The opposite of good customer service is generally no customer service at all and this equates to many customers calling it bad customer service. But really the opposite of good customer service is indifference, that is to say treating the customer like they are not even there. You know some young gal talking to her friends on the phone while she rings you up, oh yah and have a nice day! Sure, I will do that indeed.

Bad customer service is when the business or employee literally goes out of their way to verbalize things. Such as NO, that is our policy, and we will not do business that way? It is basically the same as telling the customer; We do not want or need your business. Or like telling them where to go.

Indeed, it is without debate that bad customer service can ruin a business much faster than it takes to build it and an indifference to your customers only prolongs the inevitable death of your company. If you do not service your customers your competition will and if you send them away that is exactly where they will go next.

You need to train your employees to give good customer service to each and every individual customer and these employees must know that this is the minimum acceptable in your company. If you see your employees as indifferent to your customers or even worse giving them bad customer service you need to send your employees to your competition before they send your customers there.

Your business holiday gift, if sent in a thoughtful manner, can be a subtle but effective marketing tool to solidify business relationships and let your clients know they are valued.

Tip #1: Know YOUR company's gift-giving policy as well as your CLIENT'S gift policy before sending a gift.

Many companies have a formal or informal policy of "No Gifts" for a variety of reasons. These clients usually include government agencies, government contactors, and businesses that purchase items through a bidding process.

TIP #2: Plan early in the FALL by updating your business contact mailing list and finding your gift suppliers.

Avoid the holiday rush by giving your (updated) mailing list as early as possible to your supplier, specifying the date you want your gift mailed. Most suppliers will allow some changes to the mailing list up to a week before the mailing date.

TIP #3: Mail your business gift early, preferably immediately after Thanksgiving.

Food or wine gifts will be especially appreciated if mailed early, as they can be used for holiday entertaining.

TIP #4: Personalize your business holiday gift with a note.

Most gift companies will send a personalized note with the gift. Your note should mention a word of appreciation, an accomplishment by the client, or a task you've accomplished together during the year. For example, "Enjoyed working on X project with you this year. Looking forward to working with you again in the future."

TIP #5: Downplay any corporate logo on business holiday gifts.

Corporate logos, while a great way to promote your company, should be discreetly printed or engraved on holiday business gifts, so as not to be construed as over-selling. Remember that beautiful photo frame you very much wanted to display in your home...but it screamed Company X? If it is a thoughtful gift, you client will remember who gave it, long after the holidays.

TIP #6: Give a business gift that reflects the individual's interest ONLY if you are certain it will be appreciated.

If the recipient is a golf enthusiast, a golf-themed gift basket or a personalized golf item will be valued. An expensive bottle of wine makes for a great gift if the recipient is a wine connoisseur. Send a culture-specific gift only if you know the client well and know that the gift will be welcome and appreciated.

TIP #7: For a safe bet, stay with the most popular business gifts.

Gifts that can be consumed during the holidays are always welcome - your client can never have "too many" of these. They include: food gifts, snack gifts, wine, fruit gifts, and restaurant gift cards for dinner for two.

With logoed or personalized gift items, desk accessories are usually the most appropriate (calendars, calculators, paperweights, memory cards, pen sets, mugs, photo frames, clocks, etc.).

TIP #8: Avoid extremely high value gift items or any personal gifts that may potentially cause discomfort to the recipient.

A very expensive gift may not be a good idea, as it may be construed as bribery. Keep individual gifts under $200 (group gifts may exceed that amount). If the gift is bulky, consider mailing it to the home.

With personal gifts, visualize the gift being opened in the presence of the entire office. Do not send a gift, which could be a source of embarrassment, ridicule or discomfort to the recipient. Avoid gender-specific gifts, jewelry, personal clothing, and perfume.

TIP #9: Be sure your group gift is one that can be shared by the entire group.

A large gift basket, with a variety of food items, makes an ideal group gift. If you know that the office staff normally goes out to lunch as a group, a restaurant gift card to a nearby restaurant is very appropriate.

TIP #10: Take advantage of other opportunities throughout the year to recognize a client.

Remember, like you, they are human and will remember those who share their happy times, accomplishments, milestones, and low times. While these opportunities can be recognized with a gift, a greeting card with a hand-written note of acknowledgement or encouragement will be equally appreciated. Remember the old saying...it's the thought that counts...and will be remembered!

