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January 29, 2009

Business Entrepreneurship: Infopreneurship

Infopreneuring, or info-marketing, is a business trend that's taking the world by storm. With so many people looking for a work-at-home business or Internet marketing opportunities, it's little wonder that infopreneuring has become such a hot topic

But unlike so many "get-rich-quick" schemes out there, or most Multi-level Marketing (MLM) programs, infopreneuring is a real, honest-to-goodness business model that doesn't take a lot of money or an advanced degree to start.

All you really need is brain power and motivation.
And a website to sell your products from doesn't hurt either.

Seriously though, anyone in the world with a computer and Internet connection can make a nice living as an infopreneur -- a lot of people already are -- but it's still a relatively new industry with plenty of room for growth.

So why should you become an infopreneur? Here are some of the benefits:

Low start-up costs


Easy to do


Generates passive revenue


Sells to a global market


Eliminates trading time for money


Builds financial security


Creates a lasting legacy


Allows you to do what you love
If you've already got an offline business, you can add infoproducts to your existing product or service line to:

Replace paper promotions


Supplement your income with multiple income streams


Sell your wares online


Build your brand awareness or expertise status

I offering course and seminars,because I'm a small business owner too, and my business, as you can see by this website, is to help other small business owners succeed. Also, I have published an in-depth step-by-step guide called The Infopreneur's Biz Guide that will walk you through the entire process of starting and running an infopreneuring business, running a digital enteprise including how to create and price products, where and how to market them and much, much more. To learn more or order your copy, email me at hinenisyndicator@gmail.com or register in this blog.

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Infopreneur

Infopreneur

The term infoprenor is a Néologisme created starting from the words “information” and “contractor”. Infoprenor means “contractor who sells information with an aim of generating profits”.


A varied range of infoproduits Information can be offered under a multitude of formats, as much electronic than physical or in the form of services. Among the principal formats one finds: printed books, e-books, audio books, DVD, guides, handbooks of operation, reports/ratios, conferences, Videoconference S, teleconferences, services of Coaching, course remote, workshops of formation, camps of drive, television programs and radiophonic, sites of subscriptions, Blogue S, etc Short, it has there no limit as for the format which a contractor can use to offer his infoproduits

The development of infoproduits
The contents of a infoproduit can come from the expertise on the infoprenor, the information obtained at the time of interviews with specialists, or research. The development can be made by the infoprenor or of the people to her service such as phantom authors. With an aim of reducing the expenses of development and of increasing his offer, the infoprenor can also get licenses of reproduction, resale or diffusion.

Information must aim developing knowledge and/or at motivating the users. The educational material in all its forms can be qualified of infoproduit. The Romance works of fiction and the can be also qualified as infoproduits in the condition which objective is to them not to divert the reader but to inform, to educate or justify. For example, in the field of the personal Development, one finds the novels of Marc Fisher and Paulo Coelho which aims at transmitting a message symbolic system and to motivate the readers.


Distribution of infoproduits The distribution can be done by the traditional physical channels such as the Librairie S, trade and catalogs or, in the case of electronic documents, by Internet.


Types of infopreneurs Several types of infopreneurs are found: lecturers, trainers, authors, consultants and coaches. Those gather in two categories: the free lances who manage their company starting from the house and the heads of undertaking who employ of the personnel. In both cases, their objective is the same one: to create infoproduits which will generate profits.


Evolution of the infopreneurship
French-speaking side, the word infoprenor hardly starts to be known whereas anglophone side, one uses it since the beginning of the Eighties.

The infopreneurship, as a field of practice, gains moreover in moreover it in popularity, especially since the advent of the Internet.

In the years 1930, one already attended the emergence of infopreneurs with success. At that time, Napoleon Hill and Dale Carnegie gave conferences and sold audio books and recordings. During the Seventies, Jacques-Yves Cousteau contributed to make known sea-beds by producing educational films and by selling books and derivative products. Today, among the most famous infopreneurs, one finds: Jay Abraham, daN Kennedy, Ken Blanchard, Stephen Covey, Brian Tracy, Anthony Robbins and Mark Victor Hansen.

With the arrival of Internet, the infopreneurship makes information circulation much more accessible and economic that before. Rather than to invest important sums to reproduce information in the form of books, cassettes, CD or DVD, the infoprenor of today is able to offer its products to low costs in downloadable electronic version

Marisol Diaz

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Online Infopreneurship Mastery- How to use internet to sell information

The exciting term, infopreneur, is becoming a hit among today's entrepreneurs who want to capitilise on the sea of opportunities available on the internet. An infopreneur, apparently combined from the two words "information" and "entrepreneur", refers to an entrepreneur who makes money by selling/sharing information on the web.

Infopreneurs fall into two categories. One is where infopreneurs sell information which are created on their own. The other kind is whereby infopreneurs piggyback off information from certain sources, modify as their own and sell them. The selling part might not exactly refer to selling information to readers directly all the time. Instead, sometimes information will be made free to be read by anyone. In this case, revenues are earned through advertistments which are relevant to the information. Infopreneurship serves as an important purpose to the public especially when people are looking for information on a specific topic. Then again, the reliability of the source has to be checked for.

The selling part comes in when an infopreneur offers information products in a variety of formats including books, e-books, special reports, audio formats, videos, workbooks, booklets, and virtually any method in which one can deliver information. This method is practised by entrepreneurs cum infopreneurs and successful results are obtained.

The reason for successful infopreneurship, be it selling information or sharing information for free, is that it is a great way to market an individual's ideas, products or services. Information sharing is like presenting a business card. It opens up doors to new business opportunities. With more media exposure, it can easily increase popularity to one's business. An article published on an article submission site, gets republished several times to various websites which increases visitor traffic in the twinkle of an eye. Most infopreneurs have their own website which is a centre for their business. By publishing information on the net, they leave a link behind for interested readers to follow through and land up on the infopreneurs' sites. For an example, an infopreneur may have written on a specific topic such as "the best ingredients to use in cooking a Bombay styled mutton biryani". An interested reader who finds the information useful would then click on the link left by the author to visit his website where there would be more related information on that particular topic.

Gone were the days where there existed an industry era peacefully before technology started exploding into the scene in exponential forms. Today we are living right in the heart of the information era and what more relevance could it be other than infopreneurship. Information is the underlying vitality in today's success to both an individual and a company. So if you feel the need to share loads of information, be it for profitable or non-profitable reasons, dive right into the limitless stream of information superhighway aka internet today.

By:Thanaseelan Vengadasalam
EzineArticles

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The Art of Infopreneurship

At some point certain businesses evolve from directly selling a product or service to selling information about that product or service.

This strategy reinforces the old adage: Give a man a fish; you have fed him for today. Teach a man to fish; and you have fed him for a lifetime. (A lesser known variation of this adage states: Give a man a fish; you have fed him for today. Teach a man to fish; and you can sell him fishing equipment.)

Some of the best examples of this shift from sales of product/services to sales of information products are in the financial and real estate realms (as evidenced by the Donald Trumps, Robert G. Allens and Robert Kiyosakis of the world). These gurus discovered that they can make a bigger impact (and earn more revenue) teaching others about their success vs. actually working on day-to-day real estate deals, investing, etc. for themselves or their clients.

According to Wikipedia, an "infopreneur" is someone whose primary business is gathering and selling electronic information. Some infopreneurs are in it for the quick buck (repackaging existing content and trying to sell it using a myriad of spammy and gimmicky schemes), but the legitimate infopreneurs are experts in their fields who create value by packaging and publishing their original content. In essence, they transform from "practitioner" to "teacher" to "author/publisher."

How is this relevant to your business and Provider Marketing? Packaging and sharing your expertise may develop into a significant revenue stream over time. Just ask Martha Stewart, Rachael Ray, Caesar Milan, or Seth Godin.

At some point certain businesses evolve from directly selling a product or service to selling information about that product or service.

This strategy reinforces the old adage: Give a man a fish; you have fed him for today. Teach a man to fish; and you have fed him for a lifetime. (A lesser known variation of this adage states: Give a man a fish; you have fed him for today. Teach a man to fish; and you can sell him fishing equipment.)

Some of the best examples of this shift from sales of product/services to sales of information products are in the financial and real estate realms (as evidenced by the Donald Trumps, Robert G. Allens and Robert Kiyosakis of the world). These gurus discovered that they can make a bigger impact (and earn more revenue) teaching others about their success vs. actually working on day-to-day real estate deals, investing, etc. for themselves or their clients.

According to Wikipedia, an "infopreneur" is someone whose primary business is gathering and selling electronic information. Some infopreneurs are in it for the quick buck (repackaging existing content and trying to sell it using a myriad of spammy and gimmicky schemes), but the legitimate infopreneurs are experts in their fields who create value by packaging and publishing their original content. In essence, they transform from "practitioner" to "teacher" to "author/publisher."

How is this relevant to your business and Provider Marketing? Packaging and sharing your expertise may develop into a significant revenue stream over time. Just ask Martha Stewart, Rachael Ray, Caesar Milan, or Seth Godin.

Original by Randy Nargi
A fantastic marketing expert and advertising guru

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Infopreneurship" in General

The exciting term, infopreneur, is becoming a hit among today’s entrepreneurs who want to capitilise on the sea of opportunities available on the internet. An infopreneur, apparently combined from the two words “information” and “entrepreneur”, refers to an entrepreneur who makes money by selling/sharing information on the web.

Infopreneurs fall into two categories. One is where infopreneurs sell information which are created on their own. The other kind is whereby infopreneurs piggyback off information from certain sources, modify as their own and sell them. The selling part might not exactly refer to selling information to readers directly all the time. Instead, sometimes information will be made free to be read by anyone. In this case, revenues are earned through advertistments which are relevant to the information. Infopreneurship serves as an important purpose to the public especially when people are looking for information on a specific topic. Then again, the reliability of the source has to be checked for.

