Text Messaging Provides A Burst of Marketing Opportunities

Short Message service (SMS) is the mechanism behind text messaging for mobile phones.This globally accepted wireless service enables the transmission of alphanumeric and small non-text messages to and from mobile devices as well as fixed-base and wireless sources and destinations.

An SMS message is transmitted using short bursts of data that require very low bandwidth.Nearly all cell phones in use in the US today, some 255 million of them, can receive text messages.

Since alphanumeric messaging capability is now standard in all mobile handsets, text-based messages are the most popular type of SMS communications.A single SMS text message can be up to 160 characters in length.These 160 characters can be any combination of words, numbers or symbols that can be based on a textphonic language which allows fewer keystrokes.

SMS offers a variety of marketing applications, from mobile coupons, text alerts, viral promotions, mobile broadcasts, bounce ads, free tickets, etc.Its low-cost, high-penetration and high-retention offers a wealth of marketing opportunities to businesses, fundraising groups, institutions, political organizations, and much more.

There are a variety of applications for using Text Messaging for Business.Here are some examples:

TV-Stimulated Voting.

American Idol and Star Search are two examples of interactive TV programs that use SMS to engage viewers and solicit votes to select winners of their shows.

Real Estate Alerts.Customers can subscribe to a service that sends alerts when new properties get listed in their desired market/category.

Mobile Auction.Information on new products offered for auction is sent as SMS to mobile customers who are able to bid using their phone.

Interactive TV.For a small fee, viewers can send their SMS messages (greetings, comments, etc.) to a TV program and have their messages scroll on the screen and be viewed by the public.

Ticket Sales.Customers can buy airline tickets via their mobile handsets.The ticket is issued in the form of an SMS message which the customer presents with their phone when they check in.Also works for theatre tickets, sports events, etc.

Instant Sales Campaign.Retailers send customers instant sales messages valid only for a specified period.Customers who respond within the allotted time (usually 2 to 3 hours) get a percentage discount on the products featured in the message.

A New Language
Because common words take up a lot of space, a new textphonic language has emerged in an attempt to say as much as possible with the least number of characters.
But first, a word of caution.If you intend to use these words, keep in mind that although quite helpful, too much abbreviation can diminish the impact of an advertising message.

Non-Text SMS
SMS is not just for text messaging.
Any information that can fit into 160 bits can be delivered by SMS.Non-text SMS messaging enables the transmission of comparatively richer messages that can contain a combination of simple melodies (ringtones) and simple graphics (black and white admoticons) to compliant devices.

Screen Coupons
A Screen Coupon is a simple, small, bitmap-based advertising message that is just a little bigger than a postage stamp, about half the size of a regular business card.
A screen coupon is an ad message with a built-in promotional value.It may offer a store discount, free gift, free admission to an event, and even include a UPC code.To redeem, a customer must simply show the coupon on their mobile phone.

About the Author

Ben Deleon is President of Brandel, an innovative publishing company specializing in design and development of software & Internet-based businesses.

Brandel offers several mobile marketing products.Visit http://www.brandelinc.com, call 954-583-9000, or email ben@brandelinc.com.

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Network Marketing Is A Great Way To Grow A Direct Sales Business

Direct sales offers great work at home opportunities that allow flexibility.Many people love meeting new people and booking home parties to present their goods but what happens when the bookings dry up?How much begging and pleading can you do for that one party without sounding desperate?

Learning some tips about network marketing can actually help you attract more people to book parties or order merchandise.If you get really good at it and really sell your business opportunity you will also have good luck growing your downline, or team members.Network marketing is not difficult but those with outgoing personalities will have more success.

Network marketing is simply talking, or networking, with other people in your target market and encouraging them to either buy products or become a part of the company.The great thing about creating a downline is the ability for each salesperson to build their own individual sales down line.You can be reaching hundreds of people a day in no time flat though all these different connections and earning money on each purchase.

Before you dismiss the method, let's remember that some of the most successful businesses today are in fact network marketing based.If you have any doubt look at the sales figures for companies like Mary Kay and Avon.Both of these are poster children for network marketing in this country.

These of course are the cream of the crop; however, there is no reason why you cannot experience the same level of success with your chosen direct sales company.The key is to not re-invent the wheel; when something works why would you want to fix it?That said; let's look at how these two companies work.