For many small business owners, the decision to start a business may have been well planned or may have been influenced by factors outside of the individual's control. The decision on what business to start may have been biased towards the person's area of expertise or interests, however, a detailed understanding of a subject may not be sufficient to guarantee success when converted into a business.

All business owners must possess traits that will also set them aside from other employees, competitors and contemporaries. In many cases these groups may enjoy a comfortable life, but may be totally dependent upon the extraordinarily successful entrepreneur from whom to leverage as the basis of their own existence.

The successful entrepreneur will be amongst the group that will provide the business success that others will yearn for. The entrepreneur will not be satisfied with the business success being dependent upon the efforts of others and will seek to be an outstanding leader in his niche.

The business entrepreneur must be adept at many facets of business life. Failure to gain competencies in many disciplines will render the business owner vulnerable to failure in meeting the business goals.

The entrepreneur must have qualities far beyond any technical expertise in the proposed product or service.

What are these ‘qualities'? Why are they necessary?

Some of the behaviors that are commonly found in the successful entrepreneur include:

Intuition

Knowing by instinct what is likely to be successful is an important insight the entrepreneur may possess. Not giving up and trying again, when the failures do happen is perhaps more important. A tweak here, draw upon market knowledge and ultimate success will be found.

Independence

The ability to remain focused on the goal, when others around are casting doubts, will require an independent and strong character to drive the initiative forward.

Balance the Team

Whilst the entrepreneur will lead on many issues, it will be realized expert help in certain disciplines will be necessary to overcome weaknesses in the entrepreneur's skill set. The ‘expert' will be engaged thus allowing the successful entrepreneur to concentrate on work areas in which skills abound and greater value can be added.

Commitment The entrepreneur will make a major commitment to the business. Financial investment apart, time spent dedicated to the business will exceed the commitment of others.

Lead by Example

The entrepreneur will inspire and encourage others to achieve the objectives set by the business. The importance of ensuring others work towards meeting the business goals cannot be understated, and the entrepreneur will set the standard for others to aspire to.

Manage Change

The road to success will include many occasions when change within the business will be necessary. New products, new services, new plant, new employees will be introduced during the life of the business. In many instances the entrepreneur will initiate such change, and must ensure all associated project work is planned and executed to meet the aims of the business.

Business Development

On going business growth will require the entrepreneur to plan the development of the business. A self-belief in the ability of the entrepreneur to expand the business profitably is aligned with an I-will mentality of the individual. Doubts on the success of the venture are not considered, all obstacles are evaluated and alternative solutions developed.

Online auctions have become very popular in recent years. They are great for finding bargains on all sorts of items. Many people shop auctions to find brand names at bargain prices, household items or even wholesale products. Some auction sites are actually one stop online auction shops that sell everything from antiques to automobiles while other sites specialize in only one type of product.

Earn Profits

There are several ways to earn profits through online auctions. You can build an entire business through online auctions or use auctions to attract new customers to your existing website. And, you can use online auctions occasionally to sell some of your old household items. You can even advertise wholesale products through auctions. Some online "auctioneers" are earning thousands of dollars each month!

Either way, there are a few simple techniques you can apply to maximize your auction profits. Choosing your one stop online auction shop is only the first step to success. Next, you'll need to start building your business.

Here are six ways you can maximize your auction profits:

1. Include Photos

One way to maximize auction profits is to include photos with your listings. Most auction sites allow one photo to be displayed next to listing titles. It's very important that you include a photo to catch the shopper's eye. People naturally look at pictures and then read the nearby caption. Newspapers and magazines have trained us that way. So, it's understandable why an auction shopper will look at photos and then read the titles beside the photos. Unfortunately, listing titles without photos can be easily missed.

Another reason to include photos is because auction buyers want to see what they are buying. They are more willing to trust a new seller if a photo of the item is available. If you are selling an expensive item, include several photos at different angles if necessary. For printed materials such as reports or e-books, you might try creating a few colorful banners and even a mini banner for the photo that will appear next to your listing titles. Banners will have the same eye-catching effect as a photo!