The selling part comes in when an infopreneur offers information products in a variety of formats including books, e-books, special reports, audio formats, videos, workbooks, booklets, and virtually any method in which one can deliver information. This method is practised by entrepreneurs cum infopreneurs and successful results are obtained.

The reason for successful infopreneurship, be it selling information or sharing information for free, is that it is a great way to market an individual’s ideas, products or services. Information sharing is like presenting a business card. It opens up doors to new business opportunities. With more media exposure, it can easily increase popularity to one’s business. An article published on an article submission site, gets republished several times to various websites which increases visitor traffic in the twinkle of an eye. Most infopreneurs have their own website which is a centre for their business. By publishing information on the net, they leave a link behind for interested readers to follow through and land up on the infopreneurs’ sites. For an example, an infopreneur may have written on a specific topic such as “the best ingredients to use in cooking a Bombay styled mutton biryani”. An interested reader who finds the information useful would then click on the link left by the author to visit his website where there would be more related information on that particular topic.

Gone were the days where there existed an industry era peacefully before technology started exploding into the scene in exponential forms. Today we are living right in the heart of the information era and what more relevance could it be other than infopreneurship. Information is the underlying vitality in today’s success to both an individual and a company. So if you feel the need to share loads of information, be it for profitable or non-profitable reasons, dive right into the limitless stream of information superhighway aka internet today.

posted by Cherry Mummy in
Sustainable Living Articles @ http://www.articlegarden.com

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Infopreneurship - The Next Big Thing

So You Want to Be An Infopreneur? Do You know what an infopreneur is? An infopreneur is someone who is in business to gather or disseminate electronic information. To put it in simple words, he is someone who sells information online (mainly through the Internet). Infopreneurs explore the uncharted "blue oceans" of internet business to define their niche markets.

In the wider sense, an infopreneur is an entrepreneur who main media is the World Wide Web and main source of profits are information products or services. Presently, more than 1 billion people around the globe are using the Internet. Online retailing has become a booming business. On 2005, the total online sales have reached US$89 billion. The rapid growth of Internet and the vast business opportunities that comes with it, has made many successful infopreneurs. These infopreneurs are able to tap on the Internet to reach out to the mass markets.

So How Can You Become An Infopreneur?

There are basically 3 ways to start you online business to be an Infopreneur.
1.Sell Your Own Products
2.Sell Other People Products
3.Provide An Online Service

1.Sell Your Own Products

Everyone is an expert or good at something. That expertise can generate tremendous income opportunities from information products.

To be a successful infopreneur, you need to think of things that you know alot that others do not know and are dying for them. This will be your niche market that is rabid market for you information products. The information products can be on your interest/hobbies, money, investing, debts, or even internet marketing to name a few. You can also search the web for buzz or things that recently generate a huge following. To create your own information products required a lot of work. If you do not have the time or little knowledge of product creation you can outsource your creation process to others and concentrate on the selling or marketing your information products.

2.Sell Other Peoples Products

Selling other peoples products means that you have to be an affiliate to the merchants/vendors or be a direct marketer of the information products. To be an affiliate means that you have to join the merchants program and direct your prospects to their product to make the sales. To be a direct marketer, you need to purchase information products with resale or master resale rights and sell them on your own website. Sometimes it is easier to sell a proven product then to create your own. These products would usually receive some publicity, proven that they really work and results in some sales.

3.Provide An Online Service

In this Information Age, the Internet is about saving time as well as saving money. Online Services provide people the ease of accessing certain information and flexibility to do things faster or might not be possible in real life. Such services include online chat/messenger services, search engines, online banking services, online stock trading services, membership site, etc. You no need to crack your head to think of some online services. A better way is to do a search in the search engines to sell what people are looking for and try to provide a service to compliment it.

Internet is an innovation that has enabled us to do a lot of things which are not possible previously. Our lifestyle and habits have undergo tremendous changes since its invention. On average, 3 out of 4 American adults surf the web regularly. With number of Internet users reaching more than 1 billion users and increasing rapidly every year, there are a lot of untapped blue oceans in Internet for us to harvests. So, its time to start to ride the wave of the Information Age to be an Infoprenuer.

original by Jason Chew

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January 27, 2009

Creating and Running a Business

This course covers the nuts and bolts of starting and managing a business, from crafting a business concept to analyzing market demand, developing a marketing strategy and establishing a legal entity, as well as key elements of financing, budgeting, operating and growing a business. In a workshop setting, students will
examine various types of arts-related and design businesses and the range of issues associated with each as well as key aspects of freelancing, building a business firm and growing a business operation.

This intensive entrepreneurship course is proposed by me.
The complete five-day intensive course can be attended on a day by day basis, since every day is dedicated to one major topic. Through a mixture of formal lectures, group exercises and homework, the students do not only learn about theoretical
concepts, they also obtain practical know-how and gain personal
experience.

Content:Morning: Project proposals; project organization; project control: indicators and tools
Afternoon: Intellectual property; patent portfolio; licensing;

value creation
Homework: One-page executive summary to obtain project funding

Information and registration
Date and place (dd.mm.yyyy)

This course is currently not scheduled

Duration 1 day

Fees General 580.00
Non-profit 390.00

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One-Person-Enterprises - Entrepreneurship-series-3

SOLOCOM. targeting for the needs of self-employed who work without employees.

It doesn’t matter if you have ‘a good degree’ or not. No one will care whether you have an HND, a PhD, a string of As at A-level or just one GCSE. Thomas Alva Edison, Juan Bosch and Sir Alan Sugar all achieved honours, recognition and business success without a degree. You only need qualifications if they are a prerequisite for running your business, for example, if you’re setting up as a dentist or consulting engineer. Otherwise, they’re not essential, although they may give you credibility.

The business world and academia require a different or complementary skillset for success. Strategic thinking and a broad range of skills are what counts. Research might only be carried out on a 'need to know' basis because the key factor is to get things done.

Have you got what it takes?
Could you be a risk taker? No business is risk free, so you need to judge the level of danger correctly and then be sufficiently well prepared to live with the consequences.
What is your response to uncertainty - do you find this exciting rather than worrying? Are you prepared for changing markets, competition, economic fluctuations?
Do you see change as a challenge? Can you minimize its downsides by careful thought and planning?
Are you opportunity aware? Given even half a chance do you take it? Better still, can you see it coming before anyone else does? Or are you too cautious or over-analytical?
How hard can you work? Being self-employed is not an easy option especially if you are working on your own. Results are often only produced by working long hours, doing routine tasks rather than high powered business deals.
Are you a realist? Can you gauge in practical terms what it’s possible to achieve or produce within a certain period? In business terms this translates into: being aware of limitations; striving for speed, efficiency and quality; pricing your output so that it appeals to clients but at the same time pays you a realistic wage. Are you able to visualise the product or service you are offering through your customers’ eyes?
How well organised are you? You’ll need to be an excellent time manager. If you don’t already possess this skill, it can be learned! How else will you juggle tasks, meet multiple deadlines, prioritise conflicting demands and cope with basic administration such as sending out invoices? No one is going to pay you unless you remind them.
Do you plan ahead? You need to do this to minimise uncertainties and maximise your chances of success. You may have enough work now but unless you inform more people about what you do, it may soon dry up.
Will you be able to network? It is essential to be able to market yourself and your business, often in social situations. Constantly putting yourself in a position to meet potential customers or contacts is a prerequisite.
Are you literate and numerate? What’s your relationship with computers? If you are not totally familiar with any of these functions you may have to pay other people to help with bidding for funds, doing the accounts and dealing with IT.
Do you possess commercial awareness? Do you know how to attract and retain customers, make a profit and corner a share of the market?
What’s your level of commitment? Do you believe in yourself and in your own business idea? Self-employment is not always a comfortable option or an easy alternative to finding regular work. Doubts or a half-hearted approach can be disastrous.
Are you self motivated? Running a business can sometimes be a lonely occupation. No one is going to motivate you other than yourself.
What does professionalism mean to you? Will you turn up to meetings on time, present a businesslike image, and do the necessary homework?

Here is also when knowing how to use technology, contacts and resources are great help.I will be having more on this.

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One-Person-Enterprises -series-2

Sideline entrepreneurship
Self-employment as side job option is to be disregarded issue in third world countries. Despite this it holds a lot of potential for individual self-realisaztion, job and social safeguarding as well as soft entry strategies into entrepreneurship. Self-employment has changed considerably in the last few years.
The popular notion of a businessperson - typically a man - at the peak of his career making use of years of workplace experience to launch his own enterprise and employ others no longer describes conditions for many. Self-employed labor is becoming increasingly diverse. The proportion of female workers in this category is
increasing. From 1990 to 1998, the number of self-employed women rose by more than 50%, from 591,000 to 891,000. In 1998, 13.7% of women in the labour market in Canada were self-employed, and more than 35% of self-employed people were women. The majority of these (59%) were between the ages of 20 and 45.

The types of work done by those who are self-employed are also changing. The vast majority of self-employed jobs created from 1990 to 1998 (75%) were non-incorporated businesses without paid employees. In 1998, 55% of self-employed jobs fell within this category, and more than three out of four self-employed women had a job of this type.

The quality of self-employment jobs can leave much to be desired. While self-employment can potentially result in a good job, a significant portion of the self-employed, particularly women without employees, are at the low end of the scale in the job market. In 1995, the before-tax average revenue of persons whose main source of income was self-employment was $30,800, or 91% of the average income of salaried employees. Those without employees earned even less, about 68% of the average income of salaried employees. Nearly half of the self-employed made less than $20,000

in 1995, while the proportion of salaried workers with similar low earnings stood at only 25%. Among the self-employed without employees, 55% earned less than $20,000. In addition, the gap between the earnings of men and women was greater among the self-employed than among other employees. For full-time work, self-employed women received 64% of the average revenue of self-employed men, compared to a figure of 73% among salaried employees.

what about investigating the possibility of entering into a partnership with a company that does business across Canada as Contractor or Employee? Do you know how important are credentials/education?

