The Office Gal

Weblogs, or blogs as they are affectionately known, are not just on-line journals for moms and dads to spread the word of their families. Much like The Office Gal blog, many blogs today have become references or informational portals for people to find out about the latest in business. A blog definitely opens you up to a larger world then just your backyard.

Starting a business blog is not a difficult process. As a business you have something to say, so share it! Capture the opportunity that you have by blogging. Blogs are also inexpensive. Start a free blog with a service such as WordPress. Once your have gained some exposure and feel the need to expand, your free service will give you options of several different packages to purchase. 

So what are the BIG positives for your business? Well, I have expanded on them below, but quickly: potential sales, potential work, communicating, and networking.

Communications and networking. Like I said earlier, you own a business, so you have something to share. Blogs are a great tool to talk about your industry by discussing new techniques in your field or giving your opinions on industry standard. With your first post, you have opened yourself up to a vast group of new people. Others in your field will be drawn into discussions with you - sharing, offering advice, and giving you feedback.

One you have opened up the lines of communication, you have started networking. Reaching partners and possible expansion financing.

Potential customers or clients. As your business opens up to your industry, you have also opened up to potential new customers and clients. With your blog you have become global. Now your blog has become an effective advertising tool. Promote new products and services by one simple post. Talk about what is happening within your company. Share how your company supports the community. Knowing something a bit more personal about your company will help a new customer or client say “Yes” to your business.

Do you have some suggestions for starting a business blog? Leave a comment or let us know!

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Another week is here and another installment of The Office Gal Link Love is up and waiting for our busy readers to click away! There are some great reads this week with one simple theme among them all - how to improve all around! It might be on how to improve an interview, how to improve useful documents, to how to improve on brainstorming.

Time to go read. Improve and enjoy!

• Keep it Real, Even When it Sucks @ Slacker Manager.
• How Do You Answer Your Weakest Interview Question? @ Daily Career Connection.
• Top 5 Unexpected Places to Network @ Daily Biz Solutions.
• Get Things Started: Simpler Than GTD? @ Freelance Switch.
• 9 Ideas For A More Creative And Effective Brainstorming Process @ Freelance Folder.
• Cut Waste! Stop Spreadsheet Sloppiness @ Project Management 411.

There you go readers, six links to help you get up and go for a great week!

And as always, if you have a link that you feel would be great to feature in our weekly link love, please let us know!

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Yes it is that time again! The beginning of a new week and a new listing of articles and interesting posts to help you plan and support your upcoming week at work! Definitely a positive week ahead of us.

This week I am sharing with you how you can plan to be more productive, building an online business, and how to have a great week at the office! Some great posts and articles to read with tips to take to the bank!

Monday morning reads are right below. Go read and be successful. Enjoy!

• Planning Your Way for a More Productive-Inducing Office @ Productivity Goal.
• So What Are the Rules For Dismissing Incompetent Employees? @ Daily Biz Solutions.
• Pay Attention! Attention to Details Will Set Your Business Apart @ Freelance Folder.
• 10 Quick Tips for Building a Business Online @ Copyblogger.
• Happiness and the End of the Working Week @ Put Things Off.
• What Are You Saying Between the Lines? @ Chris Garrett on New Media.

There you go readers, six links to help you get up and go for a great week!

And as always, if you have a link that you feel would be great to feature in our weekly link love, please let us know!

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You might be a one-person team or have a handful of people in you small cramped office, but somehow your word needs to get out. You have a business to grow, so people need to learn about the company and your purpose; you want people to flock to your little nook. How to you get them to your nook? Advertise!

Advertising can cost large sums when you want to spread the word, sums of money that small businesses can’t afford. No worries. Not every company has to have thousand dollar commercials to draw in lucrative clients. Thinking small can give you big rewards.

Pens. Pens are used everyday by everyone. Making lists, jotting notes, and signing receipts. You can reach a huge sum of potential by strategically placing pens where they are needed most.

Magnets. Magnets are used to hold precious works of art from the youngsters. Everyone can use an extra few and your magnet is always in front of people. Offices will use them on filing cabinets too. Always in the open.

Here are a few places to strategically locate your advertising:

• Servers at restaurants
• Doctor offices
• Check-out lines
• Goodie bags for school
• Fitness center central locations
• Neighborhood newsletters

I have even seen businesses add pens and magnets to kids Halloween containers!

Car signs. Signs placed on your car can grab the attention of people from everywhere. Tons of businesses use this tool - services for cleaning, realtors, even child care facilities. In today’s digital world, with one snap of a camera phone, viola, a new customer might have pulled up right next to you.

Regardless of which route you take, make sure to always include the pertinent information when space is available. Some items might not be able to have everything included, but you should always include your name, phone number, and a quick tidbit like “Best Window Cleaners.” As you get more space include a web address and street address or more information about your business.

Good luck with all of your future advertising! Before you go, check out these online locations for inexpensive pens and magnets!

Vista Print

Four Color Magnets

National Pen

Do you have a low-cost advertising suggestion? Please let us know or leave a comment.

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