Archive for March, 2008

E-Marketing Now: 5 tips for crafting HTML emails

Thursday, March 27th, 2008


HTML email newsletters are email messages that can be coded to look like a Web page. These types of emails are gaining popularity as they are much easier to scan, navigate and read than plain text emails. Furthermore, publishers also prefer these emails as they can embed code in HTML, which can track the number of opens, forwards and click-throughs. Nevertheless, coding an HTML email can be a mix of pain and misery. The biggest problem with these emails is that people use many different software tools to read their email, from desktop clients like Outlook, AOL, Lotus Notes to Web-based email clients like Yahoo, Hotmail and Google Mail. These software tools display the same email code in a wide variety of ways. Therefore, this type of email may look good on Google Mail but may look horrible on Outlook.

Here are some simple tips for coding HTML emails:

1. Layout
Determining the layout of your email is the first step in coding your email. Single column or two-column layouts are ideal for html emails as they give these emails a better look. While using two-column layout, use a narrower column to contain all the links and logos and use the main column to contain the general idea. After deciding on the layout, use the <table> tag to code the layout. Tables are the best way to divide the layouts in HTML emails. Use images cleverly in your email to invoke interest among readers without compromising on presentation.

2. Testing with Email Clients
After coding the emails the most important step is checking the HTML email with various software tools. Often this will identify problems which you need to work around. Start testing with Firefox or Internet Explorer. They are the most widely used tools to read emails. If they throw up no problems, minor tweaking will see you through Outlook, AOL and other software tools.

3. Spam Check
Just imagine, after all this hard work that your email ends in the spam folder or recycle bin. So, it is very important to check your HTML email for possible spam before send it to your clients. Spam Check is a free service for highlighting features that might make the spam filters block your mail. 

4. BrowserCam
If you want to know all the problems with your email, use BrowserCam. Save your email as a Web page, host it in your server for few minutes and point BrowserCam at your page. It takes screen shots and displays how the email will be displayed with various software tools. This is the best way to eliminate all the errors in your HTML mail.

5. Avoid all other errors
Avoid javascript as most software disables javascript. Avoid using 1×1 images. You might like to use 1×1 images to get the desired spacing, but spammers use 1×1 pixel images to determine if their email has been opened. Avoid a big image above the fold in the email. This is another widely used practice in spam, so your email can easily end up in recycle bin or spam.

HTML emails are a gaining popularity among both the publishers as well as readers. But if don’t take sufficient precautions your email can easily end up in a pile of spam.

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Posted in Business advertising | No Comments »

Executive Gifts: A Guide to Gift the Boss

Monday, March 17th, 2008


If you work in a corporate setting, there are many reasons that you may want to give your boss an executive gift, but finding just the right one can be quite problematic.  Gift-giving, when you only know one aspect of the person, can be tricky, but by following a few simple guidelines, you’ll be sure that you can make the right choice.  It is possible to be both friendly and professional, and just because you’ve seen people trip on that fine line doesn’t mean that you have to as well!

The first thing that you need to do is to think about your boss as a person apart from the job.  This does not mean that you will end up getting him something that is completely divorced from the job; instead this will help you figure out what sort of gift he is likely to enjoy.  Is he constantly stressed and under a lot of pressure, or is she more relaxed and takes everything with a smile?  Does she like working in pressure cooker conditions or does he like to keep things pleasant and calm for everyone?  Avoid thinking of this as a problem you need to solve for them (getting a busy an executive a stress ball might be construed negatively, for example) and more as a way to learn about what they are interested in.

One thing that many people can appreciate is gadgetry, so if it is appropriate and in your price range, you might want to consider things like Blackberries, PDAs, and GPS devices.  These can be quite high end items, so choose carefully and make sure that the gift won’t make your employer nervous or apprehensive.  A gift of this type is usually meant for a boss that you greatly appreciate, so make sure that you feel comfortable enough with this person to give them a gift like this.