For information on other individual occupations, check out explore types of jobs. below some Self-employment common areas of work

Information technology
Home computers, small businesses who cannot afford full-time IT people and organisations which need to augment their computer staff for different projects present fantastic opportunities for those who want to be self-employed. Job roles include:

IT consultant;
IT trainer;
Web designer.
Opportunities for new graduates are reasonable, especially in web design/development and IT training, but less so in contracting.

The artsGraduates in fine art, craft, visual and design disciplines

sometimes become self-employed by choice, more often through necessity. Examples of jobs include:

Graphic designer;
Illustrator;
Printmaker;
Metalwork/silversmith designer.
Income from sales and commissions may not be enough to live off.

Many people take part-time jobs to support their practice.

Health and exercise
This category consists of:

practitioners who could stay within the National Health Service (NHS) (check NHS Careers) but prefer to work for themselves, all or part of the time;those outside the mainstream health service who combine part-time

NHS work and private referrals;
those providing complementary treatments;
those offering sports related therapies.
The range of jobs is wide, for example:

Dentist;
Counsellor;
Osteopath;
Podiatrist/chiropodist;
Sports therapist.
It can take time to build up a practice. Jobs covered by the Health Professions Council (HPC) usually require a year in the NHS before setting up on your own.

The mediaA significant number of those working in the broadcast and printed word industries are self-employed, freelance or on short term
contracts. It is common to have to ‘pitch’ for work. Job areas include:

Film/video editor;
Magazine journalist;
Make-up artist;
Runner, broadcasting/film/video;
Writer.
Talented graduates can progress rapidly in this area. For others, it is an uncertain process, accompanied by unpaid work, unemployment or under-employment.

The performing artsSelf-employment is the ‘norm’ for all performers and some technicians. They need to be pro-active, approaching venues or putting together ensembles. Examples of jobs include:

Actor;
Musician;
Theatre stage manager.
Luck and being in the right place at the right time can count as much as talent and hard work, but getting a foot on the ladder could be a lengthy process.

Business and the lawSelf-employed consultants provide expertise across a variety of

commercial services. Locum work (short-term cover for time-bound periods) is also possible. Job roles include:

Accountant - chartered accountant; chartered certified accountant;

chartered management accountant; chartered public finance

accountant;
Barrister;
Human resources officer;
Management consultant.
It is rare, but not unknown, to make an impact without a previous

professional background.

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One-Person-Enterprises -Part time self-employment-2

The great thing about becoming a "solopreneur" is that, in most cases, it doesn't require a big outlay of cash or a lot of overhead. In fact, most businesses can be started with just a computer and a telephone.

But while you don't need a lot of "stuff" to build your one-person business, there are a few must-haves if you want that business to thrive.

The top 5 of those "must-haves" include:

1. A Marketable Idea

Starting a business because it's what you want to do is fine, but just because you like doing something, doesn't make it a viable business idea. It's imperative that you do a little market research and make sure there is an audience that needs the services you plan to offer. Identify the problem you plan to solve for people, and make sure there are enough people with that problem to support your business. It's also a good idea to survey the competitive landscape and see who else is solving that same problem. With the Internet, you have an extremely valuable market research tool at your feet. Take the time before you start your business to use it.

2. A Passion for the Business

Starting and running your own solopreneur business is one of the most creative and rewarding endeavors you can undertake. However, it does require a significant investment of time and energy to get the business up and running. So be sure to start your business doing something you're passionate about; something you truly enjoy. Additionally, because solopreneurs have to wear many hats, it can be a bit draining at times. Having a passion for your business is what enables you to get through the challenges of start-up and grow a successful business.

3. A Powerful Reason Why

One of the worst reasons to start a business is to make money. That may sound like a crazy thing to say, after all, if you don't make money you really don't have a business, you have a hobby. But what I mean is that you better have some other reason you want to be a solopreneur. For me, it was because I wanted to be able have a career and spend plenty of time with my kids. When I faced challenges during the early years of my business, I knew the reason I was creating that business was so I could be there for my kids. I didn't want to have to go back to a corporate job and that was an extremely strong motivator for me.

4. A Willingness to Move Through Fear

If you want to live a safe, comfortable life, don't become a solopreneur. Choosing to become a solopreneur inevitably puts you into all kinds of situations you've never been in before. It challenges you to grow and stretch, and very often you have to do things that may scare you. It's important to recognize that being uncomfortable is just a part of your growth, and that your business can only grow to the degree that you do. Be willing to take calculated risks, try new things and step out into totally new areas and both you and your business will grow and prosper.

5. A Team

The name "solopreneur" is a bit of a misnomer. Every successful solopreneur I know is not creating that success "solo." While they may not have a staff, they have virtual or part-time support that makes it possible for them to focus their time doing only what they're good at. So while you may be the only person working directly with clients, you will want to outsource such tasks as bookkeeping (unless you are a bookkeeper), customer service, clerical and administrative tasks. Ideally, you should be spending your time on revenue-generating activities, such as serving your clients or creating new programs, and marketing, and outsource everything else. With the proliferation of virtual assistants, and ready access to inexpensive contract and freelance help through services such as Elance.com and Craigslist, there's no reason even a brand new solopreneur can't start outsourcing from the start.

By Debbie Lachusa

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One-Person-Enterprises - Entrepreneurship-series-1

1.Self employment. Focusing on support services for one-person-companies. I will be analysing existing support services for persons in self-employment without employees. This topic provides best pratice examples, closing with recommendations to enhance the support for specific target groups.

A Self Employment Program normally involves three phases of training and support: I: Business Plan Development, II: Start-up, and III: Business Operations. We'll be dealing with business operations.

As Self-employed or Running your own business means:

controlling the time, place, and manner of performing your activities
using your own equipment and tools
covering all operating costs
making a profit or incurring a loss (rather than receiving a salary).

You need to have two very important ingredients for a new business:
1. Confidence in an idea and a willingness to accept the hard work and long hours necessary for success.
2. You will need to do extensive research and information gathering.

I mean information on market research, business name and structure, preparing a business plan, financing, taxation, hiring employees, doing business on the Internet, legal requirements, special regulatory licenses for certain businesses, intellectual property certification, labour regulations and more.

Sources of Financing - sites or publications like an large directory of Canadian financial providers, a powerful search engine of financial providers, information on different types of financing and financial providers, and tips to help you secure financing.

Business operationsOngoing support and feedback as needed
- Assist implementing your action plan as described in your business plan
- Monitor progress through monthly reports submitted by you.
-Meeting your personal and professional objectives through group support, goal setting and personal accountability.

Network:Business associations
Community development corporations,financial institutions, educational institutions or seminars.

Education Seminars:

Take ongoing education seminars which provide with the opportunity for continued development and networking.

Resource Library:

Check library or bookstores which have resource materials in the form of books, videos and CD-ROMs.

Technology:
Go to a computer lab with a variety of word processing, spreadsheet, accounting, presentation and graphic design packages is available for participants use. Use a business incubator or Buy a computer.

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January 23, 2009

Sales strategies for entrepreneurs

No business is immune to a sales slump. Changing market conditions, sagging consumer confidence, unmotivated staff, and new competitive threats can all quickly turn stellar sales performance into a fast downward spiral. Small business owners and their sales teams today are facing intense competition for accounts, eroding margins, and longer sales cycles. What's a small business owner to do when sales start to take a dip? Here's 8 key sales strategies for small business experiencing a sales dip.

Strategy 1. Think big and audit your time. No matter the size of your business, place a mental image in your mind as if you are the largest and most successful person in your industry. How much time is consumed by routine office work someone else should be doing? Spend more time with more important tasks such as marketing strategies, improving customer relations, and implementing new strategies to expand your services.

Strategy 2. Be different and stand out from the competition. Jordan Furniture sells more furniture per square foot than any other furniture store in the nation. They transformed their family-owned business into a multi-million dollar corporation by following a principle called "shoppertainment." To surprise employees and customers, Barry and Eliot Tatleman dressed up like the Lone Ranger and Tonto and rode horses in their parking lot. They built an IMax theater inside one store to entertain children while their parents shopped. When you drive around the back to pick up your furniture they provide you free hotdogs and wash your car windows.

Strategy 3. Build relationships with your customers. For each month that goes by, customers lose 10% of their buying power. Create a customer database and contact them on a regular basis. Mail them a postcard, birthday card, sales flyer, newsletter etc. to keep your name, phone number, and service on their mind.

Strategy 4. Collect E-Mail Addresses. Get permission from your customers to use their E-mail address. Periodically send updates and notices to your client list. As long as you have their permission and avoid overuse, E-mail can be a powerful and inexpensive marketing tool.

Strategy 5. Hire top sales people. Successful businesses realize the quality of their sales staff is critical to sustaining their growth in the marketplace. A top salesperson can outsell an average one 4 to 1. Sales people must understand their strengths and have a well-defined plan to reach their potential. Many companies can provide you sales assessments to both identify top candidates and develop currently employed sales people.

Strategy 6. Put a shopping cart on your website. Online sales are still growing at a dramatic pace. This is coming from people who want to save time, avoid crowded stores, convenience, and the ability to shop outside of store hours. Just consider E-Bay for example, which generates millions of dollars of sales each year. It does not cost anything to set up an account on E-Bay, and you pay a proportion based on the cost of the item you are trying to sell. If you don't want to use E-bay, consider using your own shopping cart system on your website.

