Learn - Design - Communicate Internet Marketing, Graphic Design & Print

10 Places to Win an iPad

2010-04-06T09:03:00.002-05:00

WIN ME WIN ME!!! Tweet your way to a FREE iPad

Since the release of the iPad on Saturday, there have been a swarm of tweets to win an iPad from various companies. I've put together a list of companies to follow and tweet to get your chance to win that iPad as well as a few to be a Facebook Fan. Its easier to register than plugging all your info in each day. Just copy and paste but make sure to click the link so that you can follow them as that's a requirement. Good luck but just so you know, I've already entered them all... WHAT, it was purely for research.

So.. are you feelin lucky, punk!? :)

Win an iPad to use w/ free @Logos Bible Software app for iPhone, iPod Touch, and iPad! Details: http://bit.ly/L4ipad
The free @digg app comes to your iphone! to celebrate they’re giving out a custom ipad everyday for 2 weeks! http://bit.ly/diggapp
Your chance to win a BRAND NEW IPAD, or games like Aki, Mondo Solitaire, and Mr. Sudoku! #Ambrosia http://bit.ly/ASWiPad
Follow Mogo today: http://twitter.com/mogomon
I want my free iPad #websdotcom http://bit.ly/ipadme
Tweet this: "Just entered to win a free iPad. Follow @eForCity and retweet to enter! www.eforcity.com/twittergiveaway.html #eForCityGiveaway
DealCatcher is giving away a 16GB Wifi to one of their Facebook fans.
I entered the Apple iPad Contest at @weekinrewind here: http://bit.ly/bTpS9K
Apple iPad http://www.apple.com/ipad/ Retweet this and follow @Meritline to be entered to win a 16GB iPad. Seriously. #meritlinecontest
Follow us on Twitter @Meritline and Retweet "Apple iPad http://www.apple.com/ipad/ Retweet this and follow @Meritline to be entered to win a 16GB iPad. Seriously. #meritlinecontest"

Good luck and if you win, be sure to let me know. I'd like to make sure I get visiting rights to it. hehe

Social Media Marketing 101

2010-03-24T23:01:00.002-05:00

Today I was asked to speak at Nova Southeastern University about Social Media Marketing. The event was geared towards women who are looking to start a business or are a new business that just started. They had other speakers that talked about how to read your financial reports, become a certified woman business owner, get business grants and more.

I posted my slides on slideshare. Go ahead and take a look at it. I hope you find it informative.

Social Media Marketing 101

View more presentations from amanda stewart.

I WANT to know about YOU!

2010-03-23T13:49:00.006-05:00

I really do want to know about you. I swear!

I've come to the realization that even though I spend an exuberant amount of time on twitter and chat with a lot of people. I still don't know them as well as I would like. Some of them I've spent many nights with at a conference and while some of those moments can be quite personal the history behind how they got started is can be a mystery.

After I share my story with you, I'd like for you to post how you got involved in your business or profession.

In the Beginning:

From the time I was 8 years old till senior year in high school I wanted to be a marine biologist. I finally was able to take the classes and realized that everything I read in books was not how it was in this class. I guess you can say it took the romance out of it. Just so happened that I was dating an older guy that was just starting a cybercafe (circa 1996) and needed me to do a website. Now mind you, I barely was on a computer, I just helped build them. He handed me a how-to book, the notes and photos. I put together my first website. I enjoyed it. It was HORRIBLE. I then started looking into design schools. I had always been able to draw, paint, sculpt... anything artsy fartsy was for me.

Fastforward a year, I was in college, and I had landed my first job doing websites, I BS'd my way in and I was excited to start. First week I had no computer so I was able to learn that HTML thing. Turns out the company they hired me for wasn't doing as good as their... X-rated sites. Yes folks, thats where I learned my coding skills. Life was interesting but was good. I had also started teaching web design with my college teacher every saturday morning. I was dreaming HTML in my sleep literally.

Fastforward another year... I grew bored and there was no room for raises or management so I left. Moved on to freelance. I did very well. I was out on my own but never made it official. I'm 18.

Fastforward to May 1998, I went looking for a job and came out with office space and to start my own business. So here I am, 19 years old and taking one hell of a chance but that is always how I rolled. Leaping forward like the frogs I love. I figured how hard can it be. They will bring me the business. Ha!!!! Was a great lesson to learn.

Fastforward a year, I moved out of the office and to a home office. I hated the commute and having 2 of everything. I have had a home office ever since. I have always had an easy time with the discipline it takes to work from home. Life was great. Business was booming. I had attended my first networking and I was scared sh-tless. I had to go and tell these people about me and what I do. I had no one to lean on for support. My parents didn't understand and all my friends were in college or goofing off. Still I winged it!

I decided to go work for someone so that I could buy a place. I had no real income history because I worked for myself and had a great accountant. It was interesting to say the least. I had a great cubby friend but turns out my boss was a sex offender. He was 40 something and messed around with a 15yo. Shortly after learning that I left since the company was going to sh-t anyway. My exit interview lasted 2 hours and 4 pages. It's hard to work for others when you have managed your own business. It served its purpose. I had bought my condo and was back to doing the business again.

I was able to make it through the dot bomb era. I managed to keep growing. To get back into networking. Then I had a horrible accident. July 13, 2001 I had t-boned a truck. I was in my Jetta, no seatbelt and going 40MPH. I woke up minutes later after blacking out before my head hit the windshield. I woke up bloody, and people in my car talking to me. The car I hit was flipped on its side. The firefighters took me to the hospital. I hit on all of them even in my state of confusion. I had a golfball size hole on my head, my right hand (i'm right handed) was cut up, sliced up and full of glass. Even up to 2 weeks later, glass was still coming out of my hand. I had surgery on my head the next day. Yes, they sent me home with a hole in my head. Explains a lot I know. There was no evidence of the airbag going off and I should have been dead on the scene. I'm lucky and that moment was the wake up call to move forward. It wasn't an easy path however. Once one survives that, you start to question why you are alive and what if any is your purpose on this life.

