Bconnected: Progressive Networking in Halifax

Increase Your Sales, Respect & Admiration: Invite Prospects to Your Office

2011-07-05T17:06:00.000-07:00

Invite your prospects to YOUR office and watch the dynamics of ‘the sales meeting’ shift in your favour.

Whether it is your office or a neutral business or public location, get prospects out of their offices, if at all possible.

In a prospect’s office you are just another self-serving salesperson, and suddenly each of you is thrust into your traditional adversarial, seller/buyer roles.

In your office you are the congenial host and she/he is your guest. Feel the difference in the dynamics already?

If a prospect has agreed to visit your office he/she is interested, a qualifying position that saves time and money for you both.

Break the mold of the stereotypical salesperson making the same stiff, unimaginative sales calls. You will sell more, your prospects will buy more and you both will have more fun doing it.

~Peter Skakum, Tangent Strategies

Success in Life Starts With Knowing What You Want

2011-06-11T08:20:00.000-07:00

Success is so many different things to many of us. It may be material things, money or a relationship that brings us love. The perseverance toward obtaining these things is what separates the dreamers from the realists. Success is commonly found in those who make their dreams reality. But how do you find out what it is you want?

We often hear people use the word vision. Simply put it means that you can clearly see where you are going. Exceptional people are often referred to as visionary. But what does that really mean? I believe visionary people are able to bring new yet unseen pictures and ideas to reality. Less visionary people can do this to, but at a level we already know exists. We often hear of people using vision boards with pictures of their favorite car, their dream house or favorite vacation spot on the vision board. You can use these pictures as subtle reminders that help us stay on track. Many of these pictures have come from our dreams and goals. They can be transferred loves of things from our parents. We should also make sure they are what make us happy too. I caution that chasing other peoples dreams can lead to heartbreak.

The most important part is to understand that we gravitate to what makes us happy. You must and you have to put yourself first. That does not mean you have to give up your love of others and become singular. I suggest you look at it this way. Don't you want your wife or children to be happy? Of course you do. I suggest to you they want the same for you.

The following six tips will get you started in obtaining a clear picture of what it is you want and where you want to be.

Write down all the things that make you happy.
Make sure it is what makes you happy and not what someone else wants for you.(ownership)
Take it the next step and write down why they these things make you happy. (validation)
List these make me happy priorities in the order of importance.
Write down your action plan that you are going to use toward achieving these things that make you happy.
Share these affirmations with your mentor or accountability partner.

Your Success is just outside your comfort zone.

Staying on track is not always easy. Your success rate jumps when you have to report to someone what you have done this week toward achieving our goal. As simple and goofy as it may feel, I truly believe you will not find success if you do not write down what it is you want. If you can not get to that level of commitment right out of the starting gate you will continue to struggle in finding success.

Not all of us have a "Eureka" moment that defines what it is we want in life. What matters changes as we grow older. The need to impress others also diminishes as we grow older. We gravitate toward what makes us happy. Knowing these things earlier in life helps us find success sooner.

~by Paul Roy - Paul's many years of business and life experience have provided him with the expertise to deal with complex issues regarding success and obtaining your goals. Paul has developed a passion for writing and chooses to share this knowledge with his readers and clients. Paul has lived and taught much about what he writes about. This is what separates Paul from those who have just studied it from those who have experienced it,studied it and taught it. Life is full of tough decisions and some times we need a coach to help us through that. Paul can help you get pointed in the right direction and gain control of your life once again. For more information please go to http://www.toyourfuturesuccess.ca

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6327036

Are Women Better at Selling than Men?

2011-06-08T21:06:00.000-07:00

The time has come for selling to evolve to a higher state of consciousness. The iconic salespeople of the future will be women. Women will take over the profession.

Jay Forte, a nationally ranked thought leader and president of Humanetrics had this to say about women in the workplace. “The biological feminine attributes of communication, consensus building, nurturing, cooperative spirit and empathy naturally predisposes women to business. Customers need salespeople who can sell on these terms. Even bestselling author and management guru Tom Peters, a product of North America’s once male-dominated corporate culture, recently asserted, “Women are better salespeople than men.”

It is important to clarify that the point of this vignette is to neither elevate the female predisposition for selling nor denigrate males in this role, but to illuminate what the marketplace says it needs from today’s salespeople whether male or female. There has never been a more exciting, constructive and profitable time to become part of one of our planet’s most noble professions … selling.

~Peter Skakum, Tangent Strategies

Tips for Successful Blogging

2011-06-02T21:09:00.000-07:00

Blog is a shortened form of Weblog, and it’s basically a personal chronological log of thoughts put on a webpage (like what you’re reading now). The goal of a blog is ultimately to create a name for yourself as an authority on your blog topic (to brand yourself and/or your business as an expert) and to engage your target market. Depending on your blog content, a successful blog can be very profitable.

So, how do you create a blog that is successful?

First, you’ll need to choose a theme for your blog. This should be a topic you feel passionate about that somehow relates to your business. Once you’ve chosen the theme for your blog, you’ll have to set it up.

You may have the capability of adding a blog onto your current website. This is a fantastic choice because it keeps content on your website fresh and engages your audience. The alternative is creating a blog on a third-party site. We’ll address this option just briefly.

Three blog platforms you could use are WordPress, Tumblr and Blogger. (There are others; these are just three that we like.)

WordPress is very effective for generating high search engine rankings. Tumblr is quite unique and has a more of a graphic quality to it. Blogger is the easiest of the three to set up. Check out each one and decide what is best for you. If search engine rankings really matter to you, then we’d recommend WordPress or Tumblr.

Once you’ve chosen a platform to use, you will need a title that captures your blog’s theme and a website address for your blog. You can also select a blog design. We recommend choosing something relatively simple that will not distract from the articles themselves.

We also recommend that you spend a bit of time personalizing your profile so that visitors to your blog will feel more of a connection to you. You will also want to add a description of your blog so that when it comes up in the search engines, potential visitors will know what your blog is about.

You could spend hours or even days creating the perfect blog…or you can get one up there in 15 minutes. Of course you can always have a professional set it up for you. Remember that you can make changes as you go, and we can almost guarantee that you’ll want to. So, don’t worry about making it perfect just have some fun and play around. It will take you some time to figure out just the way you’ll want it.

Once the setup is done, you’re ready to start posting articles.

Posting is the process of placing an article about your topic onto the blog. You do not have to be a great writer in order to have a successful blog. If you love to write, then great…enjoy creating the articles yourself. They should not be too long…we’ll suggest around 500 words as a ball-park figure, but remember that’s just a guideline. Your article should focus on a very specific topic that relates to your blog theme, and in the article you’ll want to link back to either your website if the blog is not connected to it. In order to place a link in your post, highlight the text you’d like to link (such as “click here”), click on the infinity symbol or the word link, and paste the URL for the website you want to link to. This is a very easy thing to do, and it keeps the posts very clean.

If you’re not a writer, we would encourage you to try writing your own articles anyway. It’s not about winning a Pulitzer Prize…it’s about communicating with your audience.

However, if you are really opposed to writing your own articles, then never fear. You can find articles to post on your blog from many different sources. You can do a search for niche articles and find articles on just about every topic that you can actually use as your own. There is typically a cost for these subscription services. You pay a monthly service fee from $15.95 to $24.95 per month, and that includes 30 articles or so and usually other bonuses. With these articles, you can change links and content as necessary to refer specifically to you. If you use these niche articles it looks like the article is written by you and targeted specifically to your area of expertise.

Another option is to do a Google search for free blog articles. However, if you use someone else’s article, you must put it on your blog exactly as is. You must include the author’s name, their links, etc. You may not change any of their content. That’s the drawback of using someone else’s article in this way. However, you can put your comments before or after, almost like a short review of the article. This can be quite effective.

You can also do a search for free private label articles, and you’ll find many offers. These will allow you to change content, but you also usually have to agree to some other terms.

Okay…now you have articles to post on your blog? How often should you post? Well, consistency is very important. It’s essential to post at least once a week, but you should aim for three times a week or more. I’ll say it again…consistency is key to blogging. In order for your blog to get rated by the search engines, you most post regularly.

Now that you’re posting on a regular basis, how do you get your blog out there? One thing you should do every time your post or add new content to your blog is to ping it. Pinging your blog notifies the search engines that updates have been made to your blog so that they index your site, publish your blog, and thus increase your blog’s popularity. This is a free way to increase traffic to your blog. www.Pingoat.com and www.pingomatic.com are some resources. Choose one and use it regularly. (Don’t use more than one pinging service each time or the search engines will treat it as spam.)

In addition to pinging your site, a great way to advertise your blog is to include it on any of your social media sites (Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, etc.). Another way is to include your blog URL in your signature when you post to forums that are on the same topic as your blog.

Blogging takes time, but when done consistently it can be one of the most powerful ways to brand you as an expert and to engage your audience. It’s a powerful way to use attraction marketing and to offer your audience information that is of real value. Plus, it’s fun!

~Frances Leary, Wired Flare Online Marketing Consulting

How to Have a Positive Attitude in a Negative Situation

2011-05-13T08:24:00.000-07:00

Imagine you have taken a hit and things are bearing down on you. You just want to go and crawl in a hole and wait for all this to blow over. But are you doing the right thing by hiding away? I for one say no. I personally feel you should and must deal with these negative things that knock you off balance as soon as possible. Taking this positive attitude accomplishes several things.

First is that you can deal with it and remove as much of the pain as possible so you can regain a clear mind.
There will usually be a take away or learning experience from this negative situation.
Dealing with tough decisions or setbacks can build mental toughness that can help us in the future.
It can teach us to only worry about things that we have control over.

I like to put the emphasis on not worrying about things we have no control over. Lets imagine that you are on a connecting flight and the first flight is late which causes you to miss the next flight. This can be a very upsetting experience as many of you know. I suggest you stop and think about it this way. You had no control over this situation you are in. What you do have is control over are your emotions and how you will deal with the situation. So do you sit and grumble or do you start to plan what you will do with this extra time you now have on your hands. Yes. New found time that you can use to prepare for that next meeting. Time to sit quietly and read a book. You may possibly meet a wonderful person with whom you have an engaging conversation. I like to simplify things and suggest you consider it this way. When you booked the flight you knew the risk of having a tight connection. So when it happens, don't act as if you have been blindsided.

I ask what comes to mind when you hear the term unflappable. Do you think of mental toughness. Self control. Come to think about it, we tend to admire people for having this ability. This ability is easier to come by than we think. It all starts with having a positive attitude. People with positive attitudes don't always have their heads in the clouds. They possess a can do attitude. They have an ability to embrace a change of plan. Positive thinkers can some times lift the mood in a room. Do you think that motivational speakers have a positive attitude. You bet. That's why we pay to see them. We want to be motivated. They inspire us.

Life does not always go according to plan. I suggest to you, life would be terribly boring if this was the case. But we have to have a plan. Having the ability to make the adjustments to your plan with the right mindset is what will set you apart from the crowd. Unflappable. A mouth full of syllables that spells confidence. To get to this mental space we must first have a positive attitude.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6253288

Red Nose Angel

2011-05-03T08:36:00.000-07:00

Maybe some things are meant to be. I arrived at the Victoria airport really early for my flight to Calgary. When I checked in, I was offered the last seat on the next flight departing in 30 minutes. It was a regional jet, the kind with two narrow seats on either side of the aisle. My 6’3’’ self hunched over as I entered the plane and snuggled into the row one window seat facing the bulkhead beside a little old lady who commented on my obvious cramped leg room. The lone flight attendant on the flight tossed her coat across the two remaining seats across from us as if staking a gold claim.