Strategy 7. Pay-per-click advertising. Many business owners are finding classified advertising is not an effective use of their marketing dollars. Others are finding pay-per-click advertising is an easier and cheaper way to reach a larger market. Pay-per-click will insure you receive top visibility on websites driving more customers to your door. Advertisers bid on keywords and the more popular the keyword, the more expensive each click is. Prices vary between ten cents to many dollars depending on the popularity of the word. The most popular pay-per-click advertisers are Google, Business.com, and Yahoo.

Strategy 8. Use customer service commandments to create good habits. Bates Ace Hardware store located in Atlanta created "Twenty Customer Service Commandments" modeled after the Ritz-Carlton hotels outlining specific behaviors employees are to demonstrate when dealing with customers and fellow employees. For example, "Accompany a customer to the correct aisle instead of pointing to another area of the store." They print the commandments on a small card and employees carry it with them at work.

original by Greg Smith

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January 20, 2009

Your own unique career path

Most of us joined the entrepreneurial movement. of technology consulting with the notion that once we are a our own small business owner, we are free of the perils put upon us by ‘regular’ employment. Finally you get to be our own boss, make your own decisions and no one gets to tell you what to do anymore!. Little does it cross our minds, that in reality we now have multiple employers with diverse needs, and we now have to become more employable then ever.

One that has mastered the skill of continuously reinventing and making himself re-employable is Small Business Server (SBS) Most Valuable Professional (MVP), Jeff Middleton from where I'm subscribe to his marketing email list. Middleton has long contributed with his word and deeds to the small business partner community where his long-time focus on the SBS product and serving real customers, grew into mastering SBS migrations. His professional knowledge base was effectively enhanced last year when hurricane Katrina visited his hometown, shifting his technical professional focus towards disaster recovery. “Sure” you’ll say, “that is a no-brainer” – the market for disaster recovery must be flourishing along the coast of Louisiana. The question I pose here is does it really require a disaster for one to change his mind and head of into other directions? What does it take and how many times do people reinvent themselves on their own? And why should one make conscious changes in their professional path by adding a skill set or two – without the help of hurricane Katrina?

The road more or less traveled
Having started out his professional career in Industrial Engineering working only jobs that matched his background Middleton realized that he’d prefer to follow his own unique career path. Besides this realization, he also learned that schooling in a specific trade does not equal guaranteed employment. Catapulted into the wild by an unexpected layoff, Middleton found himself hiring in at a computer retail store at the mall in the mid 80’s.

SIDEBAR: “The state of Louisiana …has historically been ranked in the bottom 10% of US states for technical investments and purchasing technology” according to Middleton. This equates to about the worst place to consider starting up an IT consulting business.

The industrial engineer bit the bullet and became an AutoCAD sales person for the mall retail store. He was determined enough to know that he would eventually start his own business to consider his employ a stepping stone. Less than two years later he took his knowledge learned during the mall store tenure and opened a regional office for AutoDesk in New Orleans. After managing the store for two years and a flat economy, Middleton had to call it quits. During his work with AutoDesk, he had however become familiar with a specific videographics product. Needless to say, the entrepreneuring Middleton became a dealer for the videographic product shortly thereafter, finally getting to implement his very own business plan. This was the start of a profitable career, and since then Jeff continued to reinvent himself every three to five years adjusting to market demands, knowing he has a career worth doing.

Lessons Learned
Did Middleton start his own business right out of school? (No!)
Did Middleton become an instant success? (No!)
Did Middleton learn new skills continuously? (Yes!)

Looking back at Middleton’s career path, we see the step-by-step progression he made. He had learned how to run a business bit by bit and gained valuable skills along the way before he headed out on his own. He had left school with theory (engineering degree), practiced his profession (implementation of theory), learned to sell to business owners (AutoCAD), sharpened his professionalism (running regional office) and finally followed his gut feelings! (starting own business).

Soul Searching
Regardless of what profession you find yourself in today, have you always been there? My guess is that your career path has changed throughout your current lifetime. So why does one focus so much on becoming an expert at an explicit profession? Shouldn’t technician-turned-SMB consultants be out there acquiring business skills on top of their technical skills, elevating them into even more valuable and more employable consultant?

The one-track mind
In order to be employable you will have to be able to break out of the one-track mind set. By stating “I am the best there is at Small Business Server and CRM” (for example).to a potential client essentially says that you don’t know about finances or sales and marketing. (And how much do you know about that?). A business owner would like to know that the consultant understands the all-around business and its challenges, and not just a part of it. Your strategy should consider including diversifying yourself towards different career orientation. Middleton learned this lesson throughout his career, by accepting the changes and embracing the new opportunities offered to him. He had first tried to stay in the engineering type jobs until he was forced to move on. He soon realized that he could build on his gained knowledge and continued to expand his horizon and business skill. Finally, his strategy of not focusing on one career path alone, carried over into his business.

The business split personality
A common business strategy is to have portfolio diversification to enhance your earnings potential and your professional rewards (that is, not getting bored). You can even do this while having one or more technical niches (having more than one niche is itself a form of diversification). Middleton accomplishes this by taking a three pillar approach. First, he has his “bread and butter” SBS customers who he has strong loyalties to and enjoys serving as the consultant. Second, he serves the small business consulting community fulfilling his need as an entrepreneur, through sales, marketing and support of his own developed SBS migration kit. Finally, he got these pillars of income to support his third personality which is community volunteerism. Jeff found a way to have his business operations spin off enough financial rewards so that he could deepen his community involvement.

My advice, based on this storyline? Combine the skills you have acquired over the years and involve them towards success as a Small Business Specialist at the “day-to-day” level. Using this as a path towards supporting your additional professional interests, will give you a viewpoint that keeps you fresh, recharged and most importantly, give you the benefit of looking at your business endeavors with a new perspective.

Wisdom and Expertise
No doubt, Middleton’s business model clearly is based on his expertise. But recognize that he did not build his business on his excellent Small Business Server knowledge alone. The combination of being an engineer, a sales and marketing rep, a business manager and entrepreneur make him the good business person he is today.

Middleton’s path can be emulated and you don’t have to be analytically gifted or know how to sell a superior skill set. Everyone has their own experiences, gifts and talents that can be applied as their “personal style” to their business strategy. I am not saying to copy Middleton, the point is, the boot should fit you, so why even try putting on someone else’s boots?

A Though Leader Validates Business Balance
Having watched Jeff as a fellow small business technology professional for the past several years, I can attest that Jeff has sharpened his professionalism. Here are my observations. Jeff remains deeply committed to richest and most complex technical issues of the day surrounding Windows Small Business Server. But in the past few years, he has firmly affixed his business hat atop his head so that he can rightful earn the economic awards he deserves plus serve as a technology (geek)\business role model to the small business technology community.

Jeff has proven himself conversant in both techno-speak and business-speak. It’s a balance I feel should be achieved by successful technology consultants and especially Small Business Specialists everywhere!

And that is what I call employable!

By Beatrice Mulzer and Harry Brelsford

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Changing Careers

For many people figuring out what their purpose in life is and how to find their dream career, sometimes takes a lifetime. Setting goals and just believing do not always work for everyone, which is why it is important to know who you are first as well as where you want to be in life down the road when you are trying to find out how to find your dream career. I truly believe that every human being has a purpose on earth. For some it may be becoming a superstar athlete or a science teacher at a local high school or even an entrepreneur creating new ideas to change the world, and here is important information you should know about how to find your dream career...

But being in the wrong career is a recession by itself as it can affect your emotional and financial well being. The economic recession is a part of life which is unfortunately inevitable. Therefore both of them together make it a double recession. This is a good guiding article but if my view, the career coaches should try to influence the students and explain to them the adverse implications of being in the wrong career in the first place. Prevention is better than cure and career transition is far from easy. Make your passion your profession-

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Small business growth strategies

Looking for a business growth strategy that will take you to the next level? Here are four growth strategies you ought to consider

Growth isn't just a priority – it's a necessity for your small business.
(article continues below)

But growing a company takes a lot more than good intentions. You need a plan. With dozens of strategies to choose from, here are four that could put your company on the fast track to growth.

Diversification (New Products/New Market)
Diversification is a high-risk growth strategy, largely because both the products and the market are unproven territory for the entrepreneur. Though trailblazing emerging products and markets can be exhilarating, it can also be terrifying given the fact that neither you nor anyone else can rely on prior experience for reassurance. But if innovation is one of your company's defining characteristics, a diversification strategy will eventually become second nature. To achieve growth, you will need to be realistic about the risks you face and crystal clear about what you hope to achieve.

Market Development (Existing Products/New Market)
A more common scenario is one in which a small business owner attempts to develop a new market for their existing products and services. The new market can be geographical (e.g. foreign export) or an untapped segment of a domestic market. It's even possible to develop a new market for existing products by adjusting the product's packaging or expanding the product's distribution channels. In any event, a market development growth strategy requires a working knowledge of existing markets and the ability to gaps in the marketplace that can be exploited to your advantage. If your marketing skills are not up to the task, you will need the assistance of a skilled marketing professional to achieve growth in your new market.

Product Development (New Products/Existing Market)
A growth strategy based on product development is the mirror image of a market development strategy. Instead of pioneering a new market with existing products, you attempt to roll out a new product(s) in a market with which you are already familiar. Many small business owners are more comfortable working in this kind of scenario because they already possess an awareness of prevailing market conditions. However, a product development strategy can be just as challenging as a market development strategy because it often requires the business to develop new abilities and continuously adapt the products until they achieve marketplace success.

