Home Medical Transcription : A Decent Living or a Scam?
by Stephen Bucaro
No doubt you have seen many ads by medical transcription schools claiming that you can make big money typing medical transcription at home. Can you really make a good living doing medical transcription at home, or is it just another scam? In this article, you'll learn the honest facts about home medical transcription.
Can you really make a decent living doing home medical transcription? Yes and no.
Yes - Many people are earning $50,000 to $80,000 or more per year typing medical transcription at home. They work where they want, when they want, and as much as they want. The amount of medical transcription work that needs to be done FAR exceeds the available transcribers to do the work. When I say the demand exceeds the supply, I mean the situation is desperate.
No - Reading a few booklets and listening to a few tapes will not make you into an instant $50,000 per year medical transcriptionist. If you're not ready to commit to between six months and a year of hard study and practice, find another means of earning a living.
Typing medical transcription is not like typing a letter to your mother. It's far more challenging. Below are some of the challenges you must be prepared to meet.
1. You must have a good understanding of medical terminology. You need to know how to spell the names of the latest medical conditions, drugs, medical tests, treatments, and procedures, and just knowing how to spell them is not enough. Because of challenge #2 decribed below, you need to have some familiarity with medical conditions and what tests, drugs, and treatments are related to that condition. It's difficult to learn this with a mail order medical transcription course. This type of knowledge comes from experience.
You don't need to be familiar with ALL medical terminology. Many transcriptionists specialize in specific areas such as gastroenterology or opthalmology. However, when you want to go on vacation, you'll need someone else to take over your work while you're gone. In reciprocation, you'll need to cover for someone else when they go on vacation, and they may be transcribing to a different field than you're familiar with.
2. You need to be able to extract the transcription from a noisy electronic recording. Unfortunately, many doctors mumble, garble, don't enunciate, don't speak up, or talk too fast when they dictate. Combine the above problems with a thick, foreign accent and you can have real dificulty understanding what the doctor is saying. In many instances, the only way you will be able to decipher what the doctor is saying is if you are familiar with medical conditions and what tests, drugs, and treatments are related to that condition.
Doctors dictate "on the fly". They don't have time to think about proper sentence construction as the words emanate from their mouth. Frequently the sentence they started doesn't make any sense or has an error by the time they get to the end. Do you edit what the doctor said, or just type the jiberish as dictated? Usually a doctor appreciates when you clean up their dictation. On the other hand, medical documents are often presented as evidence in legal actions. You're taking on liability if you change what the doctor actually said.
Many transcriptionists have their own group of doctors that they type for and eventually become familiar with the
idiosyncracies of each doctor. This makes understanding what they are saying much easier; however, when a you go on vacation, someone else will need to cover the doctors while you're gone. In reciprocation, you'll need to cover for someone else when they go on vacation. You won't be familiar with how the doctors dictate.
3. To make the earnings cited above, you need to be able to sit and type for long hours. You need to isolate yourself
from the noise and distraction of other human beings (and some pets) and pound on that keyboard hour after hour. As I stated earlier, the amount of medical transcription work available far exceeds the available transcribers to do the work. Some transcriptionists let greed take control of them and sit at the computer for 16 hours seven days per week. They get accustom to a $100,000 a year lifestyle. But what does it do for their health?
Medical transcription companies charge more for "fast turn around". Some pass part of this money onto the transcriptionist, others just demand the work get done immediately. In either case, fast turn around work prevents you from controlling your own working hours.
Now that I've discouraged you, the fact is that many medical transcriptionists do work where they want, when they want, as much as they want, and earn a respectable living. If you're up to the challenge, how do you became a medial transcriptionist?
Training...
You'll need to be proficient in the use of a computer. You'll need to be a fast typist. If you can't type as fast as the doctor dictates, you'll be working hard with the foot pedal to move back and forth in the recording. You must be comfortable using a Word Processing application such as Microsoft Word or Workperfect. You'll need to know how to format documents and how to use macros. If you don't use macros you'll be typing the same phrases over and over.
If you decide to sign up for a medical transcription course, make sure the course provides plenty of authentic
dictations. You cannot become a medical transcriptionist by just reading medical terminology. You need to hear it spoken. Just listening to terms being pronounced is of limited use. You need to hear the terms used in a sentence. Simulated medical dictations are fine, but you need some practice with actual medical dictations.
Find a course that teaches basic anatomy and physiology along with terminology.
The best way to learn...
The best way to learn is with on-the-job training. If you have a doctor friend or family member who does dictations, ask them if you can transcribe a low-priority dictaion for practice. If you're working at a clinic or hospital as a secretary or receptionist, investigate how the transcription gets done and volunteer to help.
Start out with a specific type of transcription such as letters or office notes in specficic specialities. As you get more experience, your speed will improve and you can branch out into other types of transcriptions for other specialties.
The amount of medical transcription work that needs to be done far exceeds the available transcribers to do the work.
Yes, you can make a decent living doing home medical transcription. You can work where you want, when you want, and as much as you want. But, medical transcription is an occupation only for those who are prepared to meet the challenge.
Copyright(C) 2005 Bucaro TecHelp. To learn how to maintain your computer and use it more effectively to design a Web site and make money on the Web visit http://bucarotechelp.com. To subscribe to Bucaro TecHelp Newsletter visit
http://bucarotechelp.com/search/000800.asp
11/12/2005
10/28/2005
Secretarial Services - Secrets of Happy Moms
Secrets Of Happy Moms
Carrie Lauth
Have you ever noticed how some Moms seem to be very contented
and confident in their role as Mothers, and others seem
chronically stressed and approaching burnout? Why are some Moms
unflappable and able to keep their sense of humor, while others
overreact to the slightest stressors in their day?
I'm currently observing and interviewing these happy Moms as I
conduct research for an upcoming book. While all Moms are
different, these women usually have several of the following
traits in common.
1) They keep it simple.
I know one Mom who grocery shops every two weeks and buys the
exact same thing every time to prepare the same menu of 14
dinners. Why does she do this? She's picked the family's
favorite meals for her menu to save herself time and arguments
at the dinner table. Anyone with kids knows they like to eat
the same things over and over! This Mom has decided not to
reinvent the wheel twice a month. This is just one example of
keeping it simple.
2) They teach their kids to be independent.
This doesn't mean they leave them to their own devices all day.
But a smart Mom knows that a 2 year old can put a dish in the
dishwasher, a 4 year old can prepare his own peanut butter and
jelly sandwich, and a 7 year old can sweep a floor (albeit
imperfectly!). Call it "outsourcing" for Moms.
3) They drop the SuperMom complex.
Not sweating the small stuff seems to be a common trait of
happy Moms. They learn to pick their battles. Getting buckled
into a car seat? Not negotiable. Pink paisley pants with the
orange plaid shirt? Fashion creativity.
Happy Moms also realize that being an awesome Mom doesn't mean
being a perfect Mom. 'Nuff said.
4) They can often be overheard repeating the phrase "This too
shall pass".
It doesn't mean that bothersome behavior in kids should be
overlooked, for discipline is a huge time saver in the end. It
means that Moms realize that children are...well, uncivilized
creatures, and that much uncivilized behavior will simply go
away on its own as the child matures. Smart Moms are also
keenly aware of their child's development and don't expect more
of them than they are able to give.
5) Smart Moms take care of themselves.
They don't blame the baby for their extra weight when the baby
in question is potty trained! They put emphasis on good
nutrition, avoiding too much by way of stimulants (caffeine,
sugar), they get adequate rest, and daily exercise. They
realize that you can't pour from an empty bucket.
6) They live in the moment.
Happy Moms realize that the days are long but the years short.
It's not that they are impervious to stress, it's that they
have learned to lower their expectations and be in the moment
when things get difficult. When your toddler is puking all over
the house, this is not the time to reorganize the hall closet. A
sick day then turns into a time to create sweet memories of
hours spent reading and cuddling on the couch.
7) They don't worry about what others think.
Whether it's the disapproving glare from the old lady in the
checkout line, the Mother in law who is convinced you're
starving the baby by breastfeeding, or the Pediatrician whose
medical advice strays into parenting advice, happy Moms learn
not to give too much weight to the opinions of those who don't
live in their home.
8) In other words, they trust their instincts.
Whether it's taking the baby to bed with them so they can get
more sleep or taking a bullied child out of public school,
smart Moms know that they are the expert of their own babies.
9) Happy Moms have "something else"
It may be a part time home based business or a hobby like belly
dancing. These Moms know that some day their babies will fly the
coop, and they make sure they have a passion that will give them
purpose when that happens.
Carrie Lauth is the author of the upcoming
book: "Awesome Moms: 187 Years of Mothering Wisdom". Take a
sneak peak at http://www.momswisdom.com. For more great
articles and resources for Moms doing things the natural way,
visit http://www.natural-moms.com
Carrie Lauth
Have you ever noticed how some Moms seem to be very contented
and confident in their role as Mothers, and others seem
chronically stressed and approaching burnout? Why are some Moms
unflappable and able to keep their sense of humor, while others
overreact to the slightest stressors in their day?
I'm currently observing and interviewing these happy Moms as I
conduct research for an upcoming book. While all Moms are
different, these women usually have several of the following
traits in common.
1) They keep it simple.
I know one Mom who grocery shops every two weeks and buys the
exact same thing every time to prepare the same menu of 14
dinners. Why does she do this? She's picked the family's
favorite meals for her menu to save herself time and arguments
at the dinner table. Anyone with kids knows they like to eat
the same things over and over! This Mom has decided not to
reinvent the wheel twice a month. This is just one example of
keeping it simple.
2) They teach their kids to be independent.
This doesn't mean they leave them to their own devices all day.
But a smart Mom knows that a 2 year old can put a dish in the
dishwasher, a 4 year old can prepare his own peanut butter and
jelly sandwich, and a 7 year old can sweep a floor (albeit
imperfectly!). Call it "outsourcing" for Moms.
3) They drop the SuperMom complex.
Not sweating the small stuff seems to be a common trait of
happy Moms. They learn to pick their battles. Getting buckled
into a car seat? Not negotiable. Pink paisley pants with the
orange plaid shirt? Fashion creativity.
Happy Moms also realize that being an awesome Mom doesn't mean
being a perfect Mom. 'Nuff said.
4) They can often be overheard repeating the phrase "This too
shall pass".
It doesn't mean that bothersome behavior in kids should be
overlooked, for discipline is a huge time saver in the end. It
means that Moms realize that children are...well, uncivilized
creatures, and that much uncivilized behavior will simply go
away on its own as the child matures. Smart Moms are also
keenly aware of their child's development and don't expect more
of them than they are able to give.
5) Smart Moms take care of themselves.
They don't blame the baby for their extra weight when the baby
in question is potty trained! They put emphasis on good
nutrition, avoiding too much by way of stimulants (caffeine,
sugar), they get adequate rest, and daily exercise. They
realize that you can't pour from an empty bucket.
6) They live in the moment.
Happy Moms realize that the days are long but the years short.
It's not that they are impervious to stress, it's that they
have learned to lower their expectations and be in the moment
when things get difficult. When your toddler is puking all over
the house, this is not the time to reorganize the hall closet. A
sick day then turns into a time to create sweet memories of
hours spent reading and cuddling on the couch.
7) They don't worry about what others think.
Whether it's the disapproving glare from the old lady in the
checkout line, the Mother in law who is convinced you're
starving the baby by breastfeeding, or the Pediatrician whose
medical advice strays into parenting advice, happy Moms learn
not to give too much weight to the opinions of those who don't
live in their home.
8) In other words, they trust their instincts.
Whether it's taking the baby to bed with them so they can get
more sleep or taking a bullied child out of public school,
smart Moms know that they are the expert of their own babies.
9) Happy Moms have "something else"
It may be a part time home based business or a hobby like belly
dancing. These Moms know that some day their babies will fly the
coop, and they make sure they have a passion that will give them
purpose when that happens.
Carrie Lauth is the author of the upcoming
book: "Awesome Moms: 187 Years of Mothering Wisdom". Take a
sneak peak at http://www.momswisdom.com. For more great
articles and resources for Moms doing things the natural way,
visit http://www.natural-moms.com
Secretarial Services - starting a home based business
How To Start a Home Based Business: 3 Questions to Ask Yourself
Charles Fuchs
Many people dream of working at home but wonder how to start a home based business. There are a multitude of potential opportunities out there for the person looking how to start a home based business that can get a person confused before they even start. There are three important questions to ask that will help you to better determine how to start a home based business that will work well for you.
It is important that you know how to start a home based business that will work well for you and your interests. Yet, you should understand why you want to have your own home based business before you jump into how to start your own home based business. Ask yourself your reasons for starting this type of business. Do you want to set your own hours and be your own boss? Do you not feel fulfilled by what you are currently doing or do you have a great business idea in mind? How to start a home based business will depend on your passion for the type of work involved in running your own business.
The passion and desire for working at home and being your own boss is the first important step in determining how to start a home based business, but you also need to know if you are ready to deal with the hard work involved. You will need to be flexible, quick thinking, and patient as you are learning how to start a home based business. There are some days that will require you to put in excruciatingly long hours and sometimes work through the weekend. As you learn how to start your home based business, you will also need the support of your family. Plus, you will need a passion for what you are doing. If you do not like what you are doing, learning how to start a home based business will matter very little, because the hard work will be more discouraging.
Finally, an important part of learning how to start a home based business is assessing your skills. You do not need to be an expert in everything, but you will need to get some expert advice and learn to do things you may not always enjoy like filing, typing, making cold calls, etc. In learning how to start a home based business, you will see that you need to develop better business, time-management, and organizational skills. If you do not have these skills, you will want to use resources to develop them.
Learning how to start a home based business depends quite a bit on the answers to these questions, as they will tell you if learning how to start a home based business is right for you and what skills you will need to develop. As you move along the process you will find that how to start a home based business for you may be different than someone else, so look into other similar business and do not be afraid to ask for advice.
Copyright © Charles Fuchs is an established online marketer who specializes in helping people start their very own Home Based Business. Download the Free Home Based Business Manual Absolutely Free (a $97 Value!). Free Information: http://www.home-based-business-world.com/
Charles Fuchs
Many people dream of working at home but wonder how to start a home based business. There are a multitude of potential opportunities out there for the person looking how to start a home based business that can get a person confused before they even start. There are three important questions to ask that will help you to better determine how to start a home based business that will work well for you.
It is important that you know how to start a home based business that will work well for you and your interests. Yet, you should understand why you want to have your own home based business before you jump into how to start your own home based business. Ask yourself your reasons for starting this type of business. Do you want to set your own hours and be your own boss? Do you not feel fulfilled by what you are currently doing or do you have a great business idea in mind? How to start a home based business will depend on your passion for the type of work involved in running your own business.