2. Write Compelling Listing Titles and Copy

Don't be afraid to apply proven marketing techniques to your auction titles and copy. You're a seller, so don't hesitate to sell! Use key phrases that will get the buyer's attention. Words like "free," "no reserve," "low or free shipping," or "like new" always get the buyer's attention.

3. Use Banners at Your Website

If you own a website and are using auctions to attract more customers, don't forget to place some banners at your website that link to your auction store as well. Some customers who reach your site by other means might love auctions. They might buy from you both ways!

4. Don't Under-price your Items

Not many sellers have a problem with over-pricing, but under-pricing seems to be a huge problem with auctions. Don't sell yourself short. Price your items reasonably, but be sure to include a little profit for yourself. Remember, your time is valuable. If you ship items, you must take time to package and mail them. If the items you are selling offer very little profit, try to find popular items with higher profits that are also unique. The more scarce the supply of a popular item, the higher bids you will receive.

5. Keep Contact with Customers

Be sure to keep in contact with your auction customers after they buy. Send them a personal "thank you" email and include an email signature to get them back to your auction site or to your regular website. An email signature is actually a "P.S." after your thank you message.

Here's an example...

P.S. Be sure to visit our auction site again. Some new items have been added recently, and you will receive FREE SHIPPING with your next purchase. (Your auction site address here.)

Meetings are an essential business process. Properly done, they lead to decisions, solutions, and agreements. Poorly done, they waste time and produce little.

Here are six quick tips to make sure your next meeting is a success.

1) Prepare an agenda that spends time based on the value of the expected results. Determine the results that you want, estimate their value, and then allocate appropriate amounts of time in the agenda. You want to run your meeting like a small business, which means you design the process to earn a profit on your investment.

2) Conduct the meeting with structured activities. These powerful, modern tools focus people’s attention on the issue and force progress toward results.

3) Present every issue as a question that leads to a result. This directs people’s thinking toward answers and solutions. For example, instead of saying, “Let’s talk about the marketing.” you should ask, “How can we change our web site to get 5% more sales?”

4) Include a facilitator. A well trained facilitator will run the meeting, which frees you to participate. It is impossible to do both—lead a meeting and participate in it. A facilitator will also propose structured activities, keep people focused on the issues, and help you make progress on your agenda.

5) Issue minutes. These document the results and serve to inform others about your work. Minutes should be brief, citing only key ideas, decisions, action items, and agreements. You can also use the minutes to track progress on action items.

6) Keep the meeting brief. Long meetings lull people into lethargy. After an hour, people take mental holidays to estimate the cost of the meeting, plan vacations, or ponder other agendas.

xConflict in organizations is not a problem. Well managed conflict contributes to creativity, strategic initiative, more effective systems and communication, stronger workplace relationships and greater commitment to the organization. Organizations shouldn’t attempt to prevent conflict, but should instead focus energy on preventing unresolved or destructive conflict.

Left unresolved or escalating destructively, conflict is expensive, both in financial and human terms. Some conflict costs are easily measured, such as legal fees and losses associated with theft and sabotage. Conflict that escalates so far as to damage an organization’s reputation is measurable in terms of lower earnings or diminished market share.

The hidden costs of conflict can be more significant to the bottom line and the overall health of the organization. Here are a few of the most common conflict costs that are overlooked by managers:

Time and salary loss. Studies over the last decade suggest that between 30% and 40% of a manager’s time is spent dealing with employee conflict and helping employees reach agreement. In a study I conducted in 2000, managers’ time on conflict ranged more commonly from 40% to 50% of work hours. The total amount of time spent on a conflict and away from other work typically includes the time of the employees involved, the manager to whom those employees report, and in larger organizations, the human resources manager and legal counsel. It adds up quickly.

Attrition. Research reported in the late 1990s showed that workplace conflict left unresolved for too long leads to team members leaving the company or using valuable work time searching for alternative employment. Employee turnover due to conflict results in severance costs, recruitment costs, training and development costs, and loss of productivity during that period.

Absenteeism and health care expenditures. The Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine has reported that health care costs are nearly 50% greater for workers who report high levels of stress. Stress as a reason for absenteeism increased 316% between 1995 and 1999 and studies suggest that it is a common byproduct of unhealthy workplace conflict.