Market Penetration (Existing Products/Existing Markets)
Businesses that find themselves in a situation that involves neither new markets nor new products are forced to grow through a market penetration strategy, a strategy that is designed to give the business a greater percentage of market share. This type of strategy usually seeks to gain a competitive edge through pricing, marketing, or other initiatives. Additionally, market penetration can be achieved by increasing customer usage through loyalty programs and incentives targeting your existing customer base.

from Goebler Resources for Entrepreneurs.

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Tips on Being A Successful Entrepreneur

Greetings, Small Business Owners...
Learning more about technology can free you up from the drudgery of administrative tasks and allow you to focus on bringing in revenue to your business and serving your customers.

I hope you find everything you need to help you use technology to your fullest advantage.

I have been my own “boss” most of my life. It is such a privilege to set my own work schedule, to discern whom it is I work with and for, and when I work. To work independently has also been my greatest challenge, for in the freedom that self-employment brings, there are also potential pitfalls. At times my office has been in my home. The worse case scenario was a desk in the corner of the kids’room. Terrible! Other times it has been in a more professional setting, my favorite being in the den of a downtown house that had been beautifully transformed into offices.

The convenience of having my office in my home was wonderful, yet, I must admit, I haven’t always fared well with balancing home and work responsibilities. With the playroom/laundry room office, it was just too tempting to forego making business calls for throwing in a load of laundry, or sitting on the floor to do a puzzle with one of my kids.

The office away from home had its disadvantages, too. For one, the kids loved to go to “mom’s office.” I didn’t always get a lot of work done when this was the case. They would bring their favorite toys, playing patiently while waiting for the special time we’d spread a picnic blanket on the floor and have our lunch together. I even bought big pillows so my youngest could nap there when needed.

What I learned by being self-employed and having to maintain an office in a variety of settings was invaluable. These learning’s have definitely contributed to my earning power as a writer and public speaker. Here are a few of them for your consideration. Here’s to your success!

1. Set specific office hours.
It’s truly tempting to throw schedules to the wind and fly by the seat of your pants, putting in office hours here and there, when you are self-employed. To stay on track with your business goals, select specific days and times when you will be at your desk. My creativity is highest in the morning so it has been best for me to claim that time as office time. Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. worked for me, and fit in well with my children’s school schedules. Determine your high energy times and build a workable (but flexible) schedule around them.

2. Take at least half a day a week for self-organization.
Despite the fact that you may work alone, it’s amazing how much mess one person can create! Stay on top of filing and take time each week to organize. Mile high stacks of paper can overwhelm and de-energize you. Clutter can also be a source of great stress; frustration grows when you can’t put your hands on what you need immediately. It helps me to keep the current “hot” files in a decorative holder right on my desk so I can access them quickly and easily.

3. Make your office a “feel good” place.
Even if you are operating your office on a shoestring budget, you can still decorate to give it ambience. Your desktop can be the ideal place to showcase a few special items that help you feel good. Right now, a small shamrock plant (for good luck), two pictures of my children, a small votive candleholder that boasts “Peace,” and an inspirational card someone sent grace my desktop. Minimalist decorating, to be sure, but it makes my desk a more enjoyable place to be. Select pictures and objects for shelves and walls that speak to you of motivation, fun, success—items that convey a message that says, “Yes, going to work is a good thing!”

4. Make time for daily self-motivation.
When you work alone, it is easy to become discouraged or uninspired. With no one but you around to keep the creative juices flowing, it can take some doing to raise the energy level from procrastinate to productive. Take time, either first thing in the morning or at a mid-morning coffee break to get back in touch with your goals and dreams. Read inspirational literature, listen to a motivational program on your ipod, or simply take quiet time to reflect or meditate. Listen to soothing music. Burn a candle or incense to release any tension that might be accumulating. Go outside for a brisk, five-minute walk. These are simple, but powerful, strategies for re-centering.

One of my personal favorites for quick and easy inspiration is to peruse the self-help classic, As a Man Thinketh, by James Allen. (There is also an updated, woman-friendly version titled, As a Woman Thinketh by Dorothy Hulst.) This little book reminds me that, “A woman is literally what she thinks—her character being the complete sum of all her thoughts.” I know that, as a self-employed person, if my spirit dives, my business will also, and that is something I do not want to make manifest.

5. Reward yourself—regularly!
When self-employment is the name of the game it is oh, so tempting to work around the clock, including evenings and weekends. We’ve all heard the adage: All work and no play makes Jill a dull girl. It’s true. Work and play must go hand in hand for a well-balanced life. I advocate rewarding yourself for a week “well worked.” Choose an activity that nurtures you and gift it to yourself at the end of the week, along with a hearty pat on the back for maintaining the discipline and courage that’s required to be your own boss. Treat yourself and enjoy it! Regular rewards keep your energy level high and your motivation strong so you can continue to move toward your career goals and create the life of your dreams.

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January 16, 2009

The Best Way To Beat Recession: Take control of your life

Why Starting a conventional business Is more difficult?

The fear of failure and fear of criticism are holding people from starting a business. The following factors of the conventional business contribute to the fear psychosis.

Starting a conventional business needs huge investment
Area of operation plays an important role
You need a good and on demand product to sell
Tough competition and Government regulations affect your business
You have to toil for 12 to 15 hours daily
You need expertise.
And the last, but not the least, the risk factor is always there.
The Advantages Of An Online Business

On the other hand the online business is easy to start and you can start it with a minimal investment and no risk factor is involved. The only thing on which you have to be strong enough is that, you have to make it a success.

You can start selling affiliate products and there is no compulsion to have your own product.
You can do your online business with or without a website. But having your own website will have a world of difference and owning a website won't cost you much.
Requires minimal investment for your advertising campaign
You can do it part time until you reach a financial stage to go full time
You can choose your own time and pace
Need not compromise your present source of income and there is no risk
You can put your online business on auto-pilot mode, thus saving a lot of time and energy
The Best Options Available To Start Your Online Business

People don't understand that starting a business is as simple as that, in today's internet world. You need not be a technical savvy to start your online business. You can start your online business and side by side you can learn a lot from various free online sources. The only qualification you need is the initiative. Starting your business after learning everything is impossible and you will never start your business. Success is doing your work consistently, together with a learning process.

Author:
Every successful people had done the basics of success, to achieve their feat. To be a successful person, you have to do what it takes to be there. Throw away the fear of failure and fear of criticism and remember that every successor had crossed that hurdle.Start soon without further procrastination. Convert your spare time into a productive time. I'm available to help

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Home-Based Jobs for Canadians with Disabilities

People with disabilities face specific challenges during the job search process. The information in this guide will highlight Self Employment ideas.

Transcribe Audio to Text
Speeches, lectures, television and radio programs and interviews must be converted to text that's delivered in a timely and accurate way. If you possess exceptional English language and grammar skills and you're an experienced typist with a speed of at least 75 words per minute, you could transcribe audio to text. Some businesses may require you to take a transcription test before offering you opportunities to work. Most assignments are handled on a freelance basis. Sites to explore include ProductionTranscripts.com, ModernDayScribe.com, TigerFish.com and AliceDarling.com. Find others by searching online.


Talk Tech

If you're an experienced information technology professional and you enjoy problem-solving and quality customer service, you may be able to work from home providing tech support via phone, online and in person to customers nationwide.

As an independent contractor or employee (this varies per company), you'd work from your own home office, set your own hours, and service clients in your area. ComputerAssistant.com, GeeksOnTime.com, PlumChoice.com, SupportFreaks.com are some of the companies to explore

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Freelance-gigs III

Telemarketing-Cold-calling campaigner
Many companies and organizations outsource their cold-calling campaigns to third parties. Those third parties hire full-time and temporary workers -- many of whom work from home -- to place those calls with specific goals in mind.

You may be required to persuade contacts to book an appointment, commit to making a donation, or agree to try a product or service. Your calls could also be focused on debt collection.

Typically you'll receive an hourly base pay, plus performance-based commission. While some training is provided, applicants are expected to have some high-quality customer-service and/or cold-calling experience.

Internet Live guide
Learn how you can make $5 to $10 per hour, which can be paid to you via debit card or direct deposit.Use your subject-area expertise to make money assisting others who are in need of that knowledge. for instant Chacha.com is a new search engine that is similar to Yahoo or Google, but users have the ability to request the free help of a live guide. That live guide is sitting at home making money while he or she assists with the online search

About.com offers qualified applicants the opportunity to become guides if they have proven expertise in a topic area. As a guide, you're responsible for publishing a full-length article every 14 days and you must update your blog at least three times per week. Anyone can apply, but you must pass a 17-day self-guided online training program to familiarize yourself with About's tools and demonstrate your knowledge of the process.

Successful guides never make less than $500 per month, according to About.com, and some guides can earn upwards of $100,000 a year for popular, high-trafficked sections. Visit the getting started guide on About.com for details.

On JustAnswer.com, users agree to pay for experts to answer their questions. If you have an expertise -- from gardening to genealogy -- you can agree to answer questions for a price. The site then pays you based on accepted answers.

Online Tutor

If you have expertise in English, math, science or social studies, you could make money as an online tutor.

You must be able to convey key information to students of all ages -- generally fourth grade through college level -- in an online environment. That means teaching mathematical formulas and chemistry equations to a kid through cyberspace, rather than face-to-face instruction.

Visit www.tutor.com to learn how you can make $10 an hour or more working five hours to 30 hours a week from home. To find other online tutoring opportunities, or to learn how to start your own online tutoring business, do a Google search using the keywords "online tutor" and research dozens of options based on your availability and subject-area expertise.

Writer or Editor

A handful of Web sites pay for articles, but unless they're commissioning your original work, you won't make big bucks. Associatedcontent.com pays around $10 per approved/published piece. Helium.com is another option that rewards prolific writers, and both sites are a good way to build an online portfolio of published work while making some money at the same time.