Both of them supply their representatives with sales tools.Mary Kay sells their reps an affordable product sample kit while Avon provides theirs with catalogues, and generally, the first few are free.You can use either method or a combination of both to get something in your clients' hands that attractively highlight your product.

The next major key and perhaps the more difficult one is to find passionate people to spread the word about your product.Your compensation plan will go far in this aspect but it will not be enough.Your sales team will need a product that they can get behind; when someone believes in what they are selling they can overcome many objections, and their enthusiasm can be contagious.

Communication with your team is paramount to your success.Use these times to raise flagging spirits, come up with new marketing ideas and to build relationships.A close personal connection between team members will result in better productivity, which in turn means more sales.

Design a fair and equitable compensation plan.While this is not the main reason people will stay with you it is still an important aspect.Your team will be loyal because of things like job satisfaction, pride in the product and a feeling of unity.

Nevertheless, these feelings will quickly cool if they cannot make a decent amount of money.Hold contests and reward extraordinary effort promptly.Your down line is the lifeblood of your network marketing business.

Finally make it fun, keep your goals in front of the team at all times but do not make it drudgery.Many people will join your team on a part time basis then increase their efforts because of monetary compensation and enjoyment.Who doesn't want to make a living and have a fun time doing it?

About the Author

Chris Simpson is dedicated to helping people find honest and legitimate work at home ideas and home based business opportunities.

Find legitimate work online today by visiting: www.HomeNetPro.com

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The Intent Of A Customer Satisfaction Survey

When you receive a customer satisfaction survey, whether it is at a hotel, restaurant, or through the mail, from a company you purchased something from, it is more than just an obligatory management initiative for your inconvenience.Fill it out and it is read and analyzed by the company, having a potential impact on their business as a whole.Companies need to know how to focus their efforts on appealing to customers, and maintaining their loyalty.The more specifics they have, the more resources they can utilize for a new strategy, rather than spend money on campaigns that are not effective in drawing customers.

Customer satisfaction is considered the root of a business's positive image and success.Where do they get them from?Sure, an organization could design one in-house.They can be as simple as a handful of questions on paper.Creating an effective one, though, requires the dedication of distinguished resources.If a company doesn't already have such a department in place, they could outsource to a third party company that specializes in such document preparation.They will have resources such as online affiliations, marketing specialists, and offer a third party evaluation of how the questions and format should be prepared.

Many companies opt to do just that; enlist third-party entities to help with the implementation of these assessments.There are hundreds of organizations that offer these services.Organizations can conduct the questionnaire if a company so desires, and even offers standardized questions.Topics universal to all customer-based companies are covered.Once all the information is acquired, the business can immediately compare it to an average score or score it based on typical high or low scores for that category.

There are many places on the Internet where one can access survey templates.Even individual questions can be accessed, so someone can put together their own and have the appropriate questions gathered.They can be tailored your own way; others are built into websites and can be automatically scored when submitted.The variations are endless.

Look up customer satisfaction surveys on Google, and there are in excess of 5 million page results.Not only can you access the site and services of big name companies, but there are many others.Smaller companies may offer what you need more so than a larger corporation.Prices will vary, so doing your research and price shopping is imperative.Various services are offered as well, available for subscription.You can opt to have one survey prepared, or a whole marketing team to help you determine the venue in which to pursue.

These are just a few examples of how you can put together an assessment by enlisting the services of companies on the Web.With just a simple Web search, there seems to be thousands of such entities.It's almost as if customer satisfaction surveys were part of an industry of their own.On that similar note, the American Customer Satisfaction Index has a website that lists various scores, tabulated by company or industry, comparing the customer satisfaction of each.It even compares the change from the previous year.All data is derived from customer satisfaction surveys.

Also important is the means of getting people to complete the survey.They are usually written in a friendly, thankful manner, making the customer feel important to the organization.They can be found via a link on a website, or included within a product package.They sometimes detail the chance to win something free or to even win money.Many institutions have opted to put information on the receipt detailing how to complete the assessment.