Grievances and related complaints. Between 1992 and 1998, annual monetary benefits for EEOC sexual harassment cases increased from $12.7 to $34.5 million. Annual monetary benefits for EEOC-handled ADA cases increased from $200,000 to $49.1 million during the same period. Neither of these figures includes monetary benefits obtained through litigation.

However, how does such an embroidery design get onto caps, pullovers or pockets?

At the beginning stands the idea of a design, mostly in the form of a company logo together with a slogan. If the idea only exists on paper, the design must be digitized into computer readable data. This takes place e.g. through reading in with a scanner. Then if the motif is available as a file, it must be converted into vector graphics. In this case, individual pixels are no more determining for the design but the lines, which separate a color field. One recognizes vector graphics also by the fact that one is able to enlarge them infinitely without quality loss, because the dividing lines always remain sharp.

These vector graphics are loaded into the punch program. The semantics of the word is to be traced back to the procedures before the computerized embroidery program creation where the commands were still pricked by hand in a punch card made of hard paper.

The puncher on the software decisively determines the quality of the finished stitch content. Here there are dozens of parameters such as stitch density, stitch direction, stitch distance, stitch pattern and the precedence of stitch work correctly on the motif, the embroidery machine and the textiles to be embroidered. Thus a cap requires a different embroidery program than a leather jacket, even if it concerns one and the same embroidery motif.

Not without reason there are companies which have specialized one and only in the production of the embroidery motifs.

Then if the embroidery program is ready, it is transmitted either by network, direct connection or floppy disk to the embroidery machine. Again also in the embroidery machine there are different parameters which can improve the embroidery result or make it worse. The most important ones here are above and under thread tension and embroidery speed.

Then the real conversion of the program into the textile embroidery is only routine. The embroidery machine is made, in principle, just like a normal house sewing machine, many components, e.g. the under thread guidance looks very similar.

The essential difference is the amount of needles, which reaches from 6 up to 18 automatically changing needles and therefore usable colors in one motif. Then when the motif is constructed, a quick change of the embroidery piece can be done, which makes the embroidery very interesting especially for bigger works orders. Bigger embroidery machines are so-called multi head machines, here i.e. up to 24 embroideries are done at the same time. This increases the economic efficiency and therefore makes the price per piece more attractive. With the use of the finished product there are hardly any restrictions. Therefore, work clothes are embroidered with pleasure. Also clothes that needs chlorine laundry, like for example doctor's smocks can be permanently improved with special sewing cotton.

With so many power tool options on the market today, it can be quite difficult to sort out what you truly need from what you think you need (or want). Whether you’ve been building and woodworking for dozens of years, or are a new homeowner in need of a few power tools to fill your toolbox and complete some minor repairs and projects around the house, the latest such tools can make even the most seasoned professional squirm. In order to help you sort the “needs” from the “don’t needs”, we’ve compiled a list of the Top 5 Power Tools for Every Toolbox:

1. Drill and Driver Combo- a handheld, triggered power tool with a gripping chuck that rotates while attached to either a drill bit (metal rod with spiraling grooves used to bore holes), or an attachment to hold either a phillips-head (X-shaped tip) or flat edged screwdriver bit. This combination allows anyone to drill a hole, anchor a wall and hang a picture, shelf, or curtain in no time flat.

2. Circular Saw- a heavy-duty cutting tool that uses round (circular) blades with saw teeth around the outside edge. This blade rotates on a spindle and can be easily changed to cut just about any surface, from masonry to wood to metal. Since the blade is significantly larder than a jigsaw (and usually cuts much faster), a circular saw is typically used for rough or straight-line cutting larger objects. This power tool is available in both a hand-held and table-mounted (stationary) versions to suit your specific needs.

3. Jigsaw– This classic power tool is used for cutting sharp curves, points, or complex patterns into a piece of wood or other type of surface. The thin blade of a jigsaw moves up and down, yielding the flexibility necessary to cut stenciled design and other patterns as details for any project.

4. Laser Level- Even though some may argue that such a tool is not “power” by definition, the laser portion of the tool does in fact require power to work. The primary difference between this type of level and a spirit and/or pendulum style is the laser’s precision accuracy in indicating the leveled line against a surface.

