Keeping in Touch: 5 Alternatives to an Ezine

I often hear from my clients and ezine subscribers that they aren't sure they can commit to writing a regular ezine as a way to keep in touch with their list, even though they know they should.



My response is usually something like, if it's going to be an albatross, then don't do it! But since they know that they must stay in touch with their email list on a regular basis if they want to have a successful and sustainable business, they are usually stumped for what to do instead.



Here are five ideas I typically share with them:



1. Evergreen Ezine



I first learned of this concept on a teleclass last year, and it seemed so simple that I was amazed that I hadn't thought of it myself - which is usually the reaction I get from my clients as well when I suggest this.



An evergreen newsletter is one that's content is applicable all the time. It's not based on trends or on what's hot in your industry at the moment. It's solid need-to-know information that is based on principles or strategies that rarely change.



To create an evergreen newsletter, you would simply gather your content for as many issues as you plan to publish, create each issue and then drop each one into an autoresponder system to go out automatically at whatever interval you set.



This method takes a bit of work on the front end, but then you 'set it and forget it' until you run out of issues. Then you can let it simply repeat or create a new set of issues by repeating the process above.



2. Ecourse



You can create an ecourse, which is simply a series of emails that shares valuable information with your reader over a period of time.



This is a method I use myself. When you sign up for my mini-ecourse, you also get a subscription to this ezine. I could simply offer the ecourse as a stand alone, though if I did, I would add more days to the series (say from its current 5 to 26) and send them out every couple of weeks as a way to stay in touch with my list.



You set up an ecourse in an autoresponder service, so it's another 'set it and forget it' option once the initial work is done.



3. Audio Tip



If you prefer to talk than type, then consider an audio tip. When I coach clients who are just starting their written ezines, I remind them that it doesn't have to be longer than one valuable tip for each issue.



The same is true if you would prefer to create an audio keep-in-touch vehicle for your list. A colleague of mine sends out a 1-minute audio (and video) marketing tip each week and it's hugely successful.



The easiest way to create and publish audios online is through an inexpensive service like AudioAcrobat.



4. Blog



A blog can be a great alternative to an ezine IF you love to write and are willing to post regularly, if you use search engine optimization to increase your blog's exposure to your market on a continual basis, and if you put a subscription form on your blog so your readers know when you add a new post.



You can start blogging for free at blogger.com or very inexpensively with Typepad (which is the service I use for my personal and business blog).



5. VIP List



Invite people to sign up to receive special offers from you. Many of us do this in our personal lives for places we frequently shop (a quick look at my inbox reveals offers from Eddie Bauer, Old Navy, Red Envelope, etc.), so know that people will sign up to receive discounts and other special offers from you if you invite them to do so.



It's best to use this strategy with a group of people who have already gotten to know you a bit, say from a live event or if you have a blog where you stay in touch with people by posting on a regular basis.



BONUS TIP: If you're writing a regular ezine now, you can add one of these methods as another way to stay in touch with your list, as some people who are on your list may not always read your ezine, but may listen to a short audio or may prefer to read brief posts at your blog instead. Giving your list options as to how they recieve your message will increase your ability to connect with more people in your niche.



Copyright 2006 Alicia M Forest and Client Abundance







Alicia M Forest, MBA, Multiple Streams Queen & Coach? and creator of 21 Easy & Essential Steps to Online Success System?, teaches coaches, consultants, and other solo professionals and online entrepreneurs how to attract more clients, create profit-making products and services, make more sales, and ultimately live the life they desire and deserve. For FREE tips on how to create abundance in your business, visit http://www.clientabundance.com/

Commercial Metal Buildings

There are many advantages to choosing commercial metal buildings over the more traditional wooden structures. Metal buildings, such as steel buildings, are often quicker to build because most companies offer kits with a pre-arranged design.

Commercial metal buildings are also strong and sturdy, which makes them a great option for areas that have extreme weather. Many report that choosing commercial metal buildings over the traditional wooden structures can also help save money.

There are so many companies that offer commercial metal buildings, choosing one can be overwhelming. Below is some advice that will help you choose the metal or steel structure that best meets the needs of your company.

First, decide what type of metal building you require. Commercial metal buildings span a whole range of options including whole building construction, storage facilities, air plane hangers, etc. Some companies specialize in buildings with certain uses, whereas others take a more generalized approach. If you need several types of structures, picking a company that has many different services is your best bet.

Next, determine your budget. You may have specific budget needs, or perhaps you are waiting to see how much your desired structure costs. If there isn?t enough money in your budget to spend on what you need, consider taking out a loan or a mortgage. Ask your financial advisor for the best options.

Once you choose the company and decide on your budget, you will have to pick your specific design and see to its construction. If you are knowledgeable and skilled in the building craft, you can probably construct it yourself with a team. If not, hire an expert. Even if you are skilled, hiring an expert to help because it can help save time.

Commercial metal buildings are a great alternative to traditional wooden structures. Researching which type of metal or steel building is best for your company can be a long process. However, the benefits of these types of structures outweigh the disadvantages, thus making the process worth it.