The passion and desire for working at home and being your own boss is the first important step in determining how to start a home based business, but you also need to know if you are ready to deal with the hard work involved. You will need to be flexible, quick thinking, and patient as you are learning how to start a home based business. There are some days that will require you to put in excruciatingly long hours and sometimes work through the weekend. As you learn how to start your home based business, you will also need the support of your family. Plus, you will need a passion for what you are doing. If you do not like what you are doing, learning how to start a home based business will matter very little, because the hard work will be more discouraging.
Finally, an important part of learning how to start a home based business is assessing your skills. You do not need to be an expert in everything, but you will need to get some expert advice and learn to do things you may not always enjoy like filing, typing, making cold calls, etc. In learning how to start a home based business, you will see that you need to develop better business, time-management, and organizational skills. If you do not have these skills, you will want to use resources to develop them.
Learning how to start a home based business depends quite a bit on the answers to these questions, as they will tell you if learning how to start a home based business is right for you and what skills you will need to develop. As you move along the process you will find that how to start a home based business for you may be different than someone else, so look into other similar business and do not be afraid to ask for advice.
Copyright © Charles Fuchs is an established online marketer who specializes in helping people start their very own Home Based Business. Download the Free Home Based Business Manual Absolutely Free (a $97 Value!). Free Information: http://www.home-based-business-world.com/
10/15/2005
Secretarial Services - Virtual Assistant Business
How to get a Virtual Assistant Business
The revolution of how businesses operate is an enormous boon to Virtual Assistants. With more businesses moving into an internet based atmosphere, the opportunity for growth as a Virtual Assistant (VA) is exceptional.
Virtual Assistants are modern day Administrative Assistants. Most often a good VA has the skill sets of a traditional administrative assistant with the added benefit of being technically web savvy and often possessing website and graphic design skills, HTML know how and an understanding of search engine optimization and Internet marketing.
However, there are many levels to what type of work you could choose to target as a Virtual Assistant. Many Virtual Assistants provide virtual customer support for clients while others focus entirely on data entry work. The options are diverse and plentiful.
So Where to Begin?
Many up and coming VA's get their first assignments from established Virtual Assistant businesses. So networking with other VA's can be an essential method of getting a shoe in this business. The obvious place to begin networking is on forums. Do a Google search on 'virtual assistant forum' and you will have a good starting point.
When you are networking on forums, try to be an active participant on the forum. Ask intelligent questions. Share your understanding on different topics and comment on what other members have said. The biggest mistake for many women trying to network or promote their businesses on forums is to give one-liner answers that aren't thoughtful. I am far more likely to outsource work to a candidate when I see that they are serious about beginning their business, it isn't just a whim. And that they are willing to ask questions and hone their skills.
Build a Website
You really should have a website up for your business. Without one, your chances to succeed are seriously going to be hindered. There are several viable options for getting your website started. You can purchase a template, use a site builder, hire a designer or build one yourself.
Building a website yourself can seem daunting, but it is likely a skill you will need to develop in the Virtual Assistant industry and this will give you some hands on experience. I highly recommend building your own site.
Once you have your website you can begin promoting it on your signature in emails and on forums. You can advertise your services locally and provide your customer with a website address to learn more about your services. The opportunities for acquiring clients and networking with other VA's expands tremendously once you have a professional website presence.
Find Work Online
There are quite a few places now online where you can connect with prospective clients and bid on jobs that they have. By far the best place to do this is www.elance.com. Elance has an excellent reputation and an excellent advertising budget. They draw thousands of jobs there all the time. There is a fee, but it is well worth the investment.
Other sources for finding work are: www.craigslist.com, www.sologig.com, www.homejobstop.com, www.guru.com, and www.getafreelancer.com. There are really quite a few websites now that focus on bringing clients and service providers together.
Do a Good Job
When you do land your first gig, do it well. Aim to astound your client. Be ahead of schedule, respond to their inquiries, and send them daily updates. Oftentimes first assignments are your best opportunity for receiving more work. When a business reaches the point of outsourcing, they are doing well. It is very likely that pleasing the client with your first assignment can lead to ongoing work and/or glowing recommendations to their colleagues to use your services.
Starting a Virtual Assistant business is an innovative, legitimate way to utilize skills that you have. It is quickly becoming a popular home business and there is tremendous room in the industry for growth. It can take some time to sign on your first clients, but before you know it you will have a full work load and a surprisingly abundant business doing what you love!
By Lori Redfield
Lori Redfield is the founder of FreelanceMom. Her website provides support, advice and job leads for women who wish to work from home. Sign up for her newsletter at: http://www.freelancemom.com/newsletter.htm.
The revolution of how businesses operate is an enormous boon to Virtual Assistants. With more businesses moving into an internet based atmosphere, the opportunity for growth as a Virtual Assistant (VA) is exceptional.
Virtual Assistants are modern day Administrative Assistants. Most often a good VA has the skill sets of a traditional administrative assistant with the added benefit of being technically web savvy and often possessing website and graphic design skills, HTML know how and an understanding of search engine optimization and Internet marketing.
However, there are many levels to what type of work you could choose to target as a Virtual Assistant. Many Virtual Assistants provide virtual customer support for clients while others focus entirely on data entry work. The options are diverse and plentiful.
So Where to Begin?
Many up and coming VA's get their first assignments from established Virtual Assistant businesses. So networking with other VA's can be an essential method of getting a shoe in this business. The obvious place to begin networking is on forums. Do a Google search on 'virtual assistant forum' and you will have a good starting point.
When you are networking on forums, try to be an active participant on the forum. Ask intelligent questions. Share your understanding on different topics and comment on what other members have said. The biggest mistake for many women trying to network or promote their businesses on forums is to give one-liner answers that aren't thoughtful. I am far more likely to outsource work to a candidate when I see that they are serious about beginning their business, it isn't just a whim. And that they are willing to ask questions and hone their skills.
Build a Website
You really should have a website up for your business. Without one, your chances to succeed are seriously going to be hindered. There are several viable options for getting your website started. You can purchase a template, use a site builder, hire a designer or build one yourself.
Building a website yourself can seem daunting, but it is likely a skill you will need to develop in the Virtual Assistant industry and this will give you some hands on experience. I highly recommend building your own site.
Once you have your website you can begin promoting it on your signature in emails and on forums. You can advertise your services locally and provide your customer with a website address to learn more about your services. The opportunities for acquiring clients and networking with other VA's expands tremendously once you have a professional website presence.
Find Work Online
There are quite a few places now online where you can connect with prospective clients and bid on jobs that they have. By far the best place to do this is www.elance.com. Elance has an excellent reputation and an excellent advertising budget. They draw thousands of jobs there all the time. There is a fee, but it is well worth the investment.
Other sources for finding work are: www.craigslist.com, www.sologig.com, www.homejobstop.com, www.guru.com, and www.getafreelancer.com. There are really quite a few websites now that focus on bringing clients and service providers together.
Do a Good Job
When you do land your first gig, do it well. Aim to astound your client. Be ahead of schedule, respond to their inquiries, and send them daily updates. Oftentimes first assignments are your best opportunity for receiving more work. When a business reaches the point of outsourcing, they are doing well. It is very likely that pleasing the client with your first assignment can lead to ongoing work and/or glowing recommendations to their colleagues to use your services.
Starting a Virtual Assistant business is an innovative, legitimate way to utilize skills that you have. It is quickly becoming a popular home business and there is tremendous room in the industry for growth. It can take some time to sign on your first clients, but before you know it you will have a full work load and a surprisingly abundant business doing what you love!
By Lori Redfield
Lori Redfield is the founder of FreelanceMom. Her website provides support, advice and job leads for women who wish to work from home. Sign up for her newsletter at: http://www.freelancemom.com/newsletter.htm.
10/02/2005
Secretarial Services - PR marketing
Maybe You SHOULD Worry About Your PR!
Especially if your public relations budget is all about tactics
like brochures, special events, talking to reporters and press
releases.
Please don't get me wrong. Communications tactics are
valuable devices which we call upon from time-to-time to
move a message from here to there.
But, as a business, non-profit or association manager,
you can omit the best public relations has to offer, the crème
de la crème of PR!
Try this on for size. The core public relations mission
pulls together the resources and action planning needed to
alter individual perception leading to changed behaviors
among a business, non-profit, or association's most
important outside audiences. Then it goes on to help a
manager persuade those key folks to his or her way of
thinking, and then, moves them to take actions that
allow their department, group, division or subsidiary
to succeed.
Now, there's a real theory behind that mission, and it's
the underlying premise of public relations: People act
on their own perception of the facts before them, which
leads to predictable behaviors about which something
can be done. When we create, change or reinforce that
opinion by reaching, persuading and moving-to-
desired-action the very people whose behaviors affect
the organization the most, the public relations mission
is usually accomplished.
It's comforting to note that the right public relations
planning really CAN alter individual perception and
lead to changed behaviors among key outside audiences.
AND equally encouraging when you remember that
your PR effort must demand more than special events,
news releases and talk show tactics if you are to receive
the quality public relations results you believe you deserve.
And those results won't be long in coming, especially when
capital givers or specifying sources begin to look your
way; customers begin to make repeat purchases;
membership applications start to rise; new proposals
for strategic alliances and joint ventures start showing
up; politicians and legislators begin looking at you as
a key member of the business, non-profit or association
communities; welcome bounces in show room visits
occur; community leaders begin to seek you out; and
prospects actually start to do business with you.
Help is at hand because the public relations people
assigned to you can be of real use for your new opinion
monitoring project because they are already in the
perception and behavior business. But be certain that
the PR folks really accept why it's SO important to
know how your most important outside audiences
perceive your operations, products or services. Above
all, be sure they believe that perceptions almost always
result in behaviors that can help or hurt your operation.
Layout the plans for your PR staff re: monitoring and
gathering perceptions by questioning members of your
most important outside audiences. Ask questions like
these: how much do you know about our organization?
Have you had prior contact with us and were you pleased
with the interchange? Are you familiar with our services
or products and employees? Have you experienced
problems with our people or procedures?
Bringing in survey firms to do the opinion gathering
work can cost a lot more than using those PR folks of
yours in that monitoring capacity. But whether it's your
people or a survey firm asking the questions, the
objective remains the same: identify untruths, false
assumptions, unfounded rumors, inaccuracies,
misconceptions and any other negative perception that
might translate into hurtful behaviors.
Here, you have to set a goal aiming for action on the
most serious problem areas you uncovered during your
key audience perception monitoring. Will it be to
straighten out that dangerous misconception? Correct
that gross inaccuracy? Or, stop that potentially painful
rumor dead?
Naturally a goal requires a strategy to show you how
to reach it. Just three strategic options are available to
you when it comes to solving perception and opinion
problems. Change existing perception, create perception
where there may be none, or reinforce it. The wrong
strategy pick will taste like spare ribs with lemon sauce.
So be certain your new strategy fits well with your new
public relations goal. You certainly don't want to select
"change" when the facts dictate a strategy of reinforcement.
Now your people must do some good writing. You must
prepare a persuasive message that will help move your key
audience to your way of thinking. It must be a carefully-
written message aimed directly at your key external
audience. Select your very best writer because s/he must
come up with language that is not merely compelling,
persuasive and believable, but clear and factual if they are
to shift perception/opinion towards your point of view
and lead to the behaviors you have in mind.
It's time to pick out the communications tactics most likely
to carry your message to the attention of your target
audience. There are many waiting for you. From speeches,
facility tours, emails and brochures to consumer briefings,
media interviews, newsletters, personal meetings and many
others. But be certain that the tactics you pick are known to
reach folks just like your audience members.
How you communicate your message is a concern because
the credibility of any message is always fragile. Which is
why you may wish to unveil your corrective message
before smaller meetings and presentations rather than
using higher-profile news releases.
If the thought of a progress report appeals to you, you must
begin a second perception monitoring session among
members of your external audience in order to measure
headway. You can use many of the same questions used in
your benchmark session. But this time, you will be on
guard for signs that the bad news perception is being
altered in your direction.
In the event the program slows down, you can always speed
things up by adding more communications tactics as well as
increasing their frequencies.
Worry can be healthy, too. Especially when it moves you
away from a major emphasis on communications tactics
and on to a plan for doing something positive about the
behaviors of those important external audiences of yours
that most affect your operation. And particularly so when
you persuade those key outside folks to your way of
thinking by helping to move them to take actions that
allow your department, division or subsidiary to succeed.
Bob Kelly counsels and writes for business, non-profit and association managers about using the fundamental premise of public relations to achieve their operating objectives. He has published over 200 articles on the subject which are listed at EzineArticles.com, click Expert Author, click Robert A. Kelly. He has been DPR, Pepsi-Cola Co.; AGM-PR, Texaco Inc.; VP-PR, Olin Corp.; VP-PR, Newport
News Shipbuilding & Drydock Co.; director of communications, U.S.
Department of the Interior, and deputy assistant press secretary, The
White House. He holds a bachelor of science degree from Columbia University, major in public relations. mailto:bobkelly@TNI.net - Visit:www.PRCommentary.com
Especially if your public relations budget is all about tactics
like brochures, special events, talking to reporters and press
releases.
Please don't get me wrong. Communications tactics are
valuable devices which we call upon from time-to-time to
move a message from here to there.
But, as a business, non-profit or association manager,
you can omit the best public relations has to offer, the crème
de la crème of PR!
Try this on for size. The core public relations mission
pulls together the resources and action planning needed to
alter individual perception leading to changed behaviors
among a business, non-profit, or association's most
important outside audiences. Then it goes on to help a
manager persuade those key folks to his or her way of
thinking, and then, moves them to take actions that
allow their department, group, division or subsidiary
to succeed.
Now, there's a real theory behind that mission, and it's
the underlying premise of public relations: People act
on their own perception of the facts before them, which
leads to predictable behaviors about which something
can be done. When we create, change or reinforce that
opinion by reaching, persuading and moving-to-
desired-action the very people whose behaviors affect
the organization the most, the public relations mission
is usually accomplished.
It's comforting to note that the right public relations
planning really CAN alter individual perception and
lead to changed behaviors among key outside audiences.
AND equally encouraging when you remember that
your PR effort must demand more than special events,
news releases and talk show tactics if you are to receive
the quality public relations results you believe you deserve.
And those results won't be long in coming, especially when
capital givers or specifying sources begin to look your
way; customers begin to make repeat purchases;
membership applications start to rise; new proposals
for strategic alliances and joint ventures start showing
up; politicians and legislators begin looking at you as
a key member of the business, non-profit or association
communities; welcome bounces in show room visits
occur; community leaders begin to seek you out; and
prospects actually start to do business with you.