I later joined NAWBO and my life changed after that. I no longer had to wing it. I had an ocean of mentors to help me. I learned how to network properly and with confidence. I got public speaking gigs. I won an award. I developed some of the best friendships and travel buddies from that group. Since then, it's been my mission to help other new business owners to not have to "wing it" through their business. In all honesty, I wouldn't trade what I did. They were all valuable life lessons. Interesting journeys.

Here were are and almost 12 years later, I've molded my business into a one-stop shop that is geared to helping most small business owners boost business. I've had the great opportunity in working with the 2007 and 2010 Superbowl committee as well as other large companies like Office Depot, Burger King, Jaguar. I've added new services including full color printing and social media marketing. I've seen amazing speakers at conferences and have met many of my great friends though those conferences and twitter. Even when business is slow, and it has been, there are still plenty of areas and people that give me inspiration to start new businesses and to give me the support and cheers to keep on trucking.

I am still actively involved in NAWBO and if you are a woman business owner, find a chapter near you and join. It's important to have that support system and resources at your fingertips.

So in a nutshell, that is where I came to be where I am now.

The day the Internet was saved... well SEO

2010-03-16T16:10:00.004-05:00

This article is dedicated to a real superhero, She-Ra, AKA Rhea Drysdale.

For 2 years of battling in the courtroom and $17,000 later, with "he that shall not be named", over trademarking "SEO", Rhea won the battle on March 11, 2010. I'm ashamed to say that I had no idea what was going on, though I'm much more involved in the industry than 2 years ago.

However, since yesterday, the SEO industry has rallied to help recoup her expenses. While "db" tried to drag it on with no relevancy, she was persistant and hanged tough. I hate to see what the world would look like if she didn't step in for us.

It's amazing to see how tight knit the community is. Especially when they need to be there. It gives me a warm fuzzy feeling inside knowing that I'm part of this great community. That all those hours spent during the IM conferences actually do mean something and not just a bad hangover.

Thank you again Rhea for your time, effort and persistance. You are one in a million.

You can read her article here.

Geek Babe Barbie is the new KEWL

2010-03-10T15:38:00.003-05:00

Tons of buzz going around about Computer Engineer Barbie. I'm thrilled personally. I remember when it wasn't cool to be a geek. Now, it's all the rage.Which is great but I'm sure we'll get some posers but that can be easily remedied because they will be called out as us geek gals have no problem telling it like it is. Those of you that know me, I'm pretty geeky and never hid it. I love anime, code and design, twitter, video games and Mythbusters, among 100s more. I come close to looking like geek barbie minus the extra pounds... I'm tall with my long blonde hair, blue eyes, and glasses, tho I don't have a pink laptop BUT I do have a red one. Does that count?

I'm surrounded on a daily basis, via Twitter, by awesome geeky gals (@kristy, @katemorris, @katebuckjr, @vicequeenmaria, @lyndseo, the list goes on and on). It's good that the movement is catching on. We deserve our time in the sun and I'm proud to be one of them. I am looking forward to proudly displaying my geek barbie in my office... next to my anime figurines. What... I did just say I love anime right!

Are you a geek gal? If so, tell me. Follow me on twitter, @amandastewart! I'd love to connect. Geek Gals Unite! Maybe I'll even compose a list... MAYBE!

3 unique things I love about #sofresh

2010-02-08T16:23:00.004-05:00

The top 3 things I enjoyed about #sofresh

Extra 30 minute break after each session
The massage chairs
Doubletree cookie and milk

I have more to write about but these are all unique to THIS conference.

Are you a social addict

2009-11-19T12:14:00.004-05:00

This post is dedicated to my 15,000th Tweet! Thats right! 15,000!!!

Some may say I'm a social butterfly, but really, I'm just one helluva lucky person. I got involved with twitter back in March 2009. Its been the best relationship. I remember like it was just yesterday. @ShariMcConahay is the one to blame for setting us up. The first person I started to interact with was @MMwine. It was that initial engagement that had me going. I was going to my favorite Internet Marketing Conference #Pubcon and wanted to get to know the peeps that I'd be hanging out with all week. It was then I discovered the true power of Twitter and it was really the only way I knew what was going on from session to session as well as where everyone is at for parties. Which is really the most important.

Since then, I've made some of my best friends, @twittgoddess, @bachinaminuet, @vicequeenmaria @believepsalm91, @pamrockssofla and @katemorris just to name a few. The list is long and mighty my friends. Most of which have become my best friends and partners in crime.

Twitter is a place that gives you a choice of who your friends are. Not by growing up with them or because they are in the same path but because you chose to say "Follow".

Its the real deal. You can be who you are around them because well, they already know the trouble you cause, get into or are in. If someone doesn't like what you have to say then its as easy as "Unfollow". Which does happen and I take no offense.

The opportunities that have opened up also are amazing. Its also allowed me to create my own little tweetups like #Sushitweetup

What I'm getting at is that, without a doubt in my mind, I love my twitter friends and would do anything for them. While those that don't get twitter may think I'm crazy because they are internet friends, these are people that are in it. We've evolved from just tweeting but to face-to-face meetings and talking on the phone.

To you my friends, I am greatful every day for meeting you and having you in my life. I love you for you and all that you are. This post is dedicated to YOU.

xoxoxoxo
@amandastewart

Get your twitter mosaic here.

Adding a TweetMeme Button to Blogger

2009-10-26T09:04:00.006-05:00

We have been tweaking our blog over the past month. Touch up here, touch up there. Today we decided to add a TweetMeme button. We are on Twitter so much that it seemed appropriate.

What do you think of the new button? Will you be adding one to your blog?

Go to TweetMeme Retweet Button to pick the right code for you. It works with Wordpress as well. It gives you a lot of options to tweak it. We made sure that the RT is by us. If you are looking to use it with Blogger then here are the steps to help you. We will show you how to post it at the end of your blog in the compact size and to add your name in the RT.