Myessays.com allows essay writers to sell their original work starting at $10 for a short paper, and up to more than $100 for comprehensive work. Writerfind.com lists a range of freelance opportunities for experienced writers to pursue on their own.

Another option is freelance writing for magazines, trade publications, newsletters or local newspapers. If you've developed a specialty or have a particular interest in a single topic -- film, fashion, food, travel -- many Web sites and small publications work only with freelancers and regularly look for writers to do reviews on products or new releases, ranging in topic from electronics to beauty.

Contact the editors of the publications you'd like to work for. (Their names and contact information can typically be found on the masthead or Web site.) Ask for their writers guidelines and be ready to submit samples of your work. (This is also where links to your work from the two sites listed above can come in handy.) We hire freelance writers for our company's magazine, which is published three times a year. All of them have come to us unsolicited with their writing samples and story suggestions.

Compensation varies based on your experience. Novices might have to accept free products or press passes for their work. Experienced writers can expect to make anywhere from fifty cents to $2 per word. For multiple articles, you might settle on a flat rate.

Apply for freelance work on sites such as Cyberedit.com, which hires professional writers for a range of projects including resume writing and document proofing. Editfast.com also hires experienced editors, writers and proofreaders.

Freelance translator


If you are a native speaker of a foreign language, then becoming a freelance translator could be a great opportunity. This is another business you can start on your own if you have the skills and are able to network effectively to land a client. A major corporate client can keep you busy full-time and smaller businesses would likely offer project work here and there. Several companies need documentation translated for international partners and hire freelance translators through companies like Welocalize, Language Translation, Inc. , Accurapid.com, Telelanguage.com, Sdl.com.

Most companies require applicants to take a written test and sign a non-disclosure agreement. Precision and accuracy is a must. Companies who hire freelance translators prefer candidates who are native speakers of the target language, have experience with professional documents, software or multimedia translations, and are members of a professional translation association. The most in-demand services include translation from English to Spanish,English to French, English to Chinese some German, Russian and Italian.

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Freelance gigs- Part II

Mystery ShoppingGet paid to shop and eat at great restaurants, and then report back to the corporate headquarters on the level of service and cleanliness to help improve the experience for future customers. There are opportunities to earn small amounts of money -- and get free products and services -- here and there, depending on where you live.

Nurses on CallRegistered nurses who don't want to work in traditional hospital settings or doctors' offices -- or who want to supplement their income -- can put their knowledge to work at home. Some companies, hire nurses to provide phone-based triage and advice to callers requesting information on medical conditions and reactions to medication.

Home-based nurses can also provide sound advice to patients on disease management and health care options so they're armed with information to make the best decisions about their care.

Home-based independent Sales Operator
There are companies hiring home-based independent contractors to serve as live operators to verify calls for telephone companies and other service industries focused on combating sales fraud. Those calls are recorded for quality assurance and compliance purposes. Another set of home-based workers listen to Web-based files to review the calls for accuracy.

Carefully read the frequently asked questions page on the career section of the site so you're familiar with the application, training and hiring process before applying.

Medical Coding and Transcription
If you're interested in starting your own coding or transcription business, begin with medical offices in your area. Ask the doctors you know how they handle such tasks and offer to provide your services. As with any new business, expect to get many rejections before you finally get a yes. Then remember, if you can get one yes, you can get two, then four and so on.

Direct Sales
It's not just Avon, Mary Kay and Tupperware anymore. There are thousands of exciting opportunities to make extra money through in-person and online direct sales. More than 14 million people now work as independent contractors doing just that.

Select a company that best mirrors your own passion and interest, since there's a greater likelihood that you'll be able to sell products to which you can relate. Are you into health and wellness? Try Trivita. I can help you with that as I'm myself a representative.

Virtual Publicist
You should also consider starting your own virtual PR firm. If you're experienced in promotions, event planning, writing, pitching, media contact management, crisis communications or strategic planning, there's a good chance your services are in demand.

Without expensive office overhead, you can offer competitive prices while making a hefty profit. Create a Web site that promotes your abilities, and start spreading the word. Since you're in PR, you no doubt know how to toot your own horn.

Virtual Assistant
You should also consider starting a similar business on your own. Be your own boss, set your own hours, and acquire clients through self-promotion and marketing. Networking and referrals are your best bets for landing clients

Oftentimes small business owners and mid- to executive-level professionals need a personal assistant but cannot afford to hire one on a full-time basis or simply don't have the space in their offices. Therefore, they hire people from remote locations to do their administrative work for them.

Virtual assistants can handle bookkeeping, administrative duties, travel arrangements, transcription and correspondence, and other support services that can be done remotely via e-mail and phone.

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freelance to full-time gigs- Part I

Don't limit yourself solely to responding to advertised openings. Sometimes the best way to land a home-based job is by calling someone you'd like to work for and offering your services.

Virtual Customer-service Agent
Set your own hours and pick an account that's ideally suited to your knowledge and interests. In addition to having a pleasant voice and strong customer-service skills, you must have high-speed Internet access, a computer, a landline, and a quiet place to work -- all of which you pay for on your own.

Expect to make an average of between $8 and $15 an hour depending on your experience, call volume and accounts. Be prepared to work a minimum of 20 hours per week, although some agents work 40 hours to 60 hours when their schedule permits. Search among the companies that hire inbound and outbound agents.


Create Your Own Product Line
Ever dream of seeing your slogans and artwork on T-shirts, mugs or hats? You can turn that dream into reality -- and into cash -- without investing even a penny in expensive start-up costs like equipment and stock.Submit your original ideas and art online to Web sites like zazzle.com, cafepress.com and others, and you'll receive commission on all sales generated with your designs.

Online Juror:
US Sites including eJury.com, OnlineVerdict.com, and TrialPractice.com pay nominal fees to home-based e-jurors, ranging from $10 to $60, depending on the length of the e-trial. Research all of the sites and read the requirements before signing on to serve.

Mobile Advertiser.
You can make money by driving your normal route while allowing your car to feature advertisements.

Specially created decals are provided to drivers to affix to the back window. Depending on your location and the amount of driving you do -- usually a minimum of 1,000 miles a month is required -- you can earn $50 to $150 a month by "renting out" this space on your car. You can make even more money -- up to $500 a month -- by allowing your car to be fully wrapped with an advertiser's images and message.

Search online using keywords "car wrap advertising" to locate opportunities nationwide. Don't be shy about calling around to compare rates and advertising opportunities to find the best fit for you. Never settle on the first company you find since there could be a more lucrative option available to you.

Professional Concierge Agent

Because concierge services are growing in popularity as a benefit for businesses of all sizes, consider starting your own service. Contact employers in your area about offering services of convenience to their staffers. Do you think you have what it takes to handle phone, e-mail and online customer inquiries for services that range from making dinner suggestions and reservations to planning a vacation for busy professionals? You need have experience in high-end customer service, travel and/or hospitality.

What if the caller asked you to locate the dress Julia Roberts wore in "Ocean's Eleven," rent monkeys for a birthday party, or help write a speech for a best man? Those are some of the common and quirky requests asked of home-based concierge agents.

If you start such business during the busy holiday season -- and throughout the year -- employees are often distracted by personal needs. You can help busy parents save time by researching day care, planning birthday parties, and scheduling doctor's appointments for their kids.

A doctor's office might require its staff to work long hours to accommodate patient needs. Employee absenteeism can cause a disruption or slow down in services. It may be more beneficial for the medical practice to pay an outsider like you to handle errands and special chores for a nurse than to give that nurse a day off. This same theory applies to companies where staffers work long hours or are required to travel regularly.

Culinary Consultant
Chef consultants must excel at cooking, teaching and customer service, and must be available to take calls for a minimum of eight hours per week during afternoon and evening hours. A culinary degree is preferred, but not required. A specialty in regional cuisine is desirable, such as African, Latin American, Middle Eastern or French, among others. Compensation ranges from $7.50 to $30 an hour, depending on expertise.

There are also other options in this arena. Local companies hire dietitians and nutritionists to handle customer and client calls from home. Call gyms and diet centers in your area to offer your services if you're knowledgeable and experienced in this line of work.

If you've got a strong entrepreneurial spirit, you can also offer to plan and execute cooking demonstrations in supermarkets, gourmet shops or private homes. Or find clients who'll allow you to plan their meals, shop for groceries, and prepare dinner. Time-strapped individuals often dream of having an affordable personal chef instead of relying on frozen dinners and takeout.

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Working From Home

Working at home provides one with a unique sense of independence, but also comes with a massive amount of responsibility. Missed a deadline? You’re to blame. Overextended your business finances? You again. And that boss of yours? Sometimes, she can be a real pain! Navigating the unique dance that is working at home has taught me quite a few things about life.

Starting your own business it can be a huge challenge, often involving long hours and big decisions. As you switch gears to self-employment, you may to check for tips want to re-evaluate your insurance needs to ensure you have the right coverage for your new venture.

Tips

Make a business Plann for your Home Business
This section helps you learn about get rich quick schemes and avoiding home work scams. It also steps you through self evaluations to help you decide if you're really ready to work from home, and what your best skills are.

Setting Up Your Home Office
It's always good to get prepared before you begin your new project. Learn what the basic supplies you need for your office area, and set things up to be ergonomic so you don't injure yourself. Understand the laws and regulations involved, consider whether you want to be a Sole Proprietor or a DBA. Get ideas for health and dental insurance. There are even computer and laptop reviews.

Names, Logos and Words
It's important to protect your valuable assets. Make sure that you take the time to design a logo that will stand out and get you recognition. Then make a concerted effort to trademark, servicemark or register that logo and name you have chosen. It is often quick and inexpensive to do this on a state level. Finally, be sure to copyright any content you create.