Help is at hand because the public relations people
assigned to you can be of real use for your new opinion
monitoring project because they are already in the
perception and behavior business. But be certain that
the PR folks really accept why it's SO important to
know how your most important outside audiences
perceive your operations, products or services. Above
all, be sure they believe that perceptions almost always
result in behaviors that can help or hurt your operation.
Layout the plans for your PR staff re: monitoring and
gathering perceptions by questioning members of your
most important outside audiences. Ask questions like
these: how much do you know about our organization?
Have you had prior contact with us and were you pleased
with the interchange? Are you familiar with our services
or products and employees? Have you experienced
problems with our people or procedures?
Bringing in survey firms to do the opinion gathering
work can cost a lot more than using those PR folks of
yours in that monitoring capacity. But whether it's your
people or a survey firm asking the questions, the
objective remains the same: identify untruths, false
assumptions, unfounded rumors, inaccuracies,
misconceptions and any other negative perception that
might translate into hurtful behaviors.
Here, you have to set a goal aiming for action on the
most serious problem areas you uncovered during your
key audience perception monitoring. Will it be to
straighten out that dangerous misconception? Correct
that gross inaccuracy? Or, stop that potentially painful
rumor dead?
Naturally a goal requires a strategy to show you how
to reach it. Just three strategic options are available to
you when it comes to solving perception and opinion
problems. Change existing perception, create perception
where there may be none, or reinforce it. The wrong
strategy pick will taste like spare ribs with lemon sauce.
So be certain your new strategy fits well with your new
public relations goal. You certainly don't want to select
"change" when the facts dictate a strategy of reinforcement.
Now your people must do some good writing. You must
prepare a persuasive message that will help move your key
audience to your way of thinking. It must be a carefully-
written message aimed directly at your key external
audience. Select your very best writer because s/he must
come up with language that is not merely compelling,
persuasive and believable, but clear and factual if they are
to shift perception/opinion towards your point of view
and lead to the behaviors you have in mind.
It's time to pick out the communications tactics most likely
to carry your message to the attention of your target
audience. There are many waiting for you. From speeches,
facility tours, emails and brochures to consumer briefings,
media interviews, newsletters, personal meetings and many
others. But be certain that the tactics you pick are known to
reach folks just like your audience members.
How you communicate your message is a concern because
the credibility of any message is always fragile. Which is
why you may wish to unveil your corrective message
before smaller meetings and presentations rather than
using higher-profile news releases.
If the thought of a progress report appeals to you, you must
begin a second perception monitoring session among
members of your external audience in order to measure
headway. You can use many of the same questions used in
your benchmark session. But this time, you will be on
guard for signs that the bad news perception is being
altered in your direction.
In the event the program slows down, you can always speed
things up by adding more communications tactics as well as
increasing their frequencies.
Worry can be healthy, too. Especially when it moves you
away from a major emphasis on communications tactics
and on to a plan for doing something positive about the
behaviors of those important external audiences of yours
that most affect your operation. And particularly so when
you persuade those key outside folks to your way of
thinking by helping to move them to take actions that
allow your department, division or subsidiary to succeed.
Bob Kelly counsels and writes for business, non-profit and association managers about using the fundamental premise of public relations to achieve their operating objectives. He has published over 200 articles on the subject which are listed at EzineArticles.com, click Expert Author, click Robert A. Kelly. He has been DPR, Pepsi-Cola Co.; AGM-PR, Texaco Inc.; VP-PR, Olin Corp.; VP-PR, Newport
News Shipbuilding & Drydock Co.; director of communications, U.S.
Department of the Interior, and deputy assistant press secretary, The
White House. He holds a bachelor of science degree from Columbia University, major in public relations. mailto:bobkelly@TNI.net - Visit:www.PRCommentary.com
9/20/2005
Secretarial Services - Starting a business on a tight budget
Starting Your Home Based Business on a Shoestring Budget
Copyright © Stone Evans, The Home Biz Guy
http://www.PlugInProfitSite.com/main-6169
Whether seeking a supplemental income or a full-time income,
many folks have undertaken the task to discover a viable home
based business solution to meet their personal needs.
For most folks who contemplate a home business, a low-cost or
no-cost solution is not only nice, but also very necessary. Many
also seek to find a home business that will permit them to
maintain their regular day job in order to protect their base
income.
Taking the cautious approach to a home based business and
keeping one's job during the start-up period is often a very
good decision. By maintaining one's job, one can maintain the
health of their personal finances while permitting their home
business grow healthy and strong.
Fortunately, most home based businesses can be started with
little or no cash, can be maintained on a shoestring budget, and
can be operated successfully with only a part-time investment.
One day, the business will be strong enough to support itself
and its owner. When that time comes, it will make good sense for
the business owner to leave his or her outside job to dedicate
more time to growing and maintaining their new thriving home
based business. You will know when that time has finally arrived.
The nature of a home based business makes it easy and very
realistic for most folks to take the plunge into home business
ownership.
Yet, many folks put off starting their own home based business,
because they have the misconception that they will have to risk
thousands of their own hard-earned dollars at start-up. Then
later, if their business fails, they fear they may be forced to
take out a second mortgage on their house just to stay out of
bankruptcy.
Are you one of these folks? Do you let your fears of failure
keep you from reaching for your dreams?
If so, then allow me to introduce you to a few home business
ideas that you can start for less than $100 and can be started
and operated very profitably as a part-time business.
THE LIFEBLOOD OF ALL SUCCESSFUL BUSINESSES
First of all, let me advise you to search out a business model
that will deliver steady and repeat business. It is the one
thing --- above all others --- that will assure that your
company can survive the test of time.
HOME-BASED MAIL ORDER:
Home-based mail order is a good example of how one can quickly
grow a home business income. Mail order is a low cost start-up
business that can be launched for around $100 USD.
With proper planning, your home-based mail order business will
not require up-front inventory purchases. In the mail order
business, it is not uncommon to rely upon drop-shippers for
product fulfillment services.
By utilizing drop-shippers, we can sell the products, collect
the money and then purchase the products from the wholesale
outlet. The wholesale outlet will then put a return address for
your company on the product packaging and deliver the product
directly to your customer.
By using the following link, you can explore the drop-ship
directory, which will let you explore the drop-shipping
companies that will enable you sell 500,000 products from over
1,000 brand name manufacturers:
http://www.home-business.com/dropship.html
Your primary expense in the mail-order business is advertising.
Classified advertising tends to be a relatively inexpensive form
of advertising with thousands of outlets available to the small
business owner.
WHOLESALE BUSINESS:
Buy low --- sell high. You can acquire high quality,
top-of-the-line merchandise for a fraction of the retail cost.
Starting a wholesale business would require a Wholesale Dealers
Directory as your source for merchandise, such as the one above
or the one listed here:
http://www.home-business.com/auction.html
AUCTIONS:
Auctions can be an excellent source for buying cheap and selling
high. Both government auctions and Internet auctions can lead to
some excellent profit opportunities. Auctions are an excellent
tool for both acquiring and selling merchandise.
MAKE AND SELL YOUR CRAFTS:
Crafts are a hot seller at country fairs, swap meets or anyplace
where people gather. Make your own crafts and sell them for a
tidy profit!
SELLING INFORMATION:
Selling information by mail is another good example of an
inexpensive home based business start-up. One can gain the
resale rights to information for usually about $50 USD. Other
costs will include printer cartridges, paper and postage. There
are plenty of free classifieds sites on the Internet, in which
to successfully advertise your information.
WRITE INFORMATIONAL BOOKLETS:
Write and publish your own informational booklets; sell them at
a high price! All you need is a little know-how, a printer,
paper and stamps. This is a GREAT home business idea! You can
also sell the resale rights to others, for extra profits. In
this age of the Internet, you may also take advantage of the
fact that selling information is one of the most profitable
endeavors one can pursue online.
OFFICE SERVICES:
Offer office services for hire in your local paper. You'll be
surprised at the amount of regular office business that can be
gleaned from one little classified ad. Word processing, typing,
accounting, data entry, proofreading, transcription, promotional
letters and newsletters. All these tasks can be accomplished
right from your own home office.
AVON REPRESENTATIVE:
Yes, Avon's been around for eternity, hasn't it? Then it's not
such a bad prospect as a home based business, is it? I once knew
a woman who did so much business as an Avon rep. that she had
people calling her and knocking at her door wanting to order
products at all hours of the day and night! Once you are an
established Avon representative, you, too, will turn a good
profit.
CONCLUSION:
On your search for the ideal home based business, try not to get
caught up in any scams that will run off with your money. There
are thousands of scam artists out there just waiting for the
next sucker to come along. Remember, if it sounds too good to be
true, then it probably is. Just use your good judgement and
invest wisely in proven methods of earning extra income.
Stone Evans Will Personally Build A Money Making Website
Just For You That's 100% Ready To Take Orders And Pull In
Massive Residual Profits. Get Details And Signup Today At:
http://www.PlugInProfitSite.com/main-6169
Copyright © Stone Evans, The Home Biz Guy
http://www.PlugInProfitSite.com/main-6169
Whether seeking a supplemental income or a full-time income,
many folks have undertaken the task to discover a viable home
based business solution to meet their personal needs.
For most folks who contemplate a home business, a low-cost or
no-cost solution is not only nice, but also very necessary. Many
also seek to find a home business that will permit them to
maintain their regular day job in order to protect their base
income.
Taking the cautious approach to a home based business and
keeping one's job during the start-up period is often a very
good decision. By maintaining one's job, one can maintain the
health of their personal finances while permitting their home
business grow healthy and strong.
Fortunately, most home based businesses can be started with
little or no cash, can be maintained on a shoestring budget, and
can be operated successfully with only a part-time investment.
One day, the business will be strong enough to support itself
and its owner. When that time comes, it will make good sense for
the business owner to leave his or her outside job to dedicate
more time to growing and maintaining their new thriving home
based business. You will know when that time has finally arrived.
The nature of a home based business makes it easy and very
realistic for most folks to take the plunge into home business
ownership.
Yet, many folks put off starting their own home based business,
because they have the misconception that they will have to risk
thousands of their own hard-earned dollars at start-up. Then
later, if their business fails, they fear they may be forced to
take out a second mortgage on their house just to stay out of
bankruptcy.
Are you one of these folks? Do you let your fears of failure
keep you from reaching for your dreams?
If so, then allow me to introduce you to a few home business
ideas that you can start for less than $100 and can be started
and operated very profitably as a part-time business.
THE LIFEBLOOD OF ALL SUCCESSFUL BUSINESSES
First of all, let me advise you to search out a business model
that will deliver steady and repeat business. It is the one
thing --- above all others --- that will assure that your
company can survive the test of time.
HOME-BASED MAIL ORDER:
Home-based mail order is a good example of how one can quickly
grow a home business income. Mail order is a low cost start-up
business that can be launched for around $100 USD.
With proper planning, your home-based mail order business will
not require up-front inventory purchases. In the mail order
business, it is not uncommon to rely upon drop-shippers for
product fulfillment services.
By utilizing drop-shippers, we can sell the products, collect
the money and then purchase the products from the wholesale
outlet. The wholesale outlet will then put a return address for
your company on the product packaging and deliver the product
directly to your customer.
By using the following link, you can explore the drop-ship
directory, which will let you explore the drop-shipping
companies that will enable you sell 500,000 products from over
1,000 brand name manufacturers:
http://www.home-business.com/dropship.html
Your primary expense in the mail-order business is advertising.
Classified advertising tends to be a relatively inexpensive form
of advertising with thousands of outlets available to the small
business owner.
WHOLESALE BUSINESS:
Buy low --- sell high. You can acquire high quality,
top-of-the-line merchandise for a fraction of the retail cost.
Starting a wholesale business would require a Wholesale Dealers
Directory as your source for merchandise, such as the one above
or the one listed here:
http://www.home-business.com/auction.html
AUCTIONS:
Auctions can be an excellent source for buying cheap and selling
high. Both government auctions and Internet auctions can lead to
some excellent profit opportunities. Auctions are an excellent
tool for both acquiring and selling merchandise.
MAKE AND SELL YOUR CRAFTS:
Crafts are a hot seller at country fairs, swap meets or anyplace
where people gather. Make your own crafts and sell them for a
tidy profit!
SELLING INFORMATION:
Selling information by mail is another good example of an
inexpensive home based business start-up. One can gain the
resale rights to information for usually about $50 USD. Other
costs will include printer cartridges, paper and postage. There
are plenty of free classifieds sites on the Internet, in which
to successfully advertise your information.
WRITE INFORMATIONAL BOOKLETS:
Write and publish your own informational booklets; sell them at
a high price! All you need is a little know-how, a printer,
paper and stamps. This is a GREAT home business idea! You can
also sell the resale rights to others, for extra profits. In
this age of the Internet, you may also take advantage of the
fact that selling information is one of the most profitable
endeavors one can pursue online.
OFFICE SERVICES:
Offer office services for hire in your local paper. You'll be
surprised at the amount of regular office business that can be
gleaned from one little classified ad. Word processing, typing,
accounting, data entry, proofreading, transcription, promotional
letters and newsletters. All these tasks can be accomplished
right from your own home office.
AVON REPRESENTATIVE:
Yes, Avon's been around for eternity, hasn't it? Then it's not
such a bad prospect as a home based business, is it? I once knew
a woman who did so much business as an Avon rep. that she had
people calling her and knocking at her door wanting to order
products at all hours of the day and night! Once you are an
established Avon representative, you, too, will turn a good
profit.
CONCLUSION:
On your search for the ideal home based business, try not to get
caught up in any scams that will run off with your money. There
are thousands of scam artists out there just waiting for the
next sucker to come along. Remember, if it sounds too good to be
true, then it probably is. Just use your good judgement and
invest wisely in proven methods of earning extra income.
Stone Evans Will Personally Build A Money Making Website
Just For You That's 100% Ready To Take Orders And Pull In
Massive Residual Profits. Get Details And Signup Today At:
http://www.PlugInProfitSite.com/main-6169
9/19/2005
Secretarial Services - Business Resources
Government Resources
There is a wealth of information available on the Internet about starting and operating a business from home. In addition to web sites, these organizations have local branches that can tell you what licenses and permits you need in your town. Here are some useful web sites.
Small Business Administration
http://www.sba.gov
800-827-5722
The SBA's Online Women's Business Center
http://www.onlinewbc.org
Service Corps of Retired Executives (SCORE)
http://www.score.org
800-827-5722
Small Business Administration
http://www.sba.gov
800-827-5722
The SBA's Online Women's Business Center
http://www.onlinewbc.org
Service Corps of Retired Executives (SCORE)
http://www.score.org
800-827-5722
9/15/2005
Secretarial Services - Planning for Profits
Plan Your Business for Profits
by Leva Duell
Copyright: 2005-2006
Most businesses fail to plan for success. Knowing your customers, and uniqueness are the first steps to developing a successful business. Follow these steps to position your business for profits.
