoy your potential customers and are a complete waste of money.
Pay Per Click can be a confusing beast indeed. But I’m going to tell you a secret here. Only use Google AdWords or Yahoo Search Marketing (previously known as Overture) to invest your money in. All of the others out there (MSN, and perhaps a few un-noteworthy others) have no clout when it comes to the search engines and are simply a waste of money. And, when it comes to your advertising budget, wasting money is not a favorable option.
So, go to:
http://adwords.google.com/select/Login (for Google)
http://searchmarketing.yahoo.com/ (for Yahoo)
I prefer to use Google for the obvious reasons: Google gets nearly 70% more traffic than Yahoo, and if you do things right, Google ends up being cheaper and more profitable.
Okay. So how do you do things right?
Easy. You must target your ad to your preferred visitor. Google actually tells you how in a huge downloadable ebook—sort of like a class, actually, but I’ll give you the highlights (in list form, of course).
[ more.. ]
Today I wanted to talk a bit about search engine marketing. There is really only one form that you need to concern yourself with: Pay Per Click (PPC). Any other form (like banner ads, popup ads, etc) only serve to annoy your potential customers and are a complete waste of money.
Pay Per Click can be a confusing beast indeed. But I’m going to tell you a secret here. Only use Google AdWords or Yahoo Search Marketing (previously known as Overture) to invest your money in. All of the others out there (MSN, and perhaps a few un-noteworthy others) have no clout when it comes to the search engines and are simply a waste of money. And, when it comes to your advertising budget, wasting money is not a favorable option.
So, go to:
http://adwords.google.com/select/Login (for Google)
http://searchmarketing.yahoo.com/ (for Yahoo)
I prefer to use Google for the obvious reasons: Google gets nearly 70% more traffic than Yahoo, and if you do things right, Google ends up being cheaper and more profitable.
Okay. So how do you do things right?
Easy. You must target your ad to your preferred visitor. Google actually tells you how in a huge downloadable ebook—sort of like a class, actually, but I’ll give you the highlights (in list form, of course).
[ more.. ]
New Instructional Blog Schedule
July 23, 2007, 10:01 am
So I have some bad news. Monday Excerpts can be no more. There is apparently a limit to the amount of free pages I’m allowed to share…and it has been reached. So, I hope the excerpts were enough. The blog will continue on, though, as I enjoy sharing information and analyzing news as it comes around.
The new Instructional Blog schedule will go like this:
Tuesday July 24 – Search Engine Marketing
Monday July 30 – Search Engine Ranking
Tuesday July 31 – Search Engine Optimization News
Requests will be honored and questions are appreciated and will be given due space here.
*****
-Pam Mosbrucker
http://www.wordpartnersink.com
If you liked what you read, “Cyber Gold: A Guidebook on How to Start Your Own Home Based Internet Business, Build an E-Commerce Website, and Strategies for Making Money Online,” ISBN: 1430329513, can be purchased locally where books are sold (if you ask and holler really loud at the booksellers who are too busy to physically stock the book) or on Amazon, which offers free shipping.
The new Instructional Blog schedule will go like this:
Tuesday July 24 – Search Engine Marketing
Monday July 30 – Search Engine Ranking
Tuesday July 31 – Search Engine Optimization News
Requests will be honored and questions are appreciated and will be given due space here.
*****
-Pam Mosbrucker
http://www.wordpartnersink.com
If you liked what you read, “Cyber Gold: A Guidebook on How to Start Your Own Home Based Internet Business, Build an E-Commerce Website, and Strategies for Making Money Online,” ISBN: 1430329513, can be purchased locally where books are sold (if you ask and holler really loud at the booksellers who are too busy to physically stock the book) or on Amazon, which offers free shipping.
Missed the Marshall Public Library Talk? Got Questions?
July 19, 2007, 2:08 pm
Hello! We’ve been getting emails all week about people who missed our library talk but wanted to ask us questions or buy the book. Apparently, the bookstores are making this difficult for some customers—which we find reprehensible.
So, we’ll be at the Marshall Public Library again this Saturday (21st) from 12 pm to 4:30 pm where we’ll have a table set up. I’m not sure which floor they’ll put us on, but I’m positive we’ll be easy to find. We’ll be able to answer any questions you might have as well as sell copies at the discount rate of $25.
**Edit: Part of the proceeds of our book sales Saturday will be given to the Marshall Public Library.**
I’ll blog again Monday with an excerpt and a new instructional blog schedule. Things got a little out of hand this week, but I promise that all the topics previously mentioned will be discussed in detail in the coming weeks.
All the best!
*****
-Pam Mosbrucker
http://www.wordpartnersink.com
If you liked what you read or can’t wait until next Monday for the next excerpt, “Cyber Gold: A Guidebook on How to Start Your Own Home Based Internet Business, Build an E-Commerce Website, and Strategies for Making Money Online,” ISBN: 1430329513, can be purchased locally where books are sold or on Amazon.
So, we’ll be at the Marshall Public Library again this Saturday (21st) from 12 pm to 4:30 pm where we’ll have a table set up. I’m not sure which floor they’ll put us on, but I’m positive we’ll be easy to find. We’ll be able to answer any questions you might have as well as sell copies at the discount rate of $25.
**Edit: Part of the proceeds of our book sales Saturday will be given to the Marshall Public Library.**
I’ll blog again Monday with an excerpt and a new instructional blog schedule. Things got a little out of hand this week, but I promise that all the topics previously mentioned will be discussed in detail in the coming weeks.