Follow these easy steps below to Adding a TweetMeme Button to Blogger:

Sign in to your Blogger account and go to
Dashboard -> Layout -> Edit HTML
and click the checkmark Expand Widget Templates
Now find the following code
<data:post.body>
(NOTE: I used the search feature and looked for data:post.body)
and paste the following code directly below

<script type="text/javascript">
tweetmeme_style = 'compact';
tweetmeme_source = 'talktweetmeme';
</script>
<script type="text/javascript" src="http://tweetmeme.com/i/scripts/button.js"></script>

(NOTE: Where talktweetmeme is you will want to put your twitter handle)
You may want to put a few <br /><br />

before the code if you want a few extra spaces.
It will look like this:
Save the template. And you are done!

I hope this was helpful.

Meta tags no more for organic search optimization

2009-10-09T10:53:00.005-05:00

The days are a changing. Yahoo, announced at SMX that they are no longer using meta keywords for ranking. They are the last of the "BIG 3" to do so. While it may still be relevant for paid search, for organic it is not.

Remember the days, when SEO was much easier. Now, bloggers and content providers have to genuinely create relevant content and include the keywords directly inside the content. Don't get me started on the FTC's new rules. But... it also brings out those that create content specific for SEO keywords and not for content relevancy. What you then get are paragraphs of incomprehensible garbage. "SEO experts" you are not. Fear not, there are plenty of us that still believe in doing organic search the proper way and guys like Chris Brogan that have no problem calling you out which is why I think he is so wonderful.

I do find it interesting, that Yahoo didn't even announce it publicly. Its been a few months even. NO press releases. NADA. It was announced during a Q&A session at SMX. Danny Sullivan was even a bit surprised by it as I'm sure where the audience. To me, that is something I find "relevant" to knowing as an online marketer. Mainly, because even if one of the three is doing it then you still include it in code. I like to know when did they plan on letting us know?! If it wasn't for that Q&A how much longer would have Yahoo kept us in the dark?

So, now what shall I do with the few extra minutes we've been spared?! What will you do?

Building a Business with Social Apps - Google I/O 2009

2009-08-11T10:03:00.005-05:00

I wanted to share this video and slides with you. Social apps are growing and its very competitive market to make it revenue generating but this will help you get started.

Learn how to do it right from developers that have been there done that and made a successful business out of it. From monetization strategies to analytics, learn how to turn a fun idea into a real revenue stream. These guys know there stuff.

Social Track - Shawn Shen, Chewy Trewhella, Gerardo Capiel

See the video below of the entire session.

You can also download the PDF Session Presentation on Building Business with Social Apps

Info provided from Google I/O Developers Conference 2009

The stress of travel for tradeshows

2009-06-15T11:31:00.002-05:00

As I sit on a plane to Chicago for a tradeshow. I'm easily reminded of the long stressful task of the prepping before getting to here. How many times do you find yourself adding more to your reminders list. 2, 3, 4...

Here as some tips to make things a bit easier when you have a booth for a tradeshow.

Make a list of what you will need and/or want
Giveaway items
Business cards ( print and/ or design)
Banners and pop ups
Brochures/ marketing material
Enticing treats

Next, figure out the giveaways. They normally take the most time for ordering. Plan at least six (6) weeks ahead minimum. And if you plan appropriately then you can have it directly shipped to the hotel.

Next, determine if you need design. If you need pocket folders, make sure you do those before brochures. You want to avoid rush printing and shipping charges. The popups can be done quickly depending on who you use. Most business cards and brochures only take a few days. Also, if you go with the right printing company they can ship directly as well so you have one less thing to carry.

Lastly, you want to get the right treats to get people to stop. People love to find nice sweets and treats while walking through the exhibit. Dark chocolate and reeses cups are always a huge hit. Also a hard candy is good like Werther's Original. Those items are best if packed with you.

If you plan ahead then shipping ground will save you atleast 75% just in shipping costs and also your stress level will be lower. No matter how much you plan the stress is always there.

The few other tips are:
Wear sneakers when tending to your booth. You will be standing and moving the entire time. You never want to sit at your booth. It's harder to approach people. You will thank me later. You will be surprised that most people just wait for them to come to you. They need a little romance to approach you. Be sure to have giveaways in hand.

Call the hotel business center and see if they will be able to receive your packages. It may end up being cheaper than using the conference company.

If you have any questions please call 888-774-6861 or email us at info (at) 6thsensedesign (dot) com

Day spa in south florida massages me right back into action

2009-05-29T15:50:00.005-05:00

Working long hours and in front of the computer all day has forced me to pamper myself a bit more these days. The best "me" time is when I go to the Broward day spa for a swedish massage. Lynn, who is my regular masseuse knows just what to do and how to do it. I've never felt so relaxed after a session from any where else. I used to go to Contour Day Spa but Point Pleasant Wellness is far more superior. Not only in their services but their customer service and truly interested in the wellness of ME.

I've been going to them for years now. It's a beautiful facility in Fort Lauderdale (South Florida). There is always a smiling face that welcomes me after the long pathway the is filled with wonderful aromas and beautiful pictures.

It is run by Joanne and Lynn who are sisters and the masterminds of creating this amazing wellness day spa. Not only can you get a deep tissue massage or foot massage therapy (feels amazing by the way) but they have yoga classes. They also do manicures and pedicures but you would never know it because you never smell the fumes.

I can't wait for next month. They truly give you the love and attention one seeks when going to a day spa.

New to Twitter, Quick Guide for Beginners

2009-05-25T20:48:00.006-05:00

Are you new to Twitter?

This is a quick guide for Twitter beginners. Twitter is finally growing in popularity. Its being displayed in movies, commercials and even astronauts are using it to tweet from space.

It is an amazing business tool that can really help you reach a whole new clientele if used properly. Think of it as being able to network 24/7 with people all over the world or you can stay local if that is your business goal for the tool.

I have found there are a few tools for Twitter that have made my life easier.