Finances and Accounting
Even if you are bored with the thought of accounting, it is critical that you do it properly. If you do it with a computer program and update it each month, it can be really quick and easy. Most banks are online in these modern times, so all you do is hit "download" and then "accept". It makes your taxes very easy, and helps ensure that you focus on your most promising income streams.

Tax Issues
Many people fear taxes, but the IRS has really done a good job of making the tax paperwork for a small business quite simple. Normally, all you do is attach a Schedule C form to your regular 1040 tax filing. Read on for advice on keeping records, handling deductions, contractors, 1099s, and quarterly estimates.

Marketing and Networking
If you want to have sales and customers, you need to make sure your potential customers know about you. It's critical that you spend time every month on marketing and networking, so that your company keeps a steady revenue stream.

Promotional Items
I've tried many promotional items over the years, large and small, to help promote my various businesses. Here are reviews of specific items and companies I have used.


Major Benefits:

Since I opened my freelance business, I haven’t missed a doctor’s appointment, play date, or mealtime with my family. That’s priceless!

Freedom and SimplicityAs I juggle the unique balance of productivity and sleep deprivation that is inevitable as a full time blogger and mother of three kids, two under three, and one six. I’ve learned that the freedom I enjoy comes with a price tag. For now, freelancing means that we’re always on a budget. We’re not starving artists, but we don’t live on easy street, either. It's good that I've chose since singlehood to live a simpler life, and now in turn, to cut corners fiscally to finance it comes natural. We spend time instead of money whenever possible, and our family is stronger for it. Some refer to this movement as voluntary simplicity, but to us, it’s just life.

Independence and SpiritI hope that my kids will learn from me that it is possible to make your unique situation work for you. I was never able to make working outside the home work for my family, so I decided to do something completely different. Whatever your issues, it’s possible to make your lifestyle into one that you’ll enjoy. By choosing to work at home, I invite them into my world and allow them to see the day to day functions of running a business. Sometimes that means my keyboard is sticky, my to do list is decorated with crayons, or that I have to work and sometimes nurse at the same time. But I get to spend these longer time with them, and that makes it all worthwhile.

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January 09, 2009

Diversity and cross Cultural consulting

As the world continues to evolve as a global economy the ramifications of this growing interdependence must be considered.

The MISSION of Hineni Media & Communications is: To facilitate mutual understanding and effective communication between people from diverse cultural backgrounds in order to establish successful (business) relationships through customized training, consulting and coaching.

The purpose of Hineni Media & Communications is to bridge the cultural gaps, disconnects and misunderstandings which often can and do affect successful communication between people. Cross-cultural or intercultural coaching can take the form of training or consulting which provide the framework to build the skills, tools and knowledge to live and/or work in today’s international business climate.

The Benefits of preparing and assisting companies, their employees and families are:
Increased understanding and engaged intercultural competency

Greater insights into ones own cultural reference points

Improved communication skills

Reduced stress in coping with international environments

Acquired skills in identifying the “drivers” of international business relationships

Development of a “global” mindset

Improved integration into diverse cultural environments

Realistic expectations

Reduced failed international assignments.

Hineni Media & Communications maintains a network of intercultural specialists throughout Canada and globe, who actively contribute to the development of these intercultural competencies through the following services to:

Entrepreneurs, Managers and Business Travelers

Connecting across borders
Effective negotiations with
American,French and Spanish speaking people,
and other global business partners
Successfully working in cross-cultural teams
Identifying key partners and customers
Establishing representative/liaison offices
Coordinating business dealings to maximize profit
Translating company materials into English,French
Overseeing projects and ongoing follow-up consultation

Expatriates, Newcomers and Immigrants

Fit for Abroad
Fit for Canada (Awareness in Canadian workplace culture)
Successfully working in Canada (Steps to find and keep a job in Canada)

Employers and HR professionals:
Cross-cultural communication and the hiring process
Cross-cultural competence

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Cross Cultural Consulting Services

Cross-Cultural Communication is designed to help participants communicate effectively across cultures. In international business, misreading non-verbal cues like physical space and eye contact, sense of time, decision-making style or values and assumptions can lead to embarrassing mishaps (at best) or the breakdown of a business relationship (at worst).
Our program will help you:

Improve intercultural communication skills
Develop strategies to ensure more effective business results
Identify cultural assumptions and values
Understand communication styles
Manage conflicts
Negotiate across cultures
Identify cultural differences in the workplace
Build effective relationships
Understand stereotypes and perceptions
Understand non-verbal communication
Connecting across borders
Effective negotiations with
American,French and Spanish speaking people,
and other global business partners
Successfully working in cross-cultural teams
Identifying key partners and customers
Establishing representative/liaison offices
Coordinating business dealings to maximize profit
Translating company materials into English,French
Overseeing projects and ongoing follow-up consultation

Benefits

Those working as part of or manage an intercultural team
Those embarking on an international assignment
Those serving as a liaison with overseas clients or suppliers
at Hineni Media We offer individually designed workshops and seminars may be customized to suit specific needs. One-on-One Coaching sessions can be arranged on any specific topic.

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Cross Cultural Training

Cross-cultural training seminars are designed to teach how to understand and relate to people from foreign cultures. There you learn about high context and low context cultures, sub-cultures, and co-cultures, the seven dimensions of culture, and increasing intercultural business competency. One year later, happily settled in any given country, you can look back favorably on your own cross-cultural training and try to remember what you learned.


Cross-cultural and intercultural training, a marginal idea 30 years ago, has boomed into mainstream acceptance in the past 10 years with international businesses tapping into a large and sometimes expensive array of cross and intercultural training programs for their outgoing expat employees.

Supporters of cross-cultural training, and there are many, say that it eases the stresses of relocation, wards off culture shock and smoothes cross-cultural business relations.

But even some intercultural professionals warn that the field is still unregulated and that trainers come from a wide variety of backgrounds. There are also those who question whether expats can really learn to communicate effectively with people of other cultures in one day.

Done well, expats say, cross-cultural training makes their moves easier, especially when it focuses on practical information about their host country. Done poorly, they add, it's a waste of money and time.

The study of global differences, once the province of social scientists and anthropologists, has made increasing inroads into the business community. According to the 2001 Global Relocation Trends Survey by GMAC Global Relocation Services, National Foreign Trade Council and SHRM Global Forum, 69 percent of the 150 companies that responded offered cultural training for their outbound employees, up 10 percent in one year and almost 50 percent in 20 years.

International human resource managers are now deluged with materials advertising cross-cultural training seminars, videotapes, CDs, workbooks and Web sites. The number of vendors is estimated at more than a thousand worldwide, ranging from housewives with a few years experience abroad to academics with doctorates in "intercultural studies." In recent years, big companies like Berlitz and Prudential have added intercultural service divisions.

Fortune 500 companies now routinely purchase one- or two-day seminars at a typical cost of around $5,000 for an expat family. Some highly sought-after trainers can make $25,000 a day

Intercultural training is no longer just for expats. It can be used in schools and in offices, anywhere that people from diverse cultures live and work together, Bennet points out. Training can be tailored for business people seeking to better understand their foreign colleges and clients or for the expat family seeking to set up home in a foreign land.

In its pure form, intercultural training seeks to teach people "the knowledge, skill and motivation to communicate effectively and appropriately in a wide variety of cultural contexts."

But most intercultural trainers working with overseas assignees take the more pragmatic "cross-cultural" approach, combining practical information about the assigned country with comparisons to the home country. While clients are happy to have some intercultural communication theory mixed in, most say they want specific information about the culture they are about to enter and that they are most pleased with that aspect of the program.

"Culture specific is what they want," I say "and I don't blame them."

Academics in the field complain that unless handled sensitively, such comparisons end up promoting cultural stereotypes like the peach and the coconut.

But even interculturalist experts admit that overseas assignees can not be expected to master effective intercultural communication in one weekend.

Barbara Schaetti, an interculturalist with a doctorate in intercultural conflict resolution from the Union Institute at the University of Cincinnati, says that the value of "pre-departure" training is limited and suggests followup training after the move overseas.

"Pre-departure training works to an extent but even the best can only go so far," Schaetti says. "Even the best is hampered by the fact that it is pre-departure. It's too short, too cross-cultural, too comparative."

While this training may not teach workers or their families to communicate effectively in all foreign cultures, several studies suggest it boosts confidence and can contribute to the success of an expat assignment.

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Religion in Business: Is it Faith or Suicide?

Opinions vary. Some people, particularly in the U.S., believe that promoting their religious beliefs along with their products and services is crucial. Others believe that it’s just plain suicide. Considering that the United States was born out of a need for religious freedom, there isn’t a solid right or wrong answer.

One might think that some industries are more prone to advertise their religious affiliations, and in fact, that affiliation may be the crux of their business. For example, sellers of religious artifacts, private schools, and the like will probably attract more clients on the basis of their affiliations. There are also companies, while considered to be mainstream and not directed toward any particular affiliation, who tout their beliefs as part of their mission statements or ad campaigns. Companies like Chick-Fil-A, Walt Disney, and some Wal-Mart subsidiaries, aren’t afraid to state what they think. Chick-Fil-A Inc. CEO S. Truett Cathy, an evangelical Christian, routinely closes down his 1,000 fast-food restaurants in order to observe the Sabbath. Cathy states the religious differences of his employees are not difficult to address because a majority are evangelical Christians, too.

Certainly, imposing your religion on employees is illegal and unconstitutional. Sharing your views with co-worker and clients is not. However, one must consider that proselytizing to a client of whom you have little or no knowledge, can be a dangerous and costly action. Since the U.S. is truly a melting pot of cultures and religions, there is a fair chance that the person you are testifying to does not hold the same beliefs as you. Therein lies the risk of losing an account and ultimately causing a great deal of damage to the bottom line.