All the best!
*****
-Pam Mosbrucker
http://www.wordpartnersink.com
If you liked what you read or can’t wait until next Monday for the next excerpt, “Cyber Gold: A Guidebook on How to Start Your Own Home Based Internet Business, Build an E-Commerce Website, and Strategies for Making Money Online,” ISBN: 1430329513, can be purchased locally where books are sold or on Amazon.
How to Create Your Business Identity
July 16, 2007, 8:24 am
Good Monday morning! The library talk went so well, again, thanks to everyone who attended. One thing I wish we had time to talk about, though, was some of the basics for starting a home based internet business.
Today’s excerpt comes from Chapter Three of “Cyber Gold.” Next week’s excerpt will be an exercise for solving a customer’s problem.
*****
We designed this guide to help you build your own website and ecommerce business. We want you to be able to do every aspect of the business yourself, including the web design, and we want you to feel at least semi-comfortable doing so.
This chapter is about structuring your business identity before the design comes in, because that’s when things tend to get messy.
[ more.. ]
Today’s excerpt comes from Chapter Three of “Cyber Gold.” Next week’s excerpt will be an exercise for solving a customer’s problem.
*****
We designed this guide to help you build your own website and ecommerce business. We want you to be able to do every aspect of the business yourself, including the web design, and we want you to feel at least semi-comfortable doing so.
This chapter is about structuring your business identity before the design comes in, because that’s when things tend to get messy.
[ more.. ]
Marshall Public Library Talk: Mentioned Websites
July 14, 2007, 6:55 pm
What a wonderful day! Thanks to all of you who showed up to hear us talk this afternoon! As promised, here's a list of all the websites we mentioned today.
To create ebooks: http://www.pdf995.com/
To build your website: http://www.tripod.lycos.com
To check keywords: http://www.iwebtool.com/keyword_lookup/
To download free ebooks: http://www.free-ebooks.net/
To find dropshippers: http://www.worldwidebrands.com
To collect money: http://www.paypal.com
To check out drop shippers and scammers: http://www.ripoffreport.com
How to create a robot file to protect sensitive webpages:
Open Notepad or WordPad (not Microsoft Word). To block all web bots, type in “User-agent: *” without the quotes in the first line. In the remaining lines of your file, type in all of the pages that you do not want web bots to be able to crawl.
So, your file should end up looking something like this:
User-agent: *
http://www.shoplizards.com/private1.html
http://www.shoplizards.com/private2.html
http://www.shoplizards.com/private3.html
Then, save the file as “Robots.txt” and upload it to the top or root directory of your server. If you use Tripod, you’d simply go to the File Manager and select Upload, and it will automatically be placed in the correct part of the directory.
If you find that people are still able to access your pages because they have been shared after a purchase, we often change our page file extensions and update the robot file to reflect those changes.
Unfortunately, you cannot stop all who choose to scam you, but if you are concerned about protecting sensitive ebooks or files, there is often a setting that you can select during the publish process that allows you to select how many computers that file can be viewed on, or even how often (or at all) they can print.
If you need any further instruction or help, we do have quite a few answers on our site, http://www.wordpartnersink.com, otherwise, feel free to shoot me an email at wordpartnersink@yahoo.com
-Pam Mosbrucker
[ more.. ]
To create ebooks: http://www.pdf995.com/
To build your website: http://www.tripod.lycos.com
To check keywords: http://www.iwebtool.com/keyword_lookup/
To download free ebooks: http://www.free-ebooks.net/
To find dropshippers: http://www.worldwidebrands.com
To collect money: http://www.paypal.com
To check out drop shippers and scammers: http://www.ripoffreport.com
How to create a robot file to protect sensitive webpages:
Open Notepad or WordPad (not Microsoft Word). To block all web bots, type in “User-agent: *” without the quotes in the first line. In the remaining lines of your file, type in all of the pages that you do not want web bots to be able to crawl.
So, your file should end up looking something like this:
User-agent: *
http://www.shoplizards.com/private1.html
http://www.shoplizards.com/private2.html
http://www.shoplizards.com/private3.html
Then, save the file as “Robots.txt” and upload it to the top or root directory of your server. If you use Tripod, you’d simply go to the File Manager and select Upload, and it will automatically be placed in the correct part of the directory.
If you find that people are still able to access your pages because they have been shared after a purchase, we often change our page file extensions and update the robot file to reflect those changes.
Unfortunately, you cannot stop all who choose to scam you, but if you are concerned about protecting sensitive ebooks or files, there is often a setting that you can select during the publish process that allows you to select how many computers that file can be viewed on, or even how often (or at all) they can print.
If you need any further instruction or help, we do have quite a few answers on our site, http://www.wordpartnersink.com, otherwise, feel free to shoot me an email at wordpartnersink@yahoo.com
-Pam Mosbrucker
[ more.. ]
Marshall Public Library Talk 2pm Today
July 14, 2007, 12:01 am
Today is our Marshall Public Library talk at 2pm.
We'll be talking specifically about how to start a home based internet business and how to grow already established businesses online. We'll also be signing our book, selling our book at a discount, and having a detailed question and answer period.
So, come on down, enjoy the air conditioning, and learn a little about starting or growing your business online.
