Just for fun!

Here's just a fun article I came across that can help you get thru the day!
Enjoy!


http://www.inc.com/50-songs-to-listen-to-at-work/2011/index.html

To take or not to take a vacation?!?!

I enjoy reading Entrepreneur magazine and finding out about the latest & greatest tips & ideas for entrepreneurs.
This time, though, I came across an interesting article about business owners taking (or not taking) vacation and great things for business owners can do in the hot summer months.
While yes, both Brenda & I will be taking separate vacations, we are also doing many of the items on this list.... (mainly revamping our site!)

So what are YOU doing this summer?!??!

Star of Hope Online Auction

Hello VIDA Friends!

We are participating in a silent auction to raise funds for the Star of Hope.

Star of Hope is a Christ-centered provides housing for homeless men, women and their children.  Positive life changes are encouraged through structured programs which focus on spiritual

growth, education, employment, life management and recovery from substance abuse.
 The auction will be open for bidding for one week. Bidding will end Thursday July 21st at 5:00p.m.  To bid, click on the link at the top of each auction page. 

There will be two options for payments. The winning bidder will be given the phone number for a Star of Hope representative that will be taking credit card payments over the phone. (preferred method) Credit card payments should be made no later than Tuesday July 26th, 5:00pm. For many auctions that require delivery of the item or gift card, cash payments can also be made at that time. If you have questions about payment before bidding, please contact Melissa at melvo3@hotmail.com.

*Star of Hope will provide the tax donation receipt to all winning bidders.

100% of proceeds go to Star of Hope so please forward this

 to all your friends and coworkers!
 GOOD LUCK AND HAPPY BIDDING!!

 

Where has customer service gone?

The other day I was at one of the major discount retailers in town.  I go there about once a week, and contrary to its direct competitor, I usually am greeted by very friendly sales people and cashiers.  This day, however, was different - and not in a good way.
This led me to thinking.... where has customer service gone?  It seems many sales associates cannot be bothered with simple pleasantries like "hello", "have you found everything you need?"; in fact, some do not even take the trouble to ask you to sign your name when you've handed them your credit card!  A simple "thank you" can go a long way!

Not only can great customer service result in repeat business and/or recommendations, but great customer service does not cost anything!  It is a cost effective method to make your business grow.

Talk about win/win! 

As a small business owner, customer service is paramount to our success.  We try to understand each and every need and want our client has, and we try to fulfill it all while displaying a level of professionalism, understanding and etiquette.

Remember, when talking with your client and delivering your product or service, be sure to treat them as you would want to be treated if you were in their shoes.  Excellent customer service is free and can take your business far!

Video: A great tool to promote your small business!

If you're a small business owner, there are variety of ways to make the most of your small marketing budget!  I'm sure you've heard of the benefits of using social media such as Facebook and Twitter.  Blogs, such as this one, are also an effective tool.  But sometimes, you can't get your message across quite as clearly and directly as if someone were talking directly to you.  Making a video of your company's mission/ideas/vision is a great way to promote what you do, and say it in your own words!  Thru video, as explained in the New York Times Article, your company can share its personal message, explain how to use its product, or reach a huge customer base.
Google local videographers in your area, shoot your video, then post your video to YouTube or your company's website and see your company grow!