It was the little lady who suggested that I ask about switching to the empty aisle seat across from us. I waited until the flight attendant started pushing her cart down the aisle and inquired as to whether she minded if I switch my seat to allow for the better legroom.

There was a cold silence and then she responded curtly, “I was going to sit there.” After another icy pause she said, “Oh, go ahead.” It was clear that either today was not her day or she slept through her customer service 101 training.

I moved her airline issued jacket over to the window seat and sat down to enjoy sticking my feet up the aisle. When her cart service concluded she plunked down beside me to do her books. She made a terse comment about having little time to get her paperwork done on short flights. After a time she hunched over and twisted her gaze out the window while slowly rubbing her forehead and back of neck.

“Do you want something to take away your headache?” I offered thinking of a special cure I had in my bag.
”No,” she replied, “It will go away on it’s own.” She shared that this was her 5th flight today and got up to tidy the galley.

Even though she was unresponsive to my offer to help I kept having a nagging intuition to do the right thing. I knew that in my bag and I had a distress headache cure. I just finished sharing 200 of them with hard working managers in high demand responsibility roles at a conference in Victoria. The preventative cure for her stress, as it was for the managers at the conference, was the healing power of humor.

When she sat with me the next time I held out a red foam clown nose and said, “This will help with your headache.”

“Are you kidding?”

“Yes I am kidding and I am joking, that’s the point,” I asserted, “laughter creates endorphins and flushes the stress hormone cortisol. Cortisol makes your headache.”

“I can’t wear this. I have to look responsible.”

“Sure you can,” I insisted and held up my book to block any potential embarrassing passenger glances and she hunched over and put in the nose.

“Whoa, my head feels better already”, she observed after less than a minute. She chucked when I suggested she should do the next cart run with the nose on.

She introduced herself and we had a light hearted chat. She apologized for being out of sorts and she shared that the nose meant a lot to her because she had beaten nose cancer twice. Then she paused and said, “When you get off the plane are you going to disappear?” I must have look puzzled. She continued, “Like are you an angel that comes to earth to help troubled souls then when the job is done you go back up to rejuvenate until the next time.” She looked me in the eye and said, “Thank you. You were meant to be on my flight.”

I explained to her that actually I wasn’t meant to be on her flight and shared about the last minute change. But maybe things are meant to be especially if we listen to that still small voice of intuition that calls us to do the right thing.

When the plane landed we said thanks to each other. As I left I gave her my success quote card and she handed me her pen. At first I thought she felt obliged to reciprocate my gift gesture and that was all she had. It wasn’t until after read the inscription that it was clear that some things are just meant to be.

On her pen was a line from Psalm 91, “For he will command his angels concerning you.”

~Peter Davison

Courageous Kindness

2011-04-25T08:32:00.000-07:00

When was the last time you took a chance and stuck you neck out to do the right thing?

Here’s the scene. You are on staff of a respectable establishment and notice him as soon as he enters the building. He stands out for two reasons. 1. Because he is carrying a cute little girl on his shoulders and 2. because he seems to be a bit unstable on his feet. He spends 15 minutes browsing around with the little girl. He completes a transaction at the counter with one of your colleagues and lifts the little girl back on his shoulders and seems to stagger across the parking lot to his car.

What questions come to mind? Do you check-in with your colleagues to see if they have any suspicions? Should we say anything? What do we say? How will this guy respond? And who’s going to speak to him?

You have until he straps the little girl into her car safety seat to make a decision before he gets behind the wheel and drives away. Do you risk embarrassment or even a possible confrontation? What do you do?

Here’s what happened. The decision is made to confront him and you’re the one to do it. You walk swiftly out the main door and across the parking lot. The man notices you behind him as he lifts his head after fastening in the little girl into her car seat. You take a breath and ask the obvious question, “Excuse me sir, have you been drinking?”

The pause after that question while the man collects his thoughts at the abrupt nature of the question might have created anxiety if you had time to imagine the consequences of all possible responses.

He replies, “No. I haven’t been drinking.” He assures you and continues to explain, ”I have Parkinson’s Disease and that makes my right foot flop when I walk.”

You reply with the conviction of your values, “If you have been drinking we wouldn’t want you to drive away with that little girl in the car.”

His eyes fill with tears as he thanks you for the courage and kindness it must have taken you to come out and check with him about the safety risk to him and his child. He is obviously profoundly moved by your caring.
____

This is true story. I know because I was the man and the little girl was my 2 year old daughter Hannah. She loves the library and we had just signed out several Christmas books including, as she calls it, a book on “Crosty the Snowman.” I don’t know the name of the librarian that came out to talk with me. But I do know one thing, that such acts of courageous kindness are what make the world beautiful place. And given the true meaning of Christmas, is much closer to a gift of love than any boxing week sale items we can score.

My heartfelt wish for you as the New Year rolls out is to celebrate life and it’s infinite possibilities for love by embracing opportunities to do the right thing and help others with courageous kindness.

Stay Blessed.

~Peter Davison

Daily Habits of Successful People

2011-04-13T08:25:00.000-07:00

It is an accepted fact that it takes at least 30 days to create a new habit. I look at a habit as something we do on autopilot. It becomes part of our routine. Just imagine how life would be knowing that after we change something for the better it brings success into our lives. 30 days in the big scheme of things is a very short period of time. So why is it so difficult to embrace change that will enhance our lives. Successful people have bad habits to. The main difference is they know what they are and consciously work to counteract the bad tendencies.

Successful people in my view have a daily routine that unfolds in much the same way every day although what takes place in the day may be very different. Successful people have defined the daily patterns that work best for them. Remember if there was a recipe for success we would have all bought the book. These six daily habits are and will continue to be used by successful people.

Successful people plan for tomorrow at the end of each day. This allows you to prioritize and deal with what I call the Have To Things from the Choose to Things. Keep in mind that successful people choose to do the have to things as they know it will drive them toward success. Call it crazy, but tomorrow is rattling around in your brain all night while sleeping and you don't know even know it.

Successful people review their goals on a daily basis. Remember, that to reach many of our goals that we probably have smaller pieces of the goal that need to be addressed on a daily basis.

Most of the top successful people exercise and are fit. Exercise actually increases your energy levels.

Successful people read and study what is going on in their respective fields and industries. They want to know what the competition is doing. They want to be up to speed on the latest trends. Sometimes the difference between being on top and been second is a fraction of an inch.

Successful people now how to focus. The have the ability to deal with or move aside distractions that consume their valuable time.

Successful people come to work early and leave later. There is no substitute for hard work. Ad working smarter (see 4) and the success rate takes a huge jump.

It is a shame that many people get up in the morning and deal with things that come toward them. They live life reacting to their environment instead of taking charge of their environment. When you plan your day toward achieving success it will in most cases likely happen. Many of the worlds successful people learn it from their parents as they grow up. They are actually submerged in the success lifestyle. It has become a habit at an early stage. For those who have not grown up in that environment it takes planning, focus and having a set of realistic goals to aim toward. The most important habit of all is to have the burning desire to succeed.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6164012

Are You a First-Responder or JUST a Salesperson?

2011-04-08T08:28:00.000-07:00

Examine your motivations.

Why would you accept a job offer from a company seeking to hire a salesperson?

Is it salary, commission, benefits, travel, prestige, perks, the adrenaline-rush of closing a sale, is it about satisfying your innate ‘hunter’ instinct, the challenge of meeting and exceeding quotas, or is it a sense of duty and loyalty to your prospective employer? If these are your priorities I wouldn’t hire you. I don’t need your loyalty or your hunter instinct.

Today’s visionary employers no longer want traditional, self-serving, in-it-for-the-kill salespeople. Those salespeople died with polyester suits, telemarketing, walk-in office cold-calls and the word ‘solutions’. Today’s visionary employers are interested in only one thing … self-starting salespeople with loyalty to only one person. The CUSTOMER. Satisfy the customer at a profit. Personal and corporate success and wealth will follow.

Visionary employers don’t hire sales staff, they hire first-responders … professionals for whom the customers’ welfare is their priority. Selling today is a profession. The definition of a ‘professional’ is the man or woman, who is entirely customer-centred. Customers want to be taken care of not taken for a ride. Customers need service so that they have the time, energy and money to take care of their customers, families and themselves. The salesperson that puts her customers first makes it very difficult for her competitors to step in. Take care of your customers and they’ll tell others how to find you. Take care of your customers and your employer will be too busy laughing all the way to the bank to replace you. Take care of your customers and they will take care of you. Learn to give first.

Customers need allies, collaborators, people covering their backs. They don’t need another salesman.

~Peter Skakum, Tangent Strategies

Leading in the Culture of Human Potential

2011-03-07T16:57:00.000-08:00

What is it like to hang out at your work place? Are people vibrant and alive and fresh to serve? Here’s a trend at work where staff are moving ahead faster than management can keep up. Have you got first hand experience of what I am about to share with you? Enjoy…

Employees are changing and evolving in regards to how they see themselves in relation to their work and their expectations for finding connection, fulfillment and success. Professional development programs, HR practices, leadership styles and even meeting processes must reflect this change and feed staff and management who are hungry for new ways to gain satisfaction from the work-a-day world.. Leaders who ignore this hunger and unknowingly starve the desire for attitudes and tools that will help their people feel excited and be more fully alive at work risk making the culture of entitlement the default environment.

The culture of entitlement works like a bad apple in a barrel. Unchecked, it spreads its increasing influence until all is rotten to the core. In this “me first” environment you will find staff on their tiptoes reaching for their performance expectations only when the supervisor is watching. People take more mental health days and TBIF is the most effective incentive program. Precious management time is consumed by mitigating lost productivity, replacing the smart ones who jump ship and refereeing covert power struggles and suppressed conflicts.

Successful leaders in the culture of human potential recognize that the life force of corporate performance is personal performance. In order for fast companies to grow and thrive they must find new ways to help staff feed their desire to self manage. People who are driven from within to create harmony, find greater purpose with daily tasks and leave on Friday with more energy than when they started the week. Leaders are increasingly called to generate better working environments, both personally and culturally where people are serving in a climate that encourages enjoyment and a sense of ownership. This culture of human potential must support its people who are willing to change in order to live productively.

This is the new ROI. A Return On Imagination where the individuals are encouraged to contribute to something greater than themselves. It is a work culture where real answers are sought to the question, “How can leaders inspire people to self-manage and motivate themselves from within?” The awakened culture of human potential is more than fresh faces, light hearts and bright ideas. It is ultimately the result of a welcomed invitation for management and staff to unite in a joint venture and become part of a growing movement throughout the world to transform our corporations, communities, families, and individual lives into more balanced, respectful, and conscious environments.

Here’s a bit of the old “how to”

1. Invite overt dissent: There are two sides to every proposal or initiative. Invite the naysayers to voice as much as the yes people. Hear them out face-to-face or risk suppressing negativity that will eventually ooze out in barbs in the lunchroom or worst still, taken home.