***
-Pam Mosbrucker
http://www.wordpartnersink.com
[ more.. ]
We'll be talking specifically about how to start a home based internet business and how to grow already established businesses online. We'll also be signing our book, selling our book at a discount, and having a detailed question and answer period.
So, come on down, enjoy the air conditioning, and learn a little about starting or growing your business online.
***
-Pam Mosbrucker
http://www.wordpartnersink.com
[ more.. ]
How to Avoid Internet Scams & Phishing Attacks
July 11, 2007, 12:01 am
MSN ran an article recently on how to spot and watch out for the latest email scams, sometimes referred to as phishing. Because I get at least five emails a day claiming I won the Lottery of Namibia and if I could just send them my bank account number so they may transfer the funds, I think it’s time to touch upon this issue here with today’s blog.
First, things to watch out for:
**Emails from banks. Period. Any email from a bank, unless it is your monthly bank statement is highly suspicious. The rules of all financial institutions though, go like this: they will never ask for your password, bank account number, etc in an email. Never! They just won’t. In the off-chance that they do send emails out to their members (for promotions or statements), it will address you personally. Not Dear Valued Member, but Dear Jane O’Rieley. There are no exceptions here.
Let’s look at one:
*****
Date: Mon, 09 Jul 2007 08:02:10 -0400
From: "Trust Lender's Department" <cliffschick25@analysco.com> Add to Address Book Add Mobile Alert
To: msfitz626@yahoo.com, nbaballa816@yahoo.com, wright2009@yahoo.com, redapples3d@yahoo.com, shavon416@yahoo.com, shoplizards@yahoo.com, red4116@yahoo.com
Subject: Line of Credit fast get approved today Mon, 09 Jul 2007 04:02:10 -0800
Dear Ho me Owne r ,
Are you tired of paying high interest rates?
Your loan approval is waiting.
Please respond Today.
http://2teenyurls.mobi/9s35rt
Adam Salgado
Mortage Lender Department
If all pulled in one direction, the world would keel over. -Yiddish proverb
*****
There are quite a few things wrong with this email. Note the weird spacing in Home Owner and the email address of “Trust Lender's Department" as cliffschick25@analysco.com. Looks like a really official email address doesn’t it? Also, a real lender would never put more than one email address in the To:
But most importantly, look at the address they want you to click on:
http://2teenyurls.mobi/9s35rt
Does that in any way look to resemble a secure website? No way. Mark it and anything that looks like this email as spam.
**Emails from foreign countries.
[ more.. ]
First, things to watch out for:
**Emails from banks. Period. Any email from a bank, unless it is your monthly bank statement is highly suspicious. The rules of all financial institutions though, go like this: they will never ask for your password, bank account number, etc in an email. Never! They just won’t. In the off-chance that they do send emails out to their members (for promotions or statements), it will address you personally. Not Dear Valued Member, but Dear Jane O’Rieley. There are no exceptions here.
Let’s look at one:
*****
Date: Mon, 09 Jul 2007 08:02:10 -0400
From: "Trust Lender's Department" <cliffschick25@analysco.com> Add to Address Book Add Mobile Alert
To: msfitz626@yahoo.com, nbaballa816@yahoo.com, wright2009@yahoo.com, redapples3d@yahoo.com, shavon416@yahoo.com, shoplizards@yahoo.com, red4116@yahoo.com
Subject: Line of Credit fast get approved today Mon, 09 Jul 2007 04:02:10 -0800
Dear Ho me Owne r ,
Are you tired of paying high interest rates?
Your loan approval is waiting.
Please respond Today.
http://2teenyurls.mobi/9s35rt
Adam Salgado
Mortage Lender Department
If all pulled in one direction, the world would keel over. -Yiddish proverb
*****
There are quite a few things wrong with this email. Note the weird spacing in Home Owner and the email address of “Trust Lender's Department" as cliffschick25@analysco.com. Looks like a really official email address doesn’t it? Also, a real lender would never put more than one email address in the To:
But most importantly, look at the address they want you to click on:
http://2teenyurls.mobi/9s35rt
Does that in any way look to resemble a secure website? No way. Mark it and anything that looks like this email as spam.
**Emails from foreign countries.
[ more.. ]
How to Avoid Heat Stroke
July 10, 2007, 9:39 am
Yesterday my business partner and I were helping clients and having a general good business day. Until I got my brain scrambled by heat stroke.
Today’s blog (Internet scams and phishing) will appear, promptly, tomorrow morning, but today I want to talk a bit about the dangers and warning signs of a little something known as heat stroke.
First of all, heat stroke is different from sun stroke—but only in the manner in which they are acquired and both have the same symptoms and reactions (at least they do for me…and sadly I’ve suffered from both). Sun stroke comes from being in the direct sunlight for too long a period without a break, and heat stroke happens from being in the heat for too long.
Yes, trust me, just being outside too long can make you sick. Weird, isn’t it?
What does it feel like?
For me, it generally feels like a bad vodka/wine/beer hangover combo and I swear my head tends to spin a’ la “Exorcist.” My mom was also recently a victim (too much time on her garden) and her reaction was a bit more extreme.