Step 1: Define Your Ideal Customers, Their Needs and Concerns
Many businesses are trying to attract everybody. Don't make this mistake. Your business will be more profitable when focusing on your ideal prospects who are likely to buy your products or services. Ask the following questions to create a profile of your ideal customers.
- Who are your customers?
- Who wants or needs your products or services?
- What is the age range, gender, profession, industry, income level, and education of your ideal customers?
- What are your customers' needs, wants, and concerns?
- What problems can you solve for your customers?
- What is the common denominator of your customers?
- What information do they want?
- Are most of your customers computer literate? Will they look for products or services like yours on the Web?
After defining your ideal customers, target your sales copy, sales materials, web design and web content directly to them.
Tell right away what you offer and what's in it for them. If they don't read further, they were not prospects. Attract your target audience with a benefit-oriented headline and provide valuable, useful, and interesting information your prospects are interested in.
If you are targeting seniors, make your text large. If your prospects are accountants, use a conservative design. Make your design colorful for children. Avoid video and sound on your web site if your clients have slow computers and Internet connections.
Step 2: Demonstrate Your Uniqueness
Emphasize your uniqueness to stand out from your competition. Attract your audience with a benefit that is different from your competitors. What is your distinct advantage? What separates you from your competition? What is distinctive about your offer?
Answer these questions to help you formulate your uniqueness.
- Why should prospects buy from you instead of your competitors?
- What are the most important benefits or results your customers will achieve from your products or services?
- What do you do better than anyone else? Do you possess hard-to-find or specialized expertise?
- Do you offer a free consultation, initial visit, analysis, or better advice?
- What makes your products or services better, unique, or more desirable than your competitors?
- Do you have the lowest prices or the highest quality products in your industry?
- Do you provide the fastest service, the strongest guarantee, longest hours, or better follow up?
- Do you keep customers informed with newsletters or information hotlines?
Determine what makes your business unique. Then emphasize your uniqueness to make your sales materials and web site stand out and set you apart from your competition.
Plan your business for profits. Determine who your ideal audience is and what makes your business unique. Only after implementing these steps are you ready to start developing your sales materials and web content.
-------------------------------------------------
You can reprint this article on your web site if you include this Resource Box:
Looking for typing work at home? Start a secretarial business. The Secretarial-Business-in-a-Box provides instant tools you need to start and run a successful secretarial service. F*ree articles and business start-up newsletter at http://www.startasecretarialbusiness.com.
by Leva Duell
Copyright: 2005-2006
Most businesses fail to plan for success. Knowing your customers, and uniqueness are the first steps to developing a successful business. Follow these steps to position your business for profits.
Step 1: Define Your Ideal Customers, Their Needs and Concerns
Many businesses are trying to attract everybody. Don't make this mistake. Your business will be more profitable when focusing on your ideal prospects who are likely to buy your products or services. Ask the following questions to create a profile of your ideal customers.
- Who are your customers?
- Who wants or needs your products or services?
- What is the age range, gender, profession, industry, income level, and education of your ideal customers?
- What are your customers' needs, wants, and concerns?
- What problems can you solve for your customers?
- What is the common denominator of your customers?
- What information do they want?
- Are most of your customers computer literate? Will they look for products or services like yours on the Web?
After defining your ideal customers, target your sales copy, sales materials, web design and web content directly to them.
Tell right away what you offer and what's in it for them. If they don't read further, they were not prospects. Attract your target audience with a benefit-oriented headline and provide valuable, useful, and interesting information your prospects are interested in.
If you are targeting seniors, make your text large. If your prospects are accountants, use a conservative design. Make your design colorful for children. Avoid video and sound on your web site if your clients have slow computers and Internet connections.
Step 2: Demonstrate Your Uniqueness
Emphasize your uniqueness to stand out from your competition. Attract your audience with a benefit that is different from your competitors. What is your distinct advantage? What separates you from your competition? What is distinctive about your offer?
Answer these questions to help you formulate your uniqueness.
- Why should prospects buy from you instead of your competitors?
- What are the most important benefits or results your customers will achieve from your products or services?
- What do you do better than anyone else? Do you possess hard-to-find or specialized expertise?
- Do you offer a free consultation, initial visit, analysis, or better advice?
- What makes your products or services better, unique, or more desirable than your competitors?
- Do you have the lowest prices or the highest quality products in your industry?
- Do you provide the fastest service, the strongest guarantee, longest hours, or better follow up?
- Do you keep customers informed with newsletters or information hotlines?
Determine what makes your business unique. Then emphasize your uniqueness to make your sales materials and web site stand out and set you apart from your competition.
Plan your business for profits. Determine who your ideal audience is and what makes your business unique. Only after implementing these steps are you ready to start developing your sales materials and web content.
-------------------------------------------------
You can reprint this article on your web site if you include this Resource Box:
Looking for typing work at home? Start a secretarial business. The Secretarial-Business-in-a-Box provides instant tools you need to start and run a successful secretarial service. F*ree articles and business start-up newsletter at http://www.startasecretarialbusiness.com.
9/14/2005
Secretarial Services - Tips for Success
Success Tips for Small Business Owners
By Lorraine Pirihi
Running a small business requires many skills. However, to do this successfully you need to organize yourself first. Avoid procrastination - read the following and take action.
Successful Small Business Owners Look After Themselves First
Exercise regularly, eat healthily and be around positive people. Feed your mind by attending personal development courses. Read self-help and motivational books, listen to tapes. Stress management levels will be much more effective when you look after yourself.
Do the right thing by yourself and you'll have heaps of energy, be motivated, have more balance in your life which in turn will help you be more productive and successful.
Successful Small Business Owners Clean out the Clutter Regularly
You will save yourself heaps of time, energy and money if you clear out your work and home environment…paperwork, books, old equipment etc. You'll be able to find things, save money because you won't have to buy what you already have hidden somewhere, plus you'll be less stressed. Organize your office and your small business premises regularly…keep the clutter out. Eliminating clutter will help you to avoid procrastination. It's too easy to avoid getting things done if you are overwhelmed with clutter.
Successful Small Business Owners Use the Right Tools
It's no good having the latest whiz-bang computer when the desk that you sit at is too small to accommodate it, or the chair has poor back support, or the lighting is dull causing you eyestrain and fatigue. All these factors heavily influence how you work. Invest in a decent desk, purchase a desk lamp or change the light globes.
Don't avoid the warning signs your body gives you. Take action now before you have eye, back or neck problems.
Successful Small Business Owners Use a Diary or Digital organiser
With so much to organize in your small business, you need to record your appointments and things to do and goals somewhere. Preferably in a paper diary or digital organiser that you can take everywhere. This is the most effective way to get things done, plan your work and your life. Balance is extremely important. Top achievers are great at time management (even if they have to pay someone else to organize them).
Successful Small Business Owners Learn to say "No"
To dramatically improve your productivity and do more of the things you want, you have to be firm with others and let them know if you cannot, will not or are unavailable to fulfil their requests. If you constantly say "yes" to everyone else's requests you will never have the time to do what you really want to.
Book yourself into a self-assertiveness course to learn these skills if you feel you need to.
Successful Small Business Owners Do What They Do Best and Delegate the Rest
See what tasks you can delegate tasks which would suit someone else's talents. Many small business owners are spending heaps of time on mundane secretarial tasks which would take a person who is trained in that area a quarter of the time to undertake. Stress management is an important part of running your small business. Reduce the stress by delegating or outsourcing wherever you can.
Use a bookkeeper, personal assistant or virtual assistant. Always ask yourself, who else can I get to do this? Use your time management to focus on what you do best.
Successful Small Business Owners Only Have Meetings if Necessary
Make sure the meetings you organize in your small business are relevant and run effectively. Avoid procrastination - always make sure there is an outcome and all actions are followed through.
The Final Word
By following these simple yet very effective time management tips for small business owners you will have more control over your work and your life. You'll have more balance, experience less stress and be more proactive.
Avoid procrastination…take action today!
Lorraine Pirihi is Australia's Personal Productivity Specialist and Leading Life Coach. Her business The Office Organiser specialises in showing small business owners and managers, how to get organised at work so they can have a life! Lorraine is also a dynamic speaker and has produced many products including "How to Survive and Thrive at Work!" To subscribe to her free ezine visit www.office-organiser.com.au
By Lorraine Pirihi
Running a small business requires many skills. However, to do this successfully you need to organize yourself first. Avoid procrastination - read the following and take action.
Successful Small Business Owners Look After Themselves First
Exercise regularly, eat healthily and be around positive people. Feed your mind by attending personal development courses. Read self-help and motivational books, listen to tapes. Stress management levels will be much more effective when you look after yourself.
Do the right thing by yourself and you'll have heaps of energy, be motivated, have more balance in your life which in turn will help you be more productive and successful.
Successful Small Business Owners Clean out the Clutter Regularly
You will save yourself heaps of time, energy and money if you clear out your work and home environment…paperwork, books, old equipment etc. You'll be able to find things, save money because you won't have to buy what you already have hidden somewhere, plus you'll be less stressed. Organize your office and your small business premises regularly…keep the clutter out. Eliminating clutter will help you to avoid procrastination. It's too easy to avoid getting things done if you are overwhelmed with clutter.
Successful Small Business Owners Use the Right Tools
It's no good having the latest whiz-bang computer when the desk that you sit at is too small to accommodate it, or the chair has poor back support, or the lighting is dull causing you eyestrain and fatigue. All these factors heavily influence how you work. Invest in a decent desk, purchase a desk lamp or change the light globes.
Don't avoid the warning signs your body gives you. Take action now before you have eye, back or neck problems.
Successful Small Business Owners Use a Diary or Digital organiser
With so much to organize in your small business, you need to record your appointments and things to do and goals somewhere. Preferably in a paper diary or digital organiser that you can take everywhere. This is the most effective way to get things done, plan your work and your life. Balance is extremely important. Top achievers are great at time management (even if they have to pay someone else to organize them).
Successful Small Business Owners Learn to say "No"
To dramatically improve your productivity and do more of the things you want, you have to be firm with others and let them know if you cannot, will not or are unavailable to fulfil their requests. If you constantly say "yes" to everyone else's requests you will never have the time to do what you really want to.
Book yourself into a self-assertiveness course to learn these skills if you feel you need to.
Successful Small Business Owners Do What They Do Best and Delegate the Rest
See what tasks you can delegate tasks which would suit someone else's talents. Many small business owners are spending heaps of time on mundane secretarial tasks which would take a person who is trained in that area a quarter of the time to undertake. Stress management is an important part of running your small business. Reduce the stress by delegating or outsourcing wherever you can.
Use a bookkeeper, personal assistant or virtual assistant. Always ask yourself, who else can I get to do this? Use your time management to focus on what you do best.
Successful Small Business Owners Only Have Meetings if Necessary
Make sure the meetings you organize in your small business are relevant and run effectively. Avoid procrastination - always make sure there is an outcome and all actions are followed through.
The Final Word
By following these simple yet very effective time management tips for small business owners you will have more control over your work and your life. You'll have more balance, experience less stress and be more proactive.
Avoid procrastination…take action today!
Lorraine Pirihi is Australia's Personal Productivity Specialist and Leading Life Coach. Her business The Office Organiser specialises in showing small business owners and managers, how to get organised at work so they can have a life! Lorraine is also a dynamic speaker and has produced many products including "How to Survive and Thrive at Work!" To subscribe to her free ezine visit www.office-organiser.com.au
9/09/2005
Secretarial Services - Jump Start Sales
10 Amazing Ways To Jump Start Your Sales
1. Find a strategic business partner. Look for ones that have the same objective. You can trade leads, share marketing info, sell package deals, etc.
2. Brand your name and business. You can easily do this by just writing articles and submitting them to e-zines or web sites for republishing.
3. Start an auction on your web site. The type of auction could be related to the theme of your site. You'll draw traffic from auctioneers and bidders.
4. Remember to take a little time out of your day or week to brainstorm. New ideas are usually the difference between success and failure.
5. Model other successful business or people. I'm not saying out right copy them, but practice some of the same habits that have made them succeed.
6. Take risks to improve your business. Sometimes businesses don't want to advertise unless it's free, sometimes you have to spend money to get results.
7. Include emotional words in your advertisements. Use ones like love, security, relief, freedom, happy, satisfaction, fun, etc.
8. Ask people online to review your web site. You can use the comments you get to improve your website or you may turn the reviewer into a customer.
9. Out source part of your workload. You'll save on most employee costs. You could out source your secretarial work, accounting, marketing, etc.
10. Combine a product and service together in a package deal. It could increase your sales. If you're selling a book, 1. Find a strategic business partner. Look for ones that have the same objective. You can trade leads,share marketing info, sell package deals, etc.
Merry GAGNOL - mailto:support@netprofitblueprint.comhttp://www.netprofitblueprint.com/?ref=181
9/07/2005
Secretarial Services - Medical Transcription
Technologically Boosting the Medical Transcription Company
By Joe Miller
Medical Transcription Company
Virtually every medical service provider dictates SOAP notes into recorders for transcription and sends them off to a medical transcription company to transcribe and return a refined copy of necessary medical information.
In fact, without the medical transcription company the medical service provider would be too overburdened with transcription to pay the attention it needs to its clients. However, the medical transcription company has had to undergo technological changes in order to keep up with demand and with competition. Fast-paced medical service requires fast-paced medical transcription. So, which medical transcription company will survive? The answer is the one that takes advantage of time-saving technology.
Medical Transcription
This answer is not at all uncommon now-a-days, but it is especially challenging in the field of medical transcription. Medical transcription is just as it sounds: transcribing on paper the notes that were audio recorded. It doesn’t seem at first that much more technology is needed than a word processor and a cassette tape player.
The crux of the matter is controlling quantity. Effective records of SOAP notes, especially in the quantities supplied by medical offices, require the technological ability to not only record medical transcription but also to track it and store it.
Medical Transcription Job
The medical transcription job would be daunting at best without the help of technology. Let me review a general version of a medical transcription job check list:
1. Receive tapes from medical service provider.
2. Transcribe 1st draft of SOAP notes.
3. Save transcription.
4. Continue process with entire batch.
5. Review medical transcription for errors.
6. Make changes on 1st draft of medical transcriptions.
7. Send medical transcriptions back to medical service provider.
8. Bill medical service provider.
This process most often overlaps itself due to the management of multiple batches from multiple service providers. Organizational skill is high up on the requirements list for a medical transcription specialist.
Medical Transcription Program
Due to the massive amounts of medical transcription jobs and batches continually being sent back and forth between medical service providers and the medical transcription company, the market has awakened to meet medical transcription needs. Looking for a medical transcription program is so easy, it’s hard. Just type “medical transcription program” into Google, Yahoo, or MSN and witness first hand the millions of indexed pages you might have to sift through.