Tweetdeck - This is a desktop application that allows you to group your followers in columns. You can do searches as well and keep it as a column. Only limitation is that you are only allowed no more than 10 columns. I have mine grouped by info only, locals, different industries and friends.
Hashtags - Hashtags are great way to follow a group and for your tweets to be followed by others viewing that group. You'll see popular ones like #followfriday and #fail (www.hashtags.org)
Twitter Search - This is a great place to go when you want to search for specific things that people are tweeting about. Could pertain to your business name or business trends. (search.twitter.com)
TwitterCounter - Allows you to track the increase/decrease of followers (www.twittercounter.com)
Short URLS - Cli.gs is a great site to create short URLS for twitter. Since you are only allowed 140 characters this allows you to put a link that is shorter than the original. It also has stats that allow you to see how popular that link was. You can also customize it to.
TweetStats - This is a great way to track how ofter you tweet, who you tweet the most with. Don't miss out on the TweetCloud tab to see whats the most popular word. (www.tweetstats.com)
TwitterHawk - Marketing tool that searches for people tweeting about specific keywords you choose that is also in targeted areas. Its essentially a lead generator that has a higher hit rate. It sends you the results so you can respond in a timely manner. This service is not free but affordable. (www.twitterhawk.com)

A few Twitter tips before you move on your way to tweeting.

If you are tweeting about something that you want to be retweeted (RT) then only type 120 characters. That gives room for the person RTing to include your name.
Don't be afraid to get personal. Like networking in person, people want to get to know you first before they do business with you.
Be polite. Say thank you when someone RTs something of yours. It gives you a good way to start a conversation and to make friends.
What is #followfriday? This happens every friday where people list their followers that they believe others should follow. Sometimes they list them based on profession, location or one at a time with the reasons why and adding a personal touch.

I hope this helps you get started. I'll soon post twitter tools that are great specifically for business. Stay tuned.

Once you get up and running, follow me (@amandastewart) and my business (@printitquick) on twitter.

Interviews for Small Business Week at WE Magazine

2009-05-22T15:10:00.001-05:00

Interview with Amanda Stewart, Creative Genius ~ 6th Sense Design

Tell us about your business.
We are a creative advertising solution firm providing marketing to increase business and attracting a customer base through print and internet marketing. We also provide solutions with keeping your current customers with up-to-date information on new products that you may offer as well as engaging them in surveys and offering them benefits to lead to more sales. We provide services from concept to completion including logo identities, branding, print collateral design, printing, hosting, e-marketing in web site design and e-newsletters.

We work mainly with small business owners and really enjoy it. We also work with marketing agencies to be their on demand design team.

Please tell us what being a business owner means to you and why you became an entrepreneur in the first place?
I’ve been a business owners since the wee age of 18. I bartered for office space in order to get it going and it all just sorta happened. I haven’t looked back since. I’ve enjoyed the freedom and the ability to be the controller of my own destiny. I tried to work for a company but had a difference of opinion with how they ran the company and treated their employees.

What or who has been your greatest influence in business and why?
Mainly other business owners. We all stick together really. If it wasn’t for joining NAWBO 8 years ago and meeting the women I did, I’m not sure I would have had the energy or strength to keep on going. Its important to be around other business owners to relate and bounce ideas off of. Everyone shares the best kept secrets which is how the community should be. Giving and supportive.

What would you say is your greatest professional accomplishment to date?
Starting a business so young and able to live the life that I have through travel and adventure. Be able to give back to my parents that sacrificed so much for me when I was growing up.

What’s the best advice you have received in business that you wish to pass on to our readers?
Never put your eggs all in one basket and never be afraid to be a risk taker.

What one thing have you learned as a small business owner that has served you well over the years?
Grow. Restructure. Improve!

Are there any resources or tools you’d like to share with other small business owners that have helped you succeed?
NO better resource than those around you. Better to learn from others mistakes than on your own. The internet is an amazing resource for knowing what is going on NOW in your industry, to see what your competitors are doing and to network 24/7 like on twitter and facebook. I always try to attend atleast one industry conference. Helps you find colleagues that you can bounce ideas off of.

What is Number One Business Goal you plan to accomplish over the next year?
Start a secondary business that utilizes the many talents and expertise I’ve acquired over the years. I have a book of ideas and now its time to execute atleast one of those.

Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers?
Never lose the passion for your business. I’ve noticed that when you are truly passionate about what you do its contagious and infects others. Then it seems that everyone around you becomes more energized.

Always take time for yourself as it gives you a bit of recharge so that you can accomplish more at the end of the day.
Never forget to ask, “How can I help YOU?”

How can our readers find you online?
On twitter: @amandastewart and @printitquick
www.6thsensedesign.com
www.print-it-quick.com

Thank you Heidi Richards

Postage Rates Raised Again, Direct Mail Affected

2009-05-08T10:31:00.006-05:00

Once again the mail postage rates have gone up ANOTHER $0.02. Which makes it now $0.44. You may not think that is a lot but when you are sending thousands of pieces a week that greatly affects your budget.

So... is USPS trying to make it more difficult for direct mail. I am a firm believer that you should do both online AND offline marketing. However, when those budgets are getting tightened already and then an increase makes it more difficult to hit the targeted audience from all angles. I've already seen a dramatic decrease in amount of pieces in my mailbox from real estate agents. However for agents, now is the best time to market since those semi-serious agents are now onto the next biggest craze for fast cash.

So, for now we will keep on truckin' but I hope that USPS, gives it a reprieve on another increase next May. It was more acceptable when it was every other year or so for a $0.01 increase.

*Stamp image provided by USPS.com

Full Color Foil Printing WOWs Prospects

2008-07-25T10:04:00.004-05:00

NEW! Full Color Foil Printing

Full color foil printing is the newest and most revolutionary process in the marketplace today! It's eye candy. It has the magnetism of a shinny quarter in a school playground.

The Process of Full Color Foil Printing

In Line Cold Foil is the design and marketing tool that everyone is embracing as an essential part of their available tools to capture prospects attention.It makes you think, what is the purpose of creating a flyer or postcard to market your services? The purpose is to attempt to capture your target audience's attention, even if just for a brief moment. Because, a brief moment is all you have to either make an impression or to loose your prospects interest. That is why foil printing or foil stamping is so important. It gives you a higher chance of capturing someones attention. It's different, it's eye candy that is irresistible to the eye. Try it for yourself and you too will notice the higher response rate from your foil marketing tool.