I do believe that some people are more susceptible than others. I’ve had heat stroke several times in my life because I tend to not handle the heat well as is. But I’ve noticed that there are warning signs:
*When you get so hot you aren’t hot anymore
*When you start to feel slow, maybe even a little flu-like
*When you start to get dizzy
*Faintness can occur
*You might even get a stomach cramp (so you’ll probably feel like a Pepto Bismol ad soon)
All of these signs mean that you need to get a Gatorade or PowerAde of your choice and down it immediately. Maybe even two. But most importantly, get out of the heat (not just the sun) and cool off for a while.
I was busy the entire day yesterday, but I was never really in the direct sun. Mostly just outside, in the shade, being busy. But it was hot enough and I didn’t hydrate myself well enough. That’s how you get heat stroke.
Oh yeah—I’m clearly not a doctor and cannot/should not give actual advice or treatment for this sort of thing. But because it struck me down, it’s important enough to me to get the word out there about it.
This is going to be a hot Idaho summer, folks!
Take a bit of caution and listen to your body as you enjoy the sun. But no matter what, hydrate yourself often. In the military we had a saying: once you’re thirsty, it’s too late—you should have been hydrating hours ago.
*****
-Pam Mosbrucker
http://www.wordpartnersink.com
If you liked what you read or can’t wait until next Monday for the next excerpt, “Cyber Gold: A Guidebook on How to Start Your Own Home Based Internet Business, Build an E-Commerce Website, and Strategies for Making Money Online,” ISBN: 1430329513, can be purchased locally where books are sold or on Amazon.
[ more.. ]
Today’s blog (Internet scams and phishing) will appear, promptly, tomorrow morning, but today I want to talk a bit about the dangers and warning signs of a little something known as heat stroke.
First of all, heat stroke is different from sun stroke—but only in the manner in which they are acquired and both have the same symptoms and reactions (at least they do for me…and sadly I’ve suffered from both). Sun stroke comes from being in the direct sunlight for too long a period without a break, and heat stroke happens from being in the heat for too long.
Yes, trust me, just being outside too long can make you sick. Weird, isn’t it?
What does it feel like?
For me, it generally feels like a bad vodka/wine/beer hangover combo and I swear my head tends to spin a’ la “Exorcist.” My mom was also recently a victim (too much time on her garden) and her reaction was a bit more extreme.
I do believe that some people are more susceptible than others. I’ve had heat stroke several times in my life because I tend to not handle the heat well as is. But I’ve noticed that there are warning signs:
*When you get so hot you aren’t hot anymore
*When you start to feel slow, maybe even a little flu-like
*When you start to get dizzy
*Faintness can occur
*You might even get a stomach cramp (so you’ll probably feel like a Pepto Bismol ad soon)
All of these signs mean that you need to get a Gatorade or PowerAde of your choice and down it immediately. Maybe even two. But most importantly, get out of the heat (not just the sun) and cool off for a while.
I was busy the entire day yesterday, but I was never really in the direct sun. Mostly just outside, in the shade, being busy. But it was hot enough and I didn’t hydrate myself well enough. That’s how you get heat stroke.
Oh yeah—I’m clearly not a doctor and cannot/should not give actual advice or treatment for this sort of thing. But because it struck me down, it’s important enough to me to get the word out there about it.
This is going to be a hot Idaho summer, folks!
Take a bit of caution and listen to your body as you enjoy the sun. But no matter what, hydrate yourself often. In the military we had a saying: once you’re thirsty, it’s too late—you should have been hydrating hours ago.
*****
-Pam Mosbrucker
http://www.wordpartnersink.com
If you liked what you read or can’t wait until next Monday for the next excerpt, “Cyber Gold: A Guidebook on How to Start Your Own Home Based Internet Business, Build an E-Commerce Website, and Strategies for Making Money Online,” ISBN: 1430329513, can be purchased locally where books are sold or on Amazon.
[ more.. ]
Monday Excerpt & How to Be Secure Online
July 9, 2007, 7:50 am
It’s Monday again! Doesn’t this month just seem to by flying by? Seems like it to me.
Let’s get down to business, shall we?
Today I wanted to talk a bit about internet security. It’s a big issue but I’ve never really felt that internet security was something to worry about. Why?
Because there are safeguards that you can look for to always protect yourself.
The first is the most obvious: the little golden lock. Whenever you come to a secure webpage, meaning a page that requires a certain level of security to protect your information - like a bank account website - you will always see a little golden lock to demonstrate that site’s security.
[ more.. ]
Let’s get down to business, shall we?
Today I wanted to talk a bit about internet security. It’s a big issue but I’ve never really felt that internet security was something to worry about. Why?
Because there are safeguards that you can look for to always protect yourself.
The first is the most obvious: the little golden lock. Whenever you come to a secure webpage, meaning a page that requires a certain level of security to protect your information - like a bank account website - you will always see a little golden lock to demonstrate that site’s security.
[ more.. ]
How to Avoid (or Destroy) a Computer Virus & Keep Your Computer Clean
July 5, 2007, 8:32 pm
Before we get started with the real meat of this post, I wanted to say thank you—to you, my readers. Reception has been wonderful for our book and in a surprising twist (mostly my grandfather) news of “Cyber Gold” has spread as far as North Dakota. Can you imagine?
I can’t wait to see where it takes us next, but it’s all thanks to you. So, as a special treat, for those of you who haven’t purchased a copy yet, we’re offering "Cyber Gold: A Guidebook on How to Start Your Own Home Based Internet Business, Build an E-Commerce Website, & Strategies for Making Money Online" on an incredible sale ($23.95 with free shipping! ) on our website, http://wordpartnersink.tripod.com/mediakit.html , that you won’t find comparable anywhere else—even on Amazon! For those of you who have purchased a copy, make sure to bring it with you to our Marshall Public Library talk on July 14th at 2 pm because we’d love to sign it for you.