The prevalence of customer satisfaction surveys alone signifies their importance.You have a choice of filling one out or not if you get one, but realize that it is more than just a piece of paper.The company is trying to focus its marketing strategy on the most important thing customers are seeking in their products.This saves time and money, and gives the company a better chance to thrive.

About the Author

Andy West writes for NBRI, a reputable company helping business owners explore venues to implement a customer satisfaction survey.

For more information visit NBRII.com.

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The Businesses Costs of a Data Breach

The greatest fear of any CEO, CIO or CSO is that the security of the sensitive information held by their company has been compromised.The first consideration should be given to the customer; after all, it is their privacy which has been invaded.After dealing with this, there is the nightmare of all the costs which your company will incur as a result.The average cost to a company resulting from a data breach in 2007 was $6.3 million!

A survey conducted by the Ponemon Institute found that 58% of respondents who had received notification that their personal information had been compromised by a data breach had lost confidence in the company and that 31% planned to cease doing business with the company.The cost of notification alone may come to as high as $197 per letter.

Most states now have laws regarding privacy protection in place requiring companies to notify all customers, vendors and employees in the event that personal information has been compromised by a data breach.There are federal laws such as SOX, FACTA, HIPAA and GBL which lay out the responsibilities of companies with regards to the protection on personal information including medical records, credit card information and financial statements.

The FTC (Federal trade Commission) and other organizations which are responsible for compliance with privacy laws will investigate whether a company whose data has been compromised took appropriate action to ensure the safety of data.Class action suits will be filed on the behalf of those whose information was put at risk and vendors and banks may sue to recoup any losses they have suffered as a result of your data breach.

These are just a few of the ways that a data breach can be expensive for your company - there are both direct and indirect costs which may be incurred.

Direct Costs
1.
Customer notification
2.
FTC fines
3.
Law suits
4.
Falling stock price
5.
Higher insurance premiums
6.
Lower credit rating
7.
Higher interest rates on loans
8.
Lay offs due to reduced earnings
9.
New computer security equipment purchases
10.
New marketing campaigns to reassure customers, media and vendors.
11.Court fees
12.
Attorney fees
13.
Unpaid purchases

Indirect fees are harder to track exactly, but are no less real for that.

There will be a significant amount of time and money which will have to be invested in marketing and advertising campaigns to rebuild the brand and reassure consumers.

The firm itself, especially the executives will find itself carrying the blame for the attack.News of the data breach will be broadcast; and questions will be asked as to where the company went wrong in their computer security strategy - and worse yet, why they didn't do more to protect this sensitive information.
The following is a list of just some of the indirect costs that a company may face ein the wake of a data breach:

Indirect costs:
1.

Damaged company brand and reputation.
2.Greater investment needed to regain customer confidence
3.
Diminishing new accounts.
4.Competition may acquire your customers, giving them more resources to promote their business
5.
Paying for credit reports to for your customers and/or employees.
6.Biennial security assessments for the next 20 years.
7.employee preparation for biennial security audits.
8.Employee security awareness training.
9.Developing, implementing and managing new security policies.
10.Bad press.
11.Negative stock analysis reports.
12.Corporate executive and managers will have to re-direct their efforts to damage control and rather than corporate growth.

It is far less expensive to prevent a data breach than to pay for all of the costs they can cause your company after the fact.Preventive measures can easily and quickly be put into place; to implement an effective data security strategy, there are four areas of vulnerability which must be assessed: Physical, Employee, Computers and Networks, followed by employee education and implementing an integrated security strategy.

Finally, when the company's executives and managers investigate security solutions, do not forget to include employee convenience in the equation.An employee will always circumvent security for their own convenience.

About the Author

Dovell Bonnett is the author of "Online Identity Theft Protection For Dummies(R) - Power LogOn Edition", founder CEO of Access Smart and hosts IDProtectionExpert.

com.He provides businesses, campuses, and mobile employees security solutions.

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How To Convince Your Boss Telecommuting Is A Good Idea

There are many different ways on how to convince your boss telecommuting is a good idea.If you are like many other individuals who go back and forth to work on a daily basis, you have probably played with the idea that it would be rather nice to work from the comfort of your home.

There are many different reasons why many individuals feel as if working at home is the best choice for them.Many have young children that need to be cared for, others have medical conditions, and then there are some that simply want to fall out of the loop of office politics.

