Is it possible to avoid spam?

Is it possible to avoid spam? Sadly, I don’t think so. One of the reasons I had my website redesigned recently was to integrated my blog with my primary site for greater search engine optimization. It worked. More people are finding and visiting my site–and more spammers are leaving comments filled with links on my posts. Fortunately, my web designer was able to tweak the spam controls so most of those...

What is your writer publishing under your name?

Full disclosure: I’m a ghostwriter. I write books, articles, blogs and more that are published under my clients’ names. Using a ghostwriter is a smart move for busy executives, professionals and subject matter experts who need to publish material but don’t have the time and/or writing skills to do it themselves. One caveat: If you decide to hire a ghostwriter, be sure you know and approve what...

Are Your Press Releases Worth It – Or a Waste of Time?

Press releases can be a powerful weapon in your marketing and public relations arsenal. Just be sure you don’t shoot yourself in the foot with them. I can’t count the number of press releases I’ve written over the years in my career as a business writer–and it’s almost as hard to count the number of times I’ve had to explain to my clients why it’s critical for their releases to be well-written,...

9 Tips to Be a Great Guest Speaker – and Get Results!

Have you decided to hit the speaking circuit to promote your product or service? Congratulations! Giving talks is a powerful, effective way to enhance your reputation and grow your business. Once you’re booked, these tips will help you be a speaker who is applauded, referred and invited back: 1. Provide appropriate promotional materials in advance. Find out if the host organization has a newsletter, when it goes...

Turn Old Employers into New Customers

If you started your business after a stint in the corporate world, you may find your former employer a prime prospective customer. Today’s sales environment has never been more challenging, which is why selling to your former employer gives you significant advantages. You know the system, the company way. Of course, that knowledge will only get you in the door. There may be a honeymoon for a while, but at some...