2. Encourage and recognize virtues: Values based leadership expired when Enron execs valued lining their pockets more than serving the people. Values are too subjective, too malleable by circumstance. Virtues are the traits of character and not subjected to history or greed. They exist across all cultures as the foundations of personal integrity.

3. Be the change: Role model gratitude, balanced living, passion, presence and purpose and any other lead-by-example traits you expect of others in a thriving culture of human potential.

4. Flex your identity: When the giant awakes it can be very threatening to old school management styles because people want to participate, feel heard and validated for their suggestions and that could mean you just might have to think differently.

~Peter Davison speaks, trains and writes to celebrate everyday unsung heroes who help others succeed. His tales and tools enrich relationships and promote productive attitudes to maximize the culture of human potential. Peter is a high altitude trekker, including Mt Everest base-camp, and teaches how to “Tame Yaks” that a can knock helping professionals off their path of service to others. Peter’s international audiences of everyday unsung heroes are diverse—from street gangs in Los Angeles and emerging leaders in Northern Ireland to public servants and health professionals. Peter thrives with Parkinson's Disease, is proud to be a first time Dad at age 50 and has a weakness for chocolate. He has celebrated the joy of speaking and the business of making a difference since 1985 with the maxim: Go Forth, Do Good, Stay Blessed - Repeat as Necessary. More www.yaktamer.com

First-Time Halifax Home Buyers: Your Core Team of Professionals

2011-03-01T19:50:00.000-08:00

Buying your first home is a very exciting time. By having a good team of professionals, a REALTOR®, mortgage broker, home inspector and lawyer the process will be a much smoother and worry free process. Your real estate agent will help coordinate all these services and many more. Your REALTOR® can help sort though all the houses for sale and send you just the ones that meet your criteria, recommend neighbourhoods, schools, growing areas, and more.

I always advise my clients to work with a mortgage broker to get pre-approved for their mortgage before they begin house hunting. You will know just how much you can afford to spend and when you find the right home you will be confident making an offer.

Hiring a qualified home inspector to inspect the house can save you lots of headaches and dollars. Home inspectors are qualified professionals whose job it is to check the health of your potential house and to familiarize you with its systems and potential issues. Making sure the house is in good condition and doesn’t hold any big surprise repairs is well worth the small fee.

Finally, having a lawyer to review the contract before it is finalized to ensure all the “i’s” are dotted and “t’s” are crossed is important. You should meet with your lawyer once the offer is made to speak about any potential issues, and closing costs.

These are the core members of your team. As your REALTOR® I coordinate everything with you to make it an easier and less stressful purchase.

~Jane Jackson, REALTOR® with Sutton Group Professional Realty

Flipping Houses in Halifax

2011-02-22T12:02:00.000-08:00

People looking for investment opportunities are looking for cheap houses that require a small investment to spruce up and resell at a good profit. There are many renovation shows on TV that make it look easy, but it’s not a project for the inexperienced do-it-yourself-er. Finding the right property in a good location and at a low price is a challenge. These properties are in high demand, so you have to be ready to move fast. As house values rise in the HRM, what constitutes a good deal may not be in line with your pocketbook. Remember, as an investment property 20% down payment is required.

I’ve had several clients looking for houses to renovate recently and it is a challenge. Sometimes the price is right but too much work. Not much work, but priced too high to make a profit. With the help of your REALTOR® know what price the house can be sold for in the neighbourhood. Don’t overbuild for the neighbourhood.

Have a budget and stick to it. A common mistake is either not budgeting properly or putting in upgrades that aren’t required.

When the stars align, the right property, price, and budget align so that flipping can be a profitable business. Do your homework. Have a pre-approved mortgage, a good contractor, and be ready to start work.

~Jane Jackson, REALTOR® with Sutton Group

How to Deal With Setbacks to Your Success

2011-02-22T11:51:00.000-08:00

Do you sometimes feel that there is always a road block that is holding you back from achieving success? In my opinion the path to success is often the road less traveled. The road less traveled is not the well beaten down path you can travel with your flip flops on. No, it's the path that you need to wear your hiking boots. There are tree roots, puddles of water and large boulders to work your way around. That's why we wear the proper equipment. Life is also much like that to. We prepare ourselves for the obstacles that may come before us.

What do we do when the path we are on has a dead end or lengthy detour. This is the test to your real commitment to achieving your goal and ultimate success. We all face challenges in life. That's why the self-improvement business is so huge. Heck, I know. I have been a supporter of the industry most of my adult life. I have learned so much from what I have read. I have attended numerous personal development retreats. I have hired coaches to help me through some challenging times. Most importantly are the lessons I learned from my failures. It is very important to push past them. Failures can leave us scared and condition our minds to avoid making the same mistake as they most surely bring pain if we go back there. This in my view where many people lose hope. They give up when success is just a few inches or minutes away. There are many things we tackle in life that are totally dependent on getting it 100 percent right. 95 percent just wont cut it. But hold on. With out doubt most of us would be happy to be in the top 5 percent of our industry. The top 5 percent of income earners. To be the best golfer in our club. To be the best you would have been at 95 percent at some point on the way up. My advise is don't set your self up for failure. Life is about the journey.

So how do we deal with the set backs? One of the best ways is to have a support system in place. If you are truly committed to be the best you can be, you most certainly would have a mentor you can turn to for advise. Perhaps you have a life or business coach. These individuals will hear you out and provide some suggestions to go over or around those obstacles. We should not go through life saying that was a waste of time. An NLP coach I spent some very valuable time with a few years ago always used to say to me, "keep your eyes on the horizon". Isn't that where we are headed? I am a sailor so Bob got my attention. I also love to use sailing metaphors. We have no control over the wind and the weather so don't focus on that. So imagine you are here and the horizon is out there. Between you and the horizon are large waves. Often the wind coming in the wrong direction which means we have to tack up wind and not take the direct route. What we need to do is focus on the horizon. If we do this we are not looking at the huge waves that seem to endlessly toss us about. We wear foul weather gear to keep us dry and sea-boots to keep our feet dry and warm. If you can see it, I suggest you don't give up on it. "Keep your eyes on the horizon". Thank you Bob, very powerful words. You ask why would you go out there and do that Paul. It's simple. I don't leave the dock on a nasty day unless time dictates we do so. Under normal circumstances I wait for the weather to clear. My point is that the weather can change while we are out there. Be prepared.

We know we need to have the support people in place but we also need to have a plan. Like on a sailing adventure we plot our course. If the wind changes we make adjustments. You see a plan is just that. A Plan. With out one you have no starting point. No destination. The destination by the way can change to. This is why it is so critical to enjoy the journey. We discover along the way things, ideas and places that motivate us while bringing us joy in the process. Self improvement is a natural thing that lives inside us all. I believe society is becoming more accepting of us showing our feelings and sharing our dreams and aspirations. Life is hard work if your putting out signals of being a rock solid individual when there are things within us we are afraid to share. These fears will catch up with you. Just remember this. If you are always true to yourself and always tell the truth you don't have to remember what you said. Yes, we evolve but we do have a say in how that happens. The joy is in the journey.

Paul resides with his wife and Golden Retriever in Bedford Nova Scotia. Paul is an entrepreneur in all aspects of life weather it's in a business he is involved with, his volunteer work or being part of a sailing team. Life is about being a participant and not a spectator. I have learned that when you stumble there is very little time to grumble. Get up. Dust yourself off. Get on with it. New experiences await. Many of them will bring joy. I can be found at http://tomyfuturesuccess.blogspot.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Paul_R_Roy

Top 6 Energy-Saving Halifax Home Improvements

2011-02-14T07:01:00.001-08:00

If you're looking for some Halifax home improvements that will save energy and improve the efficiency of your home, these are the top six. :)

$ = low cost
$$$$ = higher cost

1. Windows/Doors

$$$$ Replace single-pane windows with insulated, double or triple-glazed models that have high performance glass. New fenestration products such as windows, doors and skylights can make your home more comfortable, reduce noise from outside and cut your heating and cooling costs by 7-12%.

$ Install interior storm windows to reduce heat loss; plastic sheeting sealed tightly to a frame is the most affordable option.

2. Water Heating

$$$$ Replacing older units with Energy Star models saves an average of $76 per year; tankless water heaters cost more but deliver up to 30% more savings than standard natural gas units.

$ It’s easy and effective to add an insulation blanket to most standard water heaters.

3. Heating/Cooling (HVAC)

$$$$ New Energy Star furnaces and AC units are much more efficient than older units; it may be worth replacing one that is more than 15 years old. Replacing and/or cleaning air filters regularly could lower your bills by 5% or more.

$ Install a programmable thermostat to automatically lower the temperature 10º to 15º for 8 hours per day, and you’ll save as much as 10% per year.2

4. Insulation

$$$$ Installing insulation within the walls is an elaborate project that may require the services of a contractor.

$ Adding insulation to the attic is fairly easy and inexpensive; eliminating drafts can be as simple as sealing holes or cracks with caulk or applying weather stripping around exterior doors.

5. Appliances

$$$$ Replacing washers, refrigerators and dishwashers is quick and easy but can be costly; you can save an average of $34 a year in energy costs for each new Energy Star model you purchase.

6. Lighting

$$$$ When replacing old lights, use Energy Star qualified fixtures. Compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFL) last longer than standard lights and each one will save you $30 over its lifetime—LED products last longer and use even less energy.

Sources: 1) Statistics Canada, Households and the Environment: Energy Use
2) Natural Resources Canada
3) Kiplinger Personal Finance Magazine, September 30, 2010
4) U.S. Department of Energy

~Jane Jackson, Realtor with Sutton Group

Success at Halifax Networking Events

2011-02-06T10:59:00.000-08:00

What’s the secret of success at Halifax networking events?

Attend!!! If you’re not there, you can’t succeed. J

Also, remember what networking is really about. It’s about building relationships.

Be yourself, put on a smile, bring your business cards, and get ready for some fun. If you don’t already know your ABC’s of networking, look around at who’s there. Read the posts on this blog. It’s really no secret…just a few simple techniques that can help you make networking an art.

So…attend Halifax networking events and have fun! You’ll be amazed at how your business will grow.

~Lynn MacMichael, President of Bconnected

Missed Goal Becomes An Amazing Adventure

2011-01-31T08:45:00.000-08:00

Growing up in a sailing family, one dreams of the romance of sailing in far away places. Over the years I have been able to get to sail in places like the Caribbean, The Cost Of Maine, The Great Lakes, Newfoundland, and the The Mediterranean Sea. Story book adventures that birthed from a handed down love of the sea by my father and love of travel from my mother. In fact it was the goal of my father to sail across the Atlantic Ocean that eventually became transferred to me. A trip my father is unlikely to complete now that he is 87 and his sailing is now limited to warm afternoons along the coast of Nova Scotia.

This whole adventure started when I was asked by a neighborhood friend to help race his 78 foot sloop across the Atlantic Ocean from the Canary Island of Tenerife to St Martin in the eastern Caribbean. The owner hand selected twelve sailors including three seasoned sailors like myself. He also included some younger talented sailors to help with man handling the sails as sails on a 78 footer weigh in at several hundred pounds each. To round out the crew he added a couple of professional sailors who have made several trips across the Atlantic. When upon the high seas a sound vessel well equipped with the best in safety equipment is only part of the requirement. No Yacht should set out on such and adventure without a talented and experienced crew.