In your search for a versatile medical transcription program suitable to medical service providers’ needs, there are a few things to keep in mind. A medical transcription program has the ability to work in house, without IT infrastructure overhead.
There are additional medical transcription program specs to keep an eye out for. For example, a medical transcription program which combines the secure storage of medical databases and medical transcription provides the security and accessibility a medical service provider needs.
The right medical transcription program also provides organization for tracking the editorial stages of the SOAP notes and securing them, as well as sending them back to the right medical service provider.
The medical service provider runs a race of efficiency and professionalism in order to stay in business. The right medical transcription program provides a technological boost to propel medical service providers ahead of the rest of the pack.
Joe Miller is an author of informational articles and online advertisements on business, technology, and health. Information on Medical Transcription Company is available at AdvancedMD.com.
By Joe Miller
Medical Transcription Company
Virtually every medical service provider dictates SOAP notes into recorders for transcription and sends them off to a medical transcription company to transcribe and return a refined copy of necessary medical information.
In fact, without the medical transcription company the medical service provider would be too overburdened with transcription to pay the attention it needs to its clients. However, the medical transcription company has had to undergo technological changes in order to keep up with demand and with competition. Fast-paced medical service requires fast-paced medical transcription. So, which medical transcription company will survive? The answer is the one that takes advantage of time-saving technology.
Medical Transcription
This answer is not at all uncommon now-a-days, but it is especially challenging in the field of medical transcription. Medical transcription is just as it sounds: transcribing on paper the notes that were audio recorded. It doesn’t seem at first that much more technology is needed than a word processor and a cassette tape player.
The crux of the matter is controlling quantity. Effective records of SOAP notes, especially in the quantities supplied by medical offices, require the technological ability to not only record medical transcription but also to track it and store it.
Medical Transcription Job
The medical transcription job would be daunting at best without the help of technology. Let me review a general version of a medical transcription job check list:
1. Receive tapes from medical service provider.
2. Transcribe 1st draft of SOAP notes.
3. Save transcription.
4. Continue process with entire batch.
5. Review medical transcription for errors.
6. Make changes on 1st draft of medical transcriptions.
7. Send medical transcriptions back to medical service provider.
8. Bill medical service provider.
This process most often overlaps itself due to the management of multiple batches from multiple service providers. Organizational skill is high up on the requirements list for a medical transcription specialist.
Medical Transcription Program
Due to the massive amounts of medical transcription jobs and batches continually being sent back and forth between medical service providers and the medical transcription company, the market has awakened to meet medical transcription needs. Looking for a medical transcription program is so easy, it’s hard. Just type “medical transcription program” into Google, Yahoo, or MSN and witness first hand the millions of indexed pages you might have to sift through.
In your search for a versatile medical transcription program suitable to medical service providers’ needs, there are a few things to keep in mind. A medical transcription program has the ability to work in house, without IT infrastructure overhead.
There are additional medical transcription program specs to keep an eye out for. For example, a medical transcription program which combines the secure storage of medical databases and medical transcription provides the security and accessibility a medical service provider needs.
The right medical transcription program also provides organization for tracking the editorial stages of the SOAP notes and securing them, as well as sending them back to the right medical service provider.
The medical service provider runs a race of efficiency and professionalism in order to stay in business. The right medical transcription program provides a technological boost to propel medical service providers ahead of the rest of the pack.
Joe Miller is an author of informational articles and online advertisements on business, technology, and health. Information on Medical Transcription Company is available at AdvancedMD.com.
8/27/2005
Secretarial Services - Ink Cartridge
The Great Ink Cartridge Conspiracy!
Buying an inkjet printer these days is no big deal. A reliable printer can be acquired very easily through a store or online for as little as $50. Some suppliers are even giving away inkjet printers on promotions or as free incentives when buying other products. On the face of it, it seems like too good an opportunity to pass by - a worthwhile investment you might say.
But, much like a traditional camera that uses film, an inkjet printer is only 'cheap' before you start using it. The cost of keeping it in ink soon mounts up, especially when you're buying OEM (original equipment manufactured) inkjet cartridges as recommended by the printer manufacturer. Before you know it you'll find that you've actually spent more on the ink cartridges than you did on the purchase of the inkjet printer itself!
If you're in this position - and let's face it, most of us are - what follows could be quite a revelation!
Five things inkjet printer manufacturers DON'T want you to know…
Inkjet printer manufacturers make their money selling ink cartridges NOT inkjet printers Selling recommended OEM ink cartridges is a very lucrative business for inkjet printer manufacturers. They know that once you've purchased the printer you'll be coming back to them time and time again to buy the ink that they recommend in the user guide and any other literature that accompanies the printer.
Fair enough you might say, but given that the price of manufacturing an OEM ink cartridge is only a few cents why are the cartridges so expensive?
The answer is that ink cartridges are in fact stuffed full of manufacturer profit. It is where they make their money, and is precisely why they are happy to give away an inkjet printer for nothing.
Inkjet cartridges supplied for 'free' with inkjet printers are rarely full OEM ink cartridges supplied with the printer are designed only to provide enough ink for a few pages to get you 'started'. From the manufacturer's perspective this is a great selling technique, as free cartridges can often make the difference between a retailer closing a sale or losing it…and once you've got the printer the manufacturer is going to make money out of you every time you order more OEM ink! Supplying ink cartridges that are not full shortens the timeframe over which consumers start ordering OEM ink cartridges too. This brings the manufacturer into profit on each customer much more quickly than had they supplied full cartridges for free with the printer.
Consumers have a choice about which inkjet cartridges to buy It's true! Contrary to popular belief consumers are not obliged to purchase expensive OEM ink cartridges from the manufacturer. They can in fact opt to buy cheaper 'compatible' ink cartridges or remanufactured cartridges, often realizing savings on their ink purchase of between 50% and 75%!! All major inkjet cartridge brands are covered, including Apple, Canon, Hewlett Packard, Lexmark, Brother, Epson, IBM and Xerox. What's more they do the job just as well as OEM cartridges but at a much lower cost!
Compatible inkjet cartridges DO NOT automatically void a printer's warranty Regardless of what you might have heard compatible inkjet cartridges WILL NOT automatically void your printer warranty. In fact, it is ILLEGAL for manufacturers in the United States & Canada to claim that using compatible cartridges will automatically void your printer warranty. For more details on this go to http://www.prontoink.com/?T=Info&ID=printer_warranties
You can make money by reselling compatible ink cartridges
The market for compatible ink cartridges is continually expanding. More and more consumers are choosing to switch to compatible inks that offer the same print quality at half the cost of OEM cartridges. This creates the opportunity for business-minded individuals to make money through affiliate reselling programs as well as save money on their ink cartridge purchases.
Having read this do you feel like you've been hoodwinked by the big boys? Well, it's now time to stand up for your rights! You no longer have to line the pockets of multi-nationals when buying ink cartridges. Think 'compatible ink' and save yourself hundreds of dollars each year on the cost of running your printer.
http://www.prontoink.comis/ an international supplier of inkjet & laser cartridges based in Midland, Texas. Resellers should visit http://www.prontoink.com/incomeop/
8/25/2005
Secretarial Services - Starting a Home Business
Starting a Home Business
by Mary Evans
In these days, it's becoming increasingly difficult to make ends meet with just one source of income. Thus, more and more people are investigating the possibilities of starting their own extra-income business. Most of these part-time endeavors are started and operated from the comfort and privacy of the home.
Most of these people are making the extra money they need. Some have wisely and carefully built these extra income efforts into full-time, very profitable businesses. Others are just keeping busy, having fun, and enjoying life as never before. The important thing is that they are doing something other than waiting for the government to give them a handout; they are improving their lot in life, and you can do it, too!
The fields of mail order selling, multi-level marketing, and in-home party sales have never been more popular. If any of these kinds of extra income producing ideas appeal to you, then you owe it to yourself to check them out. But these aren't the only fields of endeavor you can start and operate from home, with little or no investment, and learn as you go.
If you type, you can start a home-based typing service; if you have a truck or have access to a trailer, you can start a clean-up/hauling service. Simply collecting old newspapers from your neighbors can get you started in the paper recycling business. More than a few enterprising housewifes have found success and fortune by starting home and/or apartment cleaning services. If you have a yard full of flowers, you can make good extra money by supplying fresh cut flowers to restaurants and offices in your area on a regular basis. You might turn a ceramics hobby into a lucrative personalized coffee mug business. What I'm saying is that in reality, there's literally no end to the ways you can start and operate a profitable extra income business from your home.
The first thing you must do, however, is some basic market research. Find out for yourself, first-hand, just how many people there are in your area who are interested in your proposed product or service, and would be "willing to stand in line and pay money for it". This is known as defining your market and pinpointing your customers. If after checking around, talking about your idea with a whole lot of people over a period of one to three months, you get the idea that these people would be paying customers, your next effort should be directed toward the "detailing" of your business plan. The more precise and detailed your plan - covering all the bases relating to how you'll do everything that needs to be done - the easier it's going to be for you to attain success. Such a plan should show you start-up investment needs, your advertising plan, your production costs and procedure, your sales program, and how your time will be allocated. Too often, enthusiastic and ambitious entrepreneur jump in on an extra income project and suddenly find that the costs are beyond their abilities, and the time requirements more than they can meet. It pays to lay it all out on paper before you get involved, and the clearer you can "see" everything before you start, the better your chances for success.
Now, assuming you've got your market targeted, you know who your customers are going to be and how you're going to reach them with your product or service. And you have all your costs as well as time requirements itemized. The next step is to set your plan in motion and start making money.
Here is the most important "secret" of all, relating to starting and building a profitable home-based business, so read very carefully. Regardless of what kind of business you start, you must have the capital and the available time to sustain your business through the first six months of operation. Specifically, you must not count on receiving or spending any money coming in from your business on yourself or for your bills during those first six months. All the income from your business during those first six months should be reinvested in your business in order for it to grow and reach your planned first year potential.
Once you've passed that first six months milestone, you can set up a small monthly salary for yourself, and begin enjoying the fruits of your labor. But the first six months of operation for any business are critical, so do not plan to use any of the money you business generates for yourself during that period.
If you've got your business plan properly organized, and have implemented the plan, you should at the end of your first year be able to begin thinking about hiring other people to alleviate some of your workload. Remember this: Starting a successful business is not a means towards either a job for yourself or a way to keep busy. It should be regarded as the beginning of an enterprise that will grow and prosper, with you as the top dog. Eventually, you'll have other people doing all the work for you, even running the entire operation, while you vacation in the Bahamas or Hawaii and collect or receive regular income from your initial efforts.
For more details on market research, business planning, advertising, selling, order fulfillment, and other aspects of home-based businesses, check with your library or book store.
MARY S. EVANS
mary-evan7@excite.com
COPYWRITER/EDITOR/CREATIVE MEDIA CONSULTANT
by Mary Evans
In these days, it's becoming increasingly difficult to make ends meet with just one source of income. Thus, more and more people are investigating the possibilities of starting their own extra-income business. Most of these part-time endeavors are started and operated from the comfort and privacy of the home.
Most of these people are making the extra money they need. Some have wisely and carefully built these extra income efforts into full-time, very profitable businesses. Others are just keeping busy, having fun, and enjoying life as never before. The important thing is that they are doing something other than waiting for the government to give them a handout; they are improving their lot in life, and you can do it, too!
The fields of mail order selling, multi-level marketing, and in-home party sales have never been more popular. If any of these kinds of extra income producing ideas appeal to you, then you owe it to yourself to check them out. But these aren't the only fields of endeavor you can start and operate from home, with little or no investment, and learn as you go.
If you type, you can start a home-based typing service; if you have a truck or have access to a trailer, you can start a clean-up/hauling service. Simply collecting old newspapers from your neighbors can get you started in the paper recycling business. More than a few enterprising housewifes have found success and fortune by starting home and/or apartment cleaning services. If you have a yard full of flowers, you can make good extra money by supplying fresh cut flowers to restaurants and offices in your area on a regular basis. You might turn a ceramics hobby into a lucrative personalized coffee mug business. What I'm saying is that in reality, there's literally no end to the ways you can start and operate a profitable extra income business from your home.
The first thing you must do, however, is some basic market research. Find out for yourself, first-hand, just how many people there are in your area who are interested in your proposed product or service, and would be "willing to stand in line and pay money for it". This is known as defining your market and pinpointing your customers. If after checking around, talking about your idea with a whole lot of people over a period of one to three months, you get the idea that these people would be paying customers, your next effort should be directed toward the "detailing" of your business plan. The more precise and detailed your plan - covering all the bases relating to how you'll do everything that needs to be done - the easier it's going to be for you to attain success. Such a plan should show you start-up investment needs, your advertising plan, your production costs and procedure, your sales program, and how your time will be allocated. Too often, enthusiastic and ambitious entrepreneur jump in on an extra income project and suddenly find that the costs are beyond their abilities, and the time requirements more than they can meet. It pays to lay it all out on paper before you get involved, and the clearer you can "see" everything before you start, the better your chances for success.
Now, assuming you've got your market targeted, you know who your customers are going to be and how you're going to reach them with your product or service. And you have all your costs as well as time requirements itemized. The next step is to set your plan in motion and start making money.
Here is the most important "secret" of all, relating to starting and building a profitable home-based business, so read very carefully. Regardless of what kind of business you start, you must have the capital and the available time to sustain your business through the first six months of operation. Specifically, you must not count on receiving or spending any money coming in from your business on yourself or for your bills during those first six months. All the income from your business during those first six months should be reinvested in your business in order for it to grow and reach your planned first year potential.
Once you've passed that first six months milestone, you can set up a small monthly salary for yourself, and begin enjoying the fruits of your labor. But the first six months of operation for any business are critical, so do not plan to use any of the money you business generates for yourself during that period.
If you've got your business plan properly organized, and have implemented the plan, you should at the end of your first year be able to begin thinking about hiring other people to alleviate some of your workload. Remember this: Starting a successful business is not a means towards either a job for yourself or a way to keep busy. It should be regarded as the beginning of an enterprise that will grow and prosper, with you as the top dog. Eventually, you'll have other people doing all the work for you, even running the entire operation, while you vacation in the Bahamas or Hawaii and collect or receive regular income from your initial efforts.
For more details on market research, business planning, advertising, selling, order fulfillment, and other aspects of home-based businesses, check with your library or book store.
MARY S. EVANS
mary-evan7@excite.com
COPYWRITER/EDITOR/CREATIVE MEDIA CONSULTANT
8/21/2005
Secretarial Services - Marketing
Marketing is a big subject. It's complex and often misunderstood.We often try to avoid those marketing people because they annoy like anything to promote their products.After all they are fighting for their livelihood. I feel pity for them.