5. Impact Wrench– This power tool is commonly used to tighten and loosen nuts and bolts on a variety of everyday items. It uses electricity or air in which repeated blows of tiny hammers generate torque to tighten (or loosen) such fasteners. Instead of the more common hand-held wrench, an impact wrench will add longevity to all of your projects and household items. Instead of consistently tightening nuts and bolts that loosen up over time, an impact wrench will securely tighten them the first time, alleviating any concerns of losing bolts and someone being injured in the process.

The simplest way to understand what a franchise is is to think of the most famous franchise in the world: McDonalds™. Many people from all across the world have dreams of owning and operating a famous franchise like McDonalds™. But is owning a franchise, or traditional store front business, really worth it? Would owning your own business really make you as happy as you think?

What's the deal with owning a store front business? Is it just hype or is it the true key to your financial happiness? Read on for the truth you must know about owning a franchise.

Your first problem is lack of money: Money will definitely be an issue: Did you know you need a minimum net worth of 1 million dollars just to be placed on a list to attend Hamburger University in Chicago, Illinois? One million dollars! This is the University every McDonalds™ business owner must attend to learn how to successfully manage their store. You’ll do more research and find out you don’t have the $250,000 you usually need to start a traditional business either. You can stop reading right now if you don’t have this kind of cash on hand.

Another problem with owing a franchise is that it is actually very risky: Approximately 70 - 80% of traditional store front businesses fail within the first 2 – 5 years. And the percentages are getting worst as the economy suffers. Added to this, the average, “successful” business usually doesn’t start consistently turning a profit in as long.

The third problem with owning a franchise or traditional store front business is the long, long, long, long hours you are required to work day in and day out: If you are planning on owning your own business, like a McDonald’s™, I hope you are a hard worker: The average business owner works 15 – 18 hours a day managing their business. It’s hard work day in and day out. It’s too hard for too little gain. If you are going to work 15 – 18 hours a day running your own business, how is that much different than working in a factory everyday? After a few years of this, you’ll quietly admit to yourself that you’re in over your head, unless you just love to work hard all the time, day after day. Month after month, year after year...

The fourth problem is franchise fees: The franchise fees can be a real pain in the you know what. These fees can really affect your net earnings. When you consider you still have to pay for your regular business operation expenses, it’s easy to see you are not making as much money as you originally believed you would.

Conclusion If you think owning a traditional store front business or franchise is the answer to your financial problems, guess again. Use common sense and the guidelines above to avoid falling victim to the disadvantages of owning a franchise!

Financing is one of the most confusing, and often frustrating, aspects of opening a franchise. Some franchisees pay cash, others take out home equity loans or tap into their retirement savings.

In this article, we look at one of the most popular methods of franchise financing: the SBA Loan. SBA Loans are loans made by traditional lenders such as banks that are guaranteed by the federal government’s Small Business Administration.

Banks prefer to lend money to franchise concepts which they have a positive track record, so the best place to start is with your franchisor. The franchisor should be able to provide you with a list of lenders that are familiar with its concept, have made SBA loans to other franchisees and have a positive track record underwriting the concept. Some franchisors have a dedicated outreach program to educate lenders about their concepts. The majority of major franchisors also participate in the SBA Registry program. To appear in the registry, franchises must meet certain eligibility requirements and pay an annual registration fee. Franchisees of systems listed on the registry receive expedited loan processing when applying for SBA loans.

If you need help putting together a loan package, your franchisor should be able to assist you. While the franchisor won’t complete the package for you, they should be able to provide a template as well as suggestions on where you can find the information you need. The main aspect of the loan package will be a loan proposal or business plan. The loan proposal should provide a description of the business, profiles of management, the purpose of the loan and plans for repayment. The loan package will also need to include: a one year projection of income and expenses, a list and cost of equipment to be acquired with the loan, a personal financial statement and copies of tax returns.

Your franchisor should also be able to give you an honest appraisal of how likely it is that you will be able to obtain financing. Lenders look at several characteristics when determining whether or not they are going to approve a loan. The underlining principles of obtaining financing are known as “The Four Cs”

Character – Lenders will look at your credit track record. Do you pay your bills on time? Have you had any loans before? Did you repay them? The easiest way to get a handle on your Credit “Character” is to get a copy of your credit report. In today’s era of computer automation, this is the most important C. You will have a very difficult time getting approved for a loan unless you have a strong credit history.