The yacht had spent the past two years sailing in the Mediterranean and it was time to take her west again. To make this a true Atlantic Crossing I sized the opportunity to get aboard the yacht in Gibraltar for the delivery to Tenerife. This passage in itself is a wonderful sail of 780 nautical miles through the straights of Gibraltar and along the coast of Morocco to what I call an island paradise.

The yacht race to St Martin is 2800 miles of blue water sailing. There is no jumping off point in the mid Atlantic Ocean. Once the lines are let go there is no going back. Well, until this trip. On the night of the third day at sea an expected small low pressure system packing 35 to 40 knots of wind was to move through the zone we were sailing in. The skipper made the decision to head south to miss the brunt of this blow and be back on our way west the following afternoon. The storm grew as it moved into the warms waters of the mid Atlantic and blow it did for two and a half days. 35 to 40 knot winds and rain that at times was coming sideways. All this wind resulted in very high seas that brought on the challenge of trying to keep the boat from pounding into the very step seas. The wind was also blowing from the direction we were headed.

Not a good position to be in when there is 1800 miles to our destination. Our on board weather man informed us the storm was officially behind us but two more days of light headwinds followed by two to three days of doldrums were before us. This weather report had created challenges that put continuing on to St Martin at risk. The storm had forced us to consume allot of diesel running the generator to operate the winches and water makers. What was to be a nine to twelve day trip was now looking to be sixteen or even seventeen days and food would also be in short supply. What we needed were the South East Trade Winds to kick in and that friendly warm breeze from astern looked to be a week or so away. The owner after much deliberation and discussion with the crew felt in the interest of safety to head east to the Islands of Cape Verde some 750 miles to the east. A four to five day sail with the wind astern expected for the first three days.

To make this passage more enjoyable and interesting the owner switched up the watch crews so there would be, Fresh Conversation. It was a delightful sail with the weather as predicted. Tropical warm breeze, fishing, sleeping, reading,sharing stories of past voyages and yes even good political debate. Daybreak the morning of the sixth day we were in the Channel between Santa Antao and St Vicente. Our adventure was soon to go dockside. We tied up at the marina in Mindelo. Twelve days at sea leaves for much work to be done putting the yacht back to cruising status. This a days work for twelve crew in 95 degree weather. But all was worth it as a few cold beers followed by a night on the town awaited us.

The next day the owner had arranged for us to take a tour of the island of St Vicente which was climaxed buy a trip to the top of the mountain along a single lane road cut into the side mountain. Breath taking would be an understatement. The Islands of this young African nation became independent from Portugal in 1975. It's future looks to be in tourism as the wonderful beaches and friendly people make it's place as an African Nation that's free from famine and dictatorship. So a missed bucket list item became an adventure not ever forgotten and one more continent of my bucket list. Just Asia and Australia remain. You ask if I will eventually make a completed passage across the Atlantic Ocean? Well, it's still on the bucket list.

~Paul Roy resides with his wife and Golden Retriever in Bedford Nova Scotia. Paul is an entrepreneur in all aspects of life weather it's in a business he is involved with, his volunteer work or being part of a sailing team. Life is about being a participant and not a spectator. New experiences await. Many of them will bring joy.

Bconnected Philosophy #1: Networking Is about Building Relationships

2011-01-31T08:42:00.001-08:00

So, here’s the hard truth of it (actually, it’s not hard at all)…

Networking really is about building relationships, and that’s what Bconnected is all about.

Networking isn’t sales pitches and awkward fake small talk. It isn’t dressing to impress or pretending to be what you’re not.

It’s about being real, being you! That’s exactly what Bconnected wants you to be: yourself! And, that’s how you can build successful relationships.

This past week’s ArtsConnect was a great example. We had a unique opportunity for business people and members of the arts community to mingle and get to know each other. It was truly fantastic because people who wouldn’t usually have the opportunity to talk were learning about each other and making connections. Networking!

Before you decide that networking just isn’t for you, remember this…networking is really just getting to know people, building relationships, and being yourself. And I know you can do that!

~Lynn MacMichael

Buying a Home in Halifax: How a Pre-approved Mortgage Can Help

2011-01-31T08:39:00.000-08:00

Whether you’re planning the purchase of your first or fourteenth home, when you’re buying a home in Halifax it pays to obtain a mortgage prequalification certificate (better known as a pre-approved mortgage) from the lender of your choice. Not only does this step provide peace of mind, it also helps your offer stand out from the pack in a multiple-bid situation.

A reality check

Your bank or mortgage lender will examine your current financial situation to determine how much you can afford to borrow, and give you a realistic idea of what your monthly payments would be.

Some people avoid pre-approvals because they feel they know how much house they can afford – or that the money fairy will suddenly appear when they find the property of their dreams. Not having a pre-approved mortgage often leads to unsuccessful bids due to financing falling through, leaving both the buyer and seller in an extremely disappointing situation. In other cases buyers become “house rich and cash poor” because most of their income is spent on housing. It’s worth it to take the time, which can be less than an hour or two, to start off on solid financial ground.

With a pre-approved mortgage, you have an amount to have in mind while house hunting. Instead of scrambling to see every open house in the neighbourhood, you can focus your search to homes that fit into your predetermined price range. And by comparing similarly priced homes, you’ll be better able to gauge the value of each property and find the one that’s right for you.

Anyone who has experienced buying during a period of double-digit interest rates already knows the wisdom of obtaining a pre-approved mortgage with a locked-in mortgage interest rate. These are usually guaranteed for 90-120 days and, in the event that mortgage interest rates decrease during that period, will be lowered accordingly. Be sure to check this with your lender.

The main reason to lock in your rate is to protect yourself in case rates go up, so be sure to ask about it. For example, on a $100,000 25-year mortgage, an increase of 1% to the rate would add approximately $72 to your monthly payments. That’s over $800 in a year that could have gone towards something a little more fun, like a weekend getaway. Without a pre-approved mortgage, a sudden increase in mortgage interest rates could mean you no longer qualify for your dream home.

It’s easy

Whether you decide to use a mortgage consultant, who will negotiate on your behalf to compare rates and terms from several financial institutions, or your preferred bank, the process of getting pre-approved is fairly straightforward. You’ll be asked to provide your financial information, including all assets, liabilities and proof of income as well as the amount you have available for a down payment.

After reviewing your financial situation, the lender will determine the maximum mortgage amount you qualify for and lock in a mortgage interest rate. Prequalification certificates normally last for 90-120 days. If you don’t buy a home within this timeframe, you may renew your agreement at the going interest rate when your guaranteed rate expires.

A firm offer

Homebuyers with a pre-approved mortgage have the upper hand when they put an offer on the table. And it’s easy to see why. Having pre-approval demonstrates that you’re serious about purchasing a home—you’ve done your homework and have arrived prepared. It also officially addresses your ability to finance the purchase, which leaves no question in a seller’s mind that yours is a firm offer.

It’s a great leverage in negotiation or if you find yourself in a bidding war – and because you know your limit, you won’t price a bid that goes beyond what you can afford. After your offer is accepted, all that’s left for you to do is to send in the property and offer details, along with any other information requested, to your lender and your pre-approved mortgage will be converted into your actual mortgage in a matter of hours.

When it comes to buying a home in Halifax, there’s no better way to approach a purchase than with the confidence and convenience a pre-approved mortgage provides.

~Jane Jackson is a full service Halifax real estate agent.

Tips for Moving with Pets

2011-01-24T17:51:00.000-08:00

Moving is tough enough on humans – imagine how overwhelming it would be if you didn’t understand what was going on. When you’re moving with pets, the boxes, the commotion and tension can add up to confused, stressed – even sick – animals. To keep your cat or dog (or iguana) calm and relatively happy during your move, all you need is a little planning – and maybe an extra treat or two.

Stick to a routine

Stay consistent by keeping walks and feedings at the usual times.

Prepare them

Let them wander around and smell boxes and suitcases so they understand that they’re safe.

Talk to your vet

Pick up your pet’s records, make sure all shots are up to date, and ask for a recommendation for a vet clinic in your new area.

Update ID tags

Make sure tags have your new address and phone number on them in case Max or Boots decides to run away. And though this may seem obvious, make sure they’re actually wearing the tags when you move. Microchipping is a bit pricier, but if you can afford it, it’s the best way to ensure they’ll be returned to you if they get lost.

Pick up a cat leash

Your fluffy friend may not be impressed, but it’s an easy way to keep tabs on her in the car or on a plane.

Get a sturdy carrier

Leave the door open a few days before the move so your pet can get used to it. Make sure it isn’t too small; your cat or dog should be able to move around comfortably inside.

On moving day, put them someplace quiet and safe

You don’t want your pup to get underfoot or take off through an open door. If you can’t leave pets with a neighbour or in a kennel, make sure there’s a safe “pet room” (like a bathroom) in both your old place and your new one. A few days before the move, move their food, water, toys and litter box in there. Then, on moving day, put a sign on the door that says “Cat inside, do not open,” so movers and friends know to be careful.

Don’t get a new pet right before a move

Wait till you’re settled before adding a new member to your household.

Bring stuff that’s familiar

In the new place, surround your buddy with toys, bedding and dishes that look and smell like home. Let cats explore on their own terms, and at their own pace; you may want to keep them in one room to start, and allow them into the rest of the place gradually. If you’re moving into a high-rise, don’t open the windows wide enough for an animal to squeeze through, and remember to keep kitty off the balcony.

Clean up accidents right away

Get rid of odors fast so your pets won’t be tempted to use that spot again.

Stay in a pet-friendly places

If your move requires an overnight stay in a hotel, call ahead to find one that will let your pet stay in your room with you.

Tips for car travel

Cats are generally not happy passengers, so keep them safe in a well-ventilated, securely positioned carrier. Don’t put animals in the trunk or in the open bed of a pickup, and never leave them alone in a parked car, especially when it’s hot out. Stop every couple of hours for a break.

Tips for air travel

Whether your pet is flying in the cabin with you or as freight, try to get a direct, non-stop flight to minimize travel time and handling.

Your pet travel checklist

Make sure you’ve packed these animal must-haves:
• Veterinary records
• Recent photos
• Medications
• Food and water
• Bowls
• Can opener
• Reusable lids for canned food
• Leash
• Plastic bags and litter box
• Paper towels
• Favourite toys

Travelling with a more “unusual” pet?

Fish are easy to move short distances. Just put them in plastic bags that are half-filled with water and half with air. Long distance moves are trickier, and you may want to contact an aquarium retailer to get advice. With hamsters, small reptiles and birds, keep them in their usual cages/enclosures when you travel. If you’re driving, keep the car at a warm, comfortable temperature all the time. If you’re flying, contact the airline to see what their guidelines are for transporting pets other than cats or dogs.

~Jane Jackson is a full service Halifax real estate agent.

ArtsConnect the First Big Halifax Networking Event of 2011

2011-01-24T11:54:00.000-08:00

On Tuesday, January 25 the business and arts communities will come together in what is anticipated as the new year’s biggest Halifax networking event to date. ArtsConnect, as the event is being called, is sponsored by Bconnected, Vocalypse, and art&jules Gallery and will take place at the art&jules Gallery on Gottingen Street.