Metal Buildings provides detailed information on Metal Buildings, Metal Storage Buildings, Metal Building Kits, Commercial Metal Buildings and more. Metal Buildings is affiliated with Pre-Fabricated Steel Buildings .

Umbrella Strollers The Must Have!

Most parents go out and get that huge, expensive stroller that has everything a baby could possibly need on it. While this isn't a bad thing, sometimes it just isn't the best thing to haul around with you everywhere. The majority of these bigger strollers are just too bulky and don't open easy enough when you have screaming kids you are trying to control in a crowded parking lot. So what do you do?

You buy an umbrella stroller to keep in the car, that's what! These strollers are lightweight, cheap, and open with just the flick of your arm. Sure, they don't have four cup holders, and sure, they don't have a shopping cart underneath; but if you are in a hurry they can be a lifesaver.

Umbrella strollers generally range in price from ten to twenty dollars, and you can purchase them anywhere. They come in almost every color you can think of also, so you won't have to worry about having one that is just too ugly to show in public. These strollers slide easily into small spaces, like the floor board or the trunk, and are very lightweight, so you won't hurt your back or arms trying to pull them out of the car or closet and open them.

These strollers also have a very easy set up and fold down, generally this can even be done with one hand if needed. A small, red clip that is easy to see and lift is usually the only thing you will need to pull when folding up these type of strollers.

So, even if you have one of the larger, more expensive strollers, an umbrella stroller is just something that you cannot live without. They can be a lifesaver when you are in a hurry or just don't want to lug that big stroller out again.
About the Author

Stroller Types Explained

There are many different types of stroller, each one designed to meet a specific need. Often families will own one or more of these strollers and use them as and when the need arises. This article will attempt to explain the main types of stroller to help you decide which stroller is right for you and your family. It will also briefly explain the advantages and disadvantages of each type. The types of stroller discussed are:

• lightweight or umbrella strollers
• standard strollers
• double, triple or quadruple strollers
• jogging or all-terrain strollers
• travel system or car seat strollers

Lightweight strollers, sometimes known as umbrella strollers, are as the name suggests, light in weight and therefore easily stored and convenient to use. They lack some of the features of their more heavyweight counterparts. These strollers are not suitable for younger infants (4 months and under) because they often, but not always, lack a good quality reclining seat. They also lack durability and comfort. However, they are perfect for short trips to the shopping mall or for traveling because they are so lightweight and convenient. They are an economical and can easily be used as a spare stroller for those quick trip occasions. An example of a lightweight stroller would be the Zooper Swing.

The standard type of stroller are your everyday strollers. They are heavier than the lightweight stroller and can come equipped with an array of features such as toy bars, snack trays, drinks holders, etc. They are more versatile and invariably have more comfortable seating, better maneuverability and a larger storage capacity than lightweight strollers. As they are heavier and larger, they are not as convenient to store and can be more trouble than they are worth for the short trips. They are more comfortable, safer and come in a variety of styles and colors. They are more expensive than lightweight strollers but are well suited for family outings, traveling and most everyday activities. The Zooper Waltz or the Zooper Tango are examples of standard strollers.

Double, triple or quadruple strollers are, as their names suggest, for those of you with more than one child. They tend to be more bulky , for obvious reasons. Serious consideration must be given to the seating arrangements for these types of stroller. Some strollers allow children to sit next to one another and others allow children to sit one behind the other or in tandem. Which you choose depends on whether you want your children to ?socialize? with each other or to be kept apart. It should be remembered that having a side-by-side seating arrangement can cause difficulty in maneuvering, due to the extra width. On the other hand, a tandem seating arrangement can cause arguments about who gets to sit up front! Remember to choose reclining seats for younger children.

Jogging or all-terrain strollers are not just for the health nuts amongst you. They can be very useful for those of you who simply like to get out about more often, in parks or just about anywhere. The main features to look out for in this type of stroller are their wheels, suspension and steering capabilities. They make excellent everyday strollers but can sometimes be bulky and difficult to fold and store. These type of strollers are not recommended for children under six months old. The Zooper Boogie is an example of a jogging stroller.

Travel system or car seat strollers offer convenience for busy parents. Basically, they consist of seats that can be easily attached to your stroller and your car. No need for two separate, and sometimes costly, seats. Before buying this kind of stroller you must check the compatibility of your car.

Manufacturers are creating innovations to stroller models yearly, making it very difficult to choose from the vast array of features and models out there. Choosing the right type of model is the first important step. Work out what type of stroller meets you needs best. Are you looking for versatility or a stroller for a specific task such as shopping or jogging? Remember, sometimes, it may even be necessary to purchase more than one stroller type.

B. Summoy writes consumer product reviews and provides advice and tips for smart shopping. She regularly writes interesting articles on baby products. Visit the Zooper Boogie Review site for a more detailed review of this particular stroller.

How To Make Your Own Board Game

Making your own board games does not only help you save up, it also develops your resourcefulness and creativity. Making homemade board games is twice as exciting as playing the game itself. It is also very economical. So why buy them when you can create your own? You can even get a lot of benefits from making your board games yourself. Now, how do you start making them?

First of all, you have to gather your materials. It is important to take durability into consideration when selecting your raw materials. The more long-lasting the material is the more games you'll be able to play with it.