Unlike hot foil systems, cold foil is an inline process and does not require heat for transfer nor expensive dies to define the design. Instead, cold foil systems are made up of two units: one unit of the system applies an adhesive that defines the imprint for the foil, and the second unit releases the foil from a carrier sheet and applies it to the substrate. Quite an amazing process, right?

Offering foil printing on:

Request foil printed samples today and you too will agree that this is the most effective tool to draw attention to your most valuable marketing tool.

Call us today to start on making a lasting impression. 888-774-6861

Postage stamp rate increases one cent on Monday

2008-05-09T10:42:00.007-05:00

Effective on Monday, the stamps are going to increase one cent. What does this mean for the business? Typically small to medium sized businesses.

There are still plenty of businesses that do direct mail marketing. While one penny does not seem a lot, those that are mailing 100s of thousands of pieces per month will see it gradually dig into their bottom line. This is potentially dangerous for those involved in that process. From the designer to the list provider, the printer and even the mailing house.

There is a concern on the print end of it. Will more people move back to a typical 4x6 postcard rather than the half page postcard or the jumbo sized postcard? There was a push towards larger sized postcards to make an impact but as the price of postage increases the desire to spend more decreases.

It was just a year ago when the stamp was increased. Does this mean there will be a trend for the postal service to increase each year? Lets hope that this is it for at least 2 years.

See what the current rates will as of Monday, May 12th, 2008.

Thanks Joe - Mystere was amazing!

2007-12-07T13:07:00.000-05:00

There are many benefits to attending PubCon, which is where I have been at since Monday night, but the one on Tuesday night was complimentary tix to see Mystere at Treasure Island. Joe Morin hooked us up and a bunch of us bloggers attended the many shows of vegas. Myself and my new found best friend Shari of ExtremeHalloween.com attended Mystere. It was my first time at this show but have attended 2 other cirque shows.

This show was amazing. The music was fantastic and unique. The costumes were outrageous and out there. The acrobatics always fascinate me and I'm always hanging on the edge of my seat and scared for them that they will fall. I love the swings and when they hang down from the lines and twirls and spin. The specialty of this show was the climbing. IMHO anyway. Each show has something unique. This one was crawling on the walls and up end down the poles. Just fascinating how limber and disciplined and how damn strong they all are. Then there were the 2 guys. that just did things I never thought possible. I cant even describe it so here is a photo.

talk about perfection. You should have seen the entire show. The thing about any cirque show is that its visual overload because there are so many things going on, the costumes and colors and the theater design. Its so hard to catch everything because you may be focused on the main show but then off in the ceiling something is beginning to happen. Then there is the comedy feature of the show. This time it was the baby which was just hilarious. They always have a comedy thrown in and always amusing. They usually start that segment around 15 min or so before the show time, that's why is good to get there early.

It was a fantastic night. I look forward to seeing Ka next year when I'm here for the conference.

Another thought though, as I was enjoying the show, I couldn't help but think about business. Mainly because that's how my mind works. This show, is a prime example of everyone working in unison. When they were doing the seesaw segment, everyone had their job to do, if one person faltered then someone would either get seriously injured or the show would have a flaw of a mistake, which I have yet to witness. I just couldn't help but think that that is how a business is to be run. Everyone has their task/specialty/job to do and if one person drops the ball then the company as a whole pays for it.

This is especially true when dealing with SEO, SEM and PPC. If you are not on top of it all then your site takes a hit, unfortunately not in a good way. All the new tools, tricks and people that I've met this week, have really helps me discover new ways to make sure that the ball isn't dropped. I'm anxious to reread my notes and start planning way to implement the new ideas and products to the arsenal that I've already developed.

What is in a brand?

2007-10-10T22:14:00.001-05:00

Lately, the increase in small business owners coming to us to help establish a brand has been amazing. These days, small business owners are trying to figure out who they are and how they can become more established with the local community.

When it comes to the service industry, its more work to establish a brand or name for yourself. You have to prove yourself, show that you have the background and years in the field. Still the common mistake made is by describing what you can do, INSTEAD of describing how you can help make the prospect's life better by using your services.

Branding is not all about colors or the logo/mascot. It's about your message. What makes you unique from the mass of competitors? How can you show that being a small company is a benefit not a draw back? These are questions that should be answered while establishing a branding for your business. If you can have a tag line that is 7 words or less and doesn't leave the prospect confused of what you offer then you have done a good job.

How do you present your branding? The first thing that is given is normally a full color business card. That is the first impression of your brand other than yourself. Yes, you are your brand. Present yourself as such. Make sure that your business card clearly states your tagline, your website, and of course 3 bullet points to how you can help them. That way, even after you leave, they will still know what you do.

These simple questions will help you determine the brand for your small business.

Optimized Design for your Web Site

2007-08-23T11:16:00.001-05:00

What exactly is optimized design you ask?

It works directly with SEO (Search Engine Optimization) or the Search engine marketing of your web site. Optimized design of your web site takes into consideration all the factors needed for successful optimization of your web site.

User experience - Making sure the navigation of your site is easy for the end-user. Providing ease of use of your web site, allowing the viewer to find what they are looking for easily and quickly.
Graphic Design - Creating an eye-catching and compelling design that directly relates to your brand.
Optimization - Impletmenting the design while also making the web site search engine friendly by utilizing the best practices in web site programming. By implementing the best keywords and phrases through rigorous analysis of your competitors and industry.

While its great to have a site that looks great, in todays every growing web, you must realize that the basis of a web site is to attract new customers. Let us help you create a web presence which brings results with effective OPTIMIZED design that will help your bottomline.

Free Webinar/ Teleseminar Topic: How to get FOUND in the infinite internet – a bare bones basics approach to Website Marketing

2007-08-21T09:52:00.000-05:00

JOIN US...TODAY! Bring your internet marketing questions and we'll tackle them on at our FREE Telseminar!!!