According to Bconnected president, Lynn MacMichael, the purpose of ArtsConnect is to bring the business and arts communities together for a Halifax networking event they will not forget. The event is being touted as “a meet and greet to get to know each other for the arts and business communities.”

Lynn explains that in addition to engaging in the fun, social networking scene, members of the arts community should come to the event with the intent to “expand their audience, find sponsorships for events, and build relationships in the business community.” In turn, business people should come prepared to “make new connections, discover cultural events in HRM, and be connected to the broader Arts Community.”

ArtsConnect is being catered by George and Lito’s and will take place from 6:00-8:00 p. m. on Tuesday, January 25 at art&jules Gallery, located at 2089 Gottingen Street in Halifax. The cost to attend is $10, which can be paid at the door.

For more information on the Halifax networking event, visit: http://www.LynnMacMichael.com.

Networking Success: The Elevator Speech

2011-01-16T16:49:00.000-08:00

For networking success, it’s absolutely imperative that you memorize your “elevator speech” and are comfortable communicating it over and over for members of your target audience.

So….what in the world is an elevator speech? Is it something you say to strangers when you’re riding in an elevator together? Definitely not…although if they’re part of your target market, you could.

An elevator speech explains what you do. Sound simple? It is and it isn’t.

For networking success, your elevator speech needs to explain what you do in a way that makes what you do different from what anyone else does.

How is that possible?

Start with these tips:

If you haven’t already, identify up to 3 niche markets to target.

Then, ask yourself these questions and answer them in a way that specifically addresses each unique market:

What do you do?
Why does it matter?
Who cares?

It’s not as easy as it sounds, but you can do it! Remember that your answers must set you apart from all of your competitors by demonstrating that you offer your services in a unique way.

Once you have the questions answered, you put them together to create your elevator speech and you can successfully answer “what do you do” in a way that brands YOU as unique and valuable.

Get started. Networking success is just around the corner. J

~Lynn MacMichae l is the president of Bconnected who teaches business networking tips in person and through her new video The Bconnected Top 10 Networking Tips. The video is now available for purchase world-wide.

Home Redesign: A New Way to Achieve the Home You Want

2011-01-10T10:28:00.000-08:00

Home decorating and the use of a specialist in home décor were for a very long time considered a luxury. A designer or decorator would typically completely change a space and the cost would be high. There is certainly a market for this type of service still, and likely always will be.

Home redesign, on the other hand, comes from the perspective of using what is already there as much as possible. A transformation can be achieved with an editing; a rearrangement; the introduction of a few key elements; a change in color, usage or accessories. Redesign appeals to those who cannot or choose not to spend more than necessary to achieve a change. It is also gaining favour from those who are swinging back towards a less wasteful lifestyle, away from the throw-away perspective of recent years.

More affordable furniture, accessories, fabrics, and window coverings have become available. More and more people know that having a home that offers beauty as well as function is within their reach. A home redesign specialist is the corresponding advisor who assists people in achieving a big effect for a small investment. Services can range from a consultation which gives the client a direction and path to follow on their own, right up to project management for those clients who do not want to be directly involved with the process. Referring trades people, shopping, developing floor plans, color consultations, material sourcing plus selection and room showcasing are examples of the various services of Redesign. Quite often transformations can occur in just one day.

Even with all the self help information that is readily available today, many people benefit from the trained, skilled guidance of a professional. Studies have shown that only 10% of North Americans can visualize. That means 90% see only what is in front of them. Vision is a critical ingredient in creating a new or improved living space that meets the form and function desires of the person to use the space. A home redesign specialist provides that vision as a well as a fresh perspective, experience and market knowledge that can be invaluable.

~Melanie Orr is the owner and operator of Interiors Working For You which provides full staging and redecorating services.

Successful Business Networking: Organizing Your Contacts

2011-01-10T08:18:00.000-08:00

Okay, so now you’re on a roll. You’re on your way to successful business networking. You’re attending networking events, you’ve got your elevator speech down pat, you’re making contacts and building relationships. Now what?

Well, if you don’t keep your contacts organized, then follow-up can be a time-consuming and difficult task…and successful business networking isn’t a complete success.

Organization is key in any successful business endeavor, and networking is no different. It is essential to find an organizational system that works for you to keep track of your contacts, set appointments, and take notes on the progress of your relationship.

One tool I use is an online contact management system. After an event, I input all the data from business cards into that system: name, email address, phone, etc. Then I sync all that information with my blackberry so I have my contacts with me at all times.

It’s important to have contact information within reach, because you never know when you will want someone’s information, whether for your own use or to pass their information on to someone else.

Just think…we’ve all been in that situation when someone we’re talking with needs a service, and we say, “Oh, I have the perfect person who could do that for you…oh, what was their name???” You don’t want to find yourself in that position! You want the people you are talking with to know that you remember and keep in touch with your networking contacts. So, always have a way to pull up the contact information you need.

Another strategy for organizing your contacts is using business cards. What in the world do you do with all those business cards after you receive them? If the answer is nothing, then you need to change your strategy!

I keep all the business cards, even after entering the information into my online contact system. Some people don’t. That’s really up to you. If you do keep them, file them so that they organized…perhaps by “potential clients” and “refer to others” or perhaps alphabetically. You really need to find a system that works for you.

The important thing is…have a system!! With an effective organization system combined with effective networking communication tools, successful business networking is a cinch!

~Lynn MacMichael is the president of Bconnected who teaches business networking tips in person and through her new video The Bconnected Top 10 Networking Tips. The video is now available for purchase world-wide.

Home Business Tax Savings: Everyone Should Have a Home Business

2011-01-10T08:16:00.000-08:00

The truth is that home business tax savings can make a HUGE impact at tax time. So much so that it really points to this conclusion...

Everyone should have a home business!

Why? The everyday bills you pay can become tax write-offs, as can many of the standard expenses you incur day to day.

Just take a look…

The following items (or portions thereof) can be written off if used as part of a home business.

*mortgage
*electricity
*natural gas
*internet
*telephone
*office equipment
*office furniture
*office supplies
*gas mileage
*meals
*conference expenses
*coffee (at coffee meetings)
*service providers
And Much, Much More!

Your accountant will be able to identify all the home business tax savings for you. Just think about it…does a home business fit into your life? If not now, then perhaps someday in the near future.

~Dalene Allen is a National Sales Director for Mary Kay.

Showing the Best Side of Your Home - Quick Home Staging Tips

2011-01-02T10:55:00.000-08:00

As a professional realtor in metro Halifax, offering quick home staging tips and advising clients on how to best present their home is a service I provide.

It’s not as simple as plunking a “For Sale” sign on the lawn and hoping for the best. Your home is now a commodity to be sold, so making it a house, a commodity, versus your home is often a challenging task.

There are several quick home staging tips you can apply to make your house stand out from others. Be warned that it may not be easy, unless you are a super home maker, and decorator; but on the other hand it might be. Tweaking things slightly is all it takes sometimes, and for others...we’ll call in the pros and rent a storage locker. For most clients, it’s not that big of a task.

The first quick home staging tip I have is adjusting your own view of your house. What would you see as an objective buyer? Is it dark, and cluttered or too sparsely furnished? Does it look like a student hang out or is every piece of bare space covered by granny’s handmade doilies?

First things first…let the sun shine in! Open the drapes and turn on the lights; brightness evokes a feeling of spaciousness. Now that the lights are on, take an honest look. Is it scrupulously clean? Is it tidy?

De-cluttering is the most common work needed. Keep counters clear of clutter, thin out closets, and put shoes and gloves away.

Another quick home staging tip: If you have pets, take them out of the house for showings and make sure there is no lingering aroma of Snowball & Butch…or of Uncle Charlie’s cigars .

Accessorize! Create focal points by adding a splash of color with strategically placed accents (pillows, candles, pictures, placemats and flowers). There are lots of little ways to add touches that enhance a room.

Don’t be afraid to change things up. Remember you’re selling your house, so making a few changes to make it more marketable won’t hurt a bit.

~Jane Jackson is a Halifax real estate agent who offers quick home staging tips as part of her client service.

Tips for Networking Events: Attend Many!

2010-12-30T21:54:00.000-08:00

All of the strategies I teach about the art and technique of networking are helpful tips for networking events. However, if you don’t attend any networking events, then the tips won’t help!

It’s important to attend networking events regularly. Whether you join a group or groups that meet monthly or weekly, you must join networking groups in order to succeed at networking!

Some networking groups are free, and some have a cost involved. Some are small groups, and some are large groups. The secret to finding the right one or ones for you is to determine which groups have members that are part of your target market.

Also, remember that you simply can’t join them all! If you spread yourself too thin and try to participate in too many, you won’t be able to build successful networking relationships.

If you’re not sure what’s available in your area, you can start with finding out more about your local chamber of commerce. This is always a great place to start networking. You can also do an Internet search for networking groups in your area.

The important thing is to get out there and network! If you don’t join a group, then no matter how many tips for networking events you learn, you won’t have anywhere to use them!

~Lynn MacMichael is the president of Bconnected who teaches business networking tips in person and through her new video The Bconnected Top 10 Networking Tips. The video is now available for purchase world-wide.

Business Networking Tips: Do Teach, Don’t Sell

2010-12-21T07:52:00.000-08:00

There are many business networking tips that will help lead entrepreneurs and salespeople alike to success. The trick is to learn the basics then tweak them to fit your own unique style.

One essential business networking tip I have is to TEACH about your product or service rather than SELL about what you have to offer.

We’ve all been in those situations before…listening to someone push a little bit too hard trying to make that sale. So, we have to make sure that WE are not doing the same thing!

Networking is not about selling a product on the spot. It’s about teaching others and giving out information that will help.

At every opportunity, teach others about your products and services so they can tell others. Teach about the concepts surrounding your business. Educate the public about why your field is important and how it can impact their lives.

The selling comes later, when you have appointments individually. Even then remember that if you push too hard, regardless of how great your product or service is, no one will want to work with you!

~Lynn MacMichael is the president of Bconnected who teaches business networking tips in person and through her new video The Bconnected Top 10 Networking Tips. The video is now available for purchase world-wide.

Healthy Skincare Tips for the Holidays and All Year

2010-12-21T07:50:00.001-08:00

It’s so important during the winter to take care of our skin! Here are five of my top healthy skincare tips to keep your skin looking healthy and vibrant during the holidays and all year round.

1. Drink lots of water. This will hydrate your skin and your body.

2. Exfoliate! That doesn’t mean scrubbing – you can do this gently. By dong this your skin will glow for those special occasions.

3. Get a small piece of tape and put it on the back of your hand then pull it off gently and look at what is on the tape. It’s dead, dry skin. Our skin’s main function is to shed a layer and the more often you exfoliate, the better your skin will look and feel. More important, your moisturizer will work more effectively as you are hydrating that brand new layer of skin.

4. For dry lips, gently exfoliate them and then apply a lip balm. The lip gloss and lipstick will look better and stay on longer when applied to exfoliated lips.

5. Wash your face! Makeup artists will tell you it takes your skin days to recover from doing this. Always wash your face before sleep. Whatever skincare regime you are doing is not for your face today, but an insurance policy for the face you want to have five or ten years from now.

Now, get out there, start using these healthy skincare tips and enjoy the holiday season.

~Dalene Allen is a National Sales Director for Mary Kay.