With that bit of administriva out of the way, let’s get down to today’s blog topic: Effectively Avoiding and Destroying Computer Viruses.
This topic is, perhaps, sometimes overwhelming to most people. Even I cringe at the thought of a computer virus. Some can be bad (think ruined hard drive) while some can just be a somewhat minor annoyance (sending everyone in your address book a weird email).
First things first. No matter how much you use the internet (once a day or once a year), you MUST have virus protection. The moment when you don’t is when a virus will sneak in. And you don’t want that.
What if you get a virus?
Don’t panic.
[ more.. ]
I can’t wait to see where it takes us next, but it’s all thanks to you. So, as a special treat, for those of you who haven’t purchased a copy yet, we’re offering "Cyber Gold: A Guidebook on How to Start Your Own Home Based Internet Business, Build an E-Commerce Website, & Strategies for Making Money Online" on an incredible sale ($23.95 with free shipping! ) on our website, http://wordpartnersink.tripod.com/mediakit.html , that you won’t find comparable anywhere else—even on Amazon! For those of you who have purchased a copy, make sure to bring it with you to our Marshall Public Library talk on July 14th at 2 pm because we’d love to sign it for you.
With that bit of administriva out of the way, let’s get down to today’s blog topic: Effectively Avoiding and Destroying Computer Viruses.
This topic is, perhaps, sometimes overwhelming to most people. Even I cringe at the thought of a computer virus. Some can be bad (think ruined hard drive) while some can just be a somewhat minor annoyance (sending everyone in your address book a weird email).
First things first. No matter how much you use the internet (once a day or once a year), you MUST have virus protection. The moment when you don’t is when a virus will sneak in. And you don’t want that.
What if you get a virus?
Don’t panic.
[ more.. ]
The How To's of Internet Marketing
July 3, 2007, 12:49 am
Today begins our first Instructional Blog: Internet Marketing.
Ready to get started?
This is an important topic for me to discuss with you because it is probably the most spammed about, blogged about, and emailed about topic online.
First, let’s begin with a simple definition. Internet marketing is basically the act of advertising online that includes a wide array of aspects from the internet, from search engine optimization to affiliate marketing to viral marketing.
As in any other advertising endeavor, it is best to pick the aspects of marketing that best target your consumers.
Again, I rant on about targeting your audience.
Let me tell you something that might shock you. Internet marketing can be done as successfully by you as it could by any professional.
[ more.. ]
Ready to get started?
This is an important topic for me to discuss with you because it is probably the most spammed about, blogged about, and emailed about topic online.
First, let’s begin with a simple definition. Internet marketing is basically the act of advertising online that includes a wide array of aspects from the internet, from search engine optimization to affiliate marketing to viral marketing.
As in any other advertising endeavor, it is best to pick the aspects of marketing that best target your consumers.
Again, I rant on about targeting your audience.
Let me tell you something that might shock you. Internet marketing can be done as successfully by you as it could by any professional.
[ more.. ]
Monday Excerpt: Last Five Steps to Start a Home Based Internet Business
July 2, 2007, 12:01 am
Good Monday morning! Today we’ll just get right to the good stuff and start off with the excerpt.
Oh, and here’s the calendar of events in case you missed last week’s post. Be sure to stop by—I promise you will not be disappointed!
Instructional Blog Calendar for July:
Tuesday July 3 – Internet Marketing
Friday July 6 – Effectively Avoiding and Destroying Computer Viruses
Monday July 9 – Monday Excerpt Plus Internet Security
Tuesday July 10 – Internet Scams / Phishing
Saturday July 14 - Marshall Public Library Talk @ 2pm
Monday July 16 – Recap Library Talk Plus Monday Excerpt
Tuesday July 17 – Search Engine Marketing
Friday July 20 – Search Engine Ranking
Monday July 23 – Monday Excerpt
Tuesday July 24 – Search Engine Optimization
****From Chapter Two, “Cyber Gold”
STEP FIVE. Inventory Management.
[ more.. ]
Oh, and here’s the calendar of events in case you missed last week’s post. Be sure to stop by—I promise you will not be disappointed!
Instructional Blog Calendar for July:
Tuesday July 3 – Internet Marketing
Friday July 6 – Effectively Avoiding and Destroying Computer Viruses
Monday July 9 – Monday Excerpt Plus Internet Security
Tuesday July 10 – Internet Scams / Phishing
Saturday July 14 - Marshall Public Library Talk @ 2pm
Monday July 16 – Recap Library Talk Plus Monday Excerpt
Tuesday July 17 – Search Engine Marketing
Friday July 20 – Search Engine Ranking
Monday July 23 – Monday Excerpt
Tuesday July 24 – Search Engine Optimization
****From Chapter Two, “Cyber Gold”
STEP FIVE. Inventory Management.
[ more.. ]
Instructional Blog Calendar for July
June 30, 2007, 12:01 am
I’ve been thinking about the apparent randomness of my blog entries lately. While I love hitting the news as it comes (which I will dutifully continue to do, don’t you worry) I had a thought that a string of instructional blogs might be much more fun.