Dear Amanda,

I have made too-many-to-count mistakes when it comes to on-line marketing. A website can be a powerful tool for growing your business...IF you can make your way around the wierd concepts: html, SEO, blogging, auto-responders, and - gasp! - SPAM? What do those things MEAN? This Teleseminar will help you get savvy FAST so that you can use the internet to BOOM your business!

Join me for this month's HOT HOT HOT Teleseminar Topic: How to get FOUND in the infinite internet - a bare bones basics approach to Website Marketing

My Guest Star - Amanda Stewart of www.6thsensedesign.com

Amanda has helped me get a grip on expanding my internet business and can help you learn the bare bones basics!

The Teleseminar Date is TODAY, Tuesday, August, 21st at 1:00 pm Pacific Time 2:00 pm Mountain Time 3:00 pm Central Time 4:00 pm Eastern Time

And...GREAT NEWS. I have made the sign up process for this FREE Teleseminar soooo much easier. Just click here for the sign up form.

http://www.barebonesbiz.com/teleconference_series.html

"See" you at the Teleseminar!

Thanks, Ellen Rohr, Bare Bones Biz

Tradeshows - Top 5 tips for a successful tradeshow

2007-05-01T08:03:00.000-05:00

Tradeshows can prove to be profitable if you are prepared. Its a time when you are continuing your brand and putting together a plan to help lure more people to your booth. Its a long process but it can prove to be quite rewarding once completed. Its another aspect of marketing your business. How you conduct yourself at the booth, the different freebies that you offer and even your placement of where you stand to greet people are all factors in a successful tradeshow.

When picking giveaways make sure its something that can display not only your logo but also a phone number. Most promo companies are very knowledgable about what is popular and what is best for your prospects. Consult with them.
When designing a banner, make sure you have your logo visibly displayed. Its best to bullet point what you offer so when someone is walking by, its quick for them to read.
Have a raffle. This will allow you to collect business cards. Make sure you spend atleast $100 and be creative. Don't offer a common gift basket or your shirts. Make sure its something that everyone will go "Oh wow, I want to win that". You must also keep in mind that it travels well since most people will go home via plane.
Where comfortable shoes! You will be standing the entire time. You should be in front of the booth greeting people as they walk by. Do not ever be behind the booth.
Always smile.

If you have never done a booth, following these 5 simple steps will help you have a successful tradeshow. Should you ever need any full color printing for your tradeshow or promo items. Please give us a call 888-774-6861. We are experts at exposing our clients with online and offline marketing.

Great FREE business tools

2007-04-13T09:00:00.000-05:00

In our ever growing quest to help small business owners, we want to share a few great FREE tools. We hope this helps with growing your business.

Free Web Conferencing - Have you ever needed to set up a conference call and realized that 3 way calling through your local provider just wasn't cutting it! Try www.freeconferencecall.com. It allows you to setup a conference line for your clients to call into. You can hear everyone fine and best of all its free.
Free Faxes - Through jconnect, you can receive faxes through your email in a .tif format. You receive a free phone number (local numbers cost money) and anyone can fax documents to that number and it comes to you in an email. Fantastic. Technology at its best. Try jconnect!
Sending Large Files - Have you ever needed to send a large file but under a time crunch where sending a cd just wouldn't work? Yousendit is a great online tool that doesn't require special software to send up to 1gig files. Signup is free. Its a great tool and no FTP software or knowledge is required. Try yousendit.

Other tools that will help your business, is our U-Manage tool. U-Manage is a web site management tool that will allow you to make changes to your web site without any coding/HTML knowledge. Through our web interface admin panel, you can make all the changes to your web site over the web. Contact us today to learn how to manage your site more effectively.

Call Us Today
TOLL FREE 866-673-6733

5,000 Full color business cards for $125

2007-03-19T10:19:00.000-05:00

Spring Time Business Card Printing Special

Since its such a beautiful day out I felt like giving everyone a special little discount our business card printing services. Print-it-Quick.com offers great pricing color business card printing. For a limited time we are offering you a special.

What you get!!!

5,000 Full color business cards
FREE UV coating
Printing on both sides with bleed
Heavy 12 pt cover stock paper
24-48 hours turnaround

Order online now. Business Card Printing Special

Hot new site up

2007-03-08T11:57:00.000-05:00

After about 6 months of production, we've finally released a hot new site. www.sandybythesea.com

Its a florida vacation rentals web site. It has every feature we offer and then some. We implemented our shopping cart to book the rentals, the web site management tool for the client to edit the site herself and also a booking calendar that allows her to blackout rental days and for anyone to book to be able to select the dates they want to stay and it calculates it and adds to the shopping cart. The client is looking to take the site to phase 2 where we allow anyone to post their rental on the site like www.rentalo.com. Very soon we'll also start the SEO of the site to help get her above her competition. She's renevated everything and so I may just try to get a place on the water for a weekend. Even has a yacht. Ships ahoy!

I'm very excited to have a site that includes all of our greatest programs. Stay tuned for more great releases. You too can have a site like this. Its a great feeling to have a site that not only looks good but has a purpose and bringing you money.

Going Global... search engine optimization helps you get there

2007-02-19T18:21:00.000-05:00

Going global? Have you ever thought about taking your business global? Its a scary thought but as I am a thrill seeker, I look for those scary thoughts to get out of the comfort zone.

When I decided to take on a new arm for my marketing company, I knew it was going to be a lot of work. It was and still is. I knew that search engine optimization was a must have in my arsenal of services. SEO is now becoming a must have for all businesses. Because I have decided to offer this service. I know attend more conferences, read more articles and have the need to update our site and marketing materials. The end result of web site optimization though is amazing. If you really think about it, there is no end result; its always continuing to the next level. It is what helps you go global. I had a client that was a local builder, they never even thought about the benefits and the people they can reach through SEO. Even if your business is in one county or one state doesn't mean that other businesses or consumers won't be looking for you in their state. Maybe they are looking to move, start another location, or even attend a conference. Its all relevant to search engine marketing and your web site.

Global is big and scary but its an opportunity for growth and increasing your income. That's what all of us strive for. Why not have your site working for you when you are sleeping, when you are on vacation or on the weekends when you are spending time with your family...