Business Networking Success: The Follow-up

2010-12-20T19:17:00.000-08:00

A thorough follow-up is one of the most important aspects of business networking success. It’s absolutely crucial to follow up with people you have met at the conclusion of a networking event!

Without the follow-up you will not grow your contact base. It’s like flushing all the potential relationships down the toilet!

One tip for helping with follow-up is to write on the back of business cards in order to remember what you talked about with someone. At a tradeshow, you might write on the back of the draw ballots people have filled out to enter your giveaway.

To follow up for business networking success, I recommend you send an email first then continue with a phone call or card after that. You want to spend your time productively, so make sure to call the contacts you have real interest in connecting with. If there’s no real potential for a solid connection, then an email might suffice.

Personally, I make two piles of business cards after an event. The first pile is for people I really want to meet with and connect with. The second pile is for people who I’ll email and will go on my newsletter list. However, if people whose cards go into the second pile email me and want to connect further, I take into consideration and spend more time with them.

Social media is another way to follow up. Whether you use Linked In or Facebook or something else, the Internet has a lot of options to stay connected.

Remember that without following up, business networking success just won’t happen.

~Lynn MacMichael is the president of Bconnected, a professional consultant for business networking success and the creator of the new video The Bconnected Top 10 Networking Tips. The video is now available for purchase in Halifax and world-wide.

Halifax Real Estate: Buying and Selling in Winter IS a Good Idea

2010-12-11T11:58:00.000-08:00

Despite the common moniker “real estate is a spring affair,” the truth about Halifax real estate is that people buy and sell houses all year round. Life changes don’t wait for the tulips to poke through the fresh spring earth; they happen, happily or not, every day.

There is a flurry of activity in the spring to get your house on the market. Yes, there are lots of folks out there looking to buy, but there is also a lot of competition, from both buyers and sellers. As in all other types of business, if you have a good product to sell, there will always be a buyer.

In fact, people slogging through the snow to see your house during the winter months are pretty serious.

It goes the same for open houses too. If they’re not really serious about looking for a house, most people would rather be warmly curled up at home with a good book and hot chocolate on a Sunday afternoon.

For buyers, it also runs true that you may not have as much competition from other buyers in the winter months. There’s nothing worse than finding your dream home, then finding out there are other competing bids…a common spring occurrence.

There are times that aren’t the best time to list, but that’s when you need a professional’s advice. So take heart and let your realtor guide you through the Halifax real estate buying or selling process, no matter when.

~Jane Jackson is a full service Halifax real estate agent.

Halifax Home Selling Tips: Part 2

2010-12-11T11:33:00.000-08:00

Here are a few more tips for successful Halifax home selling. Make sure to ask yourself these questions. They’re exactly the questions a professional home stager would ask.

Is there too much or not enough in the house to effectively showcase the home’s best features? For successful Halifax home selling, it is important to have the right amount, the right style, and the right placement of contents. We tend to stop noticing the details in our own home because we see them every day. It is difficult for most people to see their home with an unbiased eye. Renting off site storage is a very effective selling strategy to clear out the garage and storage room, as well as edit the personal items in the house. In many cases a rearrangement, using existing contents, will create a fresh, neutral and inviting presentation. Sometimes new pieces are needed whether borrowed, bought or rented. In the case of a vacant home, the rental of the appropriate furniture and accessories are highly effective in getting the home sold well. A well staged home draws in a buyer with excellent flow, colors, style, room set up, interest and excitement.

Is the home’s decor going to be a benefit or deterrent to buyers? I have heard many times the theory that if a home is beautifully decorated, it is ready for market. Quite often this is not true. One local realtor tells the story of a buyer client who was shown two similar homes in the same neighborhood, one of which was fairly plain and the other decorated tastefully throughout. He expected the buyer to choose the decorated home, but she chose the plain one. Why? Although the decorated home was lovely, it did not match her furnishings and she would have had to either redecorate it or buy all new furniture. Taking that a step further I would suggest that whether the decorating is lovely or not is always a matter of taste. When in the midst of Halifax home selling it is wise to keep the home neutral; bring in interest and color through the use of accessories.

Happy Halifax home selling!

~Melanie Orr is the owner and operator of Interiors Working For You which provides full staging and redecorating services.

What to Look for in a Dartmouth Accountant

2010-12-11T11:14:00.000-08:00

In today’s day and age, small business owners should expect the Dartmouth accountant they hire to provide more than just standard services. Tax returns and year end reports are important, but there’s much more to good, solid financial service.

If you have a good Dartmouth accountant, he or she will do the following:

1. Actively look for new ideas and better ways of doing things in order to help small businesses save time and money.
2. Stay current with business trends in general, as well as staying current with the fields of accounting and taxation in particular.
3. Abide by the professional code of ethics
4. Care more about people than numbers

If your accountant does those things, it sounds like you have a good one! If not, sit down and have a chat to make sure they can meet your needs.

~Don Connor is a Dartmouth Accountant who specializes in a holistic approach to financial management.

Successful Business Networking: Listening with Focus

2010-12-07T18:49:00.000-08:00

Successful business networking, wherever you are, involves a number of different skills and strategies. Yes, there is an art and a technique to successful business networking. Hopefully this blog is helping you learn some.

The technique I’d like to address today is listening. Listening with focus is so important for successful business networking. What you may not know is that listening isn’t just done with your ears. It’s true!

It’s very important that you not only listen with your ears but with your eyes and your entire body. Your body language tells the person you’re talking with that you’re engaged in the conversation.

Plus, it should go without saying that it’s very disrespectful if you’re not listening when people are talking with you.

If your eyes are roaming when someone is talking, it indicates you’re not really part of the conversation. And…if you’re not really part of the conversation, then there’s no foundation for a solid relationship to begin…business or otherwise.

In a successful business networking situation, you listen with focus and sincerity, keeping in mind that you’re building relationships! Either you may want to do business with that person, or you may know someone who could do business with that person. Either way, listen and take it all in!

~Lynn MacMichael is the president of Bconnected, a professional consultant for successful business networking and creator of the new video The Bconnected Top 10 Networking Tips. The video is now available for purchase in Halifax and world-wide.

Tips for Selling a House in Halifax: Part 1

2010-12-07T18:46:00.000-08:00

If you are selling a house in Halifax and want to sell it for top dollar and quickly, you must understand that your home becomes a product. If you were selling a car you’d be smart to have the vehicle serviced, touched up and detailed to make it run and look its best in order to get it sold faster and /or for more. If you were headed to an important interview or business meeting, you’d make sure you were dressed appropriately and were neat and presentable. It isn’t any different when we sell a home. The better we present any product to the market, the better response we will receive.

There are sellers who want to try out the market, and see what luck will bring. Then there are sellers who make a plan to deliberately sell their house. Smart sellers fall into the second category.

But what does a well presented home look like? The TV shows tell us that we need to declutter and depersonalize. Is that all we need to know? Not quite. Here are some of the criteria we look at as professional stagers.

Who will be the likely buyer and how do we appeal to as large a range of buyers as possible? A property that has been used as a student dorm will need changes in order to appeal to professionals who would love the proximity to downtown. A senior’s home will need changes in order to appeal to the young couple that will love the school down the road. A home with four children living in it will need changes to appeal to a couple with no kids.

Does the home need upgrading and or repairs to get top dollar? When selling a house in Halifax, having the home in clean, tidy, well maintained condition is always a good move. Depending on the price and who will be looking at it, some upgrades may be warranted as well. The trick is to spend wisely on items that will improve the salability of the property.

Are the rooms being shown with the appropriate usage? The computer in the living room may work really well for your family, but while on the market it may give the message to buyers that there is a lack of peaceful adult space in the house, and no room for a home office. You may not need that third bedroom and have set up a sewing room or den to suit your needs, but a prospective buyer may walk away with the impression there are not enough rooms for them.

Stay tuned for Part 2 and more information about selling a house in Halifax!

Melanie Orr is the owner and operator of Interiors Working For You which provides full staging and redecorating services.

Halifax Holiday Fun: Pampering Yourself

2010-12-05T09:36:00.000-08:00

While we prepare for the upcoming seasonal festivities, we…women, that is…must remember to enjoy ourselves and participate in the Halifax holiday fun in ways that pamper our bodies, minds and spirits.

Here are some suggestions for ways you can treat yourself during the Halifax holidays.

*Enjoy a night out with the girls
*Take a warm bath…with bubbles J
*Get a pedicure, or get together with girlfriends and do it yourselves
*Snuggle on the couch with a warm cup of cocoa and a good book or movie

*Let someone else do the cooking for a change
*Dance to holiday music like you did as a child…after all, no one’s watching
*Give a gift to yourself…however small or large, remember YOU this holiday season

Whatever you do, remember not to let the potential holiday stress get you down. Just enjoy yourself and the Halifax holiday season! You’re worth it!

~Dalene Allen specializes in helping women pamper themselves with Mary Kay throughout the Halifax holiday season and all year round.

Successful Networking Tips for the Holidays

2010-11-29T10:47:00.000-08:00

With the holidays approaching, many business people have a hard time understanding how you can benefit from the plethora of holiday events and use that time not only for socializing but to grow your businesses.

The truth is that while the holidays might not be a great time for closing sales, they are a fabulous time for “filling your funnel” with prospective business partners and potential clients. The “secret” really is not a secret at all. You simply have to apply the same strategies you do throughout the year.

It is also important to remember that at each social event you are not only “yourself” but also a representation of your business, so you must act accordingly. Just as businesses can be destroyed by posting inappropriate photos on Facebook, so can businesses be destroyed by acting inappropriately in a networking situation.

Bottom line…have fun, just not TOO much fun!

The holidays can be a fun and exciting time of year for building business. On the holiday event circuit, keep the following successful networking tips in mind: be prepared, be yourself, listen, and embrace the spirit of the season!

~Lynn MacMichael is the president of Bconnected and a professional consultant who offers successful networking tips for business owners all over the world. Her video The Bconnected Top 10 Networking Tips is now available for purchase in Halifax and world-wide.

Networking in Halifax: Being a Giver

2010-11-28T09:47:00.000-08:00

Successful networking in Halifax requires understanding the art and technique of networking. Part of this is knowing the importance of being a “giver” in a networking situation.

No one, whether networking in Halifax or spending time with friends, enjoys someone with a “taker” mentality. Someone who is always looking out for himself first will never get ahead in the world…not personally or professionally. It just won’t happen.

People are smarter than we think. They know when someone is being genuine and cares about others or if they’re really only concerned about themselves.

Business people who want to be successful at networking need to be givers! They should take it upon themselves to think more of others than of themselves.

So, how do we do this?

For one, you can act like a host. Introduce people who don’t know each other. Make connections. Look out for the interest of others more than yourself.

Always follow the “pay it forward” rule. Remember that the good you do to others will spread…ultimately back to you.

Focus on giving, and the getting will come later.

~Lynn MacMichael is the president of Bconnected, a professional consultant for successful networking in Halifax and creator of the new video The Bconnected Top 10 Networking Tips The video is now available for purchase in Halifax and world-wide.

Who Needs Halifax Accounting Services?

2010-11-28T08:46:00.000-08:00

Many small businesses begin their journey without the help of professional Halifax accounting services. In some cases, business owners may have enough information to make this work successfully. However, there are many benefits to hiring a professional to help with financial planning.