If we accept that every organization has customers or clients -- a public to serve -- then there has to be marketing. Without marketing your public won't be aware of your service or products and you won't have a market. Without a market you won't have a business.
Read the rest of the article here.
If we accept that every organization has customers or clients -- a public to serve -- then there has to be marketing. Without marketing your public won't be aware of your service or products and you won't have a market. Without a market you won't have a business.
Read the rest of the article here.
8/20/2005
Word Processing
Word Processing: "6 Ways to Keep Your Word Documents Organized
If you spend a lot of time searching for your Word documents, then this guide is a must read. Find out what you can do to take the stress out of finding your documents and take control of your hard drive."
If you spend a lot of time searching for your Word documents, then this guide is a must read. Find out what you can do to take the stress out of finding your documents and take control of your hard drive."
8/15/2005
Sticky transcription labels
MT Daily - medical transcription, work at home.:
"Where can I find sticky transcription labels?
"Where can I find sticky transcription labels?
- Forms and Filing Systems, Dennis Corbin, ffs@formsandfilingsystems.com, 800, 472-0171, fax 706, 802-1880, http://www.mdfile.net
- Handeze Gloves, http://www.handeze.com, 800-686-1722, Fax 203-269-5307.
- March and Green, P. O. Box 155, Wayne, IL 60184, marchgren@aol.com, 800, 447-6004.
- Medical Arts Press, Office Management Supplies, 8500 Wyoming Avenue N., Minneapolis, MN 55445, 800-826-6706, Fax 800-328-0023.
- Pat Systems, http://www.transpaper.com/, 3929 Parkside Place, Flower Mound, TX75022-4792, 800, 543-1911, info@transpaper.com. Sticky Paper and Softflex Computer Gloves.
- Quill Corp., http://www.quillcorp.com/CATALOG/ICS/CATgetPGroup.cfm/11/243/A, info@quillcorp.com."
Web sites with business information
MT Daily - medical transcription, work at home.: "Where can I find websites with business information?
Business Resource Center, http://www.morebusiness.com/running_your_business
Small Business Resource Links, http://smallbizhelp.net/links.htm
ICD-9 Codes, http://www.aafp.org/fpm/971100fm/icd9_fp.html."
Business Resource Center, http://www.morebusiness.com/running_your_business
Small Business Resource Links, http://smallbizhelp.net/links.htm
ICD-9 Codes, http://www.aafp.org/fpm/971100fm/icd9_fp.html."
Digital transcription equipment
MT Daily - medical transcription, work at home.:
Below you'll find companies selling dictation and transcription equipment, including digital equipment.
Below you'll find companies selling dictation and transcription equipment, including digital equipment.
- Used equipment ads and auction on MT Dailyhttp://www.mtdaily.com/ads.html
All-Makes Office Machines, http://www.all-makes.com, 17581 Irvine Bl. #101, Tustin, CA 92780, 714, 730-4857, Fax 714, 730-5103, angie Shepard, angie@all-makes.com - Arrendale Associates, http://www.aaita.com/, 800, 344-1323, 20484G Chartwell Center Drive, Cornelius, NC 28031.
- Atlas Ergonomic Book and Copy Holders, http://www.copyholders.com, 800-get-atlas, Cincinnati, OH, dainoffm@copyholders.com
- Auction Supersite, http://www.onsale.com, Auction Supersite
- Barclay Enterprises, http://www.barclayent.com
- Bob's PC Werks, http://www.bobspcwerks.com, 504 Bishop Avenue, Richardson, TX 75081, 214-763-3768, 877-320-1241
- BVP Computers, (Bargain C-phone) http://www.dvips.com, 113 Grant Street, Plainfield, Ma. 01070, 413, 634-2187, Bruce Stockwell, bvpcomp@dvips.com
- Bytescribe Development Company, digital equipment, http://www.bytescribe.com, P. O. Box 36183, Birmingham, AL 35236, 205, 425-1981 Ext. 4412, postmaster@bytescribe.com
- Careflow Net, http://www.careflow.com, 15215 Edwards Ferry Road, Poolesville, Maryland 20837, 301-349-0700.
- Catalyst Systems, http://www.catalystsys.com, 405, 943-1655, fax 405, 943-1655, P. O. Box 57210, Oklahoma City, OK 73157-7210, sales@catalystsys.com,p> Cooperative Systems, http://www.coopsys.com, 998 Farmington Ave., #101, West Hartford, CT 06107-2162, 860-523-1000, fax 860-523-1032, info@coopsys.com
- Costal Audio, http://www.coastalaudio.com, 609-660-9211, Fax: 609-660-2131, 888-660-9211, info@costa"
Job listing for medical transcriptionists
MT Daily - medical transcription, work at home.: "Job Listings
Job Listings and Resumes at MT Daily's MT Jobs, http://www.mtjobs.com
List of Companies by State and City, http://www.mtdaily.com/mtcos.html
Company Profiles for MTs, http://mtjobs.com/
CQI Placement Service, Carolyn Lee, http://www.angelfire.com/biz/medrec/index.html, Dallas, 888-735-8999.
Health Information Jobs, http://www.gvpub.com/empidx/adindex.htm
Home Jobs, http://www.homejobs.addr.com
Monster Board Jobs, http://www.monster.com
MT Connection Placement, Susan Foreman, MTConnection@yahoo.com
NationJob, http://www.nationjob.com/admin
Newspaper Job Ads, http://www.careerpath.com"
Job Listings and Resumes at MT Daily's MT Jobs, http://www.mtjobs.com
List of Companies by State and City, http://www.mtdaily.com/mtcos.html
Company Profiles for MTs, http://mtjobs.com/
CQI Placement Service, Carolyn Lee, http://www.angelfire.com/biz/medrec/index.html, Dallas, 888-735-8999.
Health Information Jobs, http://www.gvpub.com/empidx/adindex.htm
Home Jobs, http://www.homejobs.addr.com
Monster Board Jobs, http://www.monster.com
MT Connection Placement, Susan Foreman, MTConnection@yahoo.com
NationJob, http://www.nationjob.com/admin
Newspaper Job Ads, http://www.careerpath.com"
Re-recording over the phone - C-phone
MT Daily - medical transcription, work at home.: "What is a C-phone? How is rerecording over the telephone done?
A C-phone is a digital receiver transcriber/phone that accesses digital dictation from another location over the phone.
Rerecording involves using a tape recorder or transcriber with recording capabilities, a speaker telephone, and an inexpensive phone coupler (such as those made by Radio Shack, http://www.radioshack.comOne method of re-recording involves using the telephone to dial into a hospital's digital dictation system and playing the doctors' dictations while recording them for transcription at a later time. Also see http://www.mtdaily.com/mt1/recording.html page.
Return to top"
A C-phone is a digital receiver transcriber/phone that accesses digital dictation from another location over the phone.
Rerecording involves using a tape recorder or transcriber with recording capabilities, a speaker telephone, and an inexpensive phone coupler (such as those made by Radio Shack, http://www.radioshack.comOne method of re-recording involves using the telephone to dial into a hospital's digital dictation system and playing the doctors' dictations while recording them for transcription at a later time. Also see http://www.mtdaily.com/mt1/recording.html page.
Return to top"
transcription equipment and tools
MT Daily - medical transcription, work at home.: "What companies offer medical spellcheckers, electronic dictionaries, line counters, ergonomics, and other transcription equipment?
For WP5.1, books, and used equipment, see used sales at http://www.mtdaily.com/ads.html. Also see http://www.recycledsoftware.com, and http://www.ebay.com.
The Abacus line counter: http://www.theabacus.biz/index.html
MedPen and MedPad, automated formats, line counter, and more http://www.medpen.net, 800-579-4300, Fax 727-579-4300, Joe Vann, medpen@ibm.net, 3131 Emmaus Way, Cosby, TN 37722.
Stedman's of Lippincott Williams and Wilkins, http://www.stedmans.com, 800-638-3030, 301-714-2300, Fax: 301-824-7390, P.O. Box 1600, Hagerstown, MD 21741.
W. B. Saunders now Elsevier, http://www.us.elsevierhealth.com/specialty.jsp?lid=3&sid=442.
Spellex, spellchecker and online spellchecker, http://www.spellex.com 800, 442-9673, 813, 885-1968, Fax 813, 855-2581, custsvce@spellex.com, 8313 W. Hillsborough Ave Suite 430, Tampa, FL 33615
Sylcount and spellchecker, Sylvan Software, http://www.sylvansoft.com, 5144 N. Academy Blvd., #531, Colorado Springs, CO 80918, 800, 235-9455, fax 719, 495-8119, sales@sylvansoft.com
PractiCount line counter, http://www.practiline.com, Practiline Software, P.O. Box 34069 #381, Seattle, WA 98124-1069, USA, FAX: 206-984-3919, info@practiline.com
WP Count for WordPerfect, Productive Performance, http://www.foxcomm.net/productive/WPCOUNT.htm, 425, 788-8300, 31820 NE 103rd Street, Carnation, WA 98014-9710, 206-788-8300, productive@foxcomm.net
PC Anywhere, http://www.symantec.com/pcanywhere/ 9 Golden Hill St. Bethel, CT 06801
DataHand Ergonomic Keyb"
For WP5.1, books, and used equipment, see used sales at http://www.mtdaily.com/ads.html. Also see http://www.recycledsoftware.com, and http://www.ebay.com.
The Abacus line counter: http://www.theabacus.biz/index.html
MedPen and MedPad, automated formats, line counter, and more http://www.medpen.net, 800-579-4300, Fax 727-579-4300, Joe Vann, medpen@ibm.net, 3131 Emmaus Way, Cosby, TN 37722.
Stedman's of Lippincott Williams and Wilkins, http://www.stedmans.com, 800-638-3030, 301-714-2300, Fax: 301-824-7390, P.O. Box 1600, Hagerstown, MD 21741.
W. B. Saunders now Elsevier, http://www.us.elsevierhealth.com/specialty.jsp?lid=3&sid=442.
Spellex, spellchecker and online spellchecker, http://www.spellex.com 800, 442-9673, 813, 885-1968, Fax 813, 855-2581, custsvce@spellex.com, 8313 W. Hillsborough Ave Suite 430, Tampa, FL 33615
Sylcount and spellchecker, Sylvan Software, http://www.sylvansoft.com, 5144 N. Academy Blvd., #531, Colorado Springs, CO 80918, 800, 235-9455, fax 719, 495-8119, sales@sylvansoft.com
PractiCount line counter, http://www.practiline.com, Practiline Software, P.O. Box 34069 #381, Seattle, WA 98124-1069, USA, FAX: 206-984-3919, info@practiline.com
WP Count for WordPerfect, Productive Performance, http://www.foxcomm.net/productive/WPCOUNT.htm, 425, 788-8300, 31820 NE 103rd Street, Carnation, WA 98014-9710, 206-788-8300, productive@foxcomm.net
PC Anywhere, http://www.symantec.com/pcanywhere/ 9 Golden Hill St. Bethel, CT 06801
DataHand Ergonomic Keyb"
Medical dictionaries and word books for medical transcriptionists
MT Daily - medical transcription, work at home.: "What companies publish or sell medical dictionaries and word books and CDs?
- See the Books Direct for all your reference book needs at the lowest prices.
- Both the MTDaily.com Classifieds and the MTDaily.com Bargain page have used books at reasonable prices.
- Paul Norton sells and buys used MT books, pnorton1@twcny.rr.com, 800, 628-8477.
- American Association for Medical Transcription, http://www.aamt.org 800, 982-2182, Book of Style and word books.
- Facts and Comparisons, American Drug Index, and Quarterly Drug Index http://www.factsandcomparisons.com/shop.asp, (800)223-0554 or (314)216-2100.
- Health Professions Institute, http://www.hpisum.com, Box 801, Modesto, CA 95353, 209, 551-2112, hpi@ainet.com, word books and more.
- Prentice Hall, http://www.prenhall.com, Saddle River, NJ 07458, 800-811-0912, Fax 515-284-2607
- W. B. Saunders now Elsevier, http://www.us.elsevierhealth.com/specialty.jsp?lid=3&sid=442, word books and Dorland's.
- Stedman's of Lippincott Williams and Wilkins, http://www.stedmans.com'>, dictionary and word books.
- Tarascon Pocket Pharmacopoeia, Tarascon Publishing, http://www.tarascon.com/, 800-929-9926, PO Box 1159, Loma Linda, CA 92354"
Journals for medical transcriptionists
MT Daily - medical transcription, work at home.: "What journals are available?
Monthly Prescribing Reference, http://www.prescribingreference.com, 800-436-9262, Prescribing Reference, Inc., 53 Park Place, Suite 1010, New York, NY 10007 USA, Attn: Circulation Dept.--Code HS.
Advance for Health Information Professionals, a free biweekly to health information professionals: http://www.advanceforhim.com/, Advance@Merion.com, Merion Publications, Inc. 800, 355-5627
For The Record, a weekly for health information professionals: http://www.fortherecordmag.com/ Great Valley Publishing Company, 1288 Valley Forge Rd., P.O. Box 2224, Valley Forge, PA 19482.
Journal of the American Health Information Management Association, Journal of AHIMA, http://www.ahima.org/products/subscription.html.
Journal of Healthcare Information Management, http://www.himss.org/ASP/publications_jhim.asp .
MT Daily Rounds, http://www.mtdaily.com/rounds, a Friday E-mail newsletter with highlights from MT Daily and links of interest. "
Monthly Prescribing Reference, http://www.prescribingreference.com, 800-436-9262, Prescribing Reference, Inc., 53 Park Place, Suite 1010, New York, NY 10007 USA, Attn: Circulation Dept.--Code HS.
Advance for Health Information Professionals, a free biweekly to health information professionals: http://www.advanceforhim.com/, Advance@Merion.com, Merion Publications, Inc. 800, 355-5627
For The Record, a weekly for health information professionals: http://www.fortherecordmag.com/ Great Valley Publishing Company, 1288 Valley Forge Rd., P.O. Box 2224, Valley Forge, PA 19482.
Journal of the American Health Information Management Association, Journal of AHIMA, http://www.ahima.org/products/subscription.html.
Journal of Healthcare Information Management, http://www.himss.org/ASP/publications_jhim.asp .
MT Daily Rounds, http://www.mtdaily.com/rounds, a Friday E-mail newsletter with highlights from MT Daily and links of interest. "
Organizations for Medical transcriptionists
MT Daily - medical transcription, work at home.: "Are there any organizations for MTs?
On-line MTs are researching and networking through email, newsletters, state boards, forums and web sites.