Oh, and mark your calendar for Saturday July 14th at 2 pm. My business partner, Tobin Alder, and I will be speaking at the Marshall Public Library about many of these topics including tips for starting a business, and of course, our book, “Cyber Gold.” There will also be a question and answer period, so if you’re around that afternoon, stop on by!
Now, on to the good stuff.
I did a bit of research first, to pinpoint the topics you might be most interested in. They’ll range from adeptly destroying computer viruses and avoiding internet scams to optimizing your website for the search engines like a professional.
[ more.. ]
Oh, and mark your calendar for Saturday July 14th at 2 pm. My business partner, Tobin Alder, and I will be speaking at the Marshall Public Library about many of these topics including tips for starting a business, and of course, our book, “Cyber Gold.” There will also be a question and answer period, so if you’re around that afternoon, stop on by!
Now, on to the good stuff.
I did a bit of research first, to pinpoint the topics you might be most interested in. They’ll range from adeptly destroying computer viruses and avoiding internet scams to optimizing your website for the search engines like a professional.
[ more.. ]
The Key to A Successful Website, the Non-Black Hat Way
June 28, 2007, 10:52 am
Alright. Enough time has passed and I’ve come to my final conclusions about Project Black Mask. Absolute crap. Plus, anything you do using the black hat techniques within will only get your site banned from Google.
Why is it successful, then?
Because the techniques will get you banned from Google EVENTUALLY. Not today, not tomorrow.
The trick is to build a website super fast, get in on the super hot keywords, and make a lot of money before the wave hits (where Google shuts everyone down for being bad). A few affiliates do this, which is why, from time to time, you might see a website with nothing on it but links to other websites.
I’m going to let you in on a little secret here. Partly because I’m a bit perturbed and partly because you deserve to know the truth anyway.
*****
-Pam Mosbrucker
http://www.wordpartnersink.com
[ more.. ]
Why is it successful, then?
Because the techniques will get you banned from Google EVENTUALLY. Not today, not tomorrow.
The trick is to build a website super fast, get in on the super hot keywords, and make a lot of money before the wave hits (where Google shuts everyone down for being bad). A few affiliates do this, which is why, from time to time, you might see a website with nothing on it but links to other websites.
I’m going to let you in on a little secret here. Partly because I’m a bit perturbed and partly because you deserve to know the truth anyway.
*****
-Pam Mosbrucker
http://www.wordpartnersink.com
[ more.. ]
Travel Advice: Reviews of Holiday Inn Pocatello
June 28, 2007, 4:09 am
A modern, two-story Motor Inn located off I-15, 3 miles from the downtown area and Idaho State University, The Holiday Inn Pocatello is at 1399 Bench Rd., Pocatello, ID 83201.
It has 197 rooms.
There are seven reviews of the Holiday Inn Pocatello on www.tripadvisor.com, including these two:
" ... We came into Pocatello for a family emergency and stayed at the Holiday Inn. Everyone there was wonderful, friendly and very helpful. This is a beautiful Hotel,very clean and accomodating to all our needs. The room was perfect smelled good and we felt so "at home". Great food in the restaurant. Our bathing suits were still wet when we were backing to leave. I went to the Housekeeping office to get help finding the public wash room and this wonderful lady in the laundry area offered to dry them for us. I could see she was very busy unloading the dryers but she stopped what she was doing to help me. She even brought them to our room,dry and folded neatly. It was great to open our door to a nice smile and friendly service. It was a wonderful experience and when we come into town again to visit we will return to the Holiday Inn. Anyone going to the Pocatello area I suggest the Holiday Inn. ...".
" ... This was a good stop for us after traveling all day through two states. The front desk lady kinda looked annoyed because we were a large group but our check in was done quickly. The rooms aren't large and ritzy but it was comfortable and everything was working. We will certainly stay here again. ..".
I've recently met two of the Holiday Inn, Pocatello sales managers at the True Loyal Connections lunch meeting: Tenae Simpson and Kara Scovil. They add a personal and professional touch to things.
Their phone number is: 208-237-1400, fax: 208-238-0225
Tenae's email is tsimpson@ida.net.
Kara's is karas@ida.net.
I suggest that you contact this operation to see about meeting all of your travel or event catering needs.
-- Michael
It has 197 rooms.
There are seven reviews of the Holiday Inn Pocatello on www.tripadvisor.com, including these two:
" ... We came into Pocatello for a family emergency and stayed at the Holiday Inn. Everyone there was wonderful, friendly and very helpful. This is a beautiful Hotel,very clean and accomodating to all our needs. The room was perfect smelled good and we felt so "at home". Great food in the restaurant. Our bathing suits were still wet when we were backing to leave. I went to the Housekeeping office to get help finding the public wash room and this wonderful lady in the laundry area offered to dry them for us. I could see she was very busy unloading the dryers but she stopped what she was doing to help me. She even brought them to our room,dry and folded neatly. It was great to open our door to a nice smile and friendly service. It was a wonderful experience and when we come into town again to visit we will return to the Holiday Inn. Anyone going to the Pocatello area I suggest the Holiday Inn. ...".
" ... This was a good stop for us after traveling all day through two states. The front desk lady kinda looked annoyed because we were a large group but our check in was done quickly. The rooms aren't large and ritzy but it was comfortable and everything was working. We will certainly stay here again. ..".
I've recently met two of the Holiday Inn, Pocatello sales managers at the True Loyal Connections lunch meeting: Tenae Simpson and Kara Scovil. They add a personal and professional touch to things.