Telecommuting is an excellent means of working at home.Here, you will learn the steps on how to convince your boss telecommuting is a good idea.

What is Telecommuting?

Telecommuting is the process in which an individual works in a location that is considered to be "remote", or "outside" the standard place to conduct the work.The work that is performed is the same work that would be performed if the same person were to travel back and forth to a particular place of employment.

Typically, the work that is performed in the telecommuting fashion is done so with a number of tools such as a computer system, remote software, telephone system, and even a fax machine.In some cases, work may be required to be dropped off at a certain location once a month or more.

The Benefits of Telecommuting

There are many different benefits associated with telecommuting.

While many reasons or advantages for this type of work may be personal in nature, there are other base benefits as well.These advantages include the following:

1.

This type of work may assist in preserving certain types of resources on behalf of both the employee, as well as the employer.Examples of resources may include the fact that fuel is preserved, office space is opened up for other tasks, and office supplies are also used less as the individual working at home typically provides their own, or rations what is issued to them in a more effective manner than if they were in the office.

2.Many who work from home find that they experience illness less frequently than if they worked in an outside job.One, they are not exposed to the germs and illnesses being passed around in the workplace, and the second reason is that they are not subjected to the stress that is often associated with a job that is performed outside the home.

3.In addition to the previous benefits, it has been found that increased levels of productivity are experienced when an individual works in the home.The workplace is loaded with distractions to time, and the hours are carefully guarded by a time clock.When one telecommutes, they are no longer distracted with unnecessary things, and they can set the hours that they work best!

Tips for selling the Idea to Your Boss

If you are looking for tips for selling the idea to your boss, you can use the items mentioned in the benefits section of this guide as a starter.

The idea is to veer away from the ideas on why the position of working remotely benefits you, and go with the ideas in which the concept of telecommuting will benefit the boss, and the business that you work for in general.

One example may include saving time and money on resources and space within the workplace.The next may be that individuals who telecommute are more apt to get the job done more quickly, and stay with the job much longer than those that work in an outside place of employment.

Looking on how to convince your boss that telecommuting is a good idea?The ideas in this guide will do just that!

About the Author

Chris Simpson is dedicated to helping people find honest and legitimate work at home opportunities and home based business ideas.

Find legitimate work at home jobs and many other great opportunities to make money online today at: www.HomeNetPro.com

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Cooking Step in Constructing a Solar Funnel Cooker

Solar funnel cookers are the least expensive and easiest solar cooker to construct.Solar funnel cookers are portable, making them ideal for campers, including RV owners and backpackers.For more detail go to: www.delicious-sandwich-recipes.com.Even kids can help with the construction of solar funnel cookers.It is the ideal do-it-yourself solar project, melding both cost-efficiency and environmentally friendly energy use.

The first step in constructing a solar funnel cooker is to cut a half circle along the bottom of the cardboard sheet.This circle should have a radius that is equal to half the diameter of the container used for cooking.If a standard mason jar is used, the half circle's radius would be approximately five inches.

The half circle that was cut into the bottom of the cardboard sheet will be used to make the funnel.For more detail go to: www.july4-recipes.com.Slowly bend the two sides of the cardboard together around the half circle.A funnel shape should form.Allow the cardboard to crease as this will give guidelines for the funnel once the aluminum foil is attached.

Next, lay the cardboard sheet back down onto the floor or work surface.Using the spray adhesive or white glue (mixed with equal parts water), adhere the aluminum foil to what will be the inside of the funnel.Be sure the foil is shiny side up and no bubbles or breaks occur.

Once the aluminum foil has adhered to the cardboard, bring the funnel together again.Use the metal brads to attach the two sides together.Space the brads evenly down the edge where the two sides meet and lock into place.Glue a section of aluminum foil over the brads on the back of the cooker, shiny side down, to ensure heat retention.The funnel of the cooker is now assembled.

Spray with black paint a square of wood approximately two inches wide by four inches long and two inches deep.Place this block in the bottom of an oven bag.Set the Mason jar (with the food or water contents inside) on top of the wood, inside the bag.Blow air into the bag to inflate it.Tie the bag off at the top.This creates a greenhouse effect inside the bag.