One ongoing trend in the workplace is to provide spiritual retreats and workshops to its employees—from the mailroom to the office of the CEO. The hope of many is that when a person explores his spiritual side and experiences various forms of enlightenment, everyone benefits. Relationships become stronger, ideas emerge more freely, productivity increases, and the overall ethic in the business improves. One of the more popular communication tools used in these spiritual gatherings is the presence of a "talking stick" or similar device. The participants sit in a circle for a discussion with each person being allotted a specific amount of time to give his or her point of view. However, only the person holding the talking stick may speak. This method seems to work well, especially for those who have something to offer but aren’t usually heard.

According to a Gallup Poll, a large percentage of corporate America feels comfortable about opening up regarding their spirituality—approximately 95% of Americans say they believe in God or a universal force; 48% claim to have spoken about their religious faith at work that day. In an effort to support and encourage their employees, a growing number of companies employ chaplains to assist in times of need or spiritual crisis. With stress levels at an all time high, employers say that their staff needs an outlet for stress, anxiety, and guilt for working horrendous, but necessary, hours. Companies like Chaplains at Work provide non-denominational or faith-based support to corporate America, offering a wide array of services from crisis intervention to general clergy duties such as marital counseling and hospital visits for friends and families.

As with any hot topic or increasingly popular idea, there will be those that go overboard or take advantage of the situation.

Consider those who insist on stretching the boundaries, such as the maintenance worker who insisted that he was the Messiah, the administrative assistant who routinely dropped to her knees to speak in tongues, and the male witch who insisted on having Samhain (Halloween) off as a religious holiday. Well, it is the High Holiday, after all.

There are also the zealots who are responsible for a dramatic rise in legal-based action. Since 1992, The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission reports a 29% spike in the number of religious-based discrimination charges, making those the third-fastest-growing claim, after sexual harassment and disability.

Take this extreme case for example:

Jennifer Venters, a former radio dispatcher in the Delphi, IN, police department filed suit against her ex-boss, former police chief Larry Ives. Ms. Venters claimed that her trial began on the day that Ives reported for duty and told her that he had been sent by God to save as many people from damnation as he could. Court documents report that Ives objected to her female roommate, asked her if she had entertained male police officers with pornographic videos, and accused her of having sex with family members and sacrificing animals in Satan's name. The kicker was when Ives suggested to Venter that if she wasn't going to reform her depraved ways, she would be better off just killing herself.

The Seventh Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals determined that Venters had a valid complaint and ordered that the case go to trial.

It was settled out of court.
By Pamela Mortimer
buzzler.com

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Religion and Business: A Jewish Perspective

An interview with Rabbi Daniel Lapin


The following interview, by Albert Erisman, first appeared in Ethix Magazine, a publication of the "Institute for Business, Technology and Ethics."

Albert Erisman: I'm wondering if religion and spirituality have more to do with business than most people think.

Rabbi Daniel Lapin: I agree, passionately, that religion and spirituality have a great deal to do with business. Business success is contingent on retention of that spiritual and religious dimension. The reason I say that is, first of all, observation of reality. Are we going to dismiss as a coincidence the fact that America is at the same time the most Christian of all modern industrialized countries, and also the greatest engine of prosperity that the world has ever seen? If so, are we also willing to apply the term 'coincidence' to the fact that capital markets have risen indigenously only in Christian societies? It seems a bit much to attribute to coincidence the startling parallelism between particularly Biblical civilization--Judaism and Christianity--and success in business. Another reason that spirituality should never be divorced from business is based on our understanding of what money is. In Jewish tradition money is not a physical or material commodity, it's a spiritual commodity, a reflection of trust and commitment. It is more than disks of metal or strips of colored paper in your wallet. I've devoted a lifetime of research to clarifying that money is a spiritual commodity and how wealth is created in a spiritual process. Essentially it's interaction between two human beings; two independently operating computers will never create wealth. It is the provision of materialistic goods and services, obviously, but what is created is a spiritual, intangible commodity, which is why it can be wiped out as easily as it can be created. And invariably when it's wiped out, what we attribute the wiping-out to is a loss of another spiritual commodity, called "confidence" or "faith."

AE: Some would argue, though, that because we're a pluralistic culture, we cannot impose these religious values on others.

RDL: We're accustomed to the idea that we live in a pluralistic society where there is no imposition of religious doctrine or religious observance, but I don't believe that we have any compunction about imposing certain values and behaviors on the marketplace. Many companies have codes of conduct now. In other words, we'd never suggest telling anyone how or what to believe, however we do rule on how we ought to behave. Today the common belief is that these codes of values and behavior can be constructed so most people can comfortably sign on to them. For instance, definitions of 'honesty' vary dramatically between different religious cultures. Most American corporations, when they speak of honesty are actually using a western biblical understanding of honesty. So I think people have to be a little less sensitive, simply because businesses operate on the successful transmission of a culture.

AE: What does Judaism offer the business world?

RDL: First let me offer the disclaimer that there's a great deal of confusion today as to what constitutes the Jewish view. Judaism is a free-enterprise religion with virtually no centralized control or authority, which is at one and the same time the source of its vitality as well as the source of a great deal of confusion. As far back as the 19th century, through the 20th and into the 21st, large proportions of the Jewish population in the United States of America and elsewhere have embraced socialism. These people for the most part have rejected the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. I need to clarify that because what I am going to say will be directly from 3,000 years of Jewish culture--things that are embedded in ancient Jewish wisdom and enshrined in the traditions and writings of the faith. That will very often goad, for instance, many Jewish academics at universities around the country, who truly are committed to the faith of socialism rather than t! he faith of Judaism. Many people who identify ethnically or even religiously as Jews may well be uncomfortable with what I say, but this material is rooted in something that I've devoted literally a lifetime to studying and understanding and teaching.

It's very significant that in the opening of what is viewed as the constitution of Judaism, namely the five books of Moses, God uses the phrase, "and it was good." The word "good" is used eight times at the beginning of Creation; the eighth instance regarding gold. That might have something to do with why gold became the ultimate symbol of wealth.

The next thing of significance is that private property was established with Abraham, the founder of Judaism. Abraham purchased a burial place for his late wife, in spite of the fact that the owner was willing to give it as a gift. I'm sure you've seen in Desoto's writings how the expansion of wealth would be possible in much of the underdeveloped world if property ownership were turned into a reality. The fact is, for over much of the planet's land surface, ownership of land is not wide spread. I don't think it's a coincidence that ownership of land is a feature in those societies and cultures where wealth and prosperity have been generated.

Finally, the entire idea of what a transaction is, how wealth is created and what it involves, is essentially seen in Judaism as God's way of formalizing and rewarding people for behaving towards strangers the way they intuitively behave toward their own family. Being solicitous of our family's needs and concerns is something we might do intuitively, but what makes us do so for other people is something called profit. That is seen as a remarkably positive thing; in Judaism it's a given that the only way to do well is to do good. Furthermore, that the profit motive doesn't detract from the essential nobility of participating in the group economic enterprise, thereby providing, in some way, for the needs of others.

AE: Does Judaism offer moral constraints for capitalism?

RDL: That's exactly why I term it "ethical capitalism." In other words, capitalism on its own simply is not an entire system of moral coordinates. It is merely a way of allocating resources. I would argue that one of the reasons that socialism has won the war of ideas on America's university campuses is precisely because people recognize that naked capitalism lacks a moral heart. Whereas socialism is not just an economic system, it is a moral system. It's a different system of morality that operates within an entirely different set of Cartesian coordinates that I don't subscribe to, but it does have integrity within that set of coordinates. So there's something satisfying about socialism, in terms of the spiritual yearnings of the human soul, that is not found in capitalism on its own. That's why I always speak of ethical capitalism. I'm not interested in defending capitalism--it's not a moral system. But I do defend ethical capitalism.

That having been said, in Judaism, we don't automatically see the application of morality and ethics as a cost center, we see it as a profit center. In other words, it would tend to eliminate short-term profit taking at the expense of long-term creativity and durability. But the notion that morality automatically has to exercise constraint is only half the picture. There are as many instances where the application of ethics and morality will spur creativity and outreach as much as it will rein it in and confine it. So it probably is one of the very special contributions of Judaism. And this has a lot to do with the vitality of Jewish business through the ages.

AE: Could you give an example of the way you see this spurring creativity?

RDL: Any faith that posits poverty as a virtue or wealth as an indication of moral reprehensibility, places adherents of that faith at a tremendous disadvantage. It's difficult for any of us to excel at something that deep down, we consider morally reprehensible. The more committed we are to some form of a moral code, the more powerful that inhibition will tend to be. The notion that in acquiring wealth you are displeasing your Creator would tend to inhibit you.

The idea of creative destruction is very much a Jewish idea, that the seeking of newness in technology is balanced by the seeking of oldness in moral tradition. Essentially, Judaism says, "give us new things but old ideas. Let's anchor the wild ride towards newness and creativity with the bedrock of unchanging tradition and ideas." That balance contributes mightily to Jewish business vitality. Ludditism would run at odds to the Jewish tradition. Here Jewish morality and ethics say, "Move forward, seek a better, more economical way of doing something so more people can benefit from it."

AE: How is that religious expression worked out in business?

RDL: I think it's important for a company to indeed say there are certain religious values that are private and they're none of our business. However, we must welcome the entire person to our business. A person's worth is not just $11.00 worth of common chemicals. Instead, we recognize that each person is driven by a profound soul. Beyond a basic stage of achieving the necessities of life, people cannot be motivated only by money.

If you really think you're nothing but a collective of common chemicals, we probably have work for you, but it's not going to be work of the superbly creative variety. Because that kind of work stems from the infinity of a human soul and from the spiritual yearnings with which everybody is created. We want a work environment in which your whole being can find fulfillment, because we will all be the beneficiary of the expression of that totality of human being.

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