Their phone number is: 208-237-1400, fax: 208-238-0225
Tenae's email is tsimpson@ida.net.
Kara's is karas@ida.net.
I suggest that you contact this operation to see about meeting all of your travel or event catering needs.
-- Michael
Layoff rumors fly at Micron
June 25, 2007, 11:58 am
Layoff rumors fly at Micron
One analyst sees reasons for hope: the iPhone launch, new Intel chips and fixes to Microsoft's Vista
Here are excerpts from this story:
"Insider2" was pretty sure that layoffs would happen Friday at Micron Technology.
An online writer who goes by "miraluki" had a "funny feeling" that this week's hugely successful public offering of the equity firm Blackstone Group meant that other rumors were true — that the newly flush company soon would be setting its sights on the Boise memory manufacturer.
Rumors are flying about what's next for Micron, which has struggled with low stock prices and rock-bottom prices lately for its main products. Faceless people are speculating anonymously on Internet message boards, saying workers are concerned cuts could come at any minute.
They say layoffs are inevitable, a buy-out is imminent, and President and CEO Steve Appleton is stepping down.
For more info, go to:
http://123idaho.blogspot.com/2007/06/layoff-rumors-fly-at-micron.html
One analyst sees reasons for hope: the iPhone launch, new Intel chips and fixes to Microsoft's Vista
Here are excerpts from this story:
"Insider2" was pretty sure that layoffs would happen Friday at Micron Technology.
An online writer who goes by "miraluki" had a "funny feeling" that this week's hugely successful public offering of the equity firm Blackstone Group meant that other rumors were true — that the newly flush company soon would be setting its sights on the Boise memory manufacturer.
Rumors are flying about what's next for Micron, which has struggled with low stock prices and rock-bottom prices lately for its main products. Faceless people are speculating anonymously on Internet message boards, saying workers are concerned cuts could come at any minute.
They say layoffs are inevitable, a buy-out is imminent, and President and CEO Steve Appleton is stepping down.
For more info, go to:
http://123idaho.blogspot.com/2007/06/layoff-rumors-fly-at-micron.html
How To Start A Home Based Internet Business, Step By Step
June 24, 2007, 9:22 pm
It’s time for your Monday Excerpt! As promised, today I’ll give you a few steps to starting a home based internet business.
Now, because lists make my day, here's a checklist--the basics any entrepreneur needs to start a successful home based internet business from the ground up.
1. Business name reflective of what you plan to sell
2. Business identity, complete with colors and logo
3. All business licenses required for your state
4. Domain name with host (we like Tripod), PayPal business account
5. PO Box
6. Something to sell on your site (drop shipping, services, etc)
7. List of inventory with prices, shipping costs, and fees known
8. Process for taking orders, including packing of items, or contact info for drop shipper
9. Inventory is prepared on site (pictures and descriptions)
10. Create and build site; with uniform appearance and business colors
11. Fill site with keyword related (and targeted) content to please the search engines
12. Site is easy to navigate and purchase on
13. Have required pages, including the Site Map and Privacy Policy
14. Site Map submitted to Google
15. Check site thoroughly for errors, bad links, and typos
16. Have fresh-content generating plan (like a blog) to keep visitors coming back
17. Pay Per Click or marketing plan researched
18. Keep learning
*****
And now for a little surprise! The above list is just a summary of sorts from "Cyber Gold" but it doesn't quite cut the requirements of a Monday excerpt, now does it? Nope.
So, today I'm giving you a bit of extra goodness. It takes up a great chunk of pages in Chapter Two, and is really a lot to read on a Monday morning, so make sure to stop by next week for the rest of the list!
***** From Chapter Two
Ten Steps to Success.
With every venture, it’s easiest to have a clearly defined goal at hand. Use ours as a guideline, and feel free to add to it if new ways emerge for you.
STEP ONE. Decide what to Sell.
[ more.. ]
Now, because lists make my day, here's a checklist--the basics any entrepreneur needs to start a successful home based internet business from the ground up.
1. Business name reflective of what you plan to sell
2. Business identity, complete with colors and logo
3. All business licenses required for your state
4. Domain name with host (we like Tripod), PayPal business account
5. PO Box
6. Something to sell on your site (drop shipping, services, etc)
7. List of inventory with prices, shipping costs, and fees known
8. Process for taking orders, including packing of items, or contact info for drop shipper
9. Inventory is prepared on site (pictures and descriptions)
10. Create and build site; with uniform appearance and business colors
11. Fill site with keyword related (and targeted) content to please the search engines
12. Site is easy to navigate and purchase on
13. Have required pages, including the Site Map and Privacy Policy
14. Site Map submitted to Google
15. Check site thoroughly for errors, bad links, and typos
16. Have fresh-content generating plan (like a blog) to keep visitors coming back
17. Pay Per Click or marketing plan researched
18. Keep learning
*****
And now for a little surprise! The above list is just a summary of sorts from "Cyber Gold" but it doesn't quite cut the requirements of a Monday excerpt, now does it? Nope.
So, today I'm giving you a bit of extra goodness. It takes up a great chunk of pages in Chapter Two, and is really a lot to read on a Monday morning, so make sure to stop by next week for the rest of the list!
***** From Chapter Two
Ten Steps to Success.