We can help you with your fears and turn them into dollar signs. We love roller coasters and will be there right there with you with our hands up in the air screaming, THIS IS SO MUCH FUN!!!

Call us today for the best ride of your life... 866-673-6733

To blog or not to blog...

2007-02-01T16:33:00.000-05:00

Its been a few weeks since I've posted anything. Vacations are always welcomed when you are on them but the week before... not so much. Back onto routine... and blogging should be another part of your routine.

I've noticed that while "blogging" is a commonly used term not a lot of people are familiar with the benefits of it. Here are a few reasons why you should spend an extra 30 minutes a week on your blog.

A way to show you are an expert in your field
Another gateway to your site from the search engines
A great tool for posting articles, tips or displaying your product or service of the week or month.

When you are posting to your blog, you should make sure that you are speaking about one topic. That one topic will allow you to include keyword rich words into your article. If you bold them or link them to a particular spot on your site that will only help in your efforts. For example, if I am talking about my brochure specials and my keywords for brochures are cheap brochure printing, discount brochure printing, and 4 color printing brochure. Then I would plug in my keywords like so... Print-it-Quick.com is offering a special on cheap brochure printing. Not only did I bold the phrase but I linked the keyword to the proper page on my site. Don't bother with "click here". That does not help you in any way.

Here are a few links that will help you on your way.
Blogger - This site will allow you to create your own blog and use their tools on their site which they would host.
Wordpress - This allows you to create a blog and host it on your server.

Its all a matter of preference. Happy blogging!

We are in the Business News Section

2007-01-15T09:32:00.000-05:00

Very exciting news this morning. I have finally been placed in the newspaper in the business section, which is the best place to be. Please read the article. It all about doing business with the SuperBowl. What a great way to start off the week!

Enjoy and comment if you like here.

The Newspaper Article

Awarded by the SuperBowl

2007-01-11T11:26:00.000-05:00

What a great way to start a week. I was notified Monday morning that I had won the "Emerging Business of the Month". I was very excited. I have been doing work with the SuperBowl for a few months now. Its been really great and everyone there is such a pleasure to deal with. I maintain the site now since they fired their previous designer. The reason for winning it is that "These businesses have shown attention to detail, followed directions closely, and have demonstrated the criteria that we expressed at the last Emerging Business Event." Now I am entered in to win 2 Super Bowl tix.

This just goes to show you that if you take chances and work hard you will be rewarded. You need to have patience to be in business for yourself. Eventually you will come out on top. Stick with what you love and have a passion for and others will buy into it.

Because we love what we do for you, please call us today to learn more about our Search Engine marketing strategies for your business and web site. Are you ranked?!

Happy New Year! Setting Goals

2007-01-05T16:52:00.000-05:00

I hope everyone has had a great start to 2007!

Have you set your business goals and personal goals yet? Do you even know where to start to set your goals? Its a tough one. I always find it best to set goals in 2 levels. First level is the one that is more reasonable. Second level is the one that is outrageous to even think about. If you have that even in your subconscious, you have a good chance of surpassing your first level and onto the second.

Next you want to determine the goal areas. Where do you want your business to be? Do you want to hire someone(s), get a larger office space, offer more services? Where do you want to be financially? Lastly, don't forget about your personal goals. Its not always about business. Take care of yourself. If you hit a goal, determine a reward that will help you push hit that goal. Make sure you tell others of your goal and even include them in it. That way you have a cheering section that also gets rewarded and will help push you. A nudge from others can always work for you.

You also want to have short-term goals as well as long-term goals. What do you want to accomplish in 3 months, 6months or 1 year? Right them down. Post it on your blog or journal. Once your put it down on paper, it binds you to it.

Its never to late to set goals. I know the goals I set last were hit and even exceeded. This year I am challenging myself even more but still working out the details.

What will your outrageous goal be?

What a year!

2006-12-28T10:53:00.000-05:00

What a year!!! Its been a very exciting year. Lots of new ideas were put to life this year.

We launched our printing site Print-it-Quick.com. Which has been in the works for quite some time. Its a great way for our clients to purchase printing as well as upload their files. The site also helped create one heckofa case study for our other new service. Search Engine Optimization. This month alone we've had 3 very large orders come in because of it. Not only are the 3 new clients but they are clients that are looking to print many more orders. Full color printing has been a great addition to our services the past few years though this year we've doubled our production.

Another idea that has been in the works that is launching beginning of January is our Web site management tool. I have been asked to offer this type of product for quite some time but I haven't had the programming power to do so. I finally found a very highly talented programmer to come work for us and its paying off. This tool will allow any client who opts in for this to modify their site without any skills. All you need is a web browser (any kind) , an internet connection and a web site. This tool allows you to browse through your images on your server to place your images through a thumbnail view. Which is pretty damn cool! The editor is easy to use, almost as if you are using Word. We've taken all the great things everyone needs and wants and put them into one tool. Any site can be converted.

With the new year ahead. I am anxious to release them to the public. Come January 1st. Everyone will then know the pricing and details. Till then you'll have to wait in suspense in what the full package will hold. I guarantee it'll be worth the wait. Stay tuned. I promise 2007 will not be boring by any means. We will be taking the term "marketing company" to a whole new level with you in mind!

Cheers to a great 2006 and to an even better 2007!!!

Chat with you next year!

Is your web site up-to-date?

2006-12-21T08:56:00.000-05:00

In the rapid pace rat race you need to have your web site updated on a very regular basis. What is a regular basis? Every other week, though weekly is much better. It only helps you but who has the time and money for that. To learn code takes weeks and to pay someone will cost hundreds of $$. Luckily through our new web site content manager, anyone who has internet access and knowledge of Microsoft Word can use it. No coding needed, no knowledge of HTML, ASP or PHP. That way when you have any last minute events, press or edits, you won't have to wait. The internet has made everyone need everything yesterday and we are here to fulfill that NEED. We have customized this product and put out what we believe is the most functional of CMS (content management systems) products.

But wait there's more!!!!

Not only can you edit the content in your web site with ease, you can also easily optimize your site with changing the titles, descriptions and keywords of each page.