Chess, Checkers or Go

If you are making your own chess game board, you must decide what to replace your chess pieces. Stones and beads are the popular choices for board game pieces. In chess, since the king is the biggest piece, reserve the biggest stone for that. Stones, in fact, were first used as pieces in games like Go. For chess, if you are using beads, choose the largest one for the king or use a distinct color for each piece. And since the Queen symbolizes femininity, reserve the pink bead for her. Almost anything can be used to serve as playing pieces. If you have a figurine collection, you can use them as well.

If you know how to carve, you can use leftover wood to create your board pieces. Then use paint or varnish for a finishing touch. Coins can also be used as markers. The lists of possibilities are endless!

Different board games need different game pieces. Some may require a dice as well as a deck of cards and poker chips. For your convenience, it may be better to purchase these items instead to make sure they're uniform. While you're at it, you may need to purchase some permanent markers, scissors and a ruler as well to make your playing board.

Rudiments: Boards

You can make your own game board from different things. You can use an illustration board or spare plywood to draw your playing field. If you want your game board to be portable, you can even use a cloth, which you can easily fold after playing.

Just make sure that the material you use for your game board can easily be laid flat. If not, you'll be spending most of the time leveling it while playing the board game. If you love the game, it is best to invest your creativity in it, as well as some money, time and effort. A nice board for your playing pleasure will affect your mood while on the game.

Packing It Up

Now you have your board game set. However, you are not done yet. You also have to consider other important things such as the storage of your entire board game set. If the board you made is small and convenient enough to store in a portable box, you can bring it anywhere you fancy. If you made a large one, look for a cool, dry place where you can store and easily retrieve it.

If you store your board in a hot place, the markers may fade right away. If you are using cloth for your board, do not fold it when storing it. Roll it up or keep it flat in an envelope so that no crease will disturb your game pieces once you start the next game.

Making your own playing board and pieces will help you play your favorite game without spending too much. Moreover, your improvised board game set will be uniquely your own.

Visit Board Games Store A Place Where You Can Find Board Games Articles And Find Info On The World's Most Popular Board Games

By Robert Diarioti

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A Comet in the Industry

If there ever was such a thing as a short-lived success, it would be probably used to describe the GM (General Motors) marketed automobile brand, Geo. The Geo failed to thrive even after less than a couple of decades, and yet its fleeting existence in the automobile industry produced a few models which have been and still are favorites of a number of people.

Primarily formed by GM to rival with the swelling import market during the late 1980s, they marketed Geo and sold it through Chevrolet dealerships peppered throughout North America from 1989 in the United States. It was only sold in Canada beginning 1992. The line persisted until the 1997 model year, and the remaining models joined the Chevrolet lineup after that period. The last and most popular model of Geo, the Tracker, was discontinued after 2004.

Geo's sprinkling of models were manufactured by General Motors with Japanese import manufacturers for joint ventures. Each Geo model are all well-known in their own ways despite of the short period of time that they flourished, but the ones who really made their mark were the 1994 Geo Metro, the Prizm, and the Tracker.

The 1994 Geo Metro was specifically designed after the Suzuki Swift, and was available in three options: a three or five-door hatchback, a four-door sedan, or as a convertible. A subcompact car, the 1994 Geo Metro initially had a 1.0 L 3-cylinder engine power plant. Also, a larger 1.3 L 4-cylinder engine was available, and the result was that the Metro became Geo's most economical model in terms of gas mileage, and this reputation stayed with the Metro for 12 or 13 years that it was in the market.

An integrated four-door sedan, the Prizm was patterned after the Toyota Corolla Sprinter. Although the Prizm is a chronic harvester of automobile awards (including the Consumer's Digest Best Buy), the Corolla outsold the Prizm without fail. The perceived reason for this is because of the higher value of the Toyota brand. And the fact that it was competing with a brother model, the Cavalier, did not help its popularity. Chevrolet marketed the Cavalier as a premium entry level sedan and the Prizm as entry level compact sedan. Gradually the Prizm became a redundant model, and it was discontinued after 2002.

Geo's longest running model is the Tracker, and its popularity is largely credited to its versatility. It was a part of the primary lineup of Geo models in 1989, and continued under Chevrolet until 2004. The Tracker is a light sports utility vehicle which was based on the Suzuki Vitara. It is available in a convertible or hardtop configuration, and has a choice of two or four seats. The prospective owner has a choice between rear-wheel drive or a 4-wheel drive. Packaged as an all around vehicle, it can either be a cruising-around-town joyride car, or an off-road rugged vehicle. And the fact that it was resistant to rolling (thanks to its soft suspension) contributed to its success.

Perhaps not as bright (and as long) as the rest, but the Geo sparkled with a charm of its own, and that's why a few is still up and running today. Geo parts are also available for the market, to ensure that the Geos that still runs until now continues to be in good shape. The Geo had a comet-like existence in the industry: short and fleeting, but shone brighter than the rest.

About the Author

Katrina Culkins' husband is a hardcore enthusiast of vintage cars, and that attraction inevitably rubbed off on her. They are now managing their own buy and sell vintage car business.