Something that many people do is take a look around their boss’s cubicle and try to think about what would be appropriate given the pictures involved there.  If he or she has calenders of cats, for example, a framed piece of feline artwork or a small figurine might be nice.  Office gifts that play to your boss’s hobbies is also a good idea.  A golfer can always use more golf balls, and someone who appreciates nice chocolate will never say no to an artfully wrapped gift basket.

One standard gift that people often give their boss’s relate to their boss’s families.  The next time you’re in your boss’s office, take a look around.  Does he have teenage sons, or very young daughters?   Some people like the idea of giving board games, while others simply try to find things like foods and candies that would appeal to the whole family.  When you are looking for a great way to show your boss that you care, showing that you have paid attention to his or her family is a great way to do so.  Including a card where you address the whole family by name can also be a great finishing touch to this sort of gift.

No matter what you give your boss, whether unique desk accessories or a handmade card from the heart, make sure that you give it cheerfully and that it shows that you have been paying attention!

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Posted in Business service | 2 Comments »

The Basic Tenets of Remortgage What You Need to Know

Friday, March 14th, 2008




No one is likely to inform you that your current lender is imposing a high interest on your mortgage unless you start comparing it with your friends. And if you wouldn’t be fortunate to speak with them, the only time you’ll realize you’re on it is when you’re finally in a difficult financial crisis. By then, it may be hard for you to recover from your debts. But whether or not you are just in time at finding it out, it is important that you know how to remortgage in the UK. The UK offers a very different remortagaging system and processes compared to other developed countries. They are oftentimes described as advanced and innovative, probably due to the absence of state intervention. Applying for a remortgage may be a stressful undertaking if you are not aware of the steps involved in the process. It is best to gain first-hand information so you may anticipate the requirements and make them available as early as you possibly can. Getting some how-to tips will not only prepare you in terms of the documents that you will be needing, but will also equip you of what to look for in a remortgage offer.
 
The basic purpose of making a remortgage is to put yourself in a better position – that is, finding a lower interest rate and therefore a lower monthly payment that will eventually lighten up your load. There are several things to ponder on including which lending institution should you go. As soon as you tell your friends that you are planning to move your contract to another lender, offers especially from agents will keep coming in. You will get to talk with a number of people who will use different marketing strategies just to lure you to commit with them. But before making any answer, it is good that you listen to each of them and compare. Whatever you do, don’t forget to study the costs when remortgaging. These are very important since they will determine the savings you may gain or lose throughout the process. Remember, you are seeking a remortgage in order to reduce your monthly expenses so make sure to consider the costs and find the one that will surely be worth it.
 
For people who are making a remortgage for the first time, it is easy to assume that the process is as tedious as mortgaging. This is a misconception as remortgaging allows customers to go through a less worrying procedure in applying. For one, remortgaging involves the use of the documents you have previously submitted to avail your current loan. Another thing, some lenders are not too demanding to receive the complete requirements but rather look into the credit history of the borrower. Since you are presumed to have passed for a mortgage, the lender also assumes that you are qualified. However, the whole procedure for people who are paying well is different for those who are remortgaging with bad credit. The lenders require additional documents since this will be too risky for them to give you a second chance. However, they understand and put into mind that you are after a better deal which is supposed to make it easier for you to deal with your payments. In the process, they will evaluate how you will fare after making a remortgage given their terms and conditions. It is also up to you to find the best offer that will not only reduce your expenses but will also help you recover from such a bad credit.
 
But do not be discouraged to find out that you have to undergo a different process because of your bad credit history. Lending institutions are continuously finding a way to make their products and services available to almost everyone, whether in good or bad situation. There are some who are strict about providing friendly policies and qualifications in getting a bad credit remortgage. They consider the fact that your current contract may be imposing too high and unreasonable rates that are causing you to suffer. And it is in this kind of circumstance that other lenders are taking advantage of you that they get into the picture and try to move you out of the pit. Before you know it, some interested lending institutions will not only save you from your current position but will adjust their terms according to your needs. This means that they will design their offer, including the monthly payments and terms, based on your financial capacity. They believe that in doing such, they are not only helping you but also saving themselves from future problems. They don’t necessarily expect you to be in the same bad credit with them but they should think first if their offer will be significant in helping you financially.
 