Small business owners should ask themselves these questions to help determine whether professional Halifax accounting services are right for them.

1. Do you want to give your business the best chance for success?

2. Do you want to minimize tax time confusion and maximize tax deductions?

3. Do you want to make productive business decisions?

4. Do you want more time for your self and family?

If the answer to these questions is YES, then small business owners should seriously consider hiring someone who offers professional Halifax accounting services to help them reach their goals. Professionals can help business owners achieve all of the above, and the benefits most often far outweigh the costs.

~Don Connor is a Certified General Accountant specializing in a holistic approach to Halifax accounting services.

Halifax Home Buyers: Secrets of Savvy Househunters

2010-11-21T16:42:00.000-08:00

Experienced Halifax home buyers know that there’s more to look for than a good neighbourhood and a sturdy foundation. They shop with their hearts, their heads – and with the expert advice of a real estate professional.

Before you get caught up in the excitement of searching for the perfect home, here are some savvy steps for Halifax home buyers to follow.

1. Know how much you want to spend

Don’t get caught in that trap of finding a perfect home that you can’t afford. Do your homework and define your budget. Get a pre-approved mortgage or consulting with your lender of choice, and keep your eye on the market, since any changes could impact what you can afford.

2. Scope out the neighbourhoods

Before you start looking at individual homes, figure out which neighbourhoods you would prefer to live in. How close are schools? Stores? Access to highways and public transit? These all have an impact. Also, check common areas in a community like parks and playgrounds – they can say a lot about how the residents feel about their neighbourhood, so look for tell-tale signs of neglect or proud upkeep. Your agent can also let you know how well certain neighbourhoods are selling, which is a good indicator of where people want to live.

3. Make a list

Smart shoppers never head to the grocery store without a list and neither should you when you head out to an open house. Organize your thoughts on paper and come up with a master house wish list that you can refer to. Divide it up into must-haves, would-be-nice items and deal breakers. Carry this list with you so that you can compare homes on the basis of your personal wants and needs.

4. Find a home inspector

Even before you locate your ideal home, have a home inspector at the ready. He or she may even be able to offer you some pointers for things to look out for when you first see a place.

5. Take your time

Don’t try to squeeze more than four viewings into a single day – it can be more confusing than convenient. Take photos and make note of the pros and cons after viewing each property so you can take a look at the next home without struggling to remember details about the one before.

6. Street sense

Be sure to ask about mutual driveways, parking, zoning bylaws and upcoming construction. You may be in a neighbourhood that is about to be receiving power line upgrades or road repairs that can wreak havoc on getting from point A to point B after you move in.

7. Be a legal eagle

Ask for a survey of the property and take a good look at it. Fences may not be on actual property lines and right-of-way issues may come into play in the future with the sale of the home next door. Don’t just rely on your judgement; hire a lawyer to inspect all of the paperwork related to a prospective purchase and to advise you.

8. Get a second opinion

If you’ve found a home that really appeals to you, show it to someone else. like a good friend or relative. Let them do all the talking in case they see something you hadn’t noticed. Having someone who isn’t personally vested in the propertycan give you the objective opinion you need before you make your decision.

9. Think it through

In a hot market, it can be hard not to make an immediate offer. While that may work in most cases, be sure to step back, pull out your list and carefully gauge if this property meets all of your must-have criteria. Savvy househunters say that when you find the right property, you can feel it down to your bones. If that’s the case for you, see if you can wait a day (or a few hours) before making an offer. The only thing worse than buyer’s remorse is letting a dream home get away.

~Jane Jackson is full service real estate agent serving the Halifax-Dartmouth areas. To find out more about success for Halifax home buyers visit: http://www.JaneJackson.ca.

Halifax Business Networking: The Importance of Being Yourself

2010-11-20T09:41:00.000-08:00

When you take part in Halifax business networking, being genuine is crucial to your success.

Networking is about building relationships, and if you are not yourself, how can anyone get to know you and ultimately want to work with you? It just won’t happen.

People want to respect, trust and actually like the others with whom they do business. Being yourself will allow you to build business relationships that are based on honesty and truth, and you’ll find when you do this that you not only build solid business relationships but also create friendships as well.

Being “fake” or pretending to be something you’re not is never a good strategy for Halifax business networking. You may “score” the occasional new client by pretending to be what you think they want rather than yourself, but ultimately it’s always better to be truthful than to have a client based on non-truth.

Also, remember that it’s better to be interested in the people you’re talking with than always being the most interesting one in the room.

Be yourself, and you’ll find that Halifax business networking is not only productive but fun.

~Lynn MacMichael is the president of Bconnected and creator of the new video The Bconnected Top 10 Networking Tips The video is now available for purchase in Halifax and world-wide.

Home Selling in Halifax: The 5 Main Ingredients for a Successful Sale

2010-11-19T13:05:00.000-08:00

Home selling in Halifax or anywhere can be a daunting task. With the right information and the right tools, sellers will have what they need to create a successful selling experience.

Below are the five key elements sellers should consider for home selling in Halifax:

1. Location

Unquestionably a major factor of property value; the pricing of your home must reflect its location. A home staging professional can guide you on how to ensure that the property conforms well to its neighborhood, and presents the best first impression for a drive-by or online introduction.

2. Market conditions

Interest rates, competition and the economy all make up and influence the market when you sell your home. Whether you are selling during a buyers market or a sellers market, and whether you are the only property for sale in your neighborhood or one of many, properly preparing your home will ensure that you achieve the top of your price range and a faster sale. Home staging will immediately give your property a marketing edge in any market.

3. Condition of the property

General maintenance and repair of a property is crucial in order to obtain the highest value when selling. The pricing of your property must reflect its condition. A professional stager can guide you on what maintenance items and upgrading should be done on your home in order to maximize its value to buyers.

4. Presentation of the property

How a property is shown will affect the perceived value of that property. Professional home staging, whether the home is lived in or has been vacated, has been shown to result in faster sales and higher sale prices. The minimal cost of Staging will be more than outweighed by the increase in equity achieved.

5. Pricing

The most important factor of all, setting the right asking price for your home is critical to achieving the best terms and price. Price is determined in part by all the other ingredients listed here, most of which are under your control to adjust up or down.

When all of the ingredients of home selling in Halifax are in agreement, you will have a successful, speedy sale. If any one of these is out of line, the process will be slowed and the sale price will be compromised. Consult your REALTOR and home stager for more information.

Melanie Orr is the owner and operator of Interiors Working For You which provides full staging and redecorating services.

Halifax Financial Planning: What to Look for in an Accountant

2010-11-19T13:03:00.000-08:00

For small and large businesses alike, finding the right person to guide the process of their Halifax financial planning can be an arduous task. There are so many accountants available in the Halifax metro area, and most are highly qualified and good at what they do.

So, how in the world do you decide which one is right for you?

The process doesn’t have to be as difficult as you think. With all the qualified accountants who provide Halifax financial planning services, here are some questions to help you find yours.

Ask yourself these questions:

1. What services do you expect from an accountant? Services might include cash management, strategic planning, basic marketing, financial advice, and more…all beyond simple accounting.

2. How would you describe your approach to business? This is important for your accountant to understand so they can help you reach your goals.

3. How much time do you expect your accountant to be willing to spend with you? Make sure to find out how your accountant bills their time. You can find certified accountants who value spending time with their clients and bill accordingly.

Remember that your accountant is there to help you succeed in all aspects of your Halifax financial planning…not just to crunch numbers, unless that’s what you want.

So, consider the questions above and decide what it is that you want your accountant to be. Once you know that you’ll be able to set up meetings and find the right person for you.

~Don Connor is a Certified General Accountant specializing in a holistic approach Halifax financial planning.

Halifax Web Design: What You Need To Know

2010-11-19T12:45:00.000-08:00

When planning for a Halifax web design project, there are a number of items you need to consider before beginning your journey.

First, you should decide what your purpose is with your website. Is it to inform people? To sell product? To offer services?

Then, you should think of what types of things you'd like to have on your website: shopping cart, about us, services offered, contact, etc.

Once you have a general feel for what you'd like to accomplish with your website, you'll need to consider more specifically the type of "online real estate" you need for your Halifax web design project.

While you don't need to know the names, it is helpful to understand the difference between static and dynamic websites to help decide which is right for you. In a very small nutshell, static websites remain mostly the same and are often easier and cheaper to create and maintain. Dynamic websites are changing and will require more maintenance and often more funds.

If you need a shopping cart that needs to be regularly updated, then you need a dynamic website and either you or someone else will need to maintain it.

Consider now whether you want to hire someone for your Halifax web design project or whether you'd like to do it yourself.

If you are willing to start with a basic ready-made template, then there are many affordable and relatively simple options. In this event you can even do it yourself.

However, you might find that even though you "can" do it yourself you'd rather leave it up to a professional to do so. This is especially the case if you want to hire someone to create a completely unique logo and entirely unique website just for you.

Many first-time business owners will start with a template (which can still produce unique and fabulous websites) and then as they grow will expand their website later. This is a perfectly acceptable option.

In the event that you do choose to hire a web designer, keep in mind that the price range is HUGE.

You can have your project done for as little as a few hundred dollars and could also spend many thousands of dollars. So, you need to know what your budget is and then shop around for someone who can work within your budget.

Whatever your goals and whatever your budget, there is a solution that will meet your unique Halifax web design needs!

So, start dreaming and start planning. Build the right "online real estate" and your customers will come!

~Frances Leary is the owner of EnviroWeb Consulting and specializes in providing Internet marketing services to small business owners in the Halifax area and world-wide.

Bconnected Holiday Tradeshow: Come Fill Your Funnels and Your Stockings

2010-11-17T16:53:00.000-08:00

Next Wednesday, November 24 is the annual Bconnected Holiday Tradeshow. This year’s event will take place at the Neptune Theatre in downtown Halifax and will highlight local businesses that provide both products and services to the community.

The purpose of the Bconnected Holiday Tradeshow is to spread the word about local businesses and to provide a unique opportunity for networking. The annual event offers something both for business people and other Haligonians who want to support their local community.

The “elite of Halifax networking” will be there, and it is a fabulous opportunity both to support local businesses and finish a little holiday shopping as well.

Plus, for business owners and salespeople, the Bconnected Tradeshow provides an opportunity to “fill funnels” in what is often a slow time of year for business.

Food will be provided by George and Lito’s, and proceeds from the 50/50 draw will go to Big Brothers, Big Sisters of Greater Halifax.

Join us at the Bconnected Holiday Tradeshow next Wednesday November 24 from 10-5 at the Neptune Theatre. It is free to attend, and if you are interested in the booth contact me right away!

~Lynn is the president of Bconnected and an authority on successful networking. Her video teaching the Bconnected Top 10 Networking Tips is now for sale world-wide. To find out more about Lynn visit http://www.LynnMacMichael.com.

Halifax Business Planning: Beginning With the End in Mind

2010-11-15T09:40:00.000-08:00

When beginning the process of Halifax business planning, often the last thing you want to consider is the possible end of your business. Well, the reality is that the end can come when you least expect it, so it’s important to have the future end of your business in mind when you begin your business.