AAMT, The American Association for Medical Transcription, http://www.aamt.org was founded in 1978. aamt@sna.com, P.O. Box 576187, Modesto, CA 95357-6187; 800, 982-2182. Fax: 209, 551-9317. Members receive the bimonthly Journal of the Association for American Medical Transcription; access to AAMT's professional staff; discounts on products and services; educational conferences; the names of local AAMT Chapter Presidents; an examination to become a Certified Medical Transcriptionist; and opportunities to serve in local and national leadership.
MTIA, Medical Transcription Industry Alliance, for MT Services: http://www.mtia.com
HPI, Health Professions Institute, http://www.hpisum.com offers publications and seminars. Box 801, Modesto, CA 95353, 209, 551-2112, hpi@ainet.com.
AHIMA, American Health Information Management Association, http://www.ahima.org/index.cfm, 919 N. Michigan Ave., Suite 1400, Chicago, IL 60611, 312, 787-3672, info@ahima.org.
HIMSS, The Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society, http://www.himss.org, 230 East Ohio, Suite 500, Chicago, IL 60611-3269, 312/664-HIMS, Fax 312/664-6143, himss@himss.org.
Health Information Management Supersite, http://www.himinfo.com, OPUSCOMM Online, 200 Hoods Lane, Marblehead, MA 01945 USA, Phone: 800/650-6787, Fax: 800/639-8511.
Medical Records Institute, http://www.medrecinst.com, Medical Records Institute, 567 Walnut Street, P.O. Box 600770, Newton, MA 02460, 617, 964-3923, Fax 617, 964-3926, jasong@medrecinst.com."
On-line MTs are researching and networking through email, newsletters, state boards, forums and web sites.
AAMT, The American Association for Medical Transcription, http://www.aamt.org was founded in 1978. aamt@sna.com, P.O. Box 576187, Modesto, CA 95357-6187; 800, 982-2182. Fax: 209, 551-9317. Members receive the bimonthly Journal of the Association for American Medical Transcription; access to AAMT's professional staff; discounts on products and services; educational conferences; the names of local AAMT Chapter Presidents; an examination to become a Certified Medical Transcriptionist; and opportunities to serve in local and national leadership.
MTIA, Medical Transcription Industry Alliance, for MT Services: http://www.mtia.com
HPI, Health Professions Institute, http://www.hpisum.com offers publications and seminars. Box 801, Modesto, CA 95353, 209, 551-2112, hpi@ainet.com.
AHIMA, American Health Information Management Association, http://www.ahima.org/index.cfm, 919 N. Michigan Ave., Suite 1400, Chicago, IL 60611, 312, 787-3672, info@ahima.org.
HIMSS, The Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society, http://www.himss.org, 230 East Ohio, Suite 500, Chicago, IL 60611-3269, 312/664-HIMS, Fax 312/664-6143, himss@himss.org.
Health Information Management Supersite, http://www.himinfo.com, OPUSCOMM Online, 200 Hoods Lane, Marblehead, MA 01945 USA, Phone: 800/650-6787, Fax: 800/639-8511.
Medical Records Institute, http://www.medrecinst.com, Medical Records Institute, 567 Walnut Street, P.O. Box 600770, Newton, MA 02460, 617, 964-3923, Fax 617, 964-3926, jasong@medrecinst.com."
MT Daily - correspondence courses for medical transcriptionists
MT Daily - medical transcription, work at home.:
On-Line and Correspondence Courses for medical transcription:
On-Line and Correspondence Courses for medical transcription:
- Andrews School, http://www.andrewsschool.com/, Linda Andrews, 5601 NW 72nd #167, Oklahoma City, OK 73132, 405-721-3555. Dial 999 when the recorded message starts. You will hear a series of beeps. The system should allow you to leave a message if no one answers. linda@andrewsschool.com
- At-Home Professions, home-study course, 2001 Lowe Street, Fort Collins, CO 80525. 1-800-333-2846, Fax 1-970-223-1678. http://www.at-homeprofessions.com/. Includes audio cassettes, lessons, text materials and flashcards. Susan Henry, SusanH824@aol.com.
Blackboard.Com, http://www.blackboard.com, free online medical terminology courses.
Brighton College, 3855 Fishcreek Road, Stow, OH 44224, http://www.brightoncollege.edu phone: 800-231-3803 fax: 330-673-4833 - CAI Transcription, Cheryl Izzo, http://www.caitranscription.com, 609-698-6544, 116 Stillwater Road, Barnegat, NJ 08005.
- CanScribe.com: http://canscribe.com/, CanScribe Career Centre Inc., British Columbia, Canada phone. 250.860.1535 fax. 250.860.4712, toll free. 1.800.466.1535 info@canscribe.com
- Career Step, http://careerstep.com, 1220 North Main Street, Suite 6, Springville, Utah 84663, 801-489-9393, Fax 801-491-6645info@careerstep.com
- Central Business School, http://www.upfirst.com/cbstrain/medtrans.htm, Central Business School, 906, 226-5270, michaeleen@upfirst.com.
- Education Direct, http://www.educationdirect.com/index.html, 800 889-9593, FAX 570-343-8462, P.O. Box 1900, Scranton, PA 18501
Garb Transcription, http://www.garbtranscription.com, JGarb87517@aol.com, (415) 927-8132. - GMT Distance Learning Center, http://medicaltrans.net, PO Box 1421 Kaunakakai
MT Daily - medical transcription, work at home.
MT Daily - medical transcription, work at home.: "3. What home training programs are available?
Questions to ask schools: http://www.mtdaily.com/mtbyschool/qlist.html
Local: Junior college and trade school classes are available locally.
California: South Coast College, http://www.southcoastcollege.com, 1380 S. Sanderson Ave., Anaheim, CA 92806, 714-635-6464, admissions@southcoastcollege.com
California: Santa Barbara, Gail N. Shannon, gshannon@sbch.org, fax: 805-569-7867
Georgia: Georgia Center Gatlin Course: http://www.gactr.uga.edu/is/gatlin/
Illinois: Career Colleges of Chicago, 11 E. Adams, 2nd Floor, Chicago, IL 60603-6301,(312) 895-6310, (312) 895-6301 (fax)
Texas: Shirley Baker Career Institute, 11500 Northwest Freeway, Suite 100, Houston, TX 77092 713-680-2900
Texas: Medical Transcription Training and Service, 2626 S. Loop West, Ste. #117, Houston, TX 77054, Wendolyn Ann Smith, 713, 660-0355, wasm2@prodigy.net', http://www.thetranscriptionconnection.com
Texas: Med-Line, http://www.medlineschool.com/, 14011 Park Drive, Suite 224, Tomball, Texas 77375, 281-351-5786 Office, 888-220-6550, admissions@medlineschool.com.
New York: Queens College, http://www.qc.edu/CEP/mt.htm, City University of New York, 65-30 Kissena Blvd., Flushing, NY 11367, 718, 997-5000.
New York: Stenotopia, http://www.stenotopia.com/, 45 South Service Road, Plainview, N.Y. 11803, 800-349-1117, Fax: 777-1145.
Pennsylvania: Bidwell Training Center, 1815 Metropolitan, Pittsburgh, PA 15233, 412 323-4000, is an accredited, nonprofit, state and corporate-funded program.
Virginia: MT Support Services, http://www.mtsupport.com/, 15401 Warwick Boulevard, Newport News"
Questions to ask schools: http://www.mtdaily.com/mtbyschool/qlist.html
Local: Junior college and trade school classes are available locally.
California: South Coast College, http://www.southcoastcollege.com, 1380 S. Sanderson Ave., Anaheim, CA 92806, 714-635-6464, admissions@southcoastcollege.com
California: Santa Barbara, Gail N. Shannon, gshannon@sbch.org, fax: 805-569-7867
Georgia: Georgia Center Gatlin Course: http://www.gactr.uga.edu/is/gatlin/
Illinois: Career Colleges of Chicago, 11 E. Adams, 2nd Floor, Chicago, IL 60603-6301,(312) 895-6310, (312) 895-6301 (fax)
Texas: Shirley Baker Career Institute, 11500 Northwest Freeway, Suite 100, Houston, TX 77092 713-680-2900
Texas: Medical Transcription Training and Service, 2626 S. Loop West, Ste. #117, Houston, TX 77054, Wendolyn Ann Smith, 713, 660-0355, wasm2@prodigy.net', http://www.thetranscriptionconnection.com
Texas: Med-Line, http://www.medlineschool.com/, 14011 Park Drive, Suite 224, Tomball, Texas 77375, 281-351-5786 Office, 888-220-6550, admissions@medlineschool.com.
New York: Queens College, http://www.qc.edu/CEP/mt.htm, City University of New York, 65-30 Kissena Blvd., Flushing, NY 11367, 718, 997-5000.
New York: Stenotopia, http://www.stenotopia.com/, 45 South Service Road, Plainview, N.Y. 11803, 800-349-1117, Fax: 777-1145.
Pennsylvania: Bidwell Training Center, 1815 Metropolitan, Pittsburgh, PA 15233, 412 323-4000, is an accredited, nonprofit, state and corporate-funded program.
Virginia: MT Support Services, http://www.mtsupport.com/, 15401 Warwick Boulevard, Newport News"
MT Daily - medical transcription, work at home.
MT Daily - medical transcription, work at home.: "How does one become a medical transcriptionist?
For an experienced word processor, it is possible to learn medical transcription while working in an entry-level position, but it is rare because of the need to learn medical vocabulary and formats. Some colleges and hospitals offer classes, and there are several home-study courses available.
MTs work in doctors' offices, clinics, hospitals and transcription services. They also work from home, usually after 2-3 years of experience in an office or hospital. With more experience, MTs go on to teach, supervise, consult, edit and write in the field.
Step-by-Step Guide to Medical Transcription at Home, book by Michele Miller, http://www.startasecretarialbusiness.com/medical-transcription.html
For an experienced word processor, it is possible to learn medical transcription while working in an entry-level position, but it is rare because of the need to learn medical vocabulary and formats. Some colleges and hospitals offer classes, and there are several home-study courses available.
MTs work in doctors' offices, clinics, hospitals and transcription services. They also work from home, usually after 2-3 years of experience in an office or hospital. With more experience, MTs go on to teach, supervise, consult, edit and write in the field.
Step-by-Step Guide to Medical Transcription at Home, book by Michele Miller, http://www.startasecretarialbusiness.com/medical-transcription.html
College in Malta,Secretarial Business Diploma Courses
College in Malta,Secretarial Business Diploma Courses: "College in Malta - Secretarial Business Diploma Courses
Learnkey Secretarial School has been operating in Malta since 1995 and the Learnkey staff is proud to belong to one of Malta's first ever schools for Secretarial, Administration and Business Diploma Courses. We also offer high standard IT Tuition and are accredited by the ECDL Foundation. Learnkey Training Institute is also accredited by Messrs Pitman City & Guilds of the UK and takes pride in its reputation for the Full Time and Part Time Courses that it offers to its ever growing group of students."
Learnkey Secretarial School has been operating in Malta since 1995 and the Learnkey staff is proud to belong to one of Malta's first ever schools for Secretarial, Administration and Business Diploma Courses. We also offer high standard IT Tuition and are accredited by the ECDL Foundation. Learnkey Training Institute is also accredited by Messrs Pitman City & Guilds of the UK and takes pride in its reputation for the Full Time and Part Time Courses that it offers to its ever growing group of students."
Small Business Resources
Small Business Resources: ":: Government Resources
Small Business Administration - business administration with a mission to maintain and strengthen the nation's economy by aiding, counseling, assisting and protecting the interests of small businesses and by helping families and businesses recover from national disasters.
SCORE - SCORE 'Counselors to America's Small Business' is a nonprofit association dedicated to providing entrepreneurs with free, confidential face-to-face and email business counseling. Business counseling and workshops are offered at 389 chapter offices across the country.
Women's Business Center - resources specically for women's owned business centers."
Small Business Administration - business administration with a mission to maintain and strengthen the nation's economy by aiding, counseling, assisting and protecting the interests of small businesses and by helping families and businesses recover from national disasters.
SCORE - SCORE 'Counselors to America's Small Business' is a nonprofit association dedicated to providing entrepreneurs with free, confidential face-to-face and email business counseling. Business counseling and workshops are offered at 389 chapter offices across the country.
Women's Business Center - resources specically for women's owned business centers."
8/11/2005
Secretarial Services:Something money can't buy: good customer service
I'm sure we've all been in situations where a vendor of some sort has let us down because of their ... more...
Start a Secretarial Service
8/05/2005
Secretarial Services:Acusis Recognized for Excellence in Billing and Pricing Methodologies (Business Wire via Yahoo! Finance)
Pittsburgh based Acusis, a leading provider of medical transcription services to hospitals, clinics and physician practices was recognized for outstanding excellence after placing as a runner-up for the 2005 MTIA Billing Method Principles Beacon Award. more...
Start a Secretarial Service
8/01/2005
Secretarial Services:How to recapture"lost"customers and clients
One of my favorite lunch spots is a Mexican chain called Qdoba. Like many restaurants, they have a customer loyalty program. In a nutshell, the more you eat there, the more incentives they give you to keep coming back. It’s a good deal all around.
This week, something happened with that program that impressed me, and packs a heck of a marketing lesson for local small business owners. Let me explain…I’ve been traveling lately, and had not been to Qdoba in nearly a month. When I returned home from my last trip, I checked my E-mail and found a message from them inside.
Here’s an excerpt: We’re About To Put Your Face On A Milk Carton. Michael, We haven’t seen you around lately. And we miss you. So here’s a quick reminder about why you came here in the first place. We’ve got hundreds of menu options, from burritos to grilled quesadillas, taco salads and Warm 3-Cheese Queso that has been known to bring taste buds to their knees. And, it’s all made fast, fresh and right in front of you from real, fresh ingredients. One taste will remind you. You’ll never go missing again. –> GET FRESH FOR FREE. Buy any entree, get any entree of equal or lesser value FREE.
The “marketing geek” term for this is a lost customer promotion. The idea is bring people who had been good customers in the past, but have not been in recently, back in the restaurant to buy again. These campaigns are astoundingly effective, but most businesses just do not execute the strategy well. This is why I was so impressed by Qdoba.
Most retail, service and business-to-business companies assume that if a customer or client bought once they will be back when they are ready to buy again. This is foolish and flat-out wrong.
The most successful small businesses know that customers and clients stop buying not because they are unhappy, but simply because they feel unappreciated and ignored. A lost client campaign is a cheap and effective way to make those clients feel appreciated and let them know you want them back. It only takes one return sale you wouldn't have otherwise had to pay for an entire campaign every single month.
Here is a simple, 3-step strategy you can use to put one of these systems to work in your own small business.
Make sure you capture all client information, everytime, no exceptions - You need a system that will capture the contact and transaction information of your customers, the initial sale and all subsequent sales.
Run a report every month of clients who have not bought from you recently - If your business is retail, a period of 60-90 days after their last purchase is optimal. For business consulting, the period depends upon the solutions you offer.