Finally, a solution that will give you the control without the fear of putting your site offline with one typo. Now you can update your site and keep the search engines happy with fresh content. Because that is what it is all about. Pleasing the allmighty search engines.

When 1 to 2 keywords isn't enough

2006-12-14T10:26:00.000-05:00

As the holidays quickly approach so do the deadlines and the upcoming year preparations. With only one and a half weeks to go, the stress and tension level is quickly poking out from everyone. Not to worry though. It will soon be over and the new year will start.

This has been a great month. The print-it-quick.com web site is really doing well. The processing of the cheap business cards for the low price of $150 for 5,000 is really making an impact. The biggest search term for the site is 24 hour turnaround along with pairing it with different cities like New Jersey and New York. In a study of keywords, we actually took the biggest cities searched for and included that with the keywords. It proves to work fantastic. No longer are people searching for just 1-2 keywords. They are bringing it local and the keywords are now averaging 3-4 to make sure they get the most accurate search results. So when you are researching your keywords, don't be shy on the larger phrases. It could prove to bring more valuable customers to your virtual front door.

Search Engine Optimization Works

2006-12-07T09:27:00.000-05:00

Case Study 1:
For the past few months I have been optimizing http://www.print-it-quick.com. Print-it-quick.com is a web site where you are able to place an order for full color printing like cheap brochure printing, business cards, rack cards, ect. I was told that to get orders off the internet was extremely difficult. Naturally, I took on the challenge.

Getting the site listed in the search engines was tricky. Since a few sites now have to find you through other sites. The key words I have been optimizing are:

Full Color Printing Florida
Full Color Printing
Business Card Online Printing
Discount Brochure Printing
Cheap brochure printing
Business card printing service
24 Hour Turnaround
4 color printing brochure

As of yesterday, my rankings are:

	Total Number 1 Positions: 1
	Total Top-10 Positions: 6
	Total Top-20 Positions: 7

Google

24 Hour Turnaround -RANK 23- http://www.print-it-quick.com/

MSN
24 Hour Turnaround -RANK 4- http://www.print-it-quick.com/

4 color printing brochure -RANK 1 - http://www.print-it-quick.com/printing-trifold-brochures.shtml

Business Card Online Printing -RANK 4 - http://www.print-it-quick.com/printing-business-cards.shtml

Business card printing service -RANK 17- http://www.print-it-quick.com/printing-business-cards.shtml

Cheap brochure printing -RANK 3- http://www.print-it-quick.com/printing-trifold-brochures.shtml

Discount Brochure Printing -RANK 3- http://www.print-it-quick.com/printing-trifold-brochures.shtml

Full Color Printing Florida -RANK 8- http://www.print-it-quick.com/printing-posters.shtml

These are only for the top 20. We are listed with all the major ones like Yahoo, AltaVista, Alltheweb, but still climbing to the top on those.

This is a very tedious process. Choosing the right keywords and then what to do with afterwards. It is a science and we look forward to taking on more challenges for our clients. We have made money off of our SEO efforts and have processed quite a large order. We've recieved a lot of inquiries from all of the United States and even from Canada which we hope to process this week which could lead to printing of close to 1 million pieces. We wanted to make sure we could deliver for our clients which is why we have waited as long as we have to release this. We want to prove to you that we are able to deliver.

Stay tuned for further updates on our SEO efforts.

WebMasterWorld -Conf. for SEO Geeks

2006-11-28T09:15:00.000-05:00

Geeks Unite!

Headed to Vegas for my first ever Search Engine Conference and first trip to Vegas. I was told that WMW was one of the best and it truely was. The conference was 3 full days and then the last day is always held at a pub, which is how the conference got its name.

The reason for going was to be able to speak to all the gurus at the search engines, speak to everyone else who is doing this and brainstorm on how things can be improved and what tools work better than others. I use a few different programs but I needed to find ones that are maybe more efficient. I wanted to also get up-to-date on the latest and greatest out there and what sites are great resources for staying up-t0-date. I found everything I needed to and then some. My clients will definitely benefit from this conference and the release date for doing SEO for my clients is January 1, 2007. So it came at a perfect time.

I didn't know what to expect or how the sessions would be. They were all very informative. So informative that I took well over 80 pages of notes. CDs will be sent but I didn't want to wait.

The first day just blew me away. There was so much information to take in. It was exhiliarating. The last 2 days of the sessions were just as fantastic. The keynote speakers also, were fabulous. Funny, informative and inspiring. Danny Sullivan, Guy Kawaski, Matt Cutts. All leaders in the industry. Especially Matt Cutts. He's the guy you want to know. He's the Spam engineer for Google. You make good with Google and you are golden for everyone else. It was also great to hear that all the main SE are forming together to make one standard sitemap.

I also had a chance to meet a few great vendors to help with text linking and ad buying. Which will be key to a successful SEO/SEM campaign.

Its been a long time going to my industry conferences and it was just a great experience. I learned a lot about RSS, Blogging (which is becoming a real necessity for all businesses), the standards for optimizing your web site and also what not to do to your site to try and get ranked quickly.

I also learned very quickly that these guys know how to do it right. What better way to finish off 8 hours of sessions then with an open bar right afterwards to allow you to wind down and really talk geek to everyone. Then the grand finalle was the pub meeting in NY NY. That is when I was really able to talk to everyone. I was able to really pick the brains of some really great people and meet others that will prove valuable to my SEO business.

It truely was a great conference and I'll do it again next year. What better place and time to have it then in Vegas in November.

Start of a new beginning

2006-10-26T08:38:00.000-05:00

Welcome to our blog. Stay tuned as many exciting things are happening. Let us be your marketing arm in helping you get your message and company out there. Here are how we can help you:

Develop a web site
Sell your products online
Stay in touch with your clients and prospects through email marketing
Have the power to edit your own sites with our web site management tool
Get your site listed with all the major search engines
Design your marketing material, business cards, stationery, post cards and brochures
Print any and all of your marketing material
and much much more!!!

Visit us online at www.6thsensedesign.com or www.print-it-quick.com