Here are some important tips for successful Halifax business planning:

1. Focus on a specialty. Over service your clients and avoid "one-offs."
2. Make sure no client accounts for more than 15% of your business.
3. If the business is all about you there is nothing to sell. Create a business system that is unique to your company.
4. Create positive cash flow so that you are always in a strong position
5. Properly track your sales - from prospect to successful sale

All the above tips are important parts of Halifax business planning because:

1. You never know when you will have to get rid of your business.
2. The worst time to try and sell is when you need to get out.

Consider the above and “begin with the end in mind” to have a successful business right from the start.

~Don Connor is a Certified General Accountant specializing in Halifax business financial planning. To find out more about how Don can help you with your business visit: http://www.connoraccounting.com.

Home Staging in Halifax: Understanding the Basics

2010-11-13T08:14:00.000-08:00

With so many buyers in the HRM searching for the “perfect” home to fit their dreams, sellers must do something to set their homes apart from others so they will sell quickly and for their asking price. Home staging in Halifax can be the answer that sellers are looking for.

Here are some things to consider when searching for a home stager and starting the home staging process.

First, unlike what many television programs depict, home staging in Halifax can be a very affordable process, and it typically increases the selling price of a house significantly. In fact, studies have shown that professional staging adds between three to 10 percent to the asking price of their homes after staging.

Home staging also decreases selling time so that instead of waiting over 90 days to accept an offer, many sellers are accepting offers that meet or exceed their asking prices within a few short weeks. Typically you can sell your home three times faster by using the process of home staging.

Contradictory to the nasty and judgmental home stagers often depicted on television, sellers can find certified professionals that offer home staging in Halifax and who are non-judgmental and respectful of all types of people and all types of living.

As you begin to consider the process of home staging in Halifax, remember that your home stager is there to serve you. Choose someone you are comfortable with and who respects your home for what it is: the dreams of your past and the dreams of your buyer’s future.

~Melanie Orr is the owner and operator of Interiors Working For You which provides full staging and redecorating services. Melanie has a background in real estate and two designations in staging, the Accredited Staging Professional (ASP) and the Canadian Staging Professional (CSP). Please visit www.interiorsworking.com for more information on Home Staging in Halifax, or call Melanie at 902-223-3237.

Good Realtors in Halifax: What Clients Should Expect

2010-11-13T08:12:00.000-08:00

With the huge number of homes on the market and an ever-growing number of realtors in the area, choosing a realtor can be a daunting task both for buyers and sellers. However, many good realtors in Halifax do everything they can to cater to the needs of their clients and deliver good results.

As a client of one of these good realtors in Halifax, here’s what you should expect:

First, your realtor should be willing to do above and beyond what is expected. Bringing a home stager in for a free consultation is one example of this. What a fantastic way for a realtor to say “I’m here for you.” Bringing in a professional to advise sellers about how to make their homes the best they can be will result in quicker sales and higher selling prices!

Yea!

Second, your realtor should be honest and forthcoming. If you have, indeed, hired one of the good realtors in Halifax, then you should expect truthfulness around every bend. Your realtor will look out for your best interest while simultaneously lending their honest opinion based on their industry expertise.

This is a must-have attribute in any good realtor!

Third, you should expect someone who will help you expedite the buying or selling process by communicating as much as possible with important parties such as the bankers and lawyers. The more your realtor does for you, the quicker you’ll be living in the home of your dreams…or selling the old dream and upgrading to a new one.

Overall, you should expect that your realtor will not nickel and dime you for services but will do everything he or she can to make your buying or selling process a success.

So, remember that good realtors in Halifax are not as hard to find as you might think. Keep the above attributes in mind, and you’ll find a good one!

~Jane Jackson is full service real estate agent serving the Halifax-Dartmouth areas. To find out more visit: http://www.JaneJackson.ca.

Halifax Networking: The Importance of Being on Time

2010-11-09T17:05:00.000-08:00

The truth is that there actually is an art to successful Halifax networking. Learning these techniques is like learning your ABC’s…once you have the basics down, you can elaborate and add your own personal style.

One key element for successful Halifax networking is promptness! It’s very important to be on time to networking events.

In fact, it’s best to arrive early.

Why?

Well, there are a number of reasons why being early can help you succeed at networking events.

First, it helps you be mentally prepared for the event. When you arrive early, you’re not frantic but rather calm and collected. All your ducks are in a row.

Being early allows you to get in the food or drink line first. This can be one of the best places to meet people. Always remember to wrap your drink with a napkin so that your hands are “warm fuzzies” instead of “cold pricklies” when you shake people’s hands.

When you arrive early you have the advantage of greeting people as they arrive and even acting as a host to introduce others.

Bottom line…tardiness is unprofessional and often leads to disorganization, frenzied behaviour, and ineffective networking.

So…arrive on time and enjoy fun and effective Halifax Networking! Find out more at http://www.LynnMacMichael.com.

How to Network Successfully: Having a Plan

2010-10-16T11:29:00.000-07:00

Learning how to network successfully is not difficult, but it does require taking some time to learn and understand the art and techniques of networking. There are a number of key components that create a successful networker, and none of them are complex to learn.

For example, having a basic plan is an essential part of learning how to network successfully.

This seems like a simple thing to do, but here are a few items to think about that will set you apart from the rest…

First, you need to set a goal and decide what you want to accomplish at any given networking event.

What is your purpose for attending the event?

Do you want to connect with people? Do you want to build relationships? Yes, yes, yes to both of these!

Do you want to talk with as many people as you can or just meet a few that you get to know with on a deeper level? There is a time and place for both of these options.

Are you just there to collect cards? Do you want to give a sales pitch? If those are your goals, then networking might not be for you.

If you are truly interested in the art of real “networking” and building relationships with others, then try to make a game plan. How will you approach people? Do you have your “elevator speech” ready? Decide ahead of time if there are specific people who you’d like to talk with that you know are coming. Make that part of your plan to accomplish during the event.

Remember that networking really is about people! Build relationships and your business will grow, too.

To learn more about how to network successfully, visit: http://bconnectedhalifax.com.

Successful Networking Tips: Being Prepared

2010-10-15T09:39:00.000-07:00

There are a number of successful networking tips that can and will set you apart in your business growth. You have to remember that there is an art to successful networking, and once you learn it you’ll be able to enter any networking event and find success.

One significant area of focus should be your preparation. Any networking event you attend requires readiness on your part, and there are things you can do in advance to help you succeed in any given situation you might encounter.

Part of your preparation should be in your mind. You need to make sure you have the right mindset to enter into a networking situation and succeed. Being positive is not only an asset but a mandatory element of successful networking. You have to be positive about yourself and about the situation you are entering, and you must believe in your own abilities and what you have to offer.

Of course you need to be physically prepared as well. Dress appropriately for the occasion. While that seems to go without saying, you’d be surprised the times it does, indeed, need to be said.

Always have your “marketing tool kit” – these are the necessary supplies you need to be able to educate people about your business. Business cards should always be included, along with any other important tools such as brochures and/or samples.

Remember, however, that your goal in attending a networking meeting is not to “sell” yourself. So, you’ll have to use your marketing tool kit appropriately and not shove it into people’s hands as you meet.

Another key component of preparation is knowing your “elevator speech.” What exactly will you say to people when they ask you what you do? Make sure you have a concise and meaningful answer!

These are just a few of the ways you can be prepared for a networking event. These tips will help you succeed not only at networking but in many of life’s situations.

To learn more successful networking tips, visit: http://bconnectedhalifax.com.

Networking in Halifax: The Cat’s Out of the Bag…Almost!

2010-09-28T18:12:00.000-07:00

At the upcoming Bconnected Video Premiere Gala, Lynn MacMichael and her team of savvy business owners will reveal the Top 10 Tips for Networking in Halifax.

What, pray tell, could those be?

Well, since the premiere has yet to take place, we can’t let the whole cat out of the bag. We can, however, share a few tidbits that every networker can easily put into place.

In fact, most of these are so simple it’s almost laughable how easy it is to make a good impression. Unfortunately, so many networkers aren’t in the know.

Let’s take a look at one simple “trick” that Lynn and her team pass along…

Business owners engaging in networking in Halifax will benefit from wearing their name badges on their right-hand side. Seriously? (I know some of you are asking that right now.) Well, yes!

Having your name tag on your right maintains the focus that is already established when shaking someone’s hand. This tip is very practical and quite easy to implement. However, without someone teaching it, most networkers would never realize that such a simple thing could contribute to their success.

Another technique is to act like a host when at networking events. You should take it upon yourself to introduce others, using the “pay it forward” mentality. Also, it's important to be a teacher and not a salesperson. No one wants to hear you talk about your business all night! Save it for later and build relationships first.

We can’t let too much more “out of the bag,” but soon all will be revealed. If you’re in the Halifax area, join us Wednesday night, September 29, for the Gala event of the season...and more importantly to learn what networking in Halifax is really all about!

To find out more about networking in Halifax or to attend the Bconnected Video Premiere Gala visit http://bconnectedhalifax.com

The Secrets of Successful Halifax Networking

2010-09-22T19:44:00.000-07:00

Halifax networking…the very thought of it makes some people cringe while others start tapping their feet with excitement. People, business cards, conversations, more people, food, drinks, more people... It can be overwhelming if you’re not prepared.

So, how does one “prepare” for Halifax networking?

There are a number of practical techniques that can easily be applied. The upcoming Bconnected video will explain them in detail.

What’s perhaps even more interesting are the little-known “secrets” that make a successful networker stand out from the rest.

For example, preparing your “elevator speech” in advance is an absolute must! So is bringing your marketing toolkit.

Also, you should make sure to wear your name badge on your right-hand side. Plus, always wrap your drink in a napkin and learn to listen with something other than your ears.

Why should you do these things? What on earth is an elevator speech? And for goodness sake what else will help you listen besides ears?

All these questions about Halifax networking and more will be answered on the soon-to-be-released Bconnected video, premiering at The Argyle on September 29. Tickets are available in advance, and proceeds go to the Coalition for Kids, Inc.

For more information about Halifax networking and how to use it to grow your business, visit http://bconnectedhalifax.com.

The Top 10 Tips for Networking in Halifax

2010-09-20T20:10:00.000-07:00

So many small and large business owners approach networking with dread. Oh, no. Not another night to mingle and make small talk. Well, those people need exactly what Bconnected’s video has to offer: the Top 10 Tips for Networking in Halifax.

Unlike what many businesspeople believe, networking is actually about people, and Lynn MacMichael started Bconnected in 2008 for that reason: to help people connect with people and grow their businesses through networking.

Lynn begins the video defining networking and then calls on a group of local entrepreneurs to share their views on the importance of networking and how it has shaped their businesses.

The Bconnected video reveals that networking is about building relationships and connecting with people to find out what they need. This is quite a switch from the standard approach to business, which is often a “sell, sell, sell” mentality. Lynn and her team of successful business owners shed some light on how the selling approach can actually be detrimental to business growth.

How should you be prepared to do networking in Halifax? What do you do if the person you want to speak with is already engaged in conversation? How often should you attend networking events? What in the world is a marketing tool kit?

All of those questions are answered in the Bconnected Video. Plus, learn the one thing that you simply cannot grow your business without!

The truth is that everyone can be a successful networking; you just need the right tools to help you do it!

To find out more about how the Bconnected video can help you have successful networking in Halifax, visit http://www.BconnectedHalifax.com.