Collateral – Lenders require you to pledge assets to secure the loan. These assets may be forfeited if you default on the loan. SBA loans require the assets of the business to be pledged as collateral. Many SBA loans also require additional collateral such as home equity or a certificate of deposit.

Capital – Lenders’ willingness to approve a loan increases as you put more capital into the business. That is, you are more likely to get approved for a loan for 60% of the franchise cost than a loan for 90% of the franchise cost. Lenders also look for additional capital that you can use as a cushion after you start your franchise.

Capacity – Lenders also examine the ability of your franchise to repay the loan. Obviously, if you anticipate your franchise will only generate $1,500 of net income each month, a bank is unlikely to make a loan that requires you to repay $2,000 a month.

When MBA gurus discuss business communication in the work place they are often talking about small, medium and large businesses with offices. But what if you and your family or spouse run an online business and work out of a residence? In this case you may think you can by-pass the advice of business workplace communication experts. Actually you would be wise to still consider the words of wisdom when it comes to workplace communication as it could simplify your life substantially.

You see Communication in the Work Place is paramount for All Businesses no matter what size. Even a consulting business with a single secretary needs to consider these things. Businesses run out of the home where all members are family is also important and without it animosity might develop and therefore cause family friction while the goal of making money suffers and along with it your desire and profit goals.

How can you improve your communication in a business run by family in your home or residence? Simple really, while working stay professional and serious about your mission statement and your business goals and keep family chit chat to a minimum by snapping into your work zone and out of your family issues and concerns.

The idea that people need to have feedback, appreciation and information is a good basis for understanding how and why excellent business communication is important and compelling for success.

In your very best relationship - whether your spouse, best friend, sister, co-worker - you can easily communicate with them in a high value way. You telephone, email, write notes, make plans and generally stay in contact with them because you want a connection and a relationship with them.

In building very good relationships in business, it is absolutely the same. What is different in a business relationship is that you are communicating with colleagues and you don't always know them as well as a dear friend. However, they need the same attention that a good relationship needs.

These needs are:

*Returning a phone call

*Following up on a request

*Listening intently

*Appreciative communication

*Clear communication with details and directions

*Doing what you say you will do

*Remembering what is important to them

*Valuing what is most important to them

Our communication styles and methods are being stretched by email, technology, lack of time and resources that limit our ability to do so much in our day.

But there are rules of common courtesy that have NOT changed since the inception of humans dealing with each other in a high value way. If you want to be a remembered, trusted and respected leader, you will practice these courtesies with every business contact.

If you take the time to examine what is important to you, I think you will find that they are also the courtesies that you expect in all business communication, actually how you would like to be treated and communicated with.

Email - Not only should you be returning emails in a timely way, but you need to set the context each and every time of why the email is important and what information it is that you want to deliver. Spam filters help, but in order to more easily control your email load, you need to be in more control of what you generate yourself. In business, be brief, be informational and be gone.

Cell phones - The ring tones that are available now are fun outside of the office, networking situations, client lunches etc. Put your cell phone on manner mode or shut it off. Take and make calls when you are with people sparingly. Most people are not interested in listening to your phone conversation no matter how stimulating you think they might be. If you need to take or make a call, excuse yourself and then make it brief.

Returning phone calls - Whether you think you have time to return the call or not, find out what people need, make sure you are clear on whether you can help them or not and then get back to your own work. People who return phone calls are trusted and respected. You do not need to make the calls long. In fact, returning all calls twice a day instead of doing it piece meal all day long is a good way to manage your time more appropriately.

Here are some additional basics that will help you grow your own identity and brand which will identify you as a trusted and respected up and coming leader:

Practice your handshake - Ask a friend to shake hands with you and then give you feedback. Firm is good.

Eye contact - Learn to look at a person when they are speaking.

Body language - 55% of our nonverbal communication is our body. Watch what your body is saying about you.

Business cards - Get one and have them with you ALL of the time. You should include an address, email, telephone number, full name, what you do and your title. If your company does not provide a business card, get one for you anyway. The fast print companies all have programs you can easily and quickly make one for you.

Holding doors - Opening a door for someone is not just a guy thing anymore. Ladies, if you get to the door first, open it.

Standing and greeting - If you are being introduced, stand, reach out your hand and shake their hand. This is not a gender issue. Women in the workforce can show respect by standing and shaking hands.