There are hundreds of lending institutions that may eventually bail you out from your expensive current loans. Browsing through the Internet will not only familiarize you on the processes involved and provide you tips but will also lead you to prospect lenders. Information on lenders and their terms are usually available online, as well as contact information for your personal questions. Most of the time, the requirements and the procedure are listed on company websites, as well as calculators that will help you estimate the very important values. But above anything else, it is essential that you look for remortgage quotes and compare them across different providers. They will give you an idea on how their offer is likely to contribute to your problems significantly. Theoretically, they are aimed at helping you personally find the best package for your needs. What you need to look into importantly are the interest rates, terms and the estimated monthly payments. Perhaps, the most important rule is that you research and compare prices, and weigh the consequences. Remember, this is meant to help you out from your current debt and making a wise informed decision is critical. In the end, you will realize how a little research is worth after getting into the best remortgage package.

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Posted in Properties sales | No Comments »

Business Casual Dress Codes; Where do We Draw the Line

Wednesday, March 12th, 2008


The business causal dress code, or smart casual, has evolved as acceptable attire for the workplace since the 1990’s.  Companies usually institute this business casual dress code in hopes that their employees will be a bit more comfortable in the workplace.  However, simply the mention of the word “casual” has many employees confused about guidelines for their attire.  Employees should still appear professional, neat and pulled together, while being relaxed at the same time. 

Guidelines for the business casual dress code are essential for the company and for the employees.  Employers need to set basic ground rules so that there is a standard by which employees can abide, since everyone’s idea of business casual is different.  Every employer wants their associates to look their best regarding corporate apparel, even if the dress code is business casual.

Dress slacks or capris, trousers, blouses, casual dresses, skirts and sweaters are all considered appropriate for women in the workplace.  Clothing choices such as denim or cotton capris, sun dresses, tank tops, sweat pants, short-shorts, and midriff tops are not suitable for the workplace.  In addition, any clothing that reveals too much skin, such as cleavage, chest, or back, shouldn’t be worn to work.  Shoes are an important detail.  Women should not wear tennis shoes, flip flops, or flimsy sandals.  A sharp, polished flat or heeled casual shoe would do fine.

 Makeup, nail polish and jewelry should be chosen with taste.  Neutral colors or pale colors work best.  Perfume is best left for special occasions outside the office, as many people are allergic to intense scents.

Men’s attire for business casual could include a collared shirt with cotton trousers or dress slacks.  Shirts should ultimately be tucked into the trousers and a belt worn as well.  Tennis shirts would fit the description since they too have a collar.  Unless wearing tennis shoes is good for the business itself, men need to wear casual dress shoes with their trousers.

In an office setting, rarely are jeans accepted as business casual dress wear.  However, in a manufacturing setting, jeans may be appropriate, as long as they are pressed, clean, and are without rips or tears.  No matter the setting, clothing with words or sayings or pictures could be problematic, so avoid them while in the workplace.  Leave clothing that is sexually provocative, sports profanity or is political or religious in nature, at home! 

Many companies encourage their employees to wear clothing with the Company logo.  Some companies even distribute such clothing as corporate gifts of appreciation. By wearing it, the employee is not only comfortable, but he appears professional and the logo gives the company free advertising wherever the employee goes.  An embroidered (logo) polo shirt is a common “uniform” for several companies these days.  Paired with a pair of trousers, this look works for both men and women.

Dress down day is allowed by some businesses one day a week or one day a month.  For that day only, the company may specify that jeans and (nice, clean) tennis shoes are suitable.  Employers should remind their associates that all of the rules regarding too much skin showing or items with potentially offensive pictures or words should still be avoided on dress down day.
 

Overall, employees need to remember to always appear professional on the job, regardless of the type of workplace.  Guidelines set by the employer will enable employees to dress appropriately. 

 

Tags: corporate logo apparel | corporate logo apparel | corporate apparel | corporate apparel | corporate gifts | corporate gifts

Posted in Business service | No Comments »