Send a personal letter designed to bring them back to your small business - Let them know they are missed and that you want to make sure they have been happy with their solutions. Make a special offer to bring them back in the fold. For retail, a certificate for something free with any purchase works well. Businesses respond well to "technology check-ups" and information about new solutions you have available. more...
Start a Secretarial Service
This week, something happened with that program that impressed me, and packs a heck of a marketing lesson for local small business owners. Let me explain…I’ve been traveling lately, and had not been to Qdoba in nearly a month. When I returned home from my last trip, I checked my E-mail and found a message from them inside.
Here’s an excerpt: We’re About To Put Your Face On A Milk Carton. Michael, We haven’t seen you around lately. And we miss you. So here’s a quick reminder about why you came here in the first place. We’ve got hundreds of menu options, from burritos to grilled quesadillas, taco salads and Warm 3-Cheese Queso that has been known to bring taste buds to their knees. And, it’s all made fast, fresh and right in front of you from real, fresh ingredients. One taste will remind you. You’ll never go missing again. –> GET FRESH FOR FREE. Buy any entree, get any entree of equal or lesser value FREE.
The “marketing geek” term for this is a lost customer promotion. The idea is bring people who had been good customers in the past, but have not been in recently, back in the restaurant to buy again. These campaigns are astoundingly effective, but most businesses just do not execute the strategy well. This is why I was so impressed by Qdoba.
Most retail, service and business-to-business companies assume that if a customer or client bought once they will be back when they are ready to buy again. This is foolish and flat-out wrong.
The most successful small businesses know that customers and clients stop buying not because they are unhappy, but simply because they feel unappreciated and ignored. A lost client campaign is a cheap and effective way to make those clients feel appreciated and let them know you want them back. It only takes one return sale you wouldn't have otherwise had to pay for an entire campaign every single month.
Here is a simple, 3-step strategy you can use to put one of these systems to work in your own small business.
Make sure you capture all client information, everytime, no exceptions - You need a system that will capture the contact and transaction information of your customers, the initial sale and all subsequent sales.
Run a report every month of clients who have not bought from you recently - If your business is retail, a period of 60-90 days after their last purchase is optimal. For business consulting, the period depends upon the solutions you offer.
Send a personal letter designed to bring them back to your small business - Let them know they are missed and that you want to make sure they have been happy with their solutions. Make a special offer to bring them back in the fold. For retail, a certificate for something free with any purchase works well. Businesses respond well to "technology check-ups" and information about new solutions you have available. more...
Start a Secretarial Service
Secretarial Services:A Simple Way to Happier Customers
A few nights back I drove (way too fast, ahem) towards Hollywood Video to pick up a few DVDs. The time was 11:57 when I pulled up to the curb and hopped out of my car.
As I approached the door, the clerk on the other side noticed me, raced towards the door and quickly slammed the lock shut while doing his best not to make eye contact.It got me thinking about another experience at Borders.
I’m a night person. I love books. I love going to Borders at 10PM, and staying until the 11PM closing bell. But it’s not unheard of for me to get in the door at 10:50 with a big list of books to grab and buy.
Usually, I’m greeted with cold stares from the folks whose wages I pay. Just once, I’d love to hear across the loudspeaker:
“It’s 11PM and we’re closed, but if you love books as much as we do, you might need just a couple more minutes to decide on your purchases. Go ahead. The doors are locked but we’ll keep the registers open for just another 5 minutes. Make your selections and come on up.”
The truth is they are already keeping the registers open at both Hollywood AND Borders the extra five minutes, because there are customers who stay until the last minute and need the time to checkout.
Local retailers: Why not teach your people to turn it into … yet another reason … to love your store; instead of making your customers feel like they are ruining your employees’ nights? Little things count! more...
Start a Secretarial Service
As I approached the door, the clerk on the other side noticed me, raced towards the door and quickly slammed the lock shut while doing his best not to make eye contact.It got me thinking about another experience at Borders.
I’m a night person. I love books. I love going to Borders at 10PM, and staying until the 11PM closing bell. But it’s not unheard of for me to get in the door at 10:50 with a big list of books to grab and buy.
Usually, I’m greeted with cold stares from the folks whose wages I pay. Just once, I’d love to hear across the loudspeaker:
“It’s 11PM and we’re closed, but if you love books as much as we do, you might need just a couple more minutes to decide on your purchases. Go ahead. The doors are locked but we’ll keep the registers open for just another 5 minutes. Make your selections and come on up.”
The truth is they are already keeping the registers open at both Hollywood AND Borders the extra five minutes, because there are customers who stay until the last minute and need the time to checkout.
Local retailers: Why not teach your people to turn it into … yet another reason … to love your store; instead of making your customers feel like they are ruining your employees’ nights? Little things count! more...
Start a Secretarial Service
Secretarial Services:Entrepreneur quiz and top 10 list
Fun post at Fractals of Change on the top 10 ways to tell if you are an entrepreneur.
My personal favorites:
10. You can’t bring yourself to call anyone “boss”.
8. Instead of saying “there oughtta be a law”, you say “there could be a business…”
2. You have to take two zeros OFF the numbers in your business plan or no one will believe it.
1. You didn’t read this list because you already know what you are (and you don’t have time to read lists).
Read the rest at: Are You an Entrepreneur?. more...
Start a Secretarial Service
My personal favorites:
10. You can’t bring yourself to call anyone “boss”.
8. Instead of saying “there oughtta be a law”, you say “there could be a business…”
2. You have to take two zeros OFF the numbers in your business plan or no one will believe it.
1. You didn’t read this list because you already know what you are (and you don’t have time to read lists).
Read the rest at: Are You an Entrepreneur?. more...
Start a Secretarial Service
7/31/2005
Secretarial Services:Business card design tips
Advances in printing technology have created a cottage industry for online business card companies that offer full-color cards for extremely competitive prices. Enter �?obusiness cards�?� in any popular search engine, and you�?Tll find hundreds of companies boasting thousands of eclectic designs�?"from patriotic motifs to fields of morning glories.If you�?Tre tempted to upgrade your business card to a design featuring a gleaming racecar or pastoral scene, slam on the brakes! When choosing a design, less is more. If you wouldn�?Tt insert a photo of a cuddly kitten on your resume, what would possess you to place one on your business card�?"unless, perchance, you�?Tre a veterinarian?For most professionals, an uncomplicated, clean design works best. If you work in a creative field, where �?oedgy�?� is the buzzword, you can afford to experiment. Otherwise, follow these basic rules:Traditional black type on a white or cream card stock never goes out of style.Paper selection matters. Opt for 12 pt. card stock, which is the ideal paper weight.You may choose a matte (dull) or glossy finish. Gloss is often overkill, while matte remains classic. Use your judgment, based on your specific industry�?Ts norms.Business cards should be considered part of your marketing kit. Their design should tie in with your letterhead, envelopes and other communication tools. If you don�?Tt already have a logo, hire a designer who can create a corporate identity package that features a consistent look. A final reminder: Always carry your business cards with you, and replenish your supply long before you give away your last card. more...
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7/30/2005
Secretarial Services:Quick Conversation Starters
Ever wanted a simple way to start a conversation? Here’s Bruce Allen’s take on it… An age old dilemma when meeting new people at business networking events. What am I going to say?
You wonder how to start a conversation; worry that you'll sound silly commenting on weather for the billionth time. Read Bruce’s post to find out how to change that. more...
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You wonder how to start a conversation; worry that you'll sound silly commenting on weather for the billionth time. Read Bruce’s post to find out how to change that. more...
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7/25/2005
Secretarial Services:Planning for a Home-Based Business
I would like to start working out of my home in the next couple of years. What can I do now to prepare? You definitely want to have goals ... more...
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7/17/2005
Secretarial Services:Should I Keep My Day Job While I Start My Business?
I’m thinking about leaving my job and starting my own home-based business. Should I try to keep my current job while I start up my business, or should I just go for it? It's a good idea to retain ... more...
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Secretarial Services:Tax Breaks for Home Businesses
I've heard that home-based businesses get tax breaks from the IRS. Is that true, and what kinds of tax breaks are we talking about? The most important tax break for home-based business owners is ... more...
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Secretarial Services:60-Second Guide to Setting Up a Home Office
There’s no place like home, especially when you get to work there too. While others deal with frustrating commutes and noisy cubicles, you’re getting ahead and getting things done. Or ar ... more...
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Secretarial Services:Small Business Advertising Basics
In the broadest sense, anything that promotes your business might be considered advertising, whether it's a radio spot, a brochure or a trade show booth. But the term "advertising" usually refers to p ... more...
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Secretarial Services:Learn What Keeps Your Customers Up at Night
Sometimes there's just no substitute for good old-fashioned communication.Just ask Adrienne Lumpkin. She'll tell you customer relationships were key to the success of Alternate Access, the Raleigh, No ... more...
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Secretarial Services:What Basic Information Goes in a Press Release?
In addition to the news itself, your press release should indicate where your company is headquartered and who to contact for more information ; or to set up an interview. Both of those things, along ... more...
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7/16/2005
Secretarial Services:It's a Great Time to Be an Entrepreneur!
It is a great time to be an entrepreneur. It's never been easier, faster or cheaper to get into business then it is now. I see the trend continuing with every year allowing businesses to be started with less and less money. Notice I didn't say personal effort or the ability to conquer your fears were getting easier, but the fact that the costs are driving down will allow people who have the guts and drive to start a business. more...
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Secretarial Services:Cultivating Biz Whizzes
Steve Mariotti of NFTE wrote one of the first business books I ever read. It is still on my shelf. It is great to see that his company is still influencing America's young people. Please note that starting and running a business is a lot of hard work, but so is a job. I'd personally rather be running a business. Doug Kersten Cultivating Biz Whizzes "More teens are starting their own businesses, and groups like the National Foundation for Teaching Entrepreneurship are helping them do it. Many people who decide to become entrepreneurs do so because they aren't satisfied with more...
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Secretarial Services:The Importance Of Subheads In Your Marketing
You need to seriously look at the layout of your marketing materials. Look at your web pages, your brochures, your emails, your handouts, your sales letters - and all of your advertisements.Are you using subheads?You should be.It's easier on the eyes to have a scanning ability built in. And subheads make it easy on the reader to quickly find the areas that are of interest.Chances are... they will not read your sales piece from start to finish. They will skim and scan - looking for things that catch your eye.And the subheads job is to guide them (by scanning) to the order page without having read the entire thing.Good subheads can tell the story and get them to order.Good subheads are powerful headlines in themselves.For ex...3 Things You Must Do Today To Improve Your BusinessREVEALED! The secrets behind their success... and their fall to lose it all.When you are crafting subheads - put them in bold and centered. Even a font size bigger and a different font can help guide the eyes down the right path.The path that leads to a sale and another happy customer! more...
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Secretarial Services:The most valuable business resource in the world - for FREE?
Every single month I realize that the MOST valuable business resource I have ever found was given to me for free.18 months ago I signed up for Dan Kennedy's Gold membership and newsletter. It was free for 3 months and at that time I could make the decision if it was worth the $39 per month they wanted. Kinda high for a newsletter - but if it was good - then worth it.Yup - it was good.Incredibly good. In fact the best business newsletter I had ever read.Full of real life advertising examples, success stories, failure stories, tools to use, ideas to steal, money making tips every month... tons of them.An absolute goldmine worth of information if you are a business owner, or want to be one.It's free for 3 months - I would sign up if I were you - http://www.dankennedy.comLet me clarify though - Dan's newsletter is absolutely invaluable... so are the tips you will find here (also for free). Make sure you check out all the channels on The Blog Channel - every day you can get new tips and advice to build your business and income - for free.The Blog Channel more...
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Secretarial Services:Making Your Marketing and Advertising Pay
Some simple techniques you should be using in your marketing and advertising to stand out from the crowd.- Tie in your sales copy/newsletters/marketing campaigns, etc. with newsworthy topics, holidays, events happening, local interests, and personal interests' stories.Eg - Michael Jacksons acquittal, Brad/Angelina/Jennifer, The Runaway Bride, Fathers Day, Summertime, NASCAR fascination, Sports comebacks, etc.- If your product is not sold in stores �?" tell them! This gives it exclusivity and makes it more likely that they will want to order if they know they cannot get it anywhere else.If your special is only available for the month of June - tell them - and tell them why (one of the most powerful things you can ever do in your marketing is to tell them why you are launching new products, why you are packaging them this way, why you are giving a discount, etc.The reason why is THE MOST powerful thing you can ever use in your marketing and advertising)- If you can, delay their payments. �?oPay nothing now�?� is a very powerful promise that has built many multi-million dollar businesses. Or, if some money is required �?" offer them a payment plan over the next 6 or 12 months. People may scoff at paying $1,200 out of their pocket today but those same people may be very willing to pay $150 per month for 12 months �?" even if it means they pay a much higher rate.- Get them involved in your letter or ad through questions, surveys, and check boxes �?" whatever you can do to keep them interested. That is why Readers' Digest does so well! Take this sticker and place it here. That gold sticker and place it here. When you get them involved in your copy they are much more likely to stick with it until they have ordered.- Talk about some product negatives. GASP! No product or service in the world is perfect �?" be honest with them about that and you will be the only honest person they have comeacross in business. Tell them the limitations, or the catch, or the one thing that you can never use it for. Incredibly powerful when you are the one to bring this up �?" they are already thinking, �?owhat�?Ts the catch�?� so tell them what it is.- Make the offer very selective �?" and make sure they understand that they are part of an exclusive offering �?" and what that means to them. Make a special offer for your existing client ONLY (and make sure they know that only they can get this deal). Make a special time (after midnight sale) for exclusive pricing not available at any other time.Show them you do appreciate them and they will appreciate you even more.- Write the ad copy so that when they order, they can easily explain it to their spouse and friends why this is such an incredible deal that they would have been an idiot to ignore it.Take one of the above and test it out over the next week. See what happens with your response - you'll be pleasantly surprised. Guaranteed. more...
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Secretarial Services:Do you use Yellow Page advertising?
Effectively? Some of the most boring advertising can be found in the Yellow Pages!And yet, 40% of your clients buy based on the research they do in the Yellow Pages - 40%! Online yellow pages and offline print directories -... more...
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7/15/2005
Secretarial Services:Satisfied Customers and Loyalty
We always want more, it seems. When you started your business, customers of any kind seemed good, didn't they? Quickly, you learned they needed to be profitable customers. Then you went for satisfied customers. Before long your Internet surfing and... more...
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Secretarial Services:What Customers Really Want
Years of research and millions of dollars spent studying customers for every size business keeps coming back with the same answer: Customers want to be treated differently. If this is so easy to understand, why is it so hard to... more...
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