With every venture, it’s easiest to have a clearly defined goal at hand. Use ours as a guideline, and feel free to add to it if new ways emerge for you.
STEP ONE. Decide what to Sell.
[ more.. ]
What it Takes for a Successful Website
June 20, 2007, 9:35 pm
Tobin and I had an interview at the Idaho State Journal today (you’ll read about us in an upcoming issue) and we realized something that hit us like what I can only describe as an epiphany.
Most people believe that if you have a website it’s “on” the internet. This is true, of course, but it doesn’t mean that visitors and customers will be able to find it. There is a very big difference between a website that gets visitors and a website that is never found.
Let me give you an example.
Say you have a website on which you sell custom cat clothing (I know, who dresses their pets, but go with me here). You name the site Catty Cat Clothes, buy the domain www.cattycatclothes.com, and build the site yourself. You hit the publish button and you stare at your email inbox, waiting for the orders to come in. After a month or so (once the panic sets in), you realize that maybe something has gone wrong.
After all, the experts say that all a business needs is a website. That’s it. If a business has a web presence, they’re good to go. Right?
Yes and no.
The site must first be optimized for the search engines to be “good to go.”
[ more.. ]
Most people believe that if you have a website it’s “on” the internet. This is true, of course, but it doesn’t mean that visitors and customers will be able to find it. There is a very big difference between a website that gets visitors and a website that is never found.
Let me give you an example.
Say you have a website on which you sell custom cat clothing (I know, who dresses their pets, but go with me here). You name the site Catty Cat Clothes, buy the domain www.cattycatclothes.com, and build the site yourself. You hit the publish button and you stare at your email inbox, waiting for the orders to come in. After a month or so (once the panic sets in), you realize that maybe something has gone wrong.
After all, the experts say that all a business needs is a website. That’s it. If a business has a web presence, they’re good to go. Right?
Yes and no.
The site must first be optimized for the search engines to be “good to go.”
[ more.. ]
Pocatello Entrepreneur Gives Us JD's Gifts and More
June 20, 2007, 11:10 am
Yesterday, I enjoyed having lunch with James Armstrong, proprietor of the Pocatello-based JD's Gifts and More, at the True Loyal Connections meeting.
According to his website:
" ... Today is a great day for a Gift. Make someone happy today. Give them a Gift. JD's Gifts and More is full of exciting and unique gifts from home decor, to yard decorations, to gifts for the family. You will enjoy the wide selection of items to look through. Thank you for visiting our web store.
Save 20% on purchases through the end of June. Order our World of Products Catalogs today. ...".
James has given out hundreds of $10 gift cards to his site at local chamber of commerce events.
See: www.jdsgiftsandmore.com for further information, or call 208-221-3602.
-- Michael
According to his website:
" ... Today is a great day for a Gift. Make someone happy today. Give them a Gift. JD's Gifts and More is full of exciting and unique gifts from home decor, to yard decorations, to gifts for the family. You will enjoy the wide selection of items to look through. Thank you for visiting our web store.
Save 20% on purchases through the end of June. Order our World of Products Catalogs today. ...".
James has given out hundreds of $10 gift cards to his site at local chamber of commerce events.
See: www.jdsgiftsandmore.com for further information, or call 208-221-3602.
-- Michael
A Sales Pitch Like Any Other
June 19, 2007, 5:48 pm
Sales letters have long followed a very specific format.
The question. Do you want to make millions and quit your job tonight?
The testimonials. John Smith from Sacramento made $350,000 last month!
The bonus round. Get all these gifts free!
The sale. You must act now!
That’s what Project Black Mask is. An ebook powered by a very typical sales letter.
Based on my fellow internet marketing bloggers, we all have come to the same conclusion. That this is perhaps the best rip off we’ve ever seen. But never before have we seen something advertised to this degree. Aggressive, countdown, yet dark and secretive, like we were special, chosen even, for this guide.
There’s nothing special here.
And, in retrospect, after all the hype has worn me out, I feel as though this ended well. Hype on the internet has a way of creating sensations, like cults, because there’s a little something called viral marketing. Viral marketing is basically a message “spread” like a virus in which one person tells everyone on their mailing list, and they tell everyone on their lists, and so on. It is through this method that Project Black Mask plans to kick the %$#@ out of Google (their words, not mine).
But we all know what viral marketing really is: spam.
*****
-Pam Mosbrucker
http://www.wordpartnersink.com
The question. Do you want to make millions and quit your job tonight?
The testimonials. John Smith from Sacramento made $350,000 last month!
The bonus round. Get all these gifts free!
The sale. You must act now!
That’s what Project Black Mask is. An ebook powered by a very typical sales letter.
Based on my fellow internet marketing bloggers, we all have come to the same conclusion. That this is perhaps the best rip off we’ve ever seen. But never before have we seen something advertised to this degree. Aggressive, countdown, yet dark and secretive, like we were special, chosen even, for this guide.
There’s nothing special here.
And, in retrospect, after all the hype has worn me out, I feel as though this ended well. Hype on the internet has a way of creating sensations, like cults, because there’s a little something called viral marketing. Viral marketing is basically a message “spread” like a virus in which one person tells everyone on their mailing list, and they tell everyone on their lists, and so on. It is through this method that Project Black Mask plans to kick the %$#@ out of Google (their words, not mine).
But we all know what viral marketing really is: spam.
*****
-Pam Mosbrucker
http://www.wordpartnersink.com