Lastly, place the bag inside the funnel of the solar cooker.Be sure the apparatus is facing the sun.The solar funnel cooker can be placed in a cardboard box or a hole dug into the ground for stability.

Solar cooked foods will not burn, as the heat is slow and moderate.The best cooking times are when the sun is highest in the sky and the cooker is left in direct light.Cooking times for items vary and some will require water to be added.

Most vegetables can be cooked in an hour and a half, as will roast nuts.Neither of those items requires water to be added.For grains, use a mix of two parts water for every one part grain; this should be ready to serve within two hours.Meats, chicken and fish vary on cooking times due to their size and density.Generally, fish takes one to one and a half hours, while chicken and meat will cook between one and a half and three hours.

The solar funnel cooker is cost and eco-friendly.It requires very little effort to construct and is portable.There are a variety of uses for the solar funnel cooker, from cooking foods to pasteurizing water.Solar power can be harnessed in many ways, but perhaps the simplest is through solar cooking.Solar cookers make using alternative fuel sources both accessible and affordable.Solar cookers are especially beneficial to campers, including RV owners and backpackers.

About the Author

http://www.

book-of-cookies.com

http://www.

breakfasts-recipes.com

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Are You A Bad Driver?

When asked, almost everyone will claim they are a good driver, yet the National Highway Safety traffic Administration (NHSTA) statistics show otherwise.Ever year, 40, 000 drivers are killed in auto accidents.Of these, 98 percent were caused by distracted drivers.

This means that, statistically speaking, most of us would be considered bad drivers.Surprising?Not really.Human behavior alone dictates that people will lean more towards breaking rules than living by them, so why would driving be any different?

However, no one would argue the fact that being a good driver equals being a safe driver but just what is a 'good driver.'

Traits of Good Drivers

Good drivers are often defined by their ability to operate their vehicles and obey the law.

Other positive traits include:

- Car maintenance - a good driver makes sure his car is kept up and in tip top shape.

Things like break pads and tire treads are routinely checked as they can affect the safety of the vehicle.

- Courtesy - a good driver is courteous...he doesn't cut people off and will always concede the right of way when applicable.

- Obeys the laws of the road - a good driver is conscientious of the rules in his city and state and follows them.

- Observant - a driver keeps both hands on the wheel and his or her eyes on the road.By doing just these two things, the driver reduces his own chances of getting involved in a major accident and could avoid a major pile up that may ensnare other, less attentive motorists.

Traits of Bad Drivers

On the opposite end of the spectrum, a bad driver feels he or she is above the law and can do whatever they want.

They often engage in risky behaviors that can be hazardous to themselves and other drivers.

The traits of bad drivers include:

- Speeding - drivers who speed seldom realize that each mile per hour over the speed limit increases the risks of death should a collision occur.

Slowing down decreases this risk and may even enable you to react in time to avoid an accident.

- Cell phone use - there is nothing wrong with having a cell phone but plenty wrong with talking on one while driving.Statistics indicate that individuals who chat on the phone while driving have the same impairment as a drunk driver with a .08% alcohol level.

- Rude aggressive behavior - Aggressive drivers are not only bad drivers but they are very reckless and have no respect for anyone other than themselves.If someone is driving too slowly, go around them.If they flip you off, ignore them.Flashing lights at slow drivers or amping up dangerous behaviors due to someone else's belligerent attitude can end up endangering your life and the lives of others.

- Constant distraction - picking stuff up form the car floor boards or yelling at the unruly kids in the back seat are not activities one should engage in while driving.It is always best in scenarios where your attention will be taken off of the road to pullover rather than to continue driving.

- Poor car upkeep - driving with worn car treads or ignoring obvious break problems makes the car far more dangerous than a car that is routinely taken care of.

If you find that you are bad driver, don't despair.It is never too late to start adopting the traits of a responsible motorist.The trick is to change your mindset.It isn't our god given right to be able to speed or chat on the cell phone when driving - in fact, these things can contribute to a life altering accident.

Indeed, you won't be able to change your driving habits until you realize how potentially harmful they are.Once you do this, you will become not only a safer driver but a more conscientious one as well.

About the Author

Complete home and car insurance in Ontario.

Get an accurate, no obligation car insurance quote in Ontario online.We will help you select the best